Perth Ties with Kyoto in Monocle's Top 20 Most Liveable Cities List

Perth has secured a spot in the top 20 of Monocle's Quality of Life Survey 2026, tying with Japan's Kyoto as the equal 20th most liveable city in the world. The UK-based publication highlighted Western Australia's capital as 'the most isolated large city in the world', noting it offers Australia's only direct connection to Europe.

Perth's Unique Appeal

Monocle remarked on Perth's distinct character: 'It's five hours from Sydney by plane but the joke has always been that it's also two decades behind it. Perhaps it's a reflection of the laidback lifestyle associated with a place that has the most sunshine hours per year of any city in Australia – and one built around work-life balance and outdoor activity on its beaches, riverfronts and bushland escarpments.'

Recent Developments Boost Liveability

According to the survey, Perth has been 'supercharged' in recent years by an expansion of its rail network, efforts to make Elizabeth Quay a thriving precinct by the Swan River, the introduction of luxury hotels in the CBD, and the opening of Edith Cowan University's city campus. 'These developments have made Perth a more attractive place to live, with residents enjoying the infrastructural benefits associated with global cities alongside the outdoor pursuits that have always made it special,' the survey found.

—

Wide Pickt banner — collaborative shopping lists app for Telegram, phone mockup with grocery list

Public Amenities and Suggestions

The survey also praised often-overlooked public offerings such as barbecues and bike paths. However, Monocle offered suggestions for further improvement: 'Adopt: Daylight saving time. It would extend evening sunlight, reducing energy costs and boosting local economic spending. Drop: Mandatory helmet laws that are a barrier to cycling because they put off casual riders.'

Other Australian Cities in the Rankings

Other Australian cities featured in the top 20 list include Melbourne at 18 and Sydney at 5. Of Sydney, Monocle stated: 'Australia's sleeping beauty has reawakened from its self-imposed slumber.' Tokyo was crowned the most liveable city globally.

Survey Methodology

The survey comprised 30 questions sent to correspondents in 40 cities worldwide. Beyond financial measures of tax rates, GDP, and living costs, it covered broader themes of culture, retail, hospitality, architecture, safety, connectivity, governance, and green space.