A new CEOWORLD 2025 global ranking places six Canadian cities among the 300 richest urban economies in the world, highlighting Canada’s expanding economic influence and its strength in innovation, tech, finance, and human capital.
The report emphasizes that the world’s wealthiest cities are no longer defined by population size alone, but by innovation density, institutional strength, economic ecosystems, and digital infrastructure.
Here’s where Canadian cities landed and why they’re being recognized.
1. Toronto – Ranked 22nd Globally
Toronto leads Canada with a massive GDP of US$917.49 billion, cementing its position as:
- A global hub for tech, finance, and innovation
- A top destination for entrepreneurs, researchers, and high-growth companies
- A city consistently scoring high in the World’s Best Cities rankings
Toronto’s economic output places it ahead of major world hubs and reflects its rapidly growing influence across North America.
2. Montreal – Ranked 76th
Montreal continues to strengthen its status as a cultural and economic powerhouse, supported by:
- A thriving AI and tech sector
- World-class universities
- A diverse and highly skilled workforce
Its position in the top 100 highlights its resilience and growth across creative, digital, and research-driven industries.
3. Vancouver – Ranked 107th
Vancouver’s ranking reflects:
- A strong innovation ecosystem
- A booming clean-tech and green-economy sector
- High capital inflow and global business connectivity
The city remains one of Canada’s most internationally competitive markets.
4. Calgary – Ranked 159th
Calgary’s continued rise is driven by:
- Diversification beyond energy
- A rapidly expanding tech and startup sector
- Strong talent attraction and high GDP per capita
Calgary’s economic reinvention has pushed it into the global top 200.
5. Edmonton – Ranked 190th
Edmonton earns recognition for:
- Research leadership through institutions like the University of Alberta
- A strong health-tech and innovation corridor
- Competitive cost structures attracting global talent
Its knowledge-based sectors are driving steady economic gains.
6. Ottawa – Ranked 195th
As Canada’s capital, Ottawa stands out for:
- Its robust tech sector (especially telecom and cybersecurity)
- High incomes and strong public sector stability
- One of the world’s highest concentrations of researchers and engineers
The city’s economic balance continues to anchor it within the global top 200.
Why These Cities Made the List
According to CEOWORLD, the world’s richest cities today are shaped by:
- Innovation and R&D output
- Human capital and talent ecosystems
- Digital infrastructure
- Capital fluidity and institutional strength
- Entrepreneurial density
Canada’s top cities excel in these areas, positioning the country as a rising global economic leader.
Source
CEOWORLD 2025 Report
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