The Big Picture: Gen Z’s Choices

According to Time Out’s international survey of more than 18,500 young people under 30, the list of the 10 best cities for Gen Z to live in 2025 reflects a shift in priorities when choosing a place to call home. Unlike previous generations that mainly focused on income and career opportunities, Gen Z looks for a balance between happiness, affordability, cultural diversity, green spaces, and community connections. This highlights a broader generational shift: young people today value quality of life, inclusivity, and personal experience just as much as economic opportunities.

Bangkok – The Most Gen Z-Friendly Capital

Bangkok takes the top spot thanks to its mix of affordable living, vibrant urban energy, and strong social connectivity. Around 84% of Gen Z respondents there said they feel happy, while 71% rated the city as livable and reasonably priced. Bangkok is also attractive for its rich street life, open culture, and the ease of forming social networks, helping young people quickly build communities.

Melbourne – A Hub of Culture and Creativity

Melbourne ranks second for its thriving cultural and artistic environment. An impressive 96% of Gen Z praised the city’s creative and artistic scene, while 91% rated the overall quality of life as “excellent” or “good.” Beyond its multicultural identity, Melbourne stands out for openness, innovation, and inclusivity—making it a perfect fit for a generation that values self-expression and creativity.

Cape Town – Where Nature Meets Urban Life

Cape Town, South Africa, impresses with its combination of breathtaking natural scenery and vibrant urban lifestyle. From Table Mountain to the Atlantic coast, it offers experiences rarely found elsewhere. About 75% of Gen Z consider the city’s nightlife “affordable,” while the balance between work, leisure, and nature makes Cape Town a compelling choice for young professionals.

New York City – The Global Epicenter of Energy

New York continues to be a magnet for Gen Z with its endless cultural, professional, and entertainment opportunities. Labeled the “most exciting city in the world,” it receives high marks for walkability (82%) and nightlife satisfaction (84%). Despite high living costs, New York remains irresistible for its multicultural environment, unique urban energy, and diversity of experiences qualities highly valued by today’s youth.

Copenhagen – A Model of Green Living

Copenhagen earns its place on the list for its sustainability and eco-friendly lifestyle. Young residents appreciate not only its modern design and infrastructure but also its green spaces and strong community spirit. More than half of Gen Z respondents said they find it easy to build social connections, showing that Copenhagen is more than a place to live it is a place to belong, with a strong emphasis on happiness and safety.

Barcelona – Balancing Beach and Culture

Barcelona offers Gen Z a harmonious combination of Mediterranean lifestyle, vibrant beaches, and a rich cultural scene. About 77% of young residents value the city’s diversity and inclusivity, reinforcing its reputation as an open, international hub. With its pleasant climate, relaxed lifestyle, and colorful social fabric, Barcelona appeals to those looking for both leisure and professional growth.

Edinburgh – A Green City Worth Living In

The Scottish capital is an ideal choice for Gen Z who prioritize nature and peace of mind. An overwhelming 95% praised its walkability and green spaces, with landmarks such as The Meadows, Princes Street Gardens, and Arthur’s Seat offering a blend of relaxation and activity. Edinburgh strikes a balance between calmness and vibrancy, supported by its student population and cultural heritage.

Mexico City – Vibrant and Affordable

Mexico City ranks high thanks to its affordability and rich cultural life. Second only to Bangkok in cost-effectiveness, with 69% of Gen Z citing reasonable living costs, the city also stands out for its diverse cuisine, music, and arts scene. It offers young people the chance to experience strong local culture while maintaining global connectivity.

London – Where Tradition Meets Modernity

London remains a dream destination for young people, with 96% of Gen Z appreciating its cultural richness and 95% praising its food scene. However, only 45% consider it financially livable. Still, its diversity, academic prestige, and professional opportunities make it an attractive option for those willing to trade affordability for a comprehensive, world-class experience.

Shanghai – A City of Speed and Opportunity

Shanghai enters the top 10 thanks to its highly efficient public transport system, with 96% of Gen Z expressing satisfaction, and its high happiness rate (84%). As one of Asia’s leading financial and economic hubs, the city offers a fast-paced lifestyle, abundant career opportunities, and a dynamic international environment. Shanghai embodies the spirit of globalization that resonates strongly with Gen Z.

The Ideal City in Gen Z’s Eyes

This list of 10 cities shows that Gen Z cares not only about work and income but also about achieving balance between happiness, affordability, cultural life, green environments, and social opportunities. Bangkok shines for its livability, Melbourne and Barcelona for creativity and culture, Cape Town and Edinburgh for their natural beauty, while New York and Shanghai embody urban energy and ambition. The common trend is clear: Gen Z seeks environments that foster not just careers but also personal fulfillment, community connections, and emotional well-being.

(Source: CNBC)