Toronto Achieves 17th Spot in Global Cities Rankings for 2026

Toronto has secured its place as one of the world’s most desirable cities, ranking 17th in Resonance Consultancy’s annual “World’s Best Cities” list released this week. This year, the city outperformed notable global metropolises such as San Francisco and Milan, maintaining its reputation as a vibrant urban center.

The 2026 rankings indicate a slight decline for Toronto, which dropped two spots from last year’s 15th position. The top spot for the tenth consecutive year went to London, U.K., followed by New York City and Paris, which took second and third places, respectively. The list evaluates cities based on three key factors: livability, lovability, and prosperity.

Toronto’s livability score is influenced by metrics including walkability, air quality, and public transit accessibility. The report highlights that the city’s educated population and its dynamic character contribute significantly to its standing. The researchers noted, “Canada’s sensible gateway for immigration and innovation is getting a little wild.” Toronto is praised for having the fourth most educated workforce globally, a factor that fuels both established companies and a thriving start-up ecosystem.

In addition to its talented residents, Toronto’s ranking benefits from ongoing urban development, including more than 150 construction cranes across the city. Significant recent projects, such as the renovation of Massey Hall and the creation of Love Park—featuring a heart-shaped pond—further enhance the city’s appeal.

According to Resonance Consultancy, the rankings are based on a blend of data-driven analytics and real-life perceptions. Their methodology combines statistical data from over 400 cities with user-generated ratings and reviews from platforms such as Instagram, Google, and TikTok.

The exclusion of Russian cities from the rankings, following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, reflects the group’s commitment to ethical considerations in their evaluations. The list ranks 100 cities worldwide, each with a metropolitan population of at least one million, highlighting locations that exhibit rapid economic growth and strong attraction for residents, tourists, and investors.

Toronto’s position among the top cities underscores its ongoing transformation and ability to draw in individuals seeking opportunities in a bustling urban environment. As cities compete for global recognition, Toronto’s blend of education, innovation, and livability keeps it firmly on the map as a city of choice for many.