20 Richest Cities in the World

By PropertyClub Team
May 7th 2024
From bustling financial districts to thriving technological ecosystems, the world's wealthiest cities play a crucial role in shaping the economic fortunes of nations. Read on to delve into the top 20 richest cities in the world for 2024, exploring the factors contributing to their wealth and their significance on the global stage.

Interested in discovering more about the wealthiest cities in the world? Check out our article on the richest cities in the USA.

hash-mark20 Richest Cities in the World

  1. New York City, USA
  2. Tokyo, Japan
  3. London, UK
  4. Shanghai, China
  5. Singapore
  6. Hong Kong, China
  7. Dubai, UAE
  8. San Francisco, USA
  9. Zurich, Switzerland
  10. Seoul, South Korea
  11. Osaka, Japan
  12. Geneva, Switzerland
  13. Toronto, Canada
  14. Sydney, Australia
  15. Mumbai, India
  16. Shenzhen, China
  17. Chicago, USA
  18. Beijing, China
  19. Houston, USA
  20. Munich, Germany

hash-markNew York City, USA

Number of Millionaires: 290,300

Major Companies: Sony, Mitsubishi, Honda

The richest city in the world is New York City. As the home of Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange, NYC is a cornerstone of global finance. The city's financial district is a hub for banking, investment, and international trade. 

The technology sector in Silicon Alley, coupled with a diverse range of industries, contributes to the city's economic prosperity. The presence of multinational corporations, world-renowned cultural institutions, and a vibrant real estate market further solidify New York's standing among the world's wealthiest cities.

hash-markTokyo, Japan

Number of Millionaires: 290,300

Major Companies: Sony, Mitsubishi, Honda

Tokyo retains its position as one of the wealthiest cities in the world in 2023. Japan's capital is a global financial and technological powerhouse, housing some of the world's largest corporations and financial institutions. 

The Tokyo Stock Exchange is a key player in the global financial markets, reflecting the city's economic influence. Additionally, Tokyo's innovation and technological advancements contribute significantly to its wealth, with thriving industries in robotics, electronics, and automotive sectors.

hash-markLondon, UK

Number of Millionaires: 272,400

Major Companies: Unilever, Tesco, Diageo 

Despite the challenges posed by Brexit and the ongoing global economic shifts, London maintains its status as a financial and cultural capital. The City of London, a historic financial district, hosts numerous international banks, financial institutions, and multinational corporations. 

The city's real estate market, global connectivity, and a diverse range of industries contribute to its economic strength. London's resilience in the face of geopolitical changes underscores its significance as one of the world's richest cities.

hash-markShanghai, China

Number of Millionaires: 130,100

Major Companies: NIO, Comac, Airways

Shanghai has rapidly ascended the ranks of global economic powerhouses, reflecting China's continued economic growth. As a key financial center in Asia, Shanghai boasts a robust stock exchange and a rapidly expanding technological sector. 

The city's strategic location as a major port enhances its role in international trade. The Chinese government's focus on transforming Shanghai into a global financial hub has attracted significant investments, solidifying its position as one of the wealthiest cities in the world.

hash-markSingapore

Number of Millionaires: 526,400

Major Companies: DBS Group, UOB, Wilmar International

Singapore has established itself as a financial and technological hub in Southeast Asia. The city-state's strategic location, business-friendly policies, and efficient infrastructure have attracted multinational corporations and investors. 

Singapore's robust financial sector, characterized by a thriving banking and investment landscape, contributes significantly to its wealth. The government's emphasis on innovation and technology has propelled Singapore into a regional center for research and development.

hash-markHong Kong, China

Number of Millionaires: 129,500

Major Companies: C k hutchison holdings, China Resources, New World Development

Hong Kong, with its iconic skyline and bustling financial district, is a key player in the global economic arena. As a Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong serves as a vital link between the East and the West. 

The city's stock exchange, coupled with a robust banking and financial sector, contributes significantly to its wealth. 

Hong Kong's strategic location, favorable business environment, and connectivity with Mainland China position it as a major player in international finance and trade.

hash-markDubai, UAE

Number of Millionaires: 67,000

Major Companies: Bayzat, L'Oreal, Etihad Airways

Dubai, known for its ambitious skyline and luxury infrastructure, has transformed into a global business and financial center. Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Dubai's strategic location plays a pivotal role in international trade. 

The city's economy is diversified, with key sectors including real estate, tourism, and finance. Dubai's commitment to innovation and its role as a hub for conferences and exhibitions contribute to its status as one of the wealthiest cities in the world.

hash-markSan Francisco, USA

Number of Millionaires: 276,400

Major Companies: Deloitte, Amazon, Meta

San Francisco, nestled in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, is synonymous with technological innovation. As the gateway to Silicon Valley, the city is home to some of the world's most influential technology companies and startups. 

The rapid growth of the tech sector, combined with a flourishing venture capital landscape, has propelled San Francisco into the ranks of the world's richest cities. The city's affluence is further underscored by its vibrant cultural scene and high standard of living.

hash-markZurich, Switzerland

Number of Millionaires: 99,300

Major Companies: UBS, ABB, Nestle

Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is renowned for its financial stability and high quality of life. The city's banking and financial services sector is a driving force behind its wealth, with Zurich being a global financial center. 

Switzerland's commitment to neutrality, political stability, and a well-developed infrastructure contribute to Zurich's attractiveness for international businesses. The city's prosperity extends beyond finance, with a strong emphasis on research and development.

hash-markSeoul, South Korea

Number of Millionaires: 191,300

Major Companies: KIA, Samsung, Hyundai

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, has emerged as a technological powerhouse, contributing significantly to the country's economic prosperity. The city is home to major technology conglomerates and has a thriving startup ecosystem. 

