Economist Intelligence Unit Ranks Karachi Among Least Liveable Cities

The Economist Intelligence Unit ranked Karachi as one of the least liveable cities in the world in its Global Liveability Index 2026, placing it 170th out of 173 evaluated cities. Only Damascus, Tripoli, and Dhaka scored lower. Karachi earned an overall score of 43 out of 100, with particularly low marks in stability (20), culture and environment (36), and infrastructure (52). The city performed better in education (75) and healthcare (54).

The index noted that large cities are often penalized by crime and road congestion. Beyond South Asia, the report highlighted the impact of the US-Iran war on Middle Eastern urban centers. Muscat suffered the most significant decline, dropping 14 places to 123rd following Iranian drone strikes. Other cities that saw ranking declines included Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi.

Copenhagen remained the most liveable city globally, followed by Vienna and Melbourne.