We don’t need to tell locals how amazing Chicago is because they already agree—it’s one of the best cities in the world.
Time Out has released its 2024 list of the Best Cities in the World, with Chicago coming in at no. 14. The annual ranking surveyed thousands of readers from across the globe about the quality and affordability of food, culture and nightlife in their respective cities. A variety of other factors were considered as well, such as how a city makes locals feel, a city’s beautifulness and the ease of making social connections in a city. Survey respondents were also asked which city (aside from their own) they would most like to live in.
With its rich history, world-class culinary experiences and expansive cultural scene, it’s easy to see why the Windy City is beloved. In fact, locals rated Chicago’s entertainment options highly at 83 percent. Whether it’s ice skating in Millennium Park or lively summer street festivals, there’s no shortage of great things to do. And if that’s not enough, the city’s diverse and vibrant community areas—including one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world—offer a wealth of hidden gems to discover.
New York was named the best city in the world this year, with 15 percent of all who were surveyed saying they’d relocate there. Cape Town, Berlin, London and Madrid round out the top five. Other North American cities making the list include Mexico City at no. 6, Los Angeles at no. 17, Miami at no. 23, Montreal at no. 29, San Francisco at no. 37, New Orleans at no. 40, Philadelphia at no. 41, Austin at no. 42, Boston at no. 43 and Vancouver at no. 50.