Singapore leads global ranking for digital quality of life
Singapore has ranked first in a new study measuring digital quality of life across more than 30 technologically advanced countries.
The analysis examined critical factors contributing to digital well-being, including internet speed, costs, cybersecurity, digital development, internet penetration, and overall global digitalisation.
Singapore achieved a digital score of 61, distinguishing itself with a National Cyber Security Index of 71.4 and the highest global digitalisation index among countries surveyed. The findings highlight Singapore's developed digital infrastructure and its rapid growth in global digitalisation.
The research drew from data provided by the National Cyber Security Index and World Population Review, compiling a final score for each country based on a weighted calculation of the key indicators.
Denmark placed second, earning a digital score of 55. The country offers the fastest mean internet download speed in the ranking, at 210.5 Mbps, nearly twice that of several other top-ranked countries. Denmark also scored highly in digital development, reflecting broad adoption of technology and digital tools across the country.
Romania secured third place with a score of 54, standing out for the strongest national cybersecurity index among the top ten at 89.6, surpassing both Singapore and Denmark. Romania also features the lowest average monthly internet cost on the list, at USD $8.6.
The Netherlands ranked fourth, achieving a digital score of 50. It was notable for having the second-fastest internet speeds, at 188.4 Mbps, and a high internet penetration rate of 97% of the population.
Switzerland followed in fifth with a score of 49. While the country had the highest monthly internet cost, at USD $68, it demonstrated high internet speed and broad coverage, as well as a strong cybersecurity posture, outperforming Singapore in this area.
The list continued with France in sixth position, scoring 48. France's average internet cost is USD $33, less than in the Netherlands or Denmark. The country has also invested significantly in cybersecurity, with an index of 84.4.
Seventh place went to Sweden, matching France's score of 48. Sweden reported similar internet costs and cybersecurity levels but boasted a higher internet penetration rate, reaching 95.7% of its population.
Israel ranked eighth, earning a score of 47. While its cybersecurity score was lower relative to other countries in the top ten, Israel had the highest internet penetration rate in the study, at 99.4%. Its digitalisation index also placed it ahead of both Sweden and Switzerland.
Spain was listed ninth with a score of 47. It received the second-highest index for national cybersecurity, at 88.3. Spain also reported relatively low internet costs, with an average of USD $31.9 per month, and high internet usage.
Finland rounded out the top ten with a score of 43. While its internet speeds ranked lower than those in other leading countries, Finland performed well in digital development, with an index of 78.3.
The study highlighted that the digital divide remains a global challenge. Despite advancements in technology, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) estimates 2.6 billion people worldwide still lack reliable internet access.
A spokesperson from the online gaming company Casinova, which commissioned the study, commented: "Nations increasingly recognize that digital quality of life directly impacts economic competitiveness and citizen wellbeing in our interconnected world. The substantial variation in internet speeds, costs, and cybersecurity across countries reflects different national priorities and investment approaches to digital infrastructure development. As societies become more digitally dependent, countries that strategically invest in robust digital ecosystems create significant advantages for their citizens, enhancing everything from remote work opportunities to educational access and healthcare delivery."
