The results are in, and they’re as bright as a Camps Bay sunset… Cape Town has been ranked the 3rd happiest city in the world for 2025.
Western Cape, South Africa (13 October 2025) – When it comes to joy, community, and everyday magic, Cape Town has once again proved that it’s one of the best places to live on the planet.
Time Out has just released its list of The 20 Happiest Cities in the World for 2025… and our very own Mother City has landed an incredible third place!
That’s right. Out of more than 18,000 locals surveyed from around the globe, Cape Town stood proudly among the world’s elite, just behind Abu Dhabi and Medellín. And if you’ve ever watched the sun melt into the Atlantic from Signal Hill, felt the hum of Bree Street on a Friday night, or dipped your toes into the icy waters of Clifton, you’ll understand exactly why.
Time Out’s annual global survey asked urbanites what makes their city such a happy place to live. It wasn’t just about the economy or environment, it was about the heart of a city: its people, its community and its sense of belonging. The survey explored walkability, culture, food, nightlife, affordability, and overall quality of life but it was the happiness metric that stood out. Locals were asked to rate how much their city makes them happy, whether they feel happier there than anywhere else, and if they find joy in the everyday moments it offers. A whopping 97% of Cape Town residents said their city makes them happy… one of the highest scores in the world!
From Blue Flag beaches to a world-class food scene, Cape Town continues to strike the perfect balance between natural beauty and vibrant city living. It’s a place where creativity thrives, cultures mix effortlessly, and joy is found in everything from a mountain hike to a market stroll.
While Abu Dhabi and Medellín took the first two spots, Cape Town was the only African city to make the top 10, a huge achievement that shines a light on South Africa’s incredible spirit and resilience.
1. Abu Dhabi, UAE
2. Medellín, Colombia
3. Cape Town, South Africa
4. Mexico City, Mexico
5. Mumbai, India
6. Beijing, China
7. Shanghai, China
8. Chicago, US
9. Seville, Spain
10. Melbourne, Australia
At a time when so much of the world feels uncertain, it’s powerful to see a South African city recognised for its joy, connection and hope. Happiness, after all, isn’t just about where we live… it’s about how we live. And Cape Town is clearly doing something right.
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