Toronto Ranks 17th on Resonance’s ‘World’s Best Cities’ List

Toronto has secured its position as one of the world’s top cities, ranking 17th in Resonance Consultancy’s annual “World’s Best Cities” list released this week. This ranking places Toronto ahead of notable global cities such as San Francisco and Milan, underscoring its appeal as a desirable place to live.

Toronto’s current position reflects a drop of two spots from last year’s ranking of 15th. The annual report evaluates the world’s cities based on factors including livability, lovability, and prosperity. London, U.K., has retained the top position for the tenth consecutive year, emphasizing its longstanding global significance.

According to Resonance Consultancy, the livability score of a city is determined by various metrics, including walkability, air quality, and public transit. Toronto’s ranking is attributed to its highly educated population and dynamic environment, which continue to attract both residents and immigrants. The report noted, “Canada’s sensible gateway for immigration and innovation is getting a little wild.”

Toronto boasts the fourth most educated population globally, which fuels a vibrant start-up scene and supports established businesses. This momentum is crucial for maintaining the city’s reputation as a sought-after destination for newcomers.

The city also received praise for its ongoing development projects, which include over 150 tower cranes, the renovation of Massey Hall, and the creation of Love Park’s heart-shaped pond. These enhancements contribute to the city’s attractiveness as a place to live and invest.

Resonance’s methodology combines hard data from over 400 global cities with both resident and visitor perceptions. The rankings utilize user-generated content from platforms such as Instagram, Google, and TikTok, offering a comprehensive view of each city’s appeal.

For context, the 2026 list features a total of 100 cities, each with a metropolitan population of at least 1 million. Notably, all Russian cities were excluded from the rankings due to the ongoing geopolitical situation following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The complete top ten cities according to Resonance Consultancy 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

As cities continue to evolve, Toronto’s position in the rankings highlights its continuous growth and development, making it a compelling choice for residents and visitors alike.