HOUSTON (November 22, 2024) – Houston ranks number 40 on this year’s list of the World’s Best Cities—an increase from its rank last year and the only Texas city to rank among the top 50 this year, according to the latest report from Resonance Consultancy.
Resonance, a globally recognized strategic business, marketing and research company noted in its 2025 World’s Best Cities Ranking released this week Houston’s innate ability to attract newcomers from every corner of the globe. “H-Town is an increasingly coveted hometown for some of the best and brightest on earth. And beyond,” the report stated.
As America’s most diverse city, with more than 145 languages spoken, Houston’s high cultural ranking is cited in the report with a reference to the variety of festivals and the soon-to-open Ismaili Center, the first in America.
Yet according to Resonance, what really sets Houston apart as a world-class city is its economic might, ranking ninth globally for GDP per capita, fourteenth for number of Fortune 500 companies and 36th overall in the Prosperity Index. Acknowledging the importance of oil and gas to Houston’s economy, Resonance added, “the energy talent in the city has also made it an unlikely green power destination.”
The 2025 ranking also points to a recent McKinsey report, indicating “investment of up to $250 billion may be headed Houston’s way by 2040 to leverage the skilled workforce and existing infrastructure.”
“This move up in the World’s Best Cities ranking is a testament to Houston and all that it has to offer businesses, residents and visitors. The insight provided by Resonance is important to help us better understand why people choose to live, work and visit Houston. The new ranking confirms what we’re doing well and informs us as we plan and prepare for an even brighter future in our city,” said Michael Heckman, President and CEO, Houston First Corporation, the region’s destination marketing organization.
Steve Kean, president and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership, said the ranking helps better position the region in the global market. “Houston has long been known as a city of opportunity, attracting people and business worldwide,” Kean said. “This recognition solidifies the collaborative efforts that continue to shape our city into a global destination known for innovation, culture and investment. As we look ahead, we are confident the investments in infrastructure, talent and more will only elevate our global ranking in the coming years.”
Resonance ranks more than 270 global cities in metropolitan areas with populations of more than one million using a combination of core statistics, and recommendations by locals and visitors. With the help of online ratings and reviews from TripAdvisor, Instagram, Facebook, and Google, multiple factors are compared in three key categories—Livability, Loveability and Prosperity. The end result is an empowering view of the potential of leading urban destinations around the world.
To learn more about the methodology and key statistics generated by Resonance or to view the complete 2025 list in its entirety, go here.
ABOUT HOUSTON FIRST CORPORATION
Houston First Corporation (HFC) is the destination marketing organization for the country's fourth largest city. In addition to serving as operator for the George R. Brown Convention Center and some of Houston's most prominent art, entertainment, and event venues, HFC is focused on promoting the city's vibrancy and rich tapestry of culture. By harnessing the city's collective energy, ambition, and creativity, including its diverse culinary scene, world-renowned performing arts, medical and space innovation, and elite filming locations, HFC is solidifying Houston as a premier national and global destination. For the latest news and info regarding HFC, visit www.houstonfirst.com.
ABOUT GREATER HOUSTON PARTNERSHIP
The Greater Houston Partnership works to make Houston one of the best places to live, work and build a business. As the economic development organization for the region, the Partnership champions growth across 12 counties by bringing together business and civic-minded leaders who are dedicated to the area’s long-term success. Representing more than 900 member organizations and approximately one-fifth of the region’s workforce, the Partnership is the place companies come together to make an impact. Learn more at Houston.org.
Contacts:
Houston First Corporation
pr@houstonfirst.com
Carolyn Campbell, (832) 982-9902
Jennie Bui-McCoy, (832) 374-3994
Greater Houston Partnership
Brina Morales, bmorales@houston.org
