Cape Town, South Africa, has achieved a notable fifth place in the global ranking of cities for Generation Z, as reported by Time Out’s Best Cities Index.
Time Out carried a survey on over 250,000 young residents from 100 cities. The oldest Gen Z will be 29 years old this year, so Gen Zs are people typically in their 20s.
The Ideal Gen Z City
The criteria for this ranking reflect Gen Z’s values; they want to stay in a place with culture that’s affordable, inclusive, and has opportunity for growth, rather than places with superficial amenities like luxury penthouses or world-class restaurants.
Key insights from the report highlight that for Gen Z, the ideal city must have accessible cultural scenes, allowing not just attendance but also participation in creative endeavors.
Accessibility and walkability are significant factors that Gen Z have in mind; they want to explore without financial burdens. These just show how Gen Zs are digital nomads and creatives. 
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Why Cape Town?
In Cape Town specifically, 82% of respondents expressed happiness living there, applauding its picturesque beauty—71% find the city visually stunning, and 76% consider nightlife affordable. Furthermore, 62% rated the city as an exciting place to reside.
New York City, known for its ambition and diversity, was the top city. Other top cities were London, a cultural center; Bangkok, known for its nightlife and street food; Melbourne, praised for its livability; and Copenhagen, known for its sustainability and design. These rankings underscore a shift in preferences among younger generations, aligning urban happiness with factors that support creativity, community, and livability.
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