Curitiba has been named the best Brazilian capital to live in according to the 2026 Social Progress Index (IPS) ranking [1].
The ranking provides a benchmark for urban development and social wellbeing across Brazil. By identifying which cities successfully integrate public services with environmental sustainability, the IPS helps policymakers and residents understand the drivers of high quality of life in dense urban centers.
The IPS 2026 evaluation included 5,570 municipalities [4]. Curitiba secured first place among capitals [1], earning a score of 71.29 points [2]. The ranking was disclosed in May 2026, with reports appearing on May 19 [4] and May 20 [5].
According to the index, Curitiba's top position is driven by its commitment to urban greening and mobility. The city provides 68 square meters of green area per resident [3]. This environmental focus is paired with a public transport system that has been adopted by 190 cities worldwide [3].
The IPS evaluates a variety of social-progress indicators to determine its rankings. These include the quality of public transport, access to health and education, and the amount of green space available to inhabitants [2]. Curitiba's high score reflects a holistic approach to city management that prioritizes accessibility and ecological health.
While Curitiba leads the capital cities, the IPS data also tracks performance in smaller municipalities. Some cities in the interior of São Paulo have continued to lead the overall national list for three consecutive years [5]. However, among the primary administrative hubs of the country, Curitiba remains the highest-rated city for resident wellbeing [1].
“Curitiba secured first place among capitals, earning a score of 71.29 points.”
Curitiba's ranking reinforces the global reputation of its 'urban laboratory' approach to city planning. By prioritizing high-capacity transit and aggressive green-space expansion, the city demonstrates that systemic urban design can directly correlate with higher social progress scores. This result suggests that integrated planning, rather than just economic growth, is the primary driver for quality of life in Brazil's largest metropolitan areas.
