The 2025 America's Best Cities list is here—see which city came out on top
In a moment when American cities are grappling with everything from climate volatility to housing crises, New York stands tall—literally and figuratively—claiming the No. 1 spot across all three of Resonance's key metrics: Livability, Lovability and Prosperity. In short, that means the city is thriving, dazzling and making money while it's at it.
New York ranks in first place for both culture and landmarks, fueled by a comeback of Broadway, blockbuster museum exhibits and more than a few Michelin stars. The city welcomed nearly 65 million visitors in 2024, and while international travel is projected to dip this year, NYC is betting big on 2026's FIFA World Cup Final and major infrastructure upgrades to turn the tide. With a skyline that's still growing, a hospitality sector revving back to life and a talent pool that's as deep as its subway tunnels, New York isn't just back—it never left.
'This recognition is a testament to the enduring appeal of the five boroughs,' said New York City Tourism + Conventions CEO Julie Coker, noting that the city's cultural and economic vibrancy are still drawing the world in droves.
Elsewhere on this year's list, New York's West Coast cousin Los Angeles claimed the No. 2 spot: "While wildfires, water scarcity and housing affordability remain challenges, the macro bet is clear: a once-in-a-lifetime convergence of mega-events, climate-friendly rail, adaptive reuse policies and institutional capital is resetting Los Angeles's value proposition," reads the ranking. And rounding out the top three is Chicago, IL, which is "firing on all cylinders" as of late with "an expanding talent pool and relative affordability."
You can check out the full 2025 America's Best Cities ranking from Resonance Consultancy here, as well as the top 20 below.
The 2025 best cities in America, per Resonance Consultancy:
1. New York, NY
2. Los Angeles, CA
3. Chicago, IL
4. San Francisco, CA
5. Seattle, WA
6. Miami, FL
7. Boston, MA
8. Washington, DC
9. Las Vegas, NV
10. San Diego, CA
11. Orlando, FL
12. Atlanta, GA
13. Houston, TX
14. Dallas, TX
15. Austin, TX
16. Denver, CO
17. Portland, OR
18. Philadelphia, PA
19. San Jose, CA
20. Honolulu, HI
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