Warsaw, Poland‘s capital, is a rapidly evolving urban centre known for its robust economy, historical significance, and growing international influence. The city is establishing itself as a key player in Europe’s financial and cultural landscape.

But how does Warsaw perform in terms of image, reputation, influence, business attractiveness, liveability, and sustainability, according to leading rankings and indices?

Let’s take a closer look at:

  • Warsaw’s economic competitiveness and financial performance
  • Its city brand strength and global reputation
  • How appealing it is to live, work, and study

Economic Competitiveness

The Global Financial Centres Index 35 ranks Warsaw 96th, a slight decrease of four positions from the previous ranking. In Fintech, the city ranks 101st, having dropped 17 places.

The Innovation Cities Index 2022-2023 ranks it 89th, with a notable rise of 34 positions, reflecting a burgeoning innovation ecosystem.


City Brand Strength and Reputation

According to Brand Finance’s City Index 2023, Warsaw ranks 62nd.

The 2024 World’s Best Cities Report by Resonance ranks Warsaw 40th overall, strongest in Prosperity (27th), followed by Liveability (54th), and Lovability (60th).

Kearney’s 2023 Global Cities Index places the city 65th, unchanged from the previous year, while its Global Cities Outlook ranking has it down by 29 positions, to 72nd.


How Attractive for Talent, Visitors, Locals?

The Mercer Quality of Living City Ranking ranks Warsaw 84th, reflecting an average standard of living for residents. In contrast, the Mercer Cost of Living Ranking positions it at 170th, indicating affordability.

Similarly, the latest data in the Numbeo City Quality of Living Index ranks it 108th, and the Cost of Living Index ranks it 177th.

In the Best Urban Cities for Digital Nomads ranking by Spot a Home, it is 37th overall, performing best in the areas of Green Spaces (7.42) and Quality of Coworking Spaces (7.09), though it ranks low for Annual Sunshine Hours (1.31).

In 2024, the Times Higher Education ranking placed the University of Warsaw in the 601-800 bracket. Meanwhile, the QS World University Ranking positions the University of Warsaw 258th overall. The same ranking also mentions Warsaw University of Technology, which ranks 527th.


Urban Sustainability

Warsaw ranks 62nd in the Arcadis Sustainability City Index 2022, performing best in the pillar Planet (29th) and less strongly for People (60th) and Profit (72nd).

In the IESE Cities in Motion Index 2024, the city ranks 63rd overall, with notable strengths in Governance (4th) and Urban Planning (21st), though there are challenges in Social Cohesion (111th).


Last updated in January 2024. More city profiles here.


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Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended to provide a general overview of Warsaw’s economic and cultural landscape and facilitate comparison over time. While we strive for accuracy and completeness, we are not responsible for any typographical errors or inaccuracies. The data is provided ‘as is’ without warranty of any kind. Users should verify any information before relying on it for decision-making purposes.