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The greatest city in the world is still only the second best.
Power rankings firm Resonance Consultancy just released its 2026 World’s Best Cities Report, and while London took the top spot for the 11th consecutive year, New York City moved into the No. 2 spot this year.
The report dubbed NYC “the perpetual heartbeat of America” and said that its “refusal to play by anyone’s script remains its greatest asset.”
Gotham’s “ongoing investment in its cultural economy, massive urban infrastructure projects and global infatuation despite current politics” was cited as a fundamental feature in landing the city in second place.
As expected, tourism is key to New York City, with nearly 65 million visitors in 2024 and about 64.1 million expected in 2025, particularly as domestic travel to Brooklyn and other outer-borough attractions compete for interest. This accounts for over $70 billion in revenue by the city’s accounting.
A spike in tourism is also expected next year, with the FIFA World Cup final coming to MetLife Stadium and the Sail4th 250 celebrating America’s Semiquincentennial.
Plus, the NYC airports’ new capacity and ecosystem have cemented its spot as No. 2 in the global ranking for connectivity. JFK’s $19 billion New Terminal One program is expected to see a partial debut in mid-2026 with the first 14 gates.
On street level, the congestion pricing rollout in early 2025 immediately cut moving traffic south of 60th Street with a double-digit drop in cars. It also helped increase bus travel time and delivered funding for the MTA’s $68.4-billion capital program.
The ever-changing skyline shines a light on the city’s upgrades. JP Morgan Chase’s 1,388-foot headquarters now towers over Park Avenue, and Brookfield’s Two Manhattan West has filled out its eight-acre campus.
More significant, however, is the city’s many office-to-residential conversions. For example, the former Pfizer headquarters in Midtown is transforming into a Nexus with 1,602 units. Up to 1,250 mixed-income homes will take over 5 Times Square later this year, and Hudson Yards’ next journey has pivoted away from a casino and toward more housing, parkland and offices.
Of course, the culture in New York City has “rarely been hotter” — ranking second place in Resonance Consultancy’s Theaters & Concerts subcategory and ranking in the Top 5 Museums.
“We are pleased that New York City is included on Resonance’s 2025 World’s Best Cities list,” Julie Coker, NYC Tourism + Conventions President and CEO, said in a statement.
“This recognition is a testament to NYC’s unmatched energy, cultural vibrancy, and world-class experiences across the five boroughs that keep us firmly positioned as a must-visit global destination.
Naturally, New Yorkers complained on social media that the city came in second place, believing it really is the number one greatest city in the world.
“Moved to London from NYC four months ago… can confirm NYC is still #1,” someone commented on Secret NYC’s Instagram post.
London in #1? Did I read that right? No offense, but there is no way!!!” another questioned.
“London is not better than NYC, sorry,” one declared.
“Rats in NYC are cooler,” a user quipped.
English (US)