Brisbane City Performance, Brand Strength and Reputation

Brisbane is a gentle mix of active subtropical climate with scenic nature, and urban sophistication. Its warm and relaxed atmosphere gives it the reputation as one of Australia‘s most liveable cities. Brisbane leverages its strategic location, pleasant climate, diverse cultural and arts scene to be a strong competitor to Sydney and Melbourne.

As the city gears up to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, how does the prospects for business investments and liability look like? Let’s explore how Brisbane positions itself on the world stage, drawing insights from data provided by leading rankings and indices.

Let’s take a closer look at:

• Brisbane’s competitiveness and financial performance
• Brisbane’s brand strength and global attractiveness
• Livability: Brisbane’s appeal for digital nomads and locals

Brisbane’s competitiveness and economic performance

How attractive is Brisbane as a place to work and do business?

Brisbane’s commitment to innovation is underscored by its position in 2thinknow’s Innovation Cities Index 2022-2023, ranking 38^th globally and jumping four positions from 42^nd, placing Brisbane between San Diego (37^th) and Helsinki (39^th).

Brisbane’s brand strength and global attractiveness

Which subfactors hurt and help the brand of Brisbane? 

Resonance’s 2024 World’s Best Cities Report places Brisbane 57^th, between Hamburg (56^th) and Kuwait City (58^th). The report ranks Brisbane 24^th for livability and the city excels in bike-friendliness, earning the top spot globally in bike score rankings due to its people-friendly infrastructure.

Livability: Brisbane’s appeal for digital nomads and locals

Which aspects of Brisbane’s urban living make it an attractive place to live, work and study?

Brisbane’s allure is clear for residents, business and leisure visitors, and digital nomads seeking a balance between a thriving urban environment and natural beauty.

As reflected in the Mercer Quality of Living City Ranking, the city is placed 34^th globally, tied with Helsinki, and positioned between Toulouse (33^rd) and Brussels (36^th). The Mercer Cost of Living Ranking places Brisbane at 82^nd, between Douala (81^st) and Madrid (83^rd). 

In the Best Urban Cities for Digital Nomads ranking by Spot a Home, Brisbane truly shines, ranking 4^th globally between Barcelona (3^rd) and Luxembourg (5^th). The city excels in categories such as Green Space and Parks, Annual Sunshine, Quality of Coworking Spaces, and Migrant acceptance.

The Arcadis Sustainability City Index 2022 ranks Brisbane 64^th overall, between Hong Kong (63^rd) and New Orleans (65^th). Brisbane’s pillar rankings demonstrate balanced sustainable development and forward-thinking public policy, with Planet at 60^th, People at 57^th, and Profit at 50^th.

Last updated in March 2024. More city benchmarking insights, profiles and reports in our City Observatory.

Enjoyed our summary of global rankings and indices on Brisbane’s economic performance, its sustainability, city brand strength and reputation? Thanks for sharing!