Olsztyn has been crowned the best city to live in Poland for 2024, according to a ranking by Business Insider. The city outshone prominent contenders, including Warsaw, which only secured sixth place.
Despite Warsaw’s status as Poland’s capital and a hub for career opportunities, its high real estate prices and metropolitan challenges often overshadow its appeal. In contrast, Olsztyn, the largest city in the Warmian-Masurian region, offers a more balanced lifestyle.
The ranking evaluated factors such as unemployment rates, average salaries, housing costs, healthcare accessibility, crime risk, and air quality. Although Olsztyn did not top any individual category, its strong overall performance secured its position as the leader.
Olsztyn’s rise—jumping four spots from the previous year—highlights its growing reputation as a livable city for residents while still offering attractions for tourists. This achievement places it ahead of cities like Kraków, Wrocław, and even Warsaw.
Globally, Vienna continues to dominate similar rankings, joined by cities like Copenhagen, Melbourne, and Zurich. While cities like New York remain popular among tourists, challenges such as congestion and high living costs keep them lower in liveability rankings.
Olsztyn’s success reflects a trend toward valuing balance and quality of life over the hustle and bustle of major capitals.