Mumbai Tops Asia’s Happiest Cities 2025

Every year, cities across Asia are evaluated not just for their skylines, nightlife, or economic growth but for something much deeper — the happiness of the people who live there. Reported by TOI

In the City Life Index 2025, Time Out magazine surveyed more than 18,000 residents across the continent to discover where people feel the most fulfilled, energized, and content.

Participants rated their cities on culture, food, social life, affordability, community spirit, and overall quality of life. Most importantly, they were asked how happy they feel living in their city — and whether they would choose it over anywhere else.

This year’s results delivered a heartwarming surprise.

Mumbai has been crowned the Happiest City in Asia for 2025. The “city of dreams” didn’t just top the national rankings — it outranked every other Asian city in the survey.

Despite its chaotic traffic and soaring housing prices, Mumbai continues to charm its residents with its spirit, resilience, and endless buzz.

Whether it’s the comfort of vada pav on a busy day, the colours of Ganesh Chaturthi, or the late-night conversations along Marine Drive, the city’s energy seems to outweigh its challenges.

According to the report,

• 94% of Mumbai residents say the city genuinely makes them happy.

• 89% claim they feel happier here than anywhere else.

Mumbai’s win reflects more than just satisfaction — it shows the powerful blend of culture, community, and optimism that keeps the city’s heartbeat strong.

The numbers reflect that feeling too, 88 per cent of locals say Mumbai feels positive and safe, and many say their happiness has grown since moving there.

Following close behind are Beijing and Shanghai, claiming the second and third spots with 93 per cent and 92 per cent of residents, respectively, saying their city makes them happy. Both cities scored well for safety, convenience, culture, and affordability and continue to attract Gen Z with their innovative and future-focused lifestyles.

Also making the top five are Chiang Mai (Thailand) and Hanoi (Vietnam), where 88 per cent of people say they feel happy living in their city. While Chiang Mai stands out for its calm, greenery, and laid-back atmosphere, Hanoi is loved for its friendly locals and simple, everyday joys. Both places are praised for offering a slower, more mindful pace of life that nurtures peace and community.

But this year, not all of the important cities were included. Remarkably, Seoul, Singapore, and Tokyo had lower happiness scores. For example, just 70 per cent of people in Tokyo said they were pleased in their city, which may be a reflection of the city’s demanding lifestyle and long workdays.

Top 10 Asia’s happiest cities in 2025