New York City has been recognized as the third-best city in the world for nightlife, according to a new annual ranking released by Time Out. The study, which surveyed over 24,000 local residents across 150 cities globally and incorporated insights from editors and experts, evaluated destinations based on a range of criteria beyond just clubs, including neighborhood pubs, cocktail bars, live music, drag shows, and late-night street food.
Bangkok, Thailand, claimed the top spot in the 2026 ranking, praised for its diverse offerings from rooftop bars and clubs to street food. Berlin, Germany, secured the second position, noted for its techno clubs and thriving independent scene. New York City followed in third place, with its nightlife evolving to include warehouse raves, rooftop drinks, and neighborhood wine bars.
According to the study, 82% of New York City locals rated the city's nightlife as "good" or "amazing," with Time Out's experts giving it a 95% approval score. The report specifically mentioned Brooklyn as a trendy area, while Greenwich Village was highlighted for live jazz and speakeasies.
Time Out's Grace Beard commented that the ranking demonstrates the continued vitality of nightlife, emphasizing that modern nightlife is defined by adaptability and variety, encompassing street parties, rooftop raves, speakeasies, and listening bars. Cities on the list were recognized for their ability to cater to diverse preferences and evolving habits.
The ranking also featured Melbourne, Australia, in fourth place, followed by São Paulo, Brazil, in fifth. Medellín, Colombia, took sixth place, and Johannesburg, South Africa, ranked seventh, noted for its affordability despite high crime rates. Brighton, United Kingdom, was the only UK city to make the top ten, placing eighth and recognized for its LGBTQ+ scene and community feel. Beijing, China, and Amsterdam, Netherlands, rounded out the top ten in ninth and tenth places, respectively.