The annual ranking of the world’s best cities, compiled by the consulting company Resonance Consultancy, combines the opinions of thousands of respondents with objective data. This year, 33,000 people from 43 countries took part in the survey. In addition to the questionnaire, the following factors were taken into account when creating the ranking:
• economic power — GDP per capita;
• the city’s cultural significance on a global scale;
• transport accessibility — convenience and frequency of flights;
• digital presence — how often the city is mentioned in social networks and search engines.
The current list of leaders includes the following cities:
TOP 10 best cities in the world:
- London (United Kingdom)
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New York (USA)
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Paris (France)
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Tokyo (Japan)
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Madrid (Spain)
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Singapore
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Rome (Italy)
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Dubai (UAE)
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Berlin (Germany)
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Barcelona (Spain)
In 2025, there were noticeably fewer American cities in the top twenty, although the USA still dominates in terms of the total number of its cities in the top 100 — 19 positions. Germany ranked second by this indicator (8 cities), and China took third place (7 cities).
How much does property cost in the best cities in the world and is it possible to stay there to live?
In most developed countries, purchasing real estate does not automatically grant the right to a residence permit, except for special investor programs. Approximate prices for budget housing and the possibility of obtaining a residence permit through real estate purchase in 2025:
1. London (United Kingdom)
A one-bedroom apartment/studio in less expensive areas costs approximately 250,000–350,000 GBP ($334,000–$468,000).
Purchasing real estate does not automatically grant a residence permit. A residence permit is only possible through an investor visa (Tier 1) with much larger investments (from 2 million GBP), which do not necessarily have to be invested in property.
2. New York (USA)
A one-bedroom apartment in older buildings can cost from $350,000 to $450,000 (the price strongly depends on the area).
A residence permit is not granted through property purchase. Foreigners can freely buy real estate, but for residence they need work or immigration programs (for example, the EB-5 visa).
3. Paris (France)
An inexpensive one-bedroom apartment starts at approximately €200,000–300,000.
Purchasing property does not in itself grant a residence permit. A permit or visa based on other g
rounds is required (work, business, visa for financially independent persons), although owning property may be an additional advantage during application review.
4. Tokyo (Japan)
A small apartment on the outskirts may have a very high total cost; however, prices per square meter in budget areas (for example, Adachi) start from about 540,000–900,000 yen per m².
A residence permit is not granted through property purchase. It is possible only via a work visa, study, or business.
5. Spain (Madrid and Barcelona)
A small one-bedroom apartment on the secondary market in Madrid or Barcelona costs around €120,000–180,000.
It is possible, but not for budget prices. With an investment in real estate from €500,000, it is possible to apply for a Golden Visa, which grants a residence permit. Purchasing property for a lower amount does not grant a residence permit.
6. Singapore
A modest apartment (not HDB) may cost from 400,000–600,000 SGD ($309,000–$463,000), but there are extremely few such options.
A residence permit is not granted for purchasing real estate. High salaries, work permits, or business grounds are required.
7. Rome (Italy)
A one-bedroom apartment in outlying areas starts at approximately €150,000–220,000.
Purchasing real estate does not automatically grant a residence permit. However, for obtaining a residence permit through investment in business/government bonds (from €250,000), the purchase or official rental of housing may be required.
8. Dubai (UAE)
A budget studio/one-bedroom apartment: approximately $100,000–150,000 (often at the construction stage).
When purchasing property in the amount of AED 2,000,000 (about $550,000), it is possible to apply for a long-term resident “Golden Visa.” When purchasing for a lower amount, short-term visas can be obtained, and it is also possible to live with official employment.
9. Berlin (Germany)
An inexpensive studio apartment costs around €200,000–300,000. Purchasing housing in itself does not grant a residence permit. A separate basis is required (work, study, or business).
You can learn more about the possibility of purchasing real estate in Dubai, Istanbul, Alanya, and Northern Cyprus at a free consultation with a Stay Property expert.
The presented information is for informational purposes only and is indicative. It is not a public offer. To make decisions and conduct transactions, it is necessary to contact relevant specialists and verify the relevance of the data.