Kyiv has remained in the bottom ten of the world’s least liveable cities, securing 166th place out of 173 in the latest Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) report. The Ukrainian capital scored 45 out of 100, slipping one position compared to last year’s ranking.
The lowest score was attributed to infrastructure, which received only 27 points. This result directly reflects the ongoing risks associated with Russia’s war against Ukraine, which forces the city to operate under constant threat to its energy and logistical networks. The stability score, which incorporates factors such as civil conflict and security threats, was assessed at 40 points.
Despite the challenges, other sectors showed resilience. The city received 42 points for healthcare, 53 for culture, and an impressive 75 for education, highlighting that educational and cultural institutions continue to function despite the hostile environment. In the ranking, Kyiv is placed near cities like Harare and Port Moresby, a stark contrast to the top-tier cities like Copenhagen, Vienna, and Zurich.
Economic indicators suggest that the city remains a vital hub. Despite the difficult security situation, Kyiv continues to lead the country in tourism tax contributions, accounting for nearly 25% of the total revenue collected in 2025. This proves that while safety remains a major concern, the city’s economic life persists.
Ultimately, the EIU index illustrates the heavy toll that an ongoing conflict takes on urban development. The metrics are heavily skewed by the constant security risks posed by Russian aggression. As long as the capital remains a target for strikes, its position in international liveability rankings will likely reflect these hardships rather than the actual quality of life and the indomitable spirit of its citizens.