Ho Chi Minh City tops the world for retaining residents

THE HANOI TIMES — Ho Chi Minh City has emerged as the 2nd best city worldwide for retaining residents, according to the City Pulse 2025 - The Magnetic City report released in May by Gensler, a leading global architecture and design firm.

The survey gathered responses from 33,000 urban dwellers across 65 cities and revealed that 61% of HCMC residents had no intention of relocating - a figure surpassed only by Taipei's 64%.

So, what makes a city 'magnetic'? According to the report, it's not just about attracting new residents, but also about fostering a sense of belonging that keeps people rooted. HCMC excels in this regard, offering a dynamic blend of economic opportunities, cultural richness, and social connectivity.

The survey reveals that residents value affordability, with 83% citing the cost of living as a key factor in choosing where to live alongside low crime rates (81%), quality healthcare (80%), job opportunities (74%) and reasonable taxes (70%).

The city’s appeal goes beyond merely meeting basic needs to encompass evoking pride and happiness. "Over time, what keeps people in a city is not just what it offers, but the emotions it inspires," noted the Gensler report.

HCMC’s vibrant urban life and strong community bonds foster a sense of belonging, making it a place where residents feel rooted and empowered.

For the city's tourism sector, this ranking presents a golden opportunity. "It reinforces our vision to transform the city into a long-term destination for visitors, investors, and residents alike," said Le Truong Hien Hoa, Deputy Director of HCMC’s Department of Tourism.

HCMC’s ability to nurture deep emotional connections and urban vitality positions it as a resilient and innovative urban center. Plans are underway to improve service standards, safety and cultural offerings, to enhance the city’s reputation as a place where people choose to stay and thrive.