Brazilian City of Maringá, Planned in 1945, Nears the Top of Livability Lists

The city of Maringá, located in the state of Paraná in southern Brazil, continues to be ranked among the country's most livable cities. Planned in 1945, this city draws great attention by offering 55 square meters of green space per capita. The city, which has approximately 400 thousand trees on its streets, is famous for its wide and tree-lined avenues. It proved its success by ranking 14th among the 5,570 municipalities evaluated nationwide in the IPS Brasil 2026 (Social Progress Index) survey. This situation ensures that Maringá is considered not only one of the best-planned cities in Brazil but also in all of Latin America.

One of the most interesting features of the city is that it was planned by an engineer in 1945. The striking detail is that this engineer never visited the city. Despite this, the urban planning presented was so successful that the fundamental structure of the city still offers a high quality of life today. Based on ideal city design principles, this project envisioned wide boulevards, green belts separating districts, and a modern infrastructure. The success of this remote planning is still discussed as a reference point in the world of architecture and urban design. Despite not being visited, the engineer's vision guaranteed the sustainable growth and orderly structure of the city.

Maringá's figure of 55 square meters of green space per capita is well above international standards. This value, which is multiples above the minimum amount of green space recommended by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), clearly reveals the eco-friendly nature of the city. The approximately 400 thousand trees planted on the streets not only provide visual beauty but also regulate the local climate and significantly improve air quality. While wide boulevards alleviate heavy traffic problems, they also create safe areas for pedestrians and cyclists. This comprehensive green space strategy positively and directly affects the physical and mental health of city residents.

Compared to the chaotic urban growth and unplanned construction problems encountered throughout Brazil, Maringá's situation stands out as a unique success story. The 14th ranking in the IPS Brasil 2026 report is concrete proof of how well basic municipal services, security, education, and environmental quality are managed. Located in the state of Paraná in the northeast of the country, this city continues to attract migrants from other regions in recent years. Thanks to high living standards, the satisfaction of both the local people and newcomers is constantly increasing. Unlike other major metropolises in Brazil, Maringá has a great competitive advantage with its orderly infrastructure.

In conclusion, Maringá is vivid proof of how proper urban planning and valuing the environment can bring great success in the long run. Although the city's history began with a remotely executed project, it has become one of the best-managed settlements in Brazil today. Wide avenues and abundant green spaces both meet the needs of today's population and inspire leaving a livable environment for future generations. Entering the top 15 among Brazil's total 5,570 municipalities shows the whole world how effective the city's policies are. Maringá will continue to be a model for other cities progressing in line with sustainable development goals.