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Vancouver ranks in top 10 cities in the world for best work-life balance

Vancouver recently ranked in the top ten cities in the world for best work-life balance in a recent study conducted by Kisi.

 Photo: work-life balance / ShutterstockPhoto: work-life balance / Shutterstock

Vancouver recently ranked in the top ten cities in the world for best work-life balance in a recent study conducted by Kisi.

Kisi, a U.S.-based keyless security system provider, created the study to provide a, "guideline for cities to benchmark their ability to support the fulfillment of residents’ lives by improving the aspects of life that help relieve work-related stress and intensity."

The study used forty cities around the world that are known for attracting professionals and families for their work opportunities and diverse lifestyle offerings. It then focused on three broad categories to determine which metropolises offered the most well-rounded experiences, including: work intensity, society and institutions, and city liveability.

Several specific factors were also used in calculating each cities' score such as total working hours, commuting, and vacation days taken. The study also looked into the way that residents are treated, such their "access to state-funded health and welfare programs," as well as support for gender equality and friendliness toward the LGBT+ community.

All of the top five cities were located in Europe, with Helsinki, Finland ranking first. Munich, Germany ranked second, and Oslo, Norway came third. Vancouver took the tenth spot, but two other Canadian cities ranked just out of the top ten. Ottawa came in 11th, while Toronto came placed in 13th.

The study also revealed the top five most overworked cities, and Tokyo, Japan ranked the most overworked. Following Tokyo, Singapore placed 39th, with Washington, U.S.A. following in 38th. Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia ranked 37th, and Houston, U.S.A. came 36th.

Top Ten Cities for Work-Life Balance

  1. Helsinki, Finland
  2. Munich, Germany
  3. Oslo, Norway
  4. Hamburg, Germany
  5. Stockholm, Sweden
  6. Berlin, Germany
  7. Zurich, Switzerland
  8. Barcelona, Spain
  9. Paris, France
  10. Vancouver, Canada