Birmingham has earned a prestigious place on a major European list, being named one of the continent's top urban centres. The city has been ranked 30th in the 'Europe's 100 Best Cities' list for 2025, a significant recognition of its ongoing transformation and appeal.
How the Ranking is Determined
The annual ranking is compiled by the global consultancy firm, Resonance. Its methodology extends beyond traditional metrics, analysing a wide range of factors that shape a city's modern reputation. These include core quality of life and cultural offerings, but also a city's digital footprint.
The firm examines online buzz from sources like Google reviews, Instagram hashtags, and Tripadvisor scores. This approach ensures that the lived experience and popularity of a city among residents and visitors are key components of the final score. To qualify for the list, a city must have a population exceeding 500,000, placing Birmingham firmly among Europe's heavyweight metropolitan areas.
Birmingham's Rising Profile
While other UK cities like London, which claimed the number one spot, ranked higher, Birmingham's position at number 30 is a strong endorsement of its growing stature. The city has been on an upward trajectory, bolstered by several high-profile developments and its enduring strengths.
Analysts point to the city's rapidly evolving skyline, a testament to sustained investment and regeneration. Furthermore, Birmingham's vibrant and independent food scene continues to garner praise, alongside its rich music heritage that resonates globally.
The legacy of hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games is also cited as a major factor, having provided a world-class 'glow-up' for the city's infrastructure and international image. This combination of factors clearly signals that Birmingham is a city firmly on the rise.
The European Context
The list represents a 'who's who' of European destinations. Birmingham's placement sees it holding its own against iconic continental capitals and cultural hubs. The top five cities in the 2025 ranking are:
- London, United Kingdom
- Paris, France
- Berlin, Germany
- Barcelona, Spain
The full ranking, which includes the top 40 cities, offers further insight into how European urban centres compare on the global stage. For Birmingham, the number 30 spot is a result that justifies a well-earned moment of civic pride and recognition for its continued progress.
