Discover Why San Antonio Was Omitted from the World's Best Cities List

Texas Cities Shine, but San Antonio Remains Excluded

In a recent announcement, three Texas cities—Houston, Dallas, and Austin—made it to the prestigious list of the world's 100 best cities, while San Antonio was notably absent. Compiled by global consulting firm Resonance in collaboration with Ipsos, the annual ranking evaluates cities on various factors such as tourism attraction, business growth, and the retention of a talented workforce.

Understanding the Rankings: What Makes a City Great?

The methodology used in the Resonance report encompasses a comprehensive analysis of over 270 cities, focusing on a range of performance indicators like livability, lovability, and prosperity. While Houston emerged as Texas's top-ranked city at No. 58 due to its economic opportunities and bustling port areas, Dallas (No. 78) and Austin (No. 87) followed closely. In contrast, San Antonio, despite being the largest city in Texas by population, received a ranking that suggests it still has room for improvement, particularly in areas like corporate presence and infrastructure.

The Business Landscape in San Antonio: A Comparative View

San Antonio boasts a charming history and a burgeoning local economy, making it a prime candidate for future rankings. The city's current focus on economic development initiatives and support for small businesses is noteworthy. The San Antonio Chamber of Commerce actively promotes local entrepreneurs and startups, providing resources and networking opportunities to help them thrive. However, there's a consensus that for San Antonio to elevate its global standing, it needs a more robust showcase of its business potential. Emerging sectors like tech, hospitality, and healthcare are growing here, yet competition from other Texas cities remains fierce.

Building a Global City: The Journey Ahead for San Antonio

What can San Antonio learn from its rivals? The city's charm alone won't secure a place on the global map. Infrastructure improvements, increased investment in local innovations, and a strategic marketing plan highlighting the unique benefits of living and working in San Antonio could help attract more major employers and talent. For instance, local initiatives to promote coworking spaces and business incubators are steps in the right direction. Furthermore, campaigns that spotlight San Antonio's diverse, vibrant community—including its strong representation of Black-owned, Latino, and veteran-owned businesses—could enhance its appeal.

Future Trends: What Can San Antonio Do?

The future looks bright for San Antonio's economy if it capitalizes on its assets. With an increasing interest in remote work and digital engagement, the city can position itself as an attractive option for startups and young professionals seeking a livable, affordable urban environment. Incorporating tech companies and nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit through local business grants and investment in commercial real estate could inspire momentum. Large-scale events, such as trade shows and entrepreneur workshops, can provide platforms for showcasing local businesses while also creating networking opportunities.

San Antonio’s Next Step: Embracing the Challenge

The absence of San Antonio from the global 100 best cities list is a call to action for its residents, leaders, and businesses alike. It's essential to recognize that urban success is a collective effort. As the city continues to redefine itself, embracing challenges transparently while capitalizing on opportunities for growth can make it a contender for future rankings. It’s not merely about what makes a city a great place to live—it's about what it can become.

Visitors, new residents, and businesses are some of the greatest resources a city has. As San Antonio evolves, the engagement of its communities will be crucial. Let’s rally together to create a bright, inclusive, and economically vibrant future for our city.