This Is the Best City in the World for 20-Somethings, According to Time Out

If you’re in your twenties, the world can feel wide open. It’s the decade of self-discovery, ambition, and adventure — a time when where you live can shape who you become. From job opportunities and social scenes to affordability and culture, young adults crave cities that offer it all. According to Time Out’s 2025 global survey, one destination has managed to check every box.

Bangkok, Thailand, has officially been named the best city in the world for 20-somethings — and it’s easy to see why.

Why Bangkok Tops the List

Every year, Time Out surveys thousands of people worldwide to uncover what makes urban life truly great. But this year, they narrowed their focus to a specific group — people under 30. The goal was simple: find out which cities are most loved by Gen Z and younger millennials.

After evaluating dozens of global hotspots, Bangkok emerged as the clear favorite. The Thai capital isn’t just a traveler’s paradise — it’s become a hub of creativity, affordability, and youthful energy.

Here’s what sets Bangkok apart:

1. Affordability Meets Adventure

Let’s face it — most 20-somethings don’t have unlimited budgets. Bangkok’s affordability makes it an ideal city for young adults starting out in life. Rent, street food, transportation, and entertainment are all remarkably inexpensive compared to Western cities. You can enjoy an incredible meal for a few dollars, take weekend trips without draining your wallet, and still have cash left over to explore.

This financial freedom allows young people to live richly without spending heavily — a balance few major cities can offer.

2. A City That’s Always Alive

Bangkok never sleeps. From lively night markets and rooftop bars to serene temples and art spaces, the city offers something for every mood. For 20-somethings seeking constant stimulation — or spontaneous fun — it’s heaven.

Whether you’re grabbing late-night Pad Thai on Khao San Road, discovering a hidden jazz club, or meditating at Wat Arun, Bangkok’s energy feels electric. It’s this blend of chaos and calm that keeps people coming back.

3. A Melting Pot of Cultures

Time Out’s survey emphasized diversity and openness — two qualities that resonate deeply with younger generations. Bangkok stands out for its ability to welcome people from everywhere. Digital nomads, students, entrepreneurs, and creatives from across the world have built communities here.

The result is a global mix of ideas, languages, and lifestyles that constantly fuels inspiration. For young adults chasing new experiences, few cities feel as open-minded and dynamic as Bangkok.

The Runner-Ups: Global Hotspots for the Under-30 Crowd

While Bangkok claimed the crown, several other cities also scored high among young adults in the Time Out index. Here’s how the rest of the top 10 shaped up:

Bangkok, Thailand
Melbourne, Australia
Cape Town, South Africa
New York City, USA
Copenhagen, Denmark
Barcelona, Spain
Edinburgh, Scotland
Mexico City, Mexico
London, England
Shanghai, China

Each of these cities earned recognition for their own unique strengths:

Melbourne impressed young residents with its artsy culture, inclusivity, and high quality of life.
Cape Town was celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and affordability.
New York City ranked high for excitement, nightlife, and ambition — no surprise there.
Copenhagen stood out for its happiness index, community spirit, and eco-friendly vibe.

But even among such strong contenders, Bangkok’s balance of cost, creativity, and community pushed it to the top.

What Makes a City “Perfect” for Your 20s?

Your twenties are about growth — both personal and professional. So, what makes a city ideal for that stage of life?

According to Time Out’s research, young people value five key things:

Affordability: Managing finances while still enjoying life.
Social life: Meeting new people and feeling part of a community.
Culture & diversity: A place that feels alive with music, art, and acceptance.
Career opportunities: Room to explore or switch paths without judgment.
Happiness: A sense of freedom and satisfaction with daily life.

Bangkok ticks all of these boxes. It’s vibrant yet affordable, busy yet balanced, ancient yet innovative. It gives 20-somethings room to experiment, fail, grow, and succeed — all in one city.

Living the Bangkok Dream

Life in Bangkok for young people can feel like an endless adventure. Co-working cafés buzz with freelancers and startups. The streets brim with food stalls offering everything from spicy Tom Yum soup to sweet mango sticky rice. Public transport is modern and expanding, while digital connectivity keeps global workers plugged in.

Many 20-somethings describe Bangkok as a city of contrasts — one moment you’re at a high-tech mall, and the next you’re watching sunset from a centuries-old temple. It’s this constant duality that makes living there so thrilling.

Of course, like any major city, Bangkok has its challenges — traffic jams, humid weather, and occasional culture shock. But for most, the benefits outweigh the hurdles.

A Reflection of What Young People Value Today

The results of Time Out’s list reveal more than just favorite cities — they show how Gen Z and young millennials are redefining what “success” means.

Unlike older generations, many 20-somethings now prioritize experiences over possessions, community over competition, and wellbeing over relentless work. They want to live somewhere that offers authentic connections, creative opportunities, and a sense of belonging.

Bangkok’s rise to the top reflects this shift. It’s not the wealthiest or most high-tech city on the list — but it’s one of the happiest, most welcoming, and most alive.

The Final Word

For anyone in their twenties dreaming of new horizons, Bangkok stands out as more than just a travel destination — it’s a lifestyle. With affordable living, endless entertainment, rich traditions, and an open-minded spirit, it’s no wonder the city has captured the hearts of a new generation.

As Time Out’s survey shows, the best city for 20-somethings isn’t necessarily the biggest or most expensive — it’s the one where life feels full of possibility. And right now, that place is Bangkok.