Paphos has been named the world’s most sustainable small city, according to a report by Compare the Market AU.

Nestled on the Mediterranean coast, Paphos impressed with its balance of urban offerings and a healthy lifestyle.

The report ranked 7 factors: restaurants, entertainment options, unemployment rate, rainfall, health index, safety score, and cost of living. Paphos secured the top spot with a score of 5.495 out of 7.

“With the most restaurants on our list, at 500, you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to sampling Cypriot classics such as souvlaki, fried halloumi, and eliopita (olive bread),” the report noted.

Spain’s Arrecife (4.717) and Italy’s Trapani (4.622) rounded out the top three. Notably, Greece also placed two cities on the list: Ioannina (22nd) and Xanthi (44th).

European cities dominated the ranking, with Grande Prairie, Canada, the sole non-European representative in the top ten (4.295).

Stephen Zeller, General Manager of Money at Compare the Market, notes that it’s vital to understand why small cities are typically more affordable – and whether there’s a catch. “Big cities are often more expensive because they have lots going on and are usually where high-paying jobs are. Smaller cities can be more affordable due to less competition for housing, but you need to understand whether there are any downsides for buying there,” he said.

“For example, what would your job prospects be in a small city? Will you be far away from family and friends? If you’re planning on having children, how many schools are available? How many shops are there to choose from for essentials like food and medicine?

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