According to a recent survey by Mercer Consulting, Honolulu is the highest ranking U.S. City for quality of living worldwide.
Beaches, city, culture and mountains are some the quality aspects of the Honolulu Life
Having been born and raised here, I’ll admit I’m somewhat biased and not surprised that Honolulu was named the best city in the U.S. for quality of living. What was shocking to me, however, was our ranking worldwide – 28th! Are you serious?
Top 5 Cities in the World for Quality of Life
According to the study, these were the top 5 cities in the world for quality of life:
- Vienna, Austria
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Aukland, New Zealand
- Munich, Germany
- Vancouver, Canada
I’m fortunate enough to say I’ve been to all five of these cities. They are all great with lots of culture, city life, etc. I would have to argue that Honolulu is still better. After all, they are all quite a bit COLD!
Although Honolulu is considered by most to have a higher cost of living, I’d also argue that the 5 locations above are higher than Honolulu. Perhaps cost wasn’t taken into factor? What most people don’t realize is life here on Oahu can be more affordable than you think.
I noticed the next best U.S. city in the study was San Francisco at 29th. I love San Francisco and I’m also a huge 49’ers fan. However, when you factor in their cost of living and cold weather, Honolulu is still hard to beat. What are you thoughts?
Kelly Joudon
December 13, 2012
Aloha David,
Like you I have been to 3 of the top 5 cities, and I agree with you, Honolulu is a Pacific Gem! Endless great weather, international film festivals, museums, easy international access from HNL and the food, WOW! I have not even started to talk about the treasures of the ocean.
I am thrilled to be living and working on my little “outer island” (Kauai), but when its time to play big or fly far Honolulu is my first target destination. I also agree with you after living in San Francisco and CA that Oahu seems financially reasonable in comparison, especially when it comes to property taxes and quality of life! I think its best to holiday on the mainland and “live” in the islands!
Kelly Joudon
December 13, 2012
Aloha David,
Like you I have been to 3 of the top 5 cities, and I agree with you, Honolulu is a Pacific Gem! Endless great weather, international film festivals, museums, easy international access from HNL and the food, WOW! I have not even started to talk about the treasures of the ocean.
I am thrilled to be living and working on my little “outer island” (Kauai), but when its time to play big or fly far Honolulu is my first target destination. I also agree with you after living in San Francisco and CA that Oahu seems financially reasonable in comparison, especially when it comes to property taxes and quality of life! I think its best to holiday on the mainland and “live” in the islands!
David Buck
December 13, 2012
@Kelly – Thanks. You brought up another great point in that Honolulu has one of the lowest residential property tax rates in the nation.
David Buck
December 13, 2012
@Kelly – Thanks. You brought up another great point in that Honolulu has one of the lowest residential property tax rates in the nation.