Dutch smaller cities perform well in European livability index |
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HUDI compares quality of life in 917 European cities
Smaller cities fare better than large metropolises when it comes to livability. This is shown by the new Healthy Urban Design Index (HUDI), developed by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal). A total of 917 European cities were assessed based on 13 health indicators, including air quality, heat stress, green spaces, and sustainable mobility.
| A typical scene from Purmerend (AI-generated image) |
The top scores go to Pamplona (6.8), Geneva (6.65), and Harlow (6.64). In the Netherlands, medium-sized cities in particular perform well. Purmerend leads the Dutch list with a score of 5.96 (rank 61 out of 917), followed by Hoorn, Gouda, and Zoetermeer. Major cities lag behind: Amsterdam ranks 651st with a score of 4.92, and Rotterdam follows in 768th place with 4.68.
Balance between green space and mobility determines score
According to researcher Natalie Mueller, the difference lies mainly in the balance between urban design and environmental quality. "Smaller cities often have better air quality, more green space, and less heat stress. Larger cities are more compact and better equipped for walking, cycling, and public transport, but they score lower on environmental indicators," she explains.
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In the Netherlands, medium-sized cities in particular perform well. Purmerend comes out on top.
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Big cities: more greenery, less heat needed
Lead researcher Federica Montana sees plenty of room for improvement. "Large cities especially need to address air pollution, add more urban greenery, and take action against heat stress." There is also progress to be made in smaller cities, for example by building more compactly and encouraging sustainable mobility.
Western Europe scores better than the east
The HUDI also reveals major differences between Western and Eastern Europe. Western European cities, including many in Spain, the UK, and Sweden, score significantly higher than many cities in Eastern Europe.
Ample room for improvement
No city currently scores above 7. "This highlights the great potential for improving health and well-being in cities through urban design," says Mueller.
The full ranking can be found on the Healthy Urban Design Index website.
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Western European cities score significantly higher than many cities in Eastern Europe.
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This article was previously published on 17 June 2025 on the Stad + Groen website.
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