The capital ranks 30th in the Global Cities Index 2026 by Oxford Economics and is the highest-ranked Spanish city in the classification. Barcelona (72) and Valencia (180) complete the national podium.
Madrid is the best-placed Spanish city in the Global Cities Index 2026 compiled by Oxford Economics. The capital holds the 30th position in the world, according to the specialised publication negocios.com, and relies on a broad and diversified economy to maintain that position.
The report breaks down Madrid's performance into two main categories: 55th in Economy and 38th in Human Capital. Professional services, technology, consumer activities, and the public sector form the ecosystem that, according to the consultancy, allows the capital to reduce its dependence on a single industry.
Dynamic and resilient economy
This is how Daniel Parker, senior economist for Cities and Regions at Oxford Economics, describes Madrid's performance. Parker attributes the result to a favourable environment for businesses and a skilled workforce.
Barcelona appears in 72nd place worldwide and ranks among the top 100 cities in the world in both Quality of Life and Human Capital. Valencia, the third Spanish city, occupies 180th place and stands out in Environment, where it reaches 99th.
The national list is completed by Palma de Mallorca (200), Bilbao (211), Málaga (212), Zaragoza (219), Sevilla (229), Santa Cruz de Tenerife (239) and Las Palmas (248). Bilbao excels in Quality of Life (93) and Environment (84).
The report also highlights housing as one of the challenges faced by the highest-ranked cities, a challenge partly arising from the very appeal reflected in the ranking.
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