Bangkok named the world's best city for Gen Z in 2025
Forget everything you thought you knew about the world's greatest cities. For the first time ever, Time Out has handed the mic to the under-30s, creating a definitive global ranking of the Best Cities for Gen Z, by Gen Z. Using the same extensive data from our annual Best Cities survey but filtering for the generation that's rewriting the rules, we've uncovered the urban hubs where young people aren't just surviving – they're thriving.
And taking the coveted top spot for 2025? The vibrant, chaotic, and utterly captivating city of Bangkok, Thailand.
This win signals a significant shift in what a generation values in a city. While previous generations may have prioritised career-centric stability or a quiet life in the suburbs, Gen Z – a cohort raised in a digital-first world of economic flux and side hustles – craves something different. They seek dynamic experiences, genuine community, work-life balance, and, crucially, the financial freedom to enjoy it all.
This is precisely where Bangkok shines. The city didn't just win; it dominated in the categories that matter most to this generation. A staggering 84 percent of Gen Z respondents in Bangkok reported being happy with their life in the city, a clear reflection of the capital's infectious energy and positive atmosphere.
But happiness is only half the story. In an era of global inflation and student debt, affordability is paramount. Bangkok delivers in spades, with 71 percent of its young residents rating it as a budget-friendly place to live. This isn't just about cheap eats (though the world-class street food certainly helps); it's about the financial breathing room to pursue creative projects, travel and build a life that isn't defined by a soul-crushing rent-to-income ratio.
Perhaps most tellingly, Bangkok also proved to be the ultimate social hub. Gen Z urbanites here were the most likely of any city surveyed to say it's easy to make new friends. In a world that can often feel isolating, the city's welcoming vibe, bustling co-working spaces, and endless opportunities for social connection create a powerful sense of community. With an overall 'City Score' of 66% percent among its Gen Z inhabitants, the Thai capital's appeal is undeniable.
Bangkok beat out some serious global heavyweights for the title, with Melbourne (Australia) coming in second, followed by Cape Town (South Africa), New York City (USA), and Copenhagen (Denmark) rounding out the top five. While cities like New York and London (which ranked ninth) offer immense opportunity, they couldn't compete with Bangkok's winning formula of low cost and high satisfaction.
The secret is out. For a generation that values experiences over possessions and community over cubicles, Bangkok offers the ultimate urban playground. It's a city that proves you don't have to choose between your wallet and your well-being. You really can have it all.
The Top 10 best cities for Gen Z 2025 are:
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