What is the story about?
India’s urban story is getting global recognition. Four Indian cities have found a place on the prestigious World’s Best Cities to Live list for 2026,
standing out for their liveability, economic strength and lifestyle appeal. The latest rankings, which assess cities on how well they support everyday life, work and travel, show that Indian metros are increasingly holding their own alongside some of the world’s most celebrated global cities.
Which Indian Cities Made the List?
Leading the Indian pack is Bengaluru, which secured the highest rank among the four. Mumbai followed next, with Delhi and Hyderabad also finding a place in the top 100. Together, the four cities reflect the diversity of India’s urban story — from technology and business to governance and innovation.Why These Cities Stood Out
Bengaluru’s strong showing points to its status as a global technology hub that also offers a vibrant lifestyle. Mumbai’s ranking shows its economic power and cosmopolitan culture, while Delhi continues to be recognised for its political importance and rich cultural heritage. Hyderabad’s entry underlines its growing reputation as a technology and innovation centre, alongside improving quality of life.How Cities Ranked Globally
On the global stage, London emerged as the world’s top city for 2025–26, praised for its cultural depth, economic influence and social vibrancy. Other global giants such as New York and Paris also featured near the top, continuing their strong performance due to heritage, opportunities and global connectivity. The city ranked at the bottom of the list reflects the challenges many urban centres still face, despite gradual improvements in liveability.
The World’s Best Cities report looks beyond tourism numbers, focusing on liveability, prosperity and overall appeal. For Indians, the presence of four metros in the top 100 is not just a matter of pride, but also a sign of how the country’s cities are steadily evolving and gaining recognition on the world stage.
