A guide to living in the best places around the world

People tend to think about more than just tourist attractions when considering where to live. Some of the best places to live on earth boast of stable economies and clean environments. Whether a bustling metropolis or a rustic town, the best places to live in the world offer cultural enrichment and the opportunity for growth.

Eden Prairie, Minnesota, USA

In a 2010 poll from Money Magazine, Eden Prairie, Minnesota was named as the the best place to live in the United States. Moody's gives the town an AAA bond rating and employers like Starkey Labs and C.H. Robinson keep the gears of their economy moving. Eden Prairie boasts of a 5.1% unemployment rate, which is considerably lower than the nine percent US average. Eden Prairie has a population of only 64,000 people and is a far cry from the hustle and bustle of its neighbouring cities, the more popular Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Truro, Cornwall, UK

One of the best places to live in the UK is Cornwall's small capital city of Truro. Although, one of the top tourist destinations in England, you would never know it from the city's quaint, Old World appearance. While ageing metropolises like London are becoming some of the worst cities to live, small year-round towns like Truro are gaining popularity. Tourists visit Truro for the bustling shops, restaurants and historical sites. Truro is also the commercial and administrative capital of Cornwall, making it one of the best cities to work and live.

Aukland, New Zealand

In the native Maori Indian region, Auckland is known as "the maiden with a hundred suitors". This title holds true even to this day for New Zealand's largest city. Auckland is a bubbling, coastal area with a thriving marine economy and a clean standard of living. Auckland, New Zealand might also be one of the smartest places to live, with one of the highest education and literacy ratings in the world.The city has a high cost of living in comparison with some of its neighbours, but Auckland's employees also enjoy a higher average employment wage to balance out the equation.

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

One of the most lovable cities in the world is Vancouver, Canada. This city in British Columbia topped the CNBC's list for 2010 with an overall score of 98 out of 100. The poll results awarded Vancouver perfect marks in healthcare, education and culture. Vancouver hosted the 2010 Winter Olympic games and inspired the world with its generosity and excellence as a host city. Although, Vancouver is one of the cleanest cities in the world, it is also one of the costliest. Real estate prices are rapidly rising as more people gather in this coastal haven.