South Korea's advancements in electronics, automotive, and telecommunications industries have positioned Seoul as a key player in the global economy. The city's rapid urban development, coupled with a strong focus on innovation, solidifies its status as one of the wealthiest cities in the world.

hash-markOsaka, Japan

Number of Millionaires: 44,900

Major Companies: Panasonic, Sharp, Daikin

Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, is a dynamic economic center with a rich cultural heritage. As a major player in the global economy, Osaka boasts a thriving manufacturing sector and is home to prominent companies in the electronics and automotive industries. 

The city's strategic location, coupled with a robust transportation infrastructure, facilitates international trade. Osaka's economic prosperity is complemented by its vibrant culinary scene, historical landmarks, and cultural festivals.

hash-markGeneva, Switzerland

Number of Millionaires: 85,800

Major Companies: J.P. Morgan, Expedia Group, Procter & Gamble

Geneva, often associated with international organizations and diplomacy, is a key financial hub in Switzerland. The city's status as a global center for diplomacy, with numerous international organizations and the United Nations European headquarters, adds to its economic significance. 

Geneva's financial sector, renowned for private banking and wealth management, contributes to its affluence. The city's picturesque surroundings, including Lake Geneva and the Alps, make it an attractive destination for businesses and expatriates.

hash-markToronto, Canada

Number of Millionaires: 105,200

Major Companies: Shopify, RBC, Enbridge

Toronto, the largest city in Canada, is a melting pot of cultures and a hub for economic activity. The city's diverse economy includes finance, technology, film production, and healthcare. Toronto's financial district is a key player in the Canadian economy, and the city has become a center for innovation and entrepreneurship. 

With a strong emphasis on education and research, Toronto attracts talent and investments, further solidifying its position as one of the wealthiest cities in the world.

hash-markSydney, Australia

Number of Millionaires: 105,200

Major Companies: Aristocrat, Atlassian, CommBank

Sydney, the largest city in Australia, is a vibrant economic center with a high quality of life. The city's economy is diverse, encompassing finance, tourism, real estate, and technology. 

Sydney's iconic skyline and natural beauty contribute to its attractiveness for businesses and residents alike. The city's strategic location in the Asia-Pacific region enhances its role in international trade, and Sydney's cultural attractions and events add to its global appeal.

hash-markMumbai, India

Number of Millionaires: 60,600

Major Companies: Tata Consultancy Services, Accenture, Capgemini

Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is a bustling metropolis that plays a crucial role in the country's economic landscape. The Bombay Stock Exchange, located in Mumbai, is a key player in the Indian financial markets. 

The city is a hub for the country's thriving film industry, known as Bollywood, and is a center for information technology and financial services. Mumbai's vibrant culture, diverse population, and economic opportunities contribute to its position among the world's richest cities.

hash-markShenzhen, China

Number of Millionaires: 45,700

Major Companies: BYD, ZTE, Huawei

Shenzhen, located in the Guangdong Province of China, has rapidly transformed from a small fishing village to a global technological powerhouse. As a vital part of the Greater Bay Area, Shenzhen is a hub for innovation, manufacturing, and technology. 

The city is home to some of China's largest tech companies, and its Special Economic Zone status has attracted significant foreign investment. Shenzhen's impressive economic growth, driven by its thriving technology and manufacturing sectors, has propelled it into the ranks of the world's richest cities.

hash-markChicago, USA

Number of Millionaires: 124,000

Major Companies: McDonald's, Allstate, Exelon 

Chicago, situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a major financial and transportation hub in the United States. The city's central location has historically made it a key player in the country's transportation and distribution networks. Chicago's diverse economy includes finance, manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. 

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the Chicago Board Options Exchange contribute to the city's financial prominence. With a rich cultural scene and iconic architecture, Chicago remains a cornerstone of American economic strength.

hash-markBeijing, China

Number of Millionaires: 128,200

Major Companies: Alibaba, Inuchip, Laopu Gold

Beijing, the capital of China, is not only the political center of the country but also a rapidly growing economic powerhouse. As one of the world's most populous cities, Beijing's economy is diverse, encompassing finance, technology, and research. 

The city's strategic importance in international affairs, combined with a flourishing business environment, has attracted multinational corporations and investors. Beijing's economic influence is complemented by its rich history, cultural heritage, and modern urban development.

hash-markHouston, USA

Number of Millionaires: 98,500

Major Companies: Sysco, Walmart, Citi

Houston, Texas, is renowned as the energy capital of the world, with a significant influence on the global oil and gas industry. The city's economy is deeply rooted in the energy sector, with numerous multinational energy corporations headquartered in the region. Houston's strategic location on the Gulf Coast facilitates international trade and shipping. 

In addition to energy, the city has a growing healthcare and technology sector. Houston's economic resilience and business-friendly environment contribute to its status as one of the wealthiest cities globally.

hash-markMunich, Germany

Number of Millionaires: 130,000

Major Companies: Infineon Technologies, Texas Instruments, BMW Group

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a thriving economic center in Germany. The city's economy is characterized by a strong emphasis on technology, innovation, and manufacturing. Munich is home to major multinational corporations in the automotive, aerospace, and engineering sectors. 

The city's commitment to research and development, coupled with a skilled workforce, has positioned it as a key player in the European economy. Munich's quality of life, cultural attractions, and business-friendly environment contribute to its reputation as one of the wealthiest cities in the world.

Richest Cities in the World Bottom Line 

The world's richest cities showcase a diverse array of economic strengths, from technology and finance to energy and manufacturing. As these cities continue to evolve, their impact on the global economy remains significant, shaping the future of wealth and innovation.