Barcelona overtakes Los Angeles and Boston in the global ranking of powerful cities

Barcelona rises to 23rd place in the Global Power City Index 2026. Madrid moves ahead and reaches 14th position. Discover why liveability and accessibility are driving Barcelona. Which cities lead the global ranking this year?

Barcelona has climbed to 23rd place in the Global Power City Index 2026, placing ahead of cities such as Los Angeles and Boston. The report, which measures the global magnetism of cities, highlights Barcelona's ability to attract talent, investment and businesses.

The ranking assesses 72 indicators grouped into six categories: economy, research and development, cultural interaction, liveability, environment and accessibility. Barcelona stands out particularly in liveability, where it reaches seventh place worldwide, thanks to factors such as life expectancy and rental prices. It ranks 16th in accessibility and 18th in cultural interaction.

However, the city lags behind in economy and research and development, where it ranks 35th and 34th respectively. Despite these challenges, Barcelona retains its international appeal and remains a benchmark for quality of life.

Madrid, for its part, is positioned as Spain's highest-rated city, reaching 14th place. It stands out in cultural interaction (11th), liveability and environment (both in 5th place), consolidating its national leadership.

The top 25 in the ranking is led by London, Tokyo and New York, followed by Paris, Singapur y Seúl. Barcelona remains firmly among the world's great capitals, surpassing historic and technological cities.

The full Global Power City Index 2026 report is available for public consultation.