Toronto has once again secured its place on the global stage, ranking 26th worldwide in the Global Power City Index (GPCI) for 2025, a comprehensive ranking that measures how effectively cities attract people, capital, and businesses from around the world.
The GPCI evaluates major global cities based on their overall “magnetism,” using six key functions: Economy, Research and Development, Cultural Interaction, Livability, Environment, and Accessibility. Together, these indicators paint a multidimensional picture of how cities perform in an increasingly competitive and interconnected world.
With an overall score of 1063.6, Toronto sits comfortably within the top tier of the 48 cities assessed, ahead of global hubs such as Boston, Brussels, Chicago, Dublin, and Milan, and just behind cities like Los Angeles and Taipei.
Toronto’s ranking reflects its reputation as one of the most dynamic and livable cities in North America. The city is widely recognized for its diverse economy, strong research and innovation ecosystem, and its ability to attract global talent. Toronto’s universities, growing tech sector, and role as Canada’s financial capital all contribute to its continued strength in the Economy and Research & Development categories.
Cultural Interaction is another area where Toronto shines. As one of the most multicultural cities in the world, it offers a mix of arts, food, festivals, and neighbourhoods that appeal to both residents and visitors alike. This diversity has become a defining feature of Toronto’s global identity and a major factor in its international appeal.
While Toronto’s overall ranking remains strong, the GPCI framework also highlights the challenges facing many global cities, including Toronto. Rising costs of living, housing affordability, and environmental pressures are increasingly influential factors in Livability and Environment scores. These issues are not unique to Toronto, but they play a growing role in shaping how cities compete for talent and investment on a global scale.
Accessibility is another crucial area as cities adapt to post-pandemic travel patterns and evolving infrastructure needs. Continued investment in transit, international connectivity, and sustainable mobility will be key to Toronto’s future competitiveness.
In 2025, London retained its long-standing #1 position, followed by Tokyo and New York, which continue to dominate due to their financial power, cultural influence, and global connectivity. While Toronto does not yet compete at that scale, its steady presence within the top 30 reflects a city that punches above its weight internationally, particularly as a gateway to North America and a leader in diversity and quality of life.
The top 10 most magnetic cities for 2025 according to the report are as follows:
- London
- Tokyo
- New York
- Paris
- Singapore
- Seoul
- Amsterdam
- Shanghai
- Dubai
- Berlin
For now, Toronto’s position confirms what many already know: it remains one of the world’s most influential and attractive cities to live, work, and invest in.
To read more and dive into the full report, you can visit their website here.