Dallas places 17th in top 20 global cities ranking

Dallas is making big moves in its global and economic standing, one way or another.

The Oxford Economics 2026 Global Cities Index (GCI) ranked Dallas 17th out of 1,000 global cities across five categories: Economics, Human Capital, Quality of Life, Environment, and Governance.

The Global Cities Index offers a holistic ranking of 1,000 cities in the Global Cities Forecasting Service. It provides a data-driven overview of the attractiveness of city economies based on a diverse range of quantifiable metrics across five core categories.  

Dallas ranked 6th globally in the Economics category, which measures GDP size, GDP growth, economic stability, GDP per person, employment growth, and economic diversity. According to a release, Oxford Economics highlighted Dallas’ industry base, noting that the financial services, technology, aviation, logistics, and energy industries contributed to the city’s long‑term economic stability and employment opportunities.

Dallas also ranked 21st globally in the Human Capital category, which evaluates population growth, age profile, universities, corporate headquarters, educational attainment, and foreign‑born population. The GCI attributes Dallas’ Human Capital performance to its concentration of corporate headquarters and the presence of universities that contribute to a highly competitive labor market.

“Dallas’ ranking in the Global Cities Index reflects our city’s economic strength and our strong workforce and local talent,” Council Member Jesse Moreno, Chair of the City Council’s Economic Development Committee, said in a statement. “Dallas is receiving international recognition for what we who live here know: Dallas is a top city for both businesses and residents.”

Dallas’ business-friendly climate, consistent growth, and ability to attract talent and investment underscore the ranking as a top 20 Global City.

Oxford Economics is an independent economic forecasting and analysis firm covering more than 8,000 regions and 200 countries, with a client base spanning governments, multinational corporations, and financial institutions.