This is a list of the highest settlements by country. Only permanent settlements occupied year-round are included. The locally claimed elevation above sea level is given; this may be the highest point in the settlement, the lowest point, an average height or the elevation of a particular central point.

The high elevation of the towns or cities affects the social and physical arrangement of the place. In many cases, the cold climate in winter necessitates a particular style of house; the type of agriculture practised and the domestic animals kept there are limited; or, the type of work carried on is specialised.