Canada has fallen to 19th place in the latest global “Best Countries” rankings released by U.S. News & World Report, placing just behind the United States. While the drop appears significant compared to Canada’s second-place ranking in 2023 and fourth-place finish in 2024, researchers say the methodology has been completely redesigned to focus more on measurable data rather than public perception.
The new rankings evaluate 100 countries using statistical indicators tied to governance, health, infrastructure, economic development, tourism, civic health, opportunity, and environmental performance. Canada performed strongest in culture and tourism, ranking eighth globally due to its multicultural identity, international influence, and tourism appeal. However, the country scored lower in areas tied to affordability, infrastructure, health-care access, and economic performance.
Canada ranked 18th in governance, 20th in infrastructure, 21st in economic development, and 27th in both health and civic health. The country’s weakest result came in natural environment, where it placed 63rd globally despite strong air quality scores. Analysts noted concerns around hospital access, housing affordability, public services, and environmental protections contributed to lower rankings. Switzerland topped the global list, followed by Denmark and Sweden, while the United States ranked 18th overall — one spot ahead of Canada.
