Birmingham has experienced a slight dip in a prestigious global ranking, yet continues to hold its place among the world's elite urban centres.
A Shift in Global Standing
The 2026 World's Best Cities Report has placed Birmingham at 99th out of 100 global cities, marking a fall of five places from its position the previous year. Despite this slide, securing a spot in the top 100 reaffirms the city's international significance. For context, Birmingham was ranked 85th in the 2024 report and 94th in the 2025 edition.
Meanwhile, London has once again claimed the top position on the prestigious list. The ranking, compiled by the organisation behind the World's Best Cities list, assesses the top 100 cities with populations exceeding one million based on six key categories: sense of place, connectivity and attractions, culture and nightlife, and prosperity.
Praise for 'History and Ambition'
The report itself offers a glowing assessment of Birmingham's trajectory, describing England's industrial heart as 'manufacturing momentum, blending history with fresh ambition'. It enthusiastically declares, 'Brum is back!'
As proof of this ascent, the report highlights several landmark projects currently reshaping the city's skyline and infrastructure:
- One Eastside: The city's tallest new tower, a 51-story, $269-million residential development, has recently reached its topping-out milestone. Upon its scheduled opening in 2026, it will provide 667 build-to-rent homes alongside a host of amenities.
- The Octagon skyscraper: Part of the Paradise redevelopment, this 49-story structure topped out in September 2024 and will add 364 new homes to the cityscape.
- The Smithfield project: Construction is set to begin on this vast 42-acre site. The masterplan includes over 3,000 homes, as well as office and retail space, plus a scheme dedicated to the historic Bull Ring Markets.
Infrastructure and Cultural Developments
Beyond residential and commercial towers, Birmingham is enhancing its cultural and transport networks. The Boxpark food and event complex in Digbeth is scheduled to open its doors in 2025, bringing a new vibrancy to the area.
Significant infrastructure investments are also underway to better connect the city. The Eastside Metro tram extension is on track to deliver a temporary terminus by the 2025-26 period. Furthermore, a bold $1.5-billion 'necklace of opportunity' tram proposal promises to create vital links from the city centre to Heartlands Hospital, the airport, the NEC, and the future Blues stadium.
While its global ranking has slipped, the narrative surrounding Birmingham is one of transformation and forward momentum, underpinned by billions in investment and a clear vision for its future.
