Mumbai Beats Paris, Tokyo, And New York To Become The World’s New Romance Capital

In a global dating revelation that’s taken many by surprise, Mumbai has been named the best city in the world for dating. The findings come from the 2025 edition of the Time Out Global Survey, which canvassed thousands of city-dwellers worldwide to gauge how easy it is to find love in their urban environments. Defying traditional expectations, the financial capital of India—often better known for its monsoons and maximum city energy—has trumped age-old romantic staples like Paris, New York, and Tokyo. 

Here’s what makes Mumbai the most unexpectedly perfect place to fall in love.

Key Highlights From The Survey

- Mumbai topped the global list with 72% of residents saying it's easy to find love in the city  
- It secured third place globally in terms of happiness  
- The city also ranked 49th overall among the world’s best cities  
- Other high scorers for dating included Beijing (69%), Jakarta (66%), and Shanghai (65%)

What Locals Say Makes It Special

Many Mumbaikars believe the magic of the city lies in its spontaneity and warmth. From breezy Marine Drive walks to sharing a plate of vada pav on a rainy evening, the city creates accidental romance at every corner.

- The city’s culinary landscape—ranging from humble street stalls to elegant sea-view dining—fuels meaningful connections  
- Everyday interactions in public transport, cafes, and local festivals serve as catalysts for serendipitous meetings  
- Even amidst hectic commutes and tight schedules, Mumbaikars are actively dating and connecting  

Romance Thrives Where Joy Lives

Interestingly, Mumbai’s dating win is closely tied to its ranking as the third happiest city globally. Residents cite a sense of freedom, cultural richness, and an inclusive social atmosphere that makes the city not just liveable, but lovable.

- Locals often embrace chance encounters as part of daily life  
- The presence of thriving nightlife and creative communities creates space for deeper human bonds  

Cities That Lagged Behind

While Mumbai celebrated its title, some global hubs didn’t fare as well:

- Bilbao (14%) ranked lowest for dating ease  
- Tokyo (21%) and Hong Kong (23%) also featured among the bottom-tier cities  
- Residents in these cities pointed to long working hours, social fatigue, and isolation as barriers to love  

Belief In Love Still Runs High

Perhaps what makes Mumbai’s romantic ranking especially remarkable is the emotional texture that underpins it. In a world increasingly marked by disconnection, the survey suggests that Mumbai is still a city where love is possible—and believed in.

Whether it’s the hum of a local train, the mist of a rainy afternoon, or the glow of a Ganesh Chaturthi procession, Mumbai offers atmosphere, attitude, and an unspoken promise: love can show up anywhere.

Sources: Times Now, Cosmopolitan India, LatestLY