Young people are looking for much more than affordable nightlife when choosing where to live, according to a new global study from Time Out in partnership with Intrepid Travel.
The newly released Best Cities for Gen Z 2026 rankings reveal that happiness, community, affordability, green spaces and cultural access are now just as important as bars and clubs. After surveying thousands of people aged 18 to 29 across the world, Tokyo claimed the number one spot, while Edinburgh was named the highest-ranked city in the UK.
You can read the full Time Out rankings here: www.timeout.com/travel/best-cities-for-gen-z-2026
Tokyo Tops the Global Gen Z Rankings
Tokyo secured first place thanks to exceptional scores across multiple categories that matter most to younger generations.
According to the survey:
- 100% of Gen Z respondents in Tokyo said they find joy in everyday experiences.
- 89% rated the city’s nightlife positively.
- The Japanese capital also received high scores for walkability, public transport, cultural attractions and overall quality of life.
Rather than relying solely on traditional nightlife, Tokyo offers everything from karaoke venues and bathhouses to indoor sports centres, museums and cultural experiences, giving young residents countless ways to socialise.
Porto and Melbourne Round Out the Top Three
Portugal’s Porto finished in second place after every Gen Z respondent praised the city’s sense of community, while 93% described it as affordable.
Melbourne claimed third place, earning standout scores for its restaurants, neighbourhoods and creative culture.
Notably:
- 100% of respondents rated Melbourne’s dining scene positively.
- 97% praised its cultural offering.
- 94% spoke positively about their local neighbourhoods.
Despite rising living costs, Melbourne continues to attract young creatives through independent arts, live music and community-focused events.
Edinburgh Named the UK’s Best City for Gen Z
Edinburgh ranked fourth globally, making it the highest-rated city in the UK for Gen Z residents.
The Scottish capital stood out for its combination of history, green spaces, walkability and thriving cultural scene.
Survey highlights include:
- 90% of young residents said they are happier living in Edinburgh than anywhere else they’ve lived.
- 94% felt people in the city have a positive outlook.
- 84% rated quality of life and wellbeing positively.
- Edinburgh also emerged as the safest city within the global top 20 rankings.
Its mix of independent live music venues, festivals and accessible cultural events helped cement its position among the world’s best destinations for under-30s.
Shanghai Completes the Top Five
Shanghai rounded out the top five thanks to its growing social scene and affordability.
Every Gen Z respondent surveyed said the city makes them happy, while:
- 83% reported increased happiness in recent years.
- 76% said it’s easy to make new friends.
- Cinema visits and coffee outings were considered affordable by every respondent.
The city has also invested in affordable housing and new community-focused public spaces aimed at younger residents.
The World’s 10 Best Cities for Gen Z in 2026
- Tokyo, Japan
- Porto, Portugal
- Melbourne, Australia
- Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Shanghai, China
- New York City, USA
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Berlin, Germany
- Valencia, Spain
- Bangkok, Thailand
What Gen Z Wants From Cities Has Changed
The research suggests younger people are increasingly prioritising long-term quality of life over simply finding places with the best nightlife.
Across the survey, respondents highlighted the importance of:
- Affordable access to arts and culture
- Strong local communities
- Walkable neighbourhoods
- Green spaces
- Easy public transport
- Opportunities to make new friends
- Everyday happiness and wellbeing
While nightlife remains important, it is now just one part of what makes a city attractive to younger generations.
Liv Kelly, Travel Writer at Time Out, said the findings challenge common assumptions about what Gen Z values.
“Along with an enticing nightlife and cheap drinks, Gen Z cares about what goes on in their local neighbourhoods, having easy access to their city’s best cultural institutions, and finding good places to make friends.”
Meanwhile, Intrepid Travel says younger travellers are increasingly looking for authentic local experiences rather than simply ticking destinations off a bucket list. The company reports bookings for its dedicated 18 to 35s travel range are currently up 14% into 2027.
For more information and the complete rankings, visit the official Time Out feature: www.timeout.com/travel/best-cities-for-gen-z-2026
