Ranking of the 50 most sought-after cities in the world
The BARNES City Index ranks the 50 most sought-after cities worldwide for HNWI and UHNWI, based on emotional, practical and financial criteria observed in 2024.
By BARNES International
For HNWI and UHNWI, owning a prestigious property, or even several, often represents a personal and professional achievement. Over the past decade, a notable shift in behaviour has emerged, with simultaneous use of two or three residences becoming increasingly common. The ranking of the most sought-after cities was established by crossing financial aspects, emotional appeal and practical factors.
BARNES City Index 2025 — Full ranking
In recent years, marked by persistent conflicts, economic upheavals, and political instability, the UHNWI population has adopted the ethos of pre-loved, transforming social responsibility into a way of life. As a result, the cities that attract the ultra-wealthy now reflect their desire to give back and embrace sustainability.
