If you are planning to start a new life abroad, picking the right city can have a huge impact. Whether it’s long-term stability, career prospects, lifestyle or social life, each city can offer something unique. Choosing the right city can, therefore, make all the difference.
A new edition of the World’s Best Cities report has revealed the top urban centres for expats around the world. Published by consultancy Resonance in partnership with research firm Ipsos, the study evaluates over 270 cities with populations above one million. It combines hard data with global perception surveys from more than 21,000 people across 30 countries.
Central to the methodology is the “Place Power Score,” which groups metrics into three pillars, such as liveability, lovability and prosperity.
Livability examines air quality, healthcare, walkability and general living standards, which are major factors that affect day-to-day expat life.
Livability measures cultural vibrancy, including nightlife, museums, online visibility and social appeal, helping expats gauge how connected and engaged they can feel. Prosperity takes employment opportunities, business conditions and economic strength into consideration, which are important aspects for professionals who plan long-term careers abroad.
All these indicators together give a clear view of the cities that are very attractive for expats in terms of seeking growth, comfort and a decent lifestyle.
Here is a list of the top 10 cities that attract people, expats, global talent, and businesses alike.
1) London, England
London continues to rank high among expats, students and international professionals looking for cultural, educational and career opportunities. The post-pandemic recovery of London was in full force, as international spending reached almost $22 billion in 2024, more than the $17.4 billion spent the previous year. This placed London among the world’s top three for inbound spending. With a weaker pound, it is cheaper for international visitors and professionals alike, strengthening London’s appeal not just as a place to visit but to live and build a life abroad.
2) New York, USA
The Big Apple continues to woo expats with unmatched energy and opportunity. Housing demand is strong with the median rent in Manhattan being $5,200. Tight vacancies signal strong interest in proximity to job centres. Cultural life teems across the boroughs, and with the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and increased airport capacity, New York features as one of the great global cities for anyone thinking of relocating abroad.
3) Paris, France
Paris draws in expats with its mix of beauty, culture and modern urban design. Beyond tourism, the city draws entrepreneurs, creatives and professionals seeking inspiration and quality of life. Some of the recent transformations, which were seen during the 2024 Olympics, have made Paris greener, more walkable and calmer. By mid-2025, bike lanes in Paris were over 600 miles. The former high-traffic streets are now being turned into pedestrian zones, outdoor terraces and quiet areas around schools.
4) Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo combines efficiency, innovation and everyday comfort, making it a great city for expats. International arrivals reached record levels in 2024, reflecting its global appeal. Major districts like Shibuya are being redeveloped with pedestrian spaces, offices and retail. Luxury hotels, flagship stores and cultural hubs further improve life for expats seeking opportunity and comfort.
5) Madrid, Spain
For expats, Madrid is unique because of its blend of sustainability, culture and career opportunities. The development of Bosque Metropolitano, which is a 47-mile ring of more than 4.5 lakh trees, increases green space and improves urban living. Growing cycle lanes and an electric bus network make commuting easier. Madrid Nuevo Norte, a 570-acre regeneration project on former railway land, will offer 10,500 new homes and modern offices.
6) Singapore
Singapore has turned into one of the most modern cities in Asia, fascinating expats with its infrastructure, culture and high quality of life. Day-to-day life is made better with many luxury towers popping up. Then there are innovative dining and cultural spaces. Boasting more than 40% green space, remarkable economic growth, low unemployment and major tech investments, Singapore offers room for both opportunity and comfort for the expatriates.
7) Rome, Italy
History, culture, and city life continue to make Rome appealing to expats. With a new wave of ultra-luxurious openings in hospitality, foreigners can enjoy unique stays in historic surroundings. Upgrades in infrastructure include newer pedestrian-friendly zones around the city, making it easier to get around.
8) Dubai, UAE
With rapid growth, Dubai is a magnet for expats looking for opportunities and a better lifestyle. The 2040 Urban Master Plan of the city reimagines day-to-day life with shaded walking and cycling tracks, mobility hubs at a local level and a model of a ‘20-minute city.’ Major metro expansions, luxury hotels, and mixed-use developments improve both work and leisure prospects.
9) Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s creativity and economy continue to attract expats in search of both opportunity and culture. Arts and hospitality here are abuzz. Berlin also offers strong professional prospects. The redevelopment of Berlin TXL will add more than 5,000 homes, research facilities and thousands of jobs in clean energy and mobility.
10) Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona attracts expats with its blend of culture, innovation and Mediterranean lifestyle. The city’s economy, including a rise in venture capital, AI, biotech and data centre projects, offers expats a number of professional opportunities. Then excellent public transit, world-class nightlife and a commitment to sustainable urban living make Barcelona a top choice for those relocating abroad.
These cities show how global hubs can combine opportunity, comfort and culture for expats. From career growth to lifestyle and social life, each destination offers something unique to those building a life away from their home countries.