Discover the most gay-friendly cities in the world: Reykjavik takes the lead
Reykjavik, Iceland, has emerged victorious in a recent global study that ranked the top queer-friendly capitals in the world.
A study by Emisil, a company that supports the “Female to Male” (FTM) community, showed that Reykjavik outshines other capitals, exhibiting how progressive policies and community engagement shape a truly supportive environment.
The findings evaluated inclusivity, safety, affordability and social vibrancy across various countries, drawing from five core metrics: equality index, safety index, cost of living and rent index and the number of LGBTQ+ bars, clubs and events.
Reykjavik scored an impressive equality index of 93 and a safety index of 74.6, firmly establishing the city as a safe haven for its LGBTQ+ residents and visitors since the legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2010.
“Cities that prioritise equality and safety for LGBTQ+ individuals build communities where people can thrive socially, culturally and economically,” said a spokesperson from Emisil.
They added: “This serves as a reminder for other cities that investing in inclusivity is not only a matter of human rights but also a pathway to stronger social cohesion and economic development.
“Supporting visibility and ensuring safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals benefits everyone by creating more inclusive and resilient communities.”
Did you know: Reykjavik is world famous for its hot springs but the attractions don't stop there. Visitors may be surprised to learn of the many fun things to do when you arrive, including food tours, museums, opportunities to take in the natural beauty, whale watching, and more.
Close behind Reykjavik is Berlin, Germany in second spot with a score of 97.7.
Berlin has 147 queer bars and clubs, making it the capital with the highest number of LGBTQ+ venues globally.
Coupled with its affordability, Berlin offers an energising environment for queer life, easing the financial strain on community members with a cost of living index of 44.
Did you know: Berlin has the longest open-air gallery in the world. The East Side Gallery is 1,316 meters long and showcases over 100 murals from artists all over the world.
The most photographed mural is the “Fraternal Kiss”, which features the former Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and the former leader of the GDR Erich Honecker.
Oslo, Norway, followed closely in third place, with a score of 96.6.
The city also boasts the highest annual salary on the list, reaching $102k, providing financial security alongside its commitment to inclusivity.
In fourth place is Copenhagen, Denmark with a score of 95.6. Denmark has 36 queer-friendly venues, consistently maintaining high standards for equality and legal rights since legalising same-sex marriage in 2012.
Rounding out the top five is Bern, Switzerland, scoring 94.1.
Though it only recently legalised same-sex marriage in 2022, Bern's high safety index of 73.9, along with substantial annual salaries, positions it as an attractive destination for LGBTQ+ residents and visitors alike.
Amsterdam, the Netherlands earned a score of 93, thanks largely to being the first city globally to legalise same-sex marriage back in 2001.
Amsterdam remains a vibrant hub with approximately 67 LGBTQ+ events conducted each year, showing its commitment to fostering connections within the community.
London, UK, with a score of 92, plays host to around 3,800 LGBTQ+ events annually, boasting the highest number among the ranked capitals, while also maintaining a diverse range of queer bars and spaces.
Madrid, Spain follows closely with a score of 90, where a steady rise in equality and public support has further solidified its historical progressive policies established since its own same-sex marriage legalisation in 2005.
Vienna, Austria and Helsinki, Finland complete the top ten, with both cities demonstrating a balanced mix of inclusivity, affordability and safety.
Did you know: The city of Helsinki was created by a Swedish king to compete with the city of Tallinn across the Gulf of Finland.
Later, Finnish citizens were forced to move there. Now, the city is a global design capital and is known worldwide for its natural beauty.
Vienna scored 87.9 and Helsinki, 86, both providing stable environments for the LGBTQ+ population.