Vancouver named one of the world's best cities for some surprising reasons
Vancouver consistently ranks high on lists of the best places on the planet, with world-class attractions and international sporting events attracting visitors to the city.
And while the city is celebrating being named to a new list of the World’s Best Cities, the reasons why may be surprising to some.
While Vancouver’s clean air and seawall sunsets were highlighted in the 2026 ranking, several ongoing major construction projects were also named as reasons why the city is “buzzing” in 41st place.
Charles HHuang/Shutterstock
“The town, sometimes referred to as ‘No Fun City,’ is buzzing these days, with the long-awaited opening of Oakridge Park’s revived retail, dining and cultural district wrapped around a new nine-acre park,” stated World’s Best Cities in its write-up on Vancouver. “A fresh anchor on the Cambie Corridor and a timely boost to local spend.”
Daily Hive recently learned that after several opening date delays, the new Oakridge Park mall in Vancouver has set its sights on a Spring 2026 launch.
The PR team behind the new development also told Daily Hive Urbanized that several retailers would be marking their “firsts” at Oakridge Park, including Dolce & Gabbana, Coach, Valentino, Alo, Petit Point, Thom Browne, Maje and Loewe. There will also be a Rolex store at the new mall.
A rendering of the new Oakridge Park (Oakridge Park)
World’s Best Cities named the Pattullo Bridge replacement, the Broadway Subway extension, and the new St. Paul’s Hospital as reasons why Vancouver deserved a spot on this year’s list.
All critical construction projects, but when the city is usually lauded for its world-class airport and luxury hotels, the reasons can be surprising at first.
“Gorgeous and smart, Vancouver is embracing its global reputation as a coveted, livable destination,” said World’s Best Cities.
October 2025 construction progress on the new Pattullo Bridge. (Government of B.C.)
Vancouver did see a drop from 22nd place in 2025 to 41st place in 2026.
Only four other Canadian cities made the list, with Toronto taking the top Canadian rank at 17th, Montreal at 46th, Ottawa at 73rd, and Calgary in the 85th spot.
The report emphasizes three key factors when ranking cities: livability, loveability, and prosperity. Livability includes metrics such as parks, landmarks, and public transit. Loveability focuses on things like social media posts, nightlife, and shopping, while prosperity includes airports, unemployment rates, and convention centres.
The full World’s Best Cities ranking can be found online.
With files from Daily Hive Staff