ET NEWS

Cities that balance affordability, culture, nightlife, and quality of life are emerging as top choices for Gen Z. A global survey of more than 18,500 residents under 30 has revealed the places where young people feel happiest and most at home. According to the 2025 survey ranking by Time Out 2025, the best city for Gen Z this year is Thailand's capital Bangkok.Melbourne followed at the second position, climbing two places from the earlier ranking. Young people in the Australian city praised its diversity, inclusive environment, and strong cultural scene, with nearly 96% rating its arts and culture highly. Cape Town came third in the Gen Z-specific ranking. The South African city was rated highly for natural beauty, nightlife, and affordability, with three out of four young residents calling its nightlife budget-friendly. New York City took the fourth position, noted for its excitement, walkability, and nightlife. Copenhagen, at No. 5, performed well among younger residents for its social environment, with more than half calling it an easy place to find love. Other cities in the top 10 include Barcelona (No. 6), praised for inclusivity and nightlife; Edinburgh (No. 7), highlighted for its green spaces; Mexico City (No. 8), rated second-most affordable after Bangkok; London (No. 9), recognised for its cultural and food scene despite low affordability ratings; and Shanghai (No. 10), noted for modernity, strong public transport, and happiness levels.According to Time Out’s London and UK news editor Ed Cunningham, “I’d say the one factor is a properly accessible cultural scene. Accessible in the sense that anyone can participate in it, performing music or exhibiting art, but also for people going to events and exhibitions. You want loads of things to do at affordable prices – if a city’s arts and culture scene is snobbish and inaccessible, what's the point?”Top 10 best cities for Gen Z: Rank City Country 1 Bangkok Thailand 2 Melbourne Australia 3 Cape Town South Africa 4 New York City United States 5 Copenhagen Denmark 6 Barcelona Spain 7 Edinburgh United Kingdom 8 Mexico City Mexico 9 London United Kingdom 10 Shanghai China