The preferences of Generation Z are reshaping the global urban landscape. In its 2025 edition, Time Out unveiled its annual ranking of the world’s best cities for Gen Z, placing Bangkok at the top. Based on more than 18,500 surveys, the study explores how happiness, affordability, diversity, and cultural experiences define the most attractive cities for people under 30.
Bangkok: A Hub for Happiness and Accessibility
Bangkok emerged as the number one city for Gen Z, with 84% of respondents reporting happiness and 71% emphasizing the city’s affordability. It also ranked highest as a place where making friends is easiest, underlining the importance of community-building in urban life.
For educators, innovators, and businesses, Bangkok’s position reflects more than just lifestyle. The city’s ability to combine affordability with a vibrant social and cultural scene makes it a strategic hub for digital entrepreneurs, startups, and international students looking for an accessible yet dynamic environment.
Melbourne: Diversity as a Strength
Melbourne secured second place, praised for its inclusivity and cultural richness. According to the survey, 77% of Gen Z respondents highlighted its diversity, while 96% applauded its cultural and artistic offerings. Quality of life also scored high, with 91% of respondents describing it as “good” or “incredible.”
The Australian city illustrates how diversity and education-driven innovation can create a competitive advantage. With a strong academic ecosystem, Melbourne attracts international students, creative industries, and technology ventures, becoming an example of how cities can harness cultural inclusivity to remain globally relevant.
Cape Town: An Emerging Urban Player
In third place is Cape Town, where 82% of young residents said they felt happy, 71% described it as beautiful, and 76% praised its accessible nightlife. While often celebrated for its natural beauty, Cape Town is now positioning itself as an emerging destination for investment in technology, education, and creative industries. Its rising appeal among Gen Z underscores the potential of cities outside traditional economic centers to capture global attention.
A Global Top 10
The full ranking offers a diverse set of urban models: New York, Copenhagen, Barcelona, Edinburgh, Mexico City, London, and Shanghai completed the top 10.
Each of these cities embodies different aspects of what Gen Z values:
- New York (4th) was recognized for nightlife, walkability, and excitement.
- Copenhagen (5th) scored highly on happiness and inclusivity.
- Barcelona (6th) was praised for diversity and overall well-being.
- Edinburgh (7th) earned recognition for green spaces and pedestrian-friendly design.
- Mexico City (8th) was lauded for its affordability and cultural vibrancy.
- London (9th) stood out in culture and gastronomy but scored lower in affordability.
- Shanghai (10th) excelled in public transport and happiness.
This diverse lineup underscores that the future of urban life for young generations is not tied to one geography but spread across continents, reflecting multiple models of innovation, inclusivity, and livability.
Implications for Education and Innovation
The survey results highlight a broader shift in the way Gen Z defines opportunity. For previous generations, career prospects often determined where to live. For today’s young people, access to education, affordable cultural experiences, and the possibility of building a community carry equal weight.
This has direct implications for universities, training centers, and innovation hubs. Cities that combine strong academic institutions with affordable living and inclusive communities are better positioned to attract global students and young professionals. The rise of international education mobility means that rankings like this one can influence where thousands of students decide to pursue their studies.
Talent Mobility and Business Strategy
For businesses, the findings reveal that Gen Z professionals are drawn to cities where quality of life is prioritized alongside professional opportunity. Companies aiming to recruit and retain young talent must recognize that workplace policies are no longer enough: the surrounding urban environment plays a decisive role.
Governments, too, face new challenges. Policies that enhance affordability, promote cultural inclusivity, and invest in public infrastructure are now central to a city’s competitiveness. Cities like Bangkok and Mexico City demonstrate that affordability remains a decisive factor, while Melbourne and Barcelona show that cultural vibrancy and inclusivity can position a city as a global hub for young professionals.
A Generational Compass for Cities
Time Out’s 2025 ranking goes beyond lifestyle trends: it offers a generational compass for cities and institutions. Bangkok may top the list, but the broader message is clear—Gen Z values urban ecosystems that balance education, culture, accessibility, and innovation.
For global education providers, this means rethinking where to establish campuses or partnerships. For businesses, it means identifying cities where young professionals will want to build their futures. And for policymakers, it is a call to design inclusive, dynamic, and affordable urban environments.
In a rapidly changing world, the cities that listen to the voices of their youngest residents will not only climb rankings but also secure their place as global leaders in education, innovation, and talent mobility.
Source: CNN
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