New Delhi, India’s capital, is a vibrant metropolis where ancient heritage and modern development coexist. As the political and administrative heart of the country, it plays a central role in governance, diplomacy, and national decision-making.
But how does New Delhi perform in terms of image, reputation, influence, business attractiveness, liveability, and sustainability, according to leading rankings and indices?
Overview of New Delhi’s Performance & Potential
The following table offers an overview of New Delhi’s overall performance across various international rankings. For a reading of how a place is perceived, organisations responsible for its brand, investment or talent attraction can request a free Positioning Check.
| Ranking | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
| Brand Finance Global City Index | – | – | – | – | 95 | 77 | – |
| Global Financial Centres Index | – | 69 | 80 | 58 | 65 | 75 | 60 |
| Kearney Global Cities Index | 56 | 56 | 66 | 71 | 64 | 67 | – |
| Mercer Quality of Living Ranking | 162 | – | – | – | 172 | 173 | – |
| Mercer Cost of Living Ranking | 118 | 101 | 117 | 155 | 169 | 165 | – |
| IESE Cities in Motion Index | 166 | 162 | – | 149 | – | 149 | 139 |
| Arcadis Sustainable Cities Index | – | – | – | 95 | – | – | – |
City Brand Strength
New Delhi is solidifying its position as a major urban centre in Asia, balancing historical depth with rapid modernization and economic growth. In Brand Finance’s Global City Index 2024, it ranks 77th, reflecting its growing global reputation as a hub for governance, commerce, and cultural heritage. Kearney’s Global Power City Index 2024 places New Delhi at 67th, highlighting the city’s expanding influence across business, livability, and international connectivity as it continues to shape its role in the global urban network.
Appeal to Investors and Business
New Delhi is steadily enhancing its profile as a financial and business hub within South Asia. In the GFCI 37 Rank the city holds the 60th position, demonstrating a strong presence in global financial services, supported by its robust regulatory framework and diversified economy.
Appeal to Talent
New Delhi presents a complex urban environment marked by a mix of opportunity and ongoing challenges. Ranked 173rd in Mercer’s Quality of Living Ranking 2024, the city grapples with issues such as congestion, pollution, and public service reliability, even as it continues to expand its infrastructure and amenities. In Mercer’s Cost of Living Ranking 2024 , New Delhi places 165th, indicating moderate affordability compared to global peers.
Urban Sustainability
New Delhi is steadily advancing its urban development goals while contending with the pressures of scale, population growth, and environmental sustainability. Ranked 139th in the IESE Cities in Motion Index 2025, the city demonstrates moderate progress in areas such as mobility, governance, and technology adoption.
Our Key Takeaways
New Delhi stands as one of Asia’s most influential capitals, combining political significance with a growing role in innovation, culture, and commerce. Its expanding infrastructure, rising global profile, and commitment to smart city initiatives position it as a key player in India’s urban future. However, the city continues to face structural challenges related to congestion, pollution, and service equity.
- Strengths: Strategic political and economic centre, strong transport infrastructure, expanding digital capabilities.
- Weaknesses: Air quality issues, urban congestion, disparities in public service access.
- Opportunities: Smart city development, investment in clean energy and mobility, cultural and creative industry growth.
- Threats: Environmental degradation, climate vulnerability, strain on resources from population growth.
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 New Delhi’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.