10 of the world’s most difficult cities to live in, according to new global index

Life in every city has its struggles, but in some places, daily survival goes far beyond traffic jams and rising rents. These cities are facing a complex web of instability, conflict, economic breakdown, and crumbling public services — making them some of the most difficult places to live in the world.

A newly released Global Livability Index ranks cities based on stability, healthcare, education, infrastructure, environment, and culture. Stability — which includes crime, civil unrest, and conflict — is a key factor in these rankings.

Here’s a closer look at the 10 cities that ranked lowest in the 2025 index:

1. Caracas, Venezuela

Index Score: 45 | Stability: 35

Once a vibrant capital, Caracas has descended into crisis. Hyperinflation, food shortages, and one of the world’s highest crime rates have left millions struggling to survive. Basic needs like electricity, clean water, and medicine are unreliable at best.

2. Kyiv, Ukraine

Index Score: 44.5 | Stability: 40

The ongoing war with Russia has turned Kyiv into a conflict zone. Air raid sirens, missile strikes, and frequent power outages have become part of daily life. Still, the city remains defiant — a symbol of Ukrainian resilience and sacrifice.

3. Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Index Score: 44 | Stability: 30

Despite its natural beauty, Port Moresby faces deep-rooted problems: violent crime, poor healthcare, and inadequate housing. Many residents lack access to clean water or reliable electricity, and gang violence is a daily risk.

4. Harare, Zimbabwe

Index Score: 44 | Stability: 40

Zimbabwe’s capital grapples with political instability, economic collapse, and decaying public services. Power cuts, water shortages, and high unemployment are everyday challenges — yet many still find ways to survive through informal trade and resilience.

5. Lagos, Nigeria

Index Score: 43.5 | Stability: 30

Lagos is Nigeria’s economic powerhouse but also one of its toughest cities. Endless traffic, erratic electricity, overcrowded living conditions, and rising crime make daily life exhausting. Yet it’s a hub of energy, creativity, and survival against the odds.

6. Algiers, Algeria

Index Score: 42.8 | Stability: 35

Algiers may seem calm on the surface, but political stagnation, youth unemployment, and social discontent simmer beneath. The city’s economic future is uncertain, and many young people feel left behind.

7. Karachi, Pakistan

Index Score: 42.7 | Stability: 20

Pakistan’s largest city is plagued by insecurity, pollution, poor infrastructure, and strained public services. Terrorism threats and high crime make safety a major concern, while access to clean water and quality healthcare remains limited.

8. Dhaka, Bangladesh

Index Score: 41.7 | Stability: 45

One of the most crowded cities on Earth, Dhaka battles air pollution, traffic chaos, and a growing urban poor population. Though relatively politically stable, rapid and unregulated growth has overwhelmed its infrastructure and left many vulnerable.

9. Tripoli, Libya

Index Score: 40.1 | Stability: 30

Years of civil war have left Tripoli in tatters. Government services are patchy or non-existent, and armed groups often wield more power than public officials. Frequent blackouts, poverty, and insecurity define life for many residents.

10. Damascus, Syria

Index Score: 30.7 | Stability: 20

Topping the list as the world’s most difficult place to live, Damascus bears the scars of over a decade of war. With infrastructure destroyed and international sanctions in place, basics like electricity, clean water, and medicine are scarce. Many residents live in survival mode, clinging to hope amid deep loss.