Mumbai — The city where chaos meets charm — has officially been crowned Asia’s happiest city for 2025, according to a new survey by Time Out. The annual ranking celebrates the spirit of cities through the eyes of their residents, and this year, India’s financial capital has topped the list, beating some of the biggest metropolises across the continent.
The survey, which included responses from over 18,000 urbanites across Asia, explored not just traditional factors like economy, environment, and healthcare, but also delved into the emotional pulse of city life — community, creativity, food, culture, and the all-important sense of joy.
How Mumbai Won the Happiness Race
The results reflect what every Mumbaikar already knows: despite the traffic, the crowds, and the chaos, the city’s heartbeat lies in its people. According to the survey,
- 94% of locals said Mumbai actively brings them joy,
- 89% claimed they feel happier in Mumbai than anywhere else they’ve lived or visited, and
- 88% felt that their fellow residents seem cheerful and positive.
Even more heartening, 87% of respondents agreed that the overall sense of happiness in Mumbai has grown significantly in recent years — a sign that the city’s energy and optimism are only rising.
A City That Thrives on Energy and Togetherness
Time Out credited Mumbai’s top ranking to its unique balance of energy, entertainment, and empathy. From street-side vada pav to rooftop fine dining, bustling markets to serene sea views, Mumbai offers a rhythm that embraces everyone.
The city’s vibrant art scene, diverse food culture, and thriving nightlife all contribute to its infectious positivity. Beyond that, the strong sense of community, where people come together in times of need — from floods to festivals — reinforces the city’s emotional backbone.
“Mumbai marries chaos, cheer, and community like nowhere else,” the report said, calling it “a metropolis that never forgets to smile.”
Global Happiness: Where Mumbai Stands
Mumbai wasn’t just the happiest city in Asia — it also made it to the top 10 happiest cities in the world for 2025.
Here’s the full list of Time Out’s Happiest Cities in 2025:
- Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Medellín, Colombia
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Mexico City, Mexico
- Mumbai, India
- Beijing, China
- Shanghai, China
- Chicago, USA
- Seville, Spain
- Melbourne, Australia
What Makes Mumbai Truly Happy
Experts say the secret to Mumbai’s happiness lies in its blend of ambition, resilience, and relentless optimism. The city that never sleeps also never gives up — and it’s that unstoppable energy that keeps its residents smiling through the grind.
From its street food and sea breeze to its cultural festivals and career opportunities, Mumbai proves that joy isn’t about perfection — it’s about spirit.