New York City Ranked 2nd Best City in the World 2026 by Resonance Consultancy
NYC shines as a global hub of culture, tourism, and innovation, while progressive leadership and urban transformation enhance its international image.
In a new report released by Resonance Consultancy, New York City has risen to second place in the Best Cities in the World 2026 ranking, just behind London, which retained the top spot for the eleventh consecutive year.
The report described New York as “America’s ever-beating heart,” praising its continuous investment in the cultural economy and infrastructure, despite political and economic challenges.
Tourism remains one of the city’s main drivers, welcoming approximately 65 million visitors in 2024 and 64.1 million in 2025, generating revenues exceeding $70 billion during this period.
With the FIFA World Cup final set to take place at MetLife Stadium next year and the Sail4th 250 celebrations marking the 500th anniversary of America’s founding, the city is expected to experience an unprecedented tourism boom.
NYC Boosts Global Standing Through Infrastructure, Urban Renewal, and Cultural Excellence
Infrastructure and transport projects have also strengthened New York’s position, including the $19 billion JFK Airport expansion and the implementation of the 60th Street congestion pricing, which reduced traffic and improved bus efficiency, alongside the MTA’s $68.4 billion support program.
Urban transformation is another key highlight, with a wave of office-to-residential conversions, such as Pfizer’s headquarters being transformed into 1,600+ residential units and the Fifth Times Square project planned to include 1,250 mixed-income homes.
On the cultural front, New York ranked second globally in theaters and live music and was among the top five cities for museums, reflecting the vibrancy and diversity of its arts scene.
Julie Cocker, CEO of NYC & Company, expressed pride in the ranking, calling the city “an indispensable global destination” thanks to its cultural diversity and unique experiences across all five boroughs.
NYC Boosts Global Standing Through Infrastructure, Urban Renewal, and Cultural Excellence
While New York’s global ranking is attributed to economic, cultural, and tourism factors, local political discourse increasingly shapes its international image. The rise of progressive figures, such as newly elected Mayor Zahran Mamdani, who supports a democratic socialist agenda and engages communities in multiple languages, enhances the city’s image as a diverse and inclusive urban hub. At the same time, these changes spark political debates, particularly from conservative critics, making New York a ground for ideological contestation on identity, justice, and the economy.
However, the ranking has not been without controversy. Many New Yorkers expressed frustration on social media over the city placing second, believing it deserves the top spot. One user wrote: “I moved to London from New York four months ago… I can confirm New York comes first,” while another sarcastically commented: “The rats in New York are more amazing.”
Despite fierce competition, New York’s second-place global ranking underscores its economic strength, cultural vitality, and continuous capacity for renewal, making it a city in a class of its own.
