Toronto Shines at 17th in World’s Best Cities Ranking for 2026

Toronto has secured a spot among the world’s best cities, ranking 17th in Resonance Consultancy’s annual “World’s Best Cities” list for 2026. This ranking positions Toronto ahead of major global cities such as San Francisco and Milan, while also outpacing every other Canadian metropolis. Vancouver follows as the next Canadian entry at No. 41, with Montreal at No. 45, Ottawa at No. 73, and Calgary coming in at No. 85.

Toronto’s drop from last year’s 15th position highlights a competitive landscape. For the tenth consecutive year, London, U.K., claimed the top spot, demonstrating its enduring appeal. The rankings are based on three critical factors: livability, lovability, and prosperity. Toronto’s livability score incorporates metrics such as walkability, air quality, and public transit accessibility.

The report attributes Toronto’s strong ranking to its highly educated population and the city’s dynamic growth. According to Resonance, “Canada’s sensible gateway for immigration and innovation is getting a little wild.” Toronto boasts the fourth most educated population globally, which fuels both established enterprises and a vibrant start-up ecosystem. This momentum contributes to the city’s desirability among immigrants and visitors alike.

Methodology and Insights

Resonance Consultancy employs a data-driven approach, combining core statistics from over 400 global cities with perceptions derived from residents and visitors. The group utilizes user-generated data from platforms like Instagram, Google, and TikTok to assess cities worldwide. Notably, the rankings exclude all Russian cities due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Toronto’s ranking also benefited from visible development projects around the city. The presence of over 150 tower cranes, the renovation of iconic venues such as Massey Hall, and the addition of features like the heart-shaped pond at Love Park all contribute to its vibrant urban landscape.

The full list features a diverse array of cities, showcasing global urban appeal. The top ten cities are:

1. London, U.K.
2. New York City, U.S.
3. Paris, France
4. Tokyo, Japan
5. Madrid, Spain
6. Singapore
7. Rome, Italy
8. Dubai, U.A.E.
9. Berlin, Germany
10. Barcelona, Spain

Toronto’s standing in this prestigious ranking reflects its ongoing evolution as a world-class city. With its unique blend of culture, education, and innovation, it continues to attract residents and visitors from around the globe.