Bangkok has officially been named the world’s best city for Gen Z, topping Time Out’s first-ever global ranking focused exclusively on the under-30 generation.
The Thai capital beat out major international contenders to claim the top spot, earning a City Score of 66% among Gen Z residents – the highest of any city surveyed.
Published on 13 August 2025, the ranking is part of Time Out’s annual Time Out Index – a global survey of over 18,000 city-dwellers. This year’s results were filtered specifically to reflect the views of Gen Z respondents, offering fresh insight into the cities where young people feel happiest, most connected, and most empowered.
84% of Gen Z residents in Bangkok reported being happy
Bangkok emerged as the clear favourite, praised for its blend of happiness, affordability and community. According to Time Out, 84% of Gen Z residents in Bangkok reported being happy living in the city. Furthermore, 71% said it was affordable – a crucial factor for a generation grappling with rising global costs and economic uncertainty.
Bangkok also topped the charts as the easiest city for young people to make new friends, reinforcing its reputation as a deeply social, welcoming place to live.
Young people thrive in Bangkok
“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 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 first-of-its-kind ranking by Time Out marks a generational shift in how cities are evaluated. For Gen Z – a generation that values work-life balance, creativity, connection and quality of life – Bangkok offers a compelling proposition. Its affordability, energy and openness have redefined what makes a city truly great for young people in 2025.
In a top ten that included cities like Melbourne, Cape Town, New York, and London, Bangkok’s top ranking underscores Thailand’s rising global profile as a destination not just to visit, but to live, work and flourish.
