Happiness is subjective, but the numbers don't lie: locals across Asia have spoken, and Time Out's latest survey of city life in 2025 reveals which urban hubs are bringing the most joy.
Over 18,000 city-dwellers responded to our survey this year, answering questions about culture, nightlife, food, and quality of life. They also rated their city based on these five statements: My city makes me happy; I feel happier in my city than other places I’ve visited or lived; The people in my city seem happy; I find joy in the everyday experiences my city offers; The sense of happiness in my city has grown a lot recently.
And now we have the happiest city in Asia for 2025: Mumbai, India.
A whopping 94 percent of locals in Mumbai said that their city brings them joy. In fact, it dominates across most happiness metrics, with the highest percentage of locals saying they feel happier in Mumbai than anywhere else (89%), that their fellow locals seem positive (88%), and that the sense of happiness in Mumbai has grown a lot recently (87%). If we had to make a guess, we'd say that has something to do with the endless entertainment options in Mumbai, its lively social scene, and opportunities for career growth. And it definitely helps that it's one of the best street food cities in Asia.
Close behind in second and third place are Beijing and Shanghai. A vast majority of locals from these major Chinese hubs agree that their city makes them happy (93 percent and 92 percent, respectively). We're not surprised – both are dynamic, future-forward cities with plenty of convenience, safety, affordability, and rich culture. And hey, they're among best cities in Asia for Gen-Z, so things are looking bright for its youth, too.
Chiang Mai, Thailand and Hanoi, Vietnam rep for Southeast Asia at fourth and fifth place, respectively. In both, 88 percent of locals said that their city brings them joy. Interestingly though, Hanoi has got Chiang Mai beat on two other happiness indicators: more locals responded positively to statements such as The people in my city seem positive and I find joy in the everyday experiences my city offers. But we wouldn't nitpick too much: both destinations are fantastic if you're looking for a slow pace, green spaces, and a sense of community.
Some global hubs like Seoul and Singapore rank low on the happiness list, with popular tourist destination Tokyo not even landing in the top 10 (only 70 percent of Tokyo-dwellers say their city makes them happy). Could it be the fast-paced life or lack of work-life balance? If you live in these spots, find the time for a break in tranquil nature parks or relaxing bathhouses.
Check out our list of the happiest cities in the world for 2025.
The 10 happiest cities in Asia in 2025:
- Mumbai, India
- Beijing, China
- Shanghai, China
- Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Hanoi, Vietnam
- Jakarta, Indonesia
- Hong Kong
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Singapore
- Seoul, South Korea
The 10 happiest cities in the world in 2025:
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
Did you hear? These are the best street food cities in Asia to eat through
Plus: The best places to see autumn foliage in Asia
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