Bangkok Ranked the World’s Best City for Gen Z

Bangkok has secured the number-one spot in Time Out’s inaugural global ranking of the Best Cities for Gen Z, earning praise for its mix of affordability, vibrant lifestyle, and strong sense of community.

For the first time, Time Out focused its annual Best Cities survey on under-30s, asking what makes a city truly great for today’s younger generation. The results reveal where Gen Z isn’t just living, but thriving—and the Thai capital came out on top.

Why Bangkok Leads the Pack

Unlike older generations, who leaned toward stability and suburban comfort, Gen Z values flexibility, cultural experiences, and community connection. They want cities where the cost of living doesn’t crush creativity and where their social life thrives as much as career opportunities. Bangkok checked every box.

• Happiness at the core: An impressive 84% of young residents in Bangkok said they’re happy with their lives there—highlighting the city’s lively energy, cultural depth, and uplifting atmosphere.
• Affordability that matters: With 71% of Gen Z respondents describing Bangkok as budget-friendly, the city proves itself a haven where financial pressures don’t stifle ambitions. From affordable street food to flexible living costs, it gives space for both work and play.
• Community and connection: Bangkok also ranked highest for ease of making new friends, reinforcing its reputation as a welcoming city. From co-working spaces to bustling nightlife, it offers endless ways to build meaningful connections.

Together, these factors gave Bangkok a ‘City Score’ of 66%, putting it ahead of global powerhouses.

Global Rivals Left Behind

In the overall ranking, Melbourne came in second, followed by Cape Town, New York City, and Copenhagen, rounding out the top five. London and Shanghai also secured spots in the top ten, but the affordability and balance found in Bangkok gave it the winning edge.

A City for the Future

For Gen Z, life isn’t just about careers and possessions; it’s about experiences, relationships, and well-being. Bangkok’s winning combination proves that a global city can be both dynamic and affordable, a place where the next generation can truly flourish.

Top 10 Cities for Gen Z in 2025

1. Bangkok, Thailand
2. Melbourne, Australia
3. Cape Town, South Africa
4. New York City, USA
5. Copenhagen, Denmark
6. Barcelona, Spain
7. Edinburgh, UK
8. Mexico City, Mexico
9. London, UK
10. Shanghai, China