Bangkok Crowned the World’s Best City for Gen Z in Time Out’s 2025 Global Ranking

Thailand

Bangkok has officially been named the world’s best city for Gen Z, topping Time Out’s first-ever global ranking dedicated to the under-30 generation.

Thailand’s capital outperformed major international cities to secure the top spot, achieving a City Score of 66% among Gen Z residents — the highest of any city surveyed.

Published on August 13, 2025, the ranking is part of the Time Out Index, an annual global survey of more than 18,000 urban residents. This year’s findings were filtered exclusively to reflect the views of Gen Z, providing new insights into where young people feel happiest, most connected, and most empowered.

Bangkok emerged as the clear favorite, celebrated for its unique combination of happiness, affordability, and community. According to the survey, 84% of Gen Z residents reported being happy living in Bangkok, while 71% highlighted the city’s affordability — a critical factor for a generation navigating global economic pressures.

The city also ranked highest for ease of making new friends, cementing its reputation as one of the most social and welcoming places for young people worldwide.

“This recognition reflects not only Bangkok’s global appeal, but also the strength of Thai culture in creating an environment where young people can thrive,” said Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). “We are proud that Gen Z voices from around the world have recognised Bangkok as the best city to live, connect, and grow. It highlights the balance we’ve built between modern innovation and authentic local experience.”

This groundbreaking ranking signals a generational shift in how cities are evaluated. For Gen Z — a generation that values creativity, connection, work-life balance, and quality of life — Bangkok offers an attractive mix of affordability, dynamism, and openness that sets the standard for 2025.

Among the top ten cities were Melbourne, Cape Town, New York, and London. Bangkok’s leading position underscores Thailand’s growing international profile as a place not only to visit, but to live, work, and flourish.

Source: Time Out, “Bangkok named the world’s best city for Gen Z in 2025” (August 13, 2025)