Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city with around 2.5 million residents, is known for its vibrant culture, innovation, and progressive urban planning. Once marked by conflict, the city has transformed into a regional hub for business, tourism, and education. Notable initiatives like the Green Corridors project have improved air quality and urban livability by expanding green spaces across the city.
But what do international rankings and indices have to say about Medellín in terms of its economic performance, sustainability, city brand strength, and reputation?
Overview of Medellín’s Performance & Potential
The following table offers an overview of Medellín’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 |
| 2Thinknow Innovation Cities Index | 138 | – | – | – | 294 | – | – |
| Numbeo Cost of Living Index | – | 397 | 512 | 519 | 506 | 302 | 268 |
| Numbeo Quality of Life Index | – | 168 | 184 | 179 | 173 | 154 | 209 |
| IESE Cities in Motion Index | 134 | 126 | – | 138 | – | 137 | 147 |
City Brand Strength
Medellín is steadily gaining international recognition for its urban transformation, innovation-driven development, and improved quality of life. Once known primarily for its troubled past, Medellín is now celebrated for its pioneering public transport systems, social urbanism model, and thriving creative and tech sectors.
Appeal to Investors and Business
Medellín’s economy is increasingly shaped by innovation-led growth and a strong commitment to urban and social transformation. Ranked 294th in the 2Thinknow’s Innovation Cities 2023 Index, the city is still emerging on the global innovation stage but has gained attention for its investments in education, technology hubs, and public infrastructure.
Appeal to Talent
Medellín offers a relatively affordable lifestyle, making it an attractive option for both locals and expatriates in Latin America. Ranked 268th in Numbeo’s Cost of Living Index 2025 , the city provides accessible housing, transportation, and everyday expenses compared to global standards. While affordability is a clear advantage, Medellín ranks 209th in Numbeo’s Quality of Life Index 2025 , highlighting ongoing challenges in areas such as healthcare access, traffic congestion, and environmental conditions.
Urban Sustainability
Medellín continues to evolve as a model for inclusive and sustainable urban transformation. Ranked 147th in the IESE Cities in Motion Index 2025, the city is making progress in areas such as mobility, social cohesion, and urban innovation, though challenges remain in governance and international outreach. Known for its pioneering cable car system, green corridors, and emphasis on public space, Medellín’s approach to urban planning has garnered international recognition.
Our Key Takeaways
Medellín is redefining its global image through innovation, inclusive urban planning, and a strong sense of local identity. Once known for its turbulent past, the city is now recognised for its social urbanism model, creative public spaces, and commitment to digital transformation. While it still faces challenges around security and inequality, Medellín’s progress has positioned it as one of Latin America’s most forward-looking cities.
- Strengths: Pioneering urban innovation, strong public transport system, vibrant local culture.
- Weaknesses: Ongoing inequality, limited international brand recognition.
- Opportunities: Expansion of sustainable infrastructure.
- Threats: Reliance on national political stability.
Last updated in July 2025. Explore more city profiles here.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended to provide a general overview of Medellín’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.
