The latest “Global Cities Index 2026” (GCI) released by Oxford Economics evaluates 1,000 major cities worldwide. American cities dominate the rankings, with half of the top ten cities being in the United States. Additionally, nearly one-third of the top 100 cities (30 cities) are American, showcasing the strong economic power that propels U.S. cities to stand out globally.
This index does not simply select the most livable or tourist-friendly cities, but comprehensively considers economic factors, human capital, quality of life, environment, and governance to assess the overall strength and development potential of each major city.
Quality of life scores include resident incomes, housing affordability, life expectancy, crime rates, as well as cultural and recreational facilities. Environmental scores cover air quality, green spaces, carbon emissions, and climate risks. Governance assessments mainly focus on political and institutional stability, rule of law, regulatory quality, and government efficiency.
1. New York, USA
2. London, UK
3. Paris, France
4. Seattle, USA
5. San Francisco, USA
6. Dublin, Ireland
7. Boston, USA
8. San Jose, USA
9. Tokyo, Japan
10. Zurich, Switzerland
Among the top 100 global cities, Canada has four cities prominently placed:
– Toronto: 20th
– Vancouver: 24th
– Montreal: 62nd
– Calgary: 69th
【Continued】