Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, is renowned for its high quality of life, cultural heritage, and green spaces. Bern is a city that balances modernity with tradition, making it an attractive destination.
But how does Bern perform in terms of image, reputation, influence, business attractiveness, liveability, and sustainability, according to leading rankings and indices?
Overview of Bern’s Performance & Potential
The following table offers an overview of Bern’s overall performance across various international rankings. For a deeper analysis, our custom reports provide tailored insights for specific contexts, such as cities, regions, or countries.
| Ranking | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
| 2Thinknow Innovation Cities Index | 207 | – | – | – | 155 | – | – |
| Mercer Quality of Living Ranking | 14 | – | 13 | – | 9 | – | – |
| Mercer Cost of Living Ranking | 12 | 8 | 10 | 5 | 7 | 6 | – |
| Numbeo Cost of Living Index | – | 5 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 6 |
| Numbeo Quality of Life Index | – | – | – | – | – | – | 6 |
| IESE Cities in Motion Index | 31 | 31 | – | 28 | – | 30 |
City Brand Strength
Bern’s cultural heritage, political significance, and commitment to sustainability contribute to its strong international image. In Resonance Consultancy‘s Europe’s Best Cities 2025 report, it ranks 30th with reference to its ‘blend of prosperity and hospitality.
Appeal to Investors and Business
Bern’s economy is characterized by a stable political environment and a focus on high-value industries. In 2thinknow’s Innovation Cities 2023 Index, it ranked 155th, a significant improvement with a jump of 60 places compared to previous years. This rise indicates a growing innovation ecosystem in the city.
Appeal to Talent
Bern offers a high quality of life, making it appealing to both domestic and international talent. According to Mercer’s Quality of Living Ranking 2024, Bern ranks 9th globally, reflecting its exceptional living standards . However, the city is also among the most expensive, ranking 7th in Mercer’s Cost of Living Ranking 2024.
Urban Sustainability
Bern demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, with effective policies in environmental management and urban planning. Bern ranks 31st overall in the IESE Cities in Motion Index 2025, with notable strengths in Governance and Social Cohesion.
Our Key Takeaways
Bern exemplifies a city that balances historical charm with modern efficiency. Its high rankings in quality of life indices underscore its appeal to residents and expatriates alike. However, the high cost of living presents challenges in attracting a diverse workforce. Continued investment in affordable housing and sustainable infrastructure will be key to maintaining its livability and economic vitality.
- Strengths: Exceptional quality of life, political stability, efficient public services.
- Weaknesses: High cost of living, limited global brand recognition.
- Opportunities: Enhancing digital infrastructure, promoting sustainable tourism.
- Threats: Economic disparities, competition from larger Swiss cities.
Last updated in April 2025. Explore more city profiles here.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended to provide a general overview of Bern’s economic and cultural landscape and facilitate comparison over time. While we strive for accuracy and completeness, the data is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. Please verify any information before relying on it for decision-making purposes.
