Despite New York City recently being ranked among the nation's worst-run cities in one study, a separate report has named it the best city in America to live, visit and do business.
The 2026 "America's Best Cities" report from international consulting firm Resonance ranks the nation's top 100 cities using economic data, quality-of-life indicators and public perception. New York City topped the list, while Buffalo and Albany also made the rankings.
Here's what the report found.
New York City tops the rankings
New York City ranked No. 1 overall, with Resonance citing its economic strength, cultural influence and continued investment in infrastructure and housing.
The report acknowledged that New York City recently ranked among the nation's "worst-run" cities because of its high
per-capita government spending, but said those investments are helping reshape the city.
Among the projects highlighted are the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's $68 billion modernization plan and the conversion of 4.1 million square feet of commercial space into housing during the first eight months of 2025.
Resonance also pointed to the city's "City of Yes" zoning initiative, which is intended to encourage new housing through zoning changes and tax incentives.
Buffalo outperforms its reputation
Buffalo ranked No. 53, making it the second-highest-ranked New York city on the list.
The report said Buffalo's national reputation doesn't reflect its performance, noting that the city's affordability, amenities and quality of life exceed public perception.
Albany earns high marks for livability
Albany ranked No. 54 overall.
Resonance described the Capital Region as having a "perception deficit," meaning its measurable performance outpaces its reputation.
The city ranked No. 33 for livability and No. 62 for prosperity, suggesting its quality of life is stronger than many people realize.
How the rankings were calculated
The annual report evaluates the nation's largest cities using economic data, quality-of-life indicators and public perception.
Cities are ranked across three primary categories:
- Livability
- Lovability
- Prosperity
The report is designed to identify the places Americans most want to live, visit and do business.
Top 10 cities in the 2026 rankings
- New York
- Los Angeles
- Chicago
- Miami
- San Francisco
- Seattle
- Las Vegas
- Dallas
- Houston
- Boston
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: 2 Upstate NY cities rank among America's best cities to live, visit and do business
