WHERE'S THE BEST QUALITY OF LIFE IN EUROPE?

A recent study conducted to assess the quality of life across Europe has shed light on the most favorable living conditions on the continent. Factors such as cost of living, purchasing power, safety, healthcare quality, climate, and population were considered in the evaluation.

PHOTO: Evanto

Topping the list for quality of life in Europe are Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Iceland, reflecting high levels of well-being. Surprisingly, Bosnia and Herzegovina ranks 29th out of 37 analyzed countries.

These findings come from "Numbeo," the largest online database of statistical data, providing insights into comparative living costs and other statistical indicators that determine a country's prosperity. According to their 2023 data, the top ten also include Denmark, Finland, Switzerland, Norway, Austria, Estonia, and Germany.

Formerly considered the economic engine of Europe and synonymous with a good and carefree life, Germany finds itself in tenth place. Slovenia leads the region, ranked 13th, followed by Croatia at 17th place.

Bosnia and Herzegovina lag far behind these countries, even trailing behind nations like Bulgaria and Romania. However, in terms of living costs, Bosnia and Herzegovina ranks ahead of Portugal, Greece, Russia, Serbia, and North Macedonia, which sits at 35th place. Ukraine and Albania occupy the bottom two spots for quality of life.

Analyzing these data points reveals that Bosnia and Herzegovina's low ranking primarily stems from high living costs, with average income disproportionately low compared to expenditure. If this metric were the sole consideration, Bosnia and Herzegovina would rank near the bottom, with only Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine behind.

Although Albania and Serbia rank lower than Bosnia and Herzegovina in terms of quality of life, both countries boast greater purchasing power. Meanwhile, North Macedonia's purchasing power is roughly equivalent, with minor variations.

These findings highlight the complex interplay of economic factors shaping quality of life across Europe, painting a nuanced picture of prosperity and well-being on the continent.