Menu
Bangkok has been ranked as the best city in the world for Gen Z, according to Time Out’s annual ranking. In addition to highlighting cities renowned for their food, culture, and nightlife, this year’s survey introduced a new category: “Best Cities for Young People to Live In,” specifically focusing on those born between 1977 and 2012.
The ranking is based on a survey of more than 18,500 people worldwide, focusing on the behaviors and perspectives of Gen Z toward cities around the globe. The evaluation considered a variety of criteria, including food diversity, affordability, transportation, access to entertainment, and overall city atmosphere.
What sets Bangkok apart and secured its top ranking is the balance between “vibrancy” and “affordability.” According to the survey, 84% of Gen Z respondents said they feel happy living in Bangkok, while 71% agreed that it is a city where one can enjoy life even on a limited budget.
Data from the website Numbeo further supports this point, showing that the average monthly living cost for a single person in Bangkok is around 20,141 THB (approximately 617 USD), excluding rent. This is nearly 64% lower than the cost of living in the United States, while rent in Bangkok is about 68.8% cheaper. As a result, Bangkok has become an ideal city for young people seeking a good quality of life without a heavy financial burden.
Bangkok also stands out for its diverse lifestyle offerings from accessible street food to art districts, cafés, bars, and vibrant nightlife. The city further boasts cultural spaces that seamlessly blend traditional Thai heritage with modern influences. These unique qualities make Thailand’s capital not only an attractive destination for travelers but also a city well-suited for long-term living.
Other cities making the list include Melbourne, Australia, which ranked second for its vibrant arts and culture scene, openness, and diversity, with more than 91% of young people rating its quality of life as “good” or “excellent.” Cape Town, South Africa, came in third, recognized for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural mix.
New York, USA, ranked fourth, praised for its wide variety of activities especially in art, music, and food. However, the city also faces a major drawback with its extremely high cost of living, with only 46% of Gen Z respondents considering it “affordable.”
The ranking also includes cities such as Copenhagen, Barcelona, Edinburgh, Mexico City, London, and Shanghai, reflecting how younger generations value diversity, accessibility, and a balanced quality of life over luxury and extravagance.
“Ultimately, Bangkok’s recognition as the world’s number one city for Gen Z reflects how Thailand’s capital meets the needs of the younger generation in every aspect — offering fun, convenience, and affordability rarely found in other major global cities.”
reference from
Make all your financial matters easy. Start a great day with us. MAKE A GREAT DAY WITH ACU PAY.
