Devon named as having the best quality of life in England and Wales

Devon has topped the list for quality of life in England and Wales, beating off stiff competition from Somerset, Harrow and Sheffield.

The South West county has clinched the top spot after a major new study analysed conditions necessary for wellbeing.

High levels of physical activity, volunteering, good air quality and local living conditions led Devon to be given its top ranking.

The analysis carried out by wellbeing charity Happy City examined more than 60 indicators to determine its results.

When compared the other local authorities in England and Wales, Devon was found to be the best, although the analysis pointed out the council had lower levels of inequality than other places.

Chief Executive of Happy City, Liz Zeidler told the Guardian: “It appears it is better to be poor in Devon than in other relatively wealthy areas. Less well-off residents have better access to the things that help them to live happy, fulfilling lives than their peers elsewhere.”

Not too far behind Devon, Bath, North East Somerset, Dorset, Kingston upon Thames and Bexley were also ranked highly.

A full Thriving Places Index will be released in full this week, but early indications show Derby is ranked as lowest, with Hull also performing badly.

The Midlands city was found to perform worse on indicators such as heath, income and employment.

Outside of London, Sheffield was found to be better than other major cities.