London has been ranked the second-best city in the world to raise a family, according to a new international study analysing the most family-friendly cities across the globe.
The research, carried out by Australian comparison site Compare the Market, examined 50 major cities worldwide using a range of measures including safety, education spending, parental leave, green space, vaccination rates, happiness levels and the number of activities available for children.
London scored 5.99 out of 10 overall, securing the global runner-up spot. The only city ahead of the British capital was Brisbane in Australia – perhaps not entirely surprising given the research was conducted by an Australian website. Even so, London’s performance placed it comfortably ahead of other major international cities including Auckland, Helsinki and Sydney.
One of London’s standout strengths is the sheer number of things families can do together. The study identified 758 child-friendly activities across the capital, the second-highest of any city analysed and only slightly behind Rome. From world-class museums and historic landmarks to parks, theatres and cultural attractions, the city offers families an extraordinary range of experiences for children of all ages.
Family-friendly policies also helped boost London’s ranking. In the UK, parents can access up to 52 weeks of maternity leave and two weeks of paternity leave, providing significant support for new families during a child’s first year.
Green space also plays a key role in London’s appeal. The capital boasts vast parks, playgrounds and open spaces spread throughout the city, giving families plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors despite living in one of the world’s busiest urban centres.
While London’s cost of living remains higher than many cities, the study concluded that its combination of education investment, cultural opportunities, green spaces and family support policies makes it one of the best places in the world to bring up children.
For Britain’s capital, it is another reminder that London is not just a global economic powerhouse – but also a fantastic place for families to call home.
