Liège - Belgium

Nestled in the valley of the Meuse River and enriched with a vibrant cultural tapestry, Liège is not only the capital of the province bearing its name but also a pivotal economic and cultural hub in Wallonia, Belgium. Home to nearly 200,000 residents within its bustling core and boasting a metropolitan population exceeding 750,000, Liège stands as the third most populous urban area in the country. Its strategic location near key European borders with the Netherlands and Germany enhances its connectivity, making it a linchpin in the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion. Liège shines brightly in several facets of urban livability, underscored by a remarkable amenities score of 'A'. This indicates an abundance of high-quality services and facilities that cater to residents' needs. The city's streets are lined with diverse dining options, shopping centers, and healthcare services, reflecting its robust infrastructure supporting a top-tier living quality index. The cultural and entertainment scene in Liège is nothing short of spectacular, earning it an 'A' score. This vibrant aspect of the city is epitomized by events such as the renowned Carnival of Binche and various festivals that highlight local traditions and contemporary arts. Additionally, landmarks like the Grand Curtius museum and the Basilica of Saint-Michel and Saint-Gudule provide cultural enrichment for both locals and tourists. Liège also excels in childcare and education, securing an 'A' score. The city's educational institutions are renowned for their excellence, contributing to a nurturing environment that supports youth development. This focus on quality education is vital in maintaining its favorable position in the better life index. In terms of transportation, Liège boasts a commendable public transit system. With efficient public transport services and multiple tram stops spread throughout the city, residents enjoy easy access to local amenities and workspaces. The city's commitment to sustainable urban planning is evident in efforts to improve commute scores, currently marked at 'B+', by continually enhancing its urban infrastructure. Despite these strengths, Liège faces challenges that impact its overall quality of life index. A notable area for improvement is the noise score, which stands at 'D-'. This challenge predominantly arises from its industrial heritage and ongoing urban activities. The city acknowledges this issue and has initiated sustainable urban development projects aimed at mitigating noise pollution through improved land zoning regulations and green space creation. The NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) score of 'C+' suggests some resistance to new developments, which can hinder progress in areas like housing and urban redevelopment. However, Liège is proactively engaging with community stakeholders to foster a more inclusive approach towards urban planning that balances development needs with residents' concerns. Liège's health score of 'B' indicates robust access to healthcare facilities, yet there are opportunities for further enhancement. Initiatives aimed at improving health-related quality of life continue to be prioritized, ensuring that all residents have equitable access to medical care and support services. In conclusion, Liège presents itself as a city rich in culture, education, and amenities, with substantial potential for improvement in specific areas like noise control and urban development acceptance. As it continues to evolve through strategic sustainable initiatives and community engagement, Liège is well-positioned to climb higher in the global livability index, offering its residents an ever-improving quality of life. By embracing both its strengths and challenges, Liège demonstrates resilience and a forward-thinking approach that will undoubtedly enhance its appeal as one of Europe's most dynamic urban centers.

Liège

Country: Belgium

Population: 195278

Metropolitan Population: (Belgïe Nationale Recensement)

Elevation: 66.0 metre

Area: 69.39 square kilometre

Web: https://www.liege.be/

Overall score

Total

B+

Amenities

Childcare & Education

Commute

B+

Culture & Entertainment

Health

NIMBY

C+

Noise

D-