L.A. has long been the entertainment capital of the world, the backdrop for countless Hollywood blockbusters, and a destination where palm-lined beaches, mountain trails, dense forests, and vast deserts all sit within a few hours of one another. Add in its legendary food scene, year-round sunshine, iconic landmarks, and thriving arts and culture, and it’s easy to see why millions of visitors flock here every year.
Now, a new national ranking confirms what Angelenos have known all along… For the second consecutive year, Los Angeles has been named the second-best city in America, according to the newly released America’s Best Cities 2026 report by Resonance Consultancy.
The annual study evaluated all 393 metropolitan areas across the U.S., measuring everything from quality of life and cultural attractions to economic opportunity and public perception.
What makes L.A. America’s second-best city
According to the report, Los Angeles stands out thanks to a rare combination of cultural influence, economic power, and everyday appeal.
The city ranked #2 for Livability, which considers factors such as transit, healthcare access, green spaces, climate, housing, and overall quality of life. It also claimed the #2 Lovability spot, reflecting its world-famous restaurants, museums, entertainment venues, nightlife, outdoor experiences, and global reputation as a place people dream of visiting.
On the economic side, Los Angeles also ranked #2 for Prosperity, thanks to its diverse economy, innovation, educational institutions, major corporate presence, and international connectivity.
The top 10 best cities in America, according to the report, are listed below:
- New York
- Los Angeles
- Chicago
- Miami
- San Francisco
- Seattle
- Las Vegas
- Dallas
- Houston
- Boston
