Berlin, ever since reunification, has been a mecca of the alternative art world, offering a great variety of opportunities for creatives. Apart from that, it is also a start-up haven and the capital of Germany, and as such, a political heavyweight.
But what do leading city rankings have to say about Berlin regarding its economic and urban sustainability performance, its city brand strength, and its reputation?
Overview of Berlin’s Performance & Potential
The following table offers an overview of Berlin’s overall performance across various international rankings. For a deeper analysis, our custom reports provide tailored insights for specific contexts, such as cities, regions, or countries.
| Ranking | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
| Brand Finance Global City Index | – | – | – | – | 18 | 13 | – |
| Resonance World’s Best Cities | – | 28 | 18 | 15 | 14 | 9 | 9 |
| Global Financial Centres Index | – | – | 60 | 26 | 23 | 43 | – |
| 2Thinknow Innovation Cities Index | 12 | – | 31 | – | 11 | – | – |
| Kearney Global Cities Index | 14 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 20 | – |
| Mercer Quality of Living Ranking | 13 | – | – | – | 18 | 19 | – |
| Mercer Cost of Living Ranking | 81 | 82 | 60 | 46 | 37 | 31 | – |
| Numbeo Cost of Living Index | – | 171 | 185 | 214 | 124 | 114 | 95 |
| Numbeo Quality of Life Index | – | 82 | 89 | 75 | 90 | 55 | 91 |
| IESE Cities in Motion Index | 9 | 7 | – | 5 | – | 5 | 5 |
| Arcadis Sustainable Cities Index | – | – | – | 5 | – | 8 | – |
City Brand Strength
Berlin maintains a strong global image, reflecting its cultural significance and urban appeal. In Brand Finance’s Global City 2024 Index , it ranks 18th globally .
Resonance Consultancy‘s World’s Best Cities 2025 report places Berlin at 9th, highlighting its exceptional offerings in museums and nightlife
Appeal to Investors and Business
Berlin’s economic landscape is marked by a thriving startup ecosystem and a growing financial sector. In the GFCI 37 Index, Berlin is ranked 37th, increasing its profile by six places from the previous ranking, highlighting it as a significant European business hub. The city’s strategic location and infrastructure continue to attract international investment.
Appeal to Talent
Berlin is a magnet for global talent, offering a high quality of life and esteemed educational institutions. According to Mercer’s Quality of Living Ranking 2024, the city ranks 19th globally. The city’s diverse cultural scene and inclusive environment make it an attractive destination for professionals and students alike.
Urban Sustainability
Berlin demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability. In the Arcadis Sustainable City Index 2024, it ranks 8th globally, reflecting its effective policies in environmental management and urban planning . The city’s initiatives in green architecture and public transportation contribute to its sustainable urban development.
Our Key Takeaways
Berlin is consolidating its position as one of Europe’s most dynamic capitals, blending cultural influence, sustainability leadership, and entrepreneurial energy. However, the city faces growing pains. Bureaucratic bottlenecks, housing affordability pressures, and infrastructure strains remain critical concerns.
- Strengths: Affordable innovation hub, sustainability leadership.
- Weaknesses: Bureaucratic inefficiencies, uneven economic development.
- Opportunities: Green innovation leadership, cultural exports branding.
- Threats: Housing affordability crisis, gentrification pressures.
Last updated in April 2025. Explore more city profiles here.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended to provide a general overview of Berlin’s economic and cultural landscape and facilitate comparison over time. While we strive for accuracy and completeness, the data is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. Please verify any information before relying on it for decision-making purposes.
