London ranked second-best global city, but quality of life scores low
Oxford Economics' Global Cities Index places the capital second overall but 147th for quality of life.
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Uses Oxford Economics report and quotes its statements, but no named individual source.
Higher is stronger
Provides context, quotes the report and an editor, separates facts, but lacks next‑step details.
Higher is stronger
Headline and tone are measured; story presents rankings without exaggerated language.
Lower is better
London has been ranked the second greatest city in the world in Oxford Economics’ Global Cities Index 2026, a position it has held for the second year running. The index assesses the strengths, weaknesses, and future potential of the world’s largest cities based on practical data points.
New York was named the best city globally, with Paris ranking third. The report described London as "one of the clearest examples of a truly global city" whose influence extends across business, science, technology, education, and the arts.
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Strengths in Economics and Human Capital
The capital secured seventh place in the economics category, attributed to its large economy and stable growth. Oxford Economics noted London’s deep base of knowledge-intensive industries, diverse and highly skilled workforce, and elite universities as key factors for its continued success.
London was recognised as the best city in the world for human capital. This ranking is due to its concentration of higher education institutions and its ability to attract highly educated migrants. The report stated that approximately 40% of London’s residents are foreign-born, providing employers with access to a varied talent pool and supporting population growth.
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Concerns over Quality of Life
Despite its overall high ranking, London scored poorly for quality of life, placing 147th. The report attributed this low score to the city’s housing affordability crisis, with residents dedicating a significant portion of their income to housing costs. The concentration of wealth in a small number of neighbourhoods also contributed to the low score.
The report indicated that deep-rooted constraints on the supply of affordable homes require both time and political resolve to address. London also performed well in environmental factors, ranking 67th, with policies such as ULEZ noted for improving air quality.
Questions this report answers
+How did London rank in the Global Cities Index?
London was ranked the second-best city in the world in the Oxford Economics Global Cities Index 2026. This marks the second consecutive year the city has achieved this position.
+What were London's strongest categories in the index?
London ranked seventh in the economics category and was named the best city globally for human capital. This was attributed to its large economy, skilled workforce, and concentration of universities.
+Why did London score poorly for quality of life?
London was ranked 147th for quality of life, primarily due to its housing affordability crisis and high living costs. The report also noted the concentration of wealth in limited areas as a contributing factor.
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