What Makes a European City More Liveable?

Vincent Lubach

There are several ways in which European cities might be distinguished from other cities across the world. With each nation having its own culture and customs, Europe is a continent with a great deal of diversity. The cities of Europe, which provide a vast range of lifestyles and services, reflect this diversity. Cities like Vienna, Copenhagen, and Zürich make up the top three most liveable cities in the world, and European cities are known for being more liveable. However, the liveability of cities is a complicated phenomenon, and there are significant distinctions between, say, American and European cities. Given that US cities were constructed considerably later when there was much more information about urban planning and liveability, one could question why these cities are not at the top. How do European cities differ from US cities?

First, European cities tend to offer a more comprehensive public transportation system than American cities.

“European cities are home to some of the most advanced public transportation systems in the world and are considered an essential part of the infrastructure of a city, with efficient and reliable services such as subways, buses, trams, and commuter trains.“

These services make it easy for residents to get around the city quickly and conveniently, without the need for a car. In contrast, public transportation in the United States is limited in many places and is often considered unnecessary. This is also due to the fact that Americans rely on their car for up to 76 percent of their commutes. The lack of public transportation and the dominance of cars can significantly affect a city’s liveability, as it reduces mobility and limits green alternative options for transportation.

European cities also have a much lower crime rate than US cities. This is attributable to a number of factors, including well-financed social services and police departments, strong community ties, and an emphasis on public safety. The result is that citizens of European cities feel safer walking around their neighbourhoods and can enjoy a higher quality of life. Additionally, the fact that fewer people hold weapons in Europe than in the US greatly contributes to the region’s lower crime rates. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, there were 5.6 gun-related deaths per 100,000 individuals in the US compared to 0.9 in the European Union. In addition, many European cities have substantially higher population densities than US cities, which reduces the likelihood of crime occurring in the first place.

European cities are also renowned for their culture and history. Many European cities have preserved their old town centres, which feature centuries-old architecture and cobblestone streets. This makes for a unique and interesting experience for visitors and locals alike. In contrast, many US cities lack or have little of this kind of historical or cultural experience as these cities were built much later. On top of that, the glass high-rise buildings which US cities have been famous for can be found anywhere around the world, which reduces the personality of these cities.

Furthermore, many American cities are built on a grid system, which is a type of city where streets intersect at right angles creating a grid. American cities are leading the rankings of cities with perfect grid systems. However, none of those is in the top rankings of the most liveable cities. That is because European cities also tend to be more walkable and bike-friendly than American cities. Additionally, many European cities feature pedestrian-friendly streets, with plenty of sidewalks. This makes it easy for residents to get around the city without needing a car. In contrast, many American cities are designed with cars in mind, and there are often fewer sidewalks and bike paths.

Finally, European cities offer a more comprehensive social services system than American cities. This includes access to healthcare, a higher level of education, more generous social safety nets, and other essential services. This is important because it provides citizens with a greater sense of security and wellbeing, as they know that their basic needs will be met. In addition, European cities tend to be more affordable than their American counterparts, with lower costs of living and relatively higher wages. However, many of the larger European cities are currently facing a housing crisis where it has become significantly more expensive and difficult to live in.

In conclusion, one could make the case that European cities are more liveable than the ones in the US due to their extensive public transit systems, lower crime rates, rich cultural and historical heritage, walkability, and easier access to social services. Although European cities are generally regarded as some of the best places to live, it is still important to bear in mind that European cities have different degrees of services for their residents depending on the country or region. Adding to that, there are many other aspects that affect a city’s liveability. Nevertheless, it is clear that cities in Europe provide a great standard of living to their residents that call it their home.