It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the city where you live can positively or negatively impact your mental wellbeing. It might be time to move elsewhere if you constantly feel overwhelmed or anxious.
Living in a city with low levels of air and noise pollution, low crime levels, low unemployment rates, and a healthy social structure is more likely to positively influence your mental health than living in a polluted city where poverty and chaos reign supreme.
A city can also be considered good for mental health if it provides its residents easy access to mental health care and offers prescription medication at a fair price.
And, of course, what makes a city good or bad for your mental health also depends on your situation, what you love, and what you’re looking for in a city.
Are you in need of some inspiration? Let’s take a trip worldwide to learn about some of the best cities to live in for mental health.
1. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is a beautiful country where you can admire glaciers, mountains, volcanoes, and natural hot springs. Reykjavik is the country’s capital and its largest and most populous city.
It’s considered one of the safest, greenest, and cleanest cities worldwide. It’s spacious, with good air quality, and it’s seen as very friendly for families and LGBTQ people. It’s also interesting to note that in Iceland, men and women are legally required to be paid equally.
Reykjavik residents can access an efficient, affordable healthcare system and great education.
2. Los Angeles, California
California might not have the best mental health care system in the United States. However, moving to this exciting city could improve your mental well-being if you dream of luxury apartments in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles is a city for artists and dreamers. It’s a place bursting with opportunities, where there is always something new to do, see, hear, taste, and enjoy.
Plus, the weather is always pleasant, residents enjoy a healthy work-life balance, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a celebrity or two whenever you leave your apartment.
3. Bern, Switzerland
Bern is one of the most populated cities in Switzerland. It’s a beautiful city with much to offer for people who love culture and architecture. It has a low unemployment rate and a great education system, and it’s considered a safe city.
But perhaps one of the most interesting things about living in Bern, when it comes to mental health, is that mental and physical illnesses are treated equally. The most basic health insurance plan covers treatment for mental health issues, meaning that residents who struggle with depression, for example, will be able to receive the help they need.
4. Helsinki, Finland
Even though Finland has the reputation of being the happiest country in the world, it doesn’t mean that everyone who lives in Finland is constantly happy. But living in Helsinki, the country’s capital could benefit your mental health.
Helsinki is a safe, family-friendly city. Residents can get everywhere they want on a bike and have access to beautiful parks and forests. Plus, education is free for students who live in Finland, Switzerland, or a country within the European Union.
5. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia and one of the safest cities in the world. It has a strong cultural heritage, and it’s a great city for people who love attending major sporting events.
Melbourne residents celebrate 14 public holidays yearly, and they can get time off work to celebrate them properly. The work-life balance is great in Melbourne, which can benefit your mental wellbeing.
6. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is one of the happiest cities in the world. It’s also one of the healthiest cities in the world, as it promotes the benefits of health and daily exercise to its residents. Copenhagen has been designed for bikes, not for cars.
If you dream of starting your own business, you must know that doing so is fairly easy in Copenhagen. It’s also a very safe city, with many fun activities.
7. Montreal, Canada
Montreal is Canada’s second most populous city, and it’s considered an affordable place to live. The city is a melting pot of culture, entertainment, history, shopping, and dining, with a diverse population.
It has a great education system, an affordable public transportation system, and wonderful parks where you can practice outdoor activities all year round. Residents are generally friendly and enjoy a good quality of life.
