Rome struggles to climb world quality ranking

The Eternal City ranks a modest 51st in the 2014 list of the best places to live and work by Mercer, the management consultancy firm.

Although the Italian capital is considered to be more “beautiful” than Milan, the business hub fares better in the rankings – coming 41st – due being more efficient and a better place for business and work.

Out of the 223 global cities listed, Vienna, the home of Mozart, came top, followed by Zurich in Switzerland, Auckland in New Zealand, Germany's Munich and Vancouver in Canada.

London failed to make it into the top 10 due to high pollution and traffic congestion, although the city, which came 38th and is a favourite among Italians, was commended for its world-class recreational facilities and shops.

The lowest ranked city in Europe was Tbilisi in Georgia, while Baghdad in Iraq, again came last in the ranking.

“European cities enjoy a high overall quality of living compared to those in other regions,” said Slagin Parakatil, a senior researcher at Mercer.

“Healthcare, infrastructure, and recreational facilities are generally of a very high standard. Political stability and relatively low crime levels enable expatriates to feel safe and secure in most locations. The region has seen few changes in living standards over the last year.”

Mercer's yearly survey is carried out to help employers establish how much to pay their staff when placing them on international assignments.

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