New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and More Propel to the Top of 2026 World’s Best Cities Report with Unmatched Urban Resilience and Growth

Published on November 20, 2025

New York City has secured the No. 2 position in Resonance Consultancy’s 2026 “World’s Best Cities” report, coming just behind London. The Vancouver-based company, known for its work in branding and destination marketing, evaluates the top 100 cities worldwide using a blend of data-driven analysis and real-life perceptions. This ranking takes into account factors such as tourism, livability, and investment potential, with 19 U.S. cities making it to the list this year.

New York City (2nd)

New York City, the largest city in the U.S., holds a strong position in the rankings due to a combination of factors. The city’s tight rental markets in areas like Manhattan and Brooklyn, coupled with soaring rents, indicate a growing demand for living space despite the high cost of living. Additionally, the city continues to invest heavily in infrastructure, such as the $19 billion expansion of JFK Airport, which aims to modernize terminals and increase international capacity. This focus on enhancing mobility and transport is another reason for the city’s top-tier ranking. Moving forward, the city’s priorities may shift with the anticipated leadership of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, whose campaign emphasized housing affordability, expanding transit systems, and increasing housing supply.

Los Angeles (12th)

Los Angeles ranks 12th in the world, with the city’s strategic investments and urban renewal projects contributing to its global stature. A notable example is the ongoing development in Woodland Hills, where a 52-acre site is being transformed to include parks, housing, and entertainment venues, signaling the city’s commitment to mixed-use neighborhoods. Additionally, LA is expected to benefit from a surge in innovation with the establishment of a DataX center, designed to attract talent in the fields of STEM and AI. Over the next decade, the city will be a major focal point for sports tourism, hosting events like the FIFA World Cup, the Super Bowl, and the Summer Olympics, all of which are expected to bolster its economy and international profile.

Miami (26th)

Ranked 26th, Miami stands out for its clean air, abundant green spaces, and overall quality of life, making it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. The city’s population is projected to grow by 15 percent by 2030, driven by an influx of international talent. Miami’s status as a burgeoning financial hub is further evidenced by plans for Citadel’s new 1,032-foot headquarters in Brickell. The city’s growing profile as a lifestyle destination adds to its appeal, cementing its place as one of the most attractive cities in the U.S. for both business and leisure.

San Francisco (28th)

San Francisco ranks 28th, but despite facing challenges such as high housing costs and social issues, the city is undergoing a renaissance fueled by technological innovation. The rise of AI and other cutting-edge industries has spurred the city’s transformation, making it a global leader in business and economic output. San Francisco was ranked No. 1 for its business ecosystem and No. 2 for economic output, driven in large part by the $90 billion in venture capital investments it received last year. The city’s new mayor, Daniel Lurie, is focused on addressing housing shortages, with plans to add 36,000 new homes, while also tackling homelessness through a comprehensive program aimed at breaking the cycle of addiction and social issues.

Cities Outside the Top 30

The report also includes 15 other U.S. cities that ranked between 30th and 90th positions. These cities continue to be important players on the global stage, with ongoing developments and investments that contribute to their appeal as attractive destinations for residents, tourists, and investors. They include:

• Chicago (35th)
• Las Vegas (55th)
• Boston (56th)
• Washington, D.C. (57th)
• Houston (58th)
• San Jose (60th)
• Orlando (62nd)
• Atlanta (66th)
• Seattle (67th)
• Dallas (78th)
• San Diego (81st)
• Denver (84th)
• Austin (87th)
• Philadelphia (88th)
• Baltimore (89th)

These cities showcase the diverse attractions, growth potential, and livability that are helping to shape the U.S. as a global leader in both tourism and investment. With continued development and expansion, these cities are poised to further solidify their positions in future rankings, attracting both domestic and international attention.