Cape Town has been named one of the Top 100 cities in the world, as well as the only one from South Africa to make the cut.
The city ranked 70th on the 2025 World’s Best Cities report, compiled annually by Resonance Consultancy.
Now in its 11th year, the report draws on perception-based data from more than 21 000 people worldwide, combined with hard metrics covering liveability, tourism, business potential, and urban development.
Cape Town holds its own among world’s urban heavyweights
Cities are ranked on how they perform in areas that attract residents, visitors, and investment, from culture and infrastructure to quality of life.
“For leaders shaping tomorrow’s urban landscape, the report offers more than rankings,” Chris Fair, President and CEO of Resonance Consultancy, said.
“It provides strategic intelligence, risk assessment, and a roadmap to the cities and opportunities defining the next decade of global growth.” Fair also revealed about the World’s Best Cities report.
Fair added that the study helps guide decisions on capital allocation, infrastructure development, and destination marketing, while identifying the most desirable cities for locals, visitors, and business alike.
London claimed the top spot for the eleventh consecutive year, followed by New York and Paris. Here’s a look at the top 10 World’s Best Cities:
- London
- New York
- Paris
- Tokyo
- Madrid
- Singapore
- Rome
- Dubai
- Berlin
- Barcelona
As the only African city featured, Cape Town was praised for its growing waterfront developments as well as urban renewal projects that reflect its expanding economic potential.
Cape Town also beat out big names like Athens, Doha, Rotterdam, Brisbane, and Ottawa.
