The Top 10 Richest Capital Cities in the World

Prosperous cities offer higher standards of living, stable economies, and plenty of opportunities. In this article, we take a look at the top ten richest capital cities in the world.

How do you measure the wealth of a city? You can count the number of high-net-worth individuals that live there. High-net-worth individuals are people with at least $1 million in liquid assets. Or you can look at the GDP (gross domestic product). But looking at GDP alone, or the number of millionaires, doesn’t give you an idea of the prosperity of individuals living in an area. That’s why we ranked capital cities around the world at the GDP per capita using data from the World Bank. This is a measure of the GDP divided by its population. Using the GDP per capita, let’s take a look at the top ten richest capital cities.

1. Monaco

Monaco may be small; it’s the second smallest country in the world, but it’s prosperous and beautiful. Surrounded by France, yet a country to itself, it’s a city-state. Hence, the capital of Monaco is Monaco. Situated on the French Riviera, Monaco has long been a favorite destination of the wealthy. The real estate market offers ultra-luxury properties, and the streets are busy with supercars. In the past, Monaco’s main revenue was from its casinos, but today, its main revenue comes from the financial industry.

GDP Per Capita: $240,862

2. Dublin, Ireland

The vibrant capital city of Ireland is one of the most prosperous cities in the world. Part of Dublin’s financial success comes from its role as a hub for international businesses and tech giants. Job opportunities are strong among start-ups and the tech and finance industries. Though the cost of living may be high, Dublin offers a small-town feel with excellent public transportation, a robust economy, rich architecture, and natural beauty.

GDP Per Capita: $158,493

3. Luxembourg

Luxembourg is the capital city of the small yet prosperous country of the same name. Its major revenue comes from its large private banking and finance sector. Luxembourg is known for its high quality of living, strong economy, efficient health care, and internationally recognized education system.

GDP Per Capita: $132,781

4. Washington, D.C., USA

The vibrant capital city of the United States is one of the most prosperous cities in the world. Washington, D.C., is a culturally diverse, European-style metropolis offering a rich historical background. It’s also the home of the White House, the Supreme Court, the Capitol Building, and all three branches of the federal government.

GDP Per Capita: $103,648

5. Gibraltar

Known for the Rock of Gibraltar, a 1,398-foot high limestone ridge, Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory. Located on Spain’s south coast, Gibraltar is a prosperous place with a strong economy. The main revenue comes from financial services, tourism, e-gaming, and its location as a port city.

GDP Per Capita: $99,884

6. Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark has been recognized globally as the most prosperous nation in the world. And its capital city of Copenhagen is no exception. Known for its efficient public transportation, strong economy, and excellent healthcare system, it’s no wonder the citizens of Copenhagen are said to be some of the happiest people in the world.

GDP Per Capita: $96,807

7. Singapore

The prosperous city of Singapore is the capital of the Republic of Singapore. Known for its sunny weather and tropical location, Singapore is also well known for having amazing infrastructure, safety, good schools, and a robust healthcare system. 

GDP Per Capita: $91,102

8. Abu Dhabi, UAE

Located on the Persian Gulf, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) gets most of its wealth from its oil fields. A thriving global city, Abu Dhabi has the wealthiest economy in the UAE. The thriving city offers warm, sunny weather, beautiful beaches, traditional architecture, and modern amenities.

GDP Per Capita: $91,008

9. Stockholm, Sweden

The capital city of Sweden is more than just a capital; it is the country’s economic, cultural, and political center. It’s also a pretty city, offering plenty of green space amid beautiful architecture.

GDP Per Capita: $88,339

10. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Slovenia is a prosperous country, with its capital city of Ljubljana taking the lead. This flourishing capital city offers beautiful old architecture with modern infrastructure. The city is clean, easy to get around, and friendly.

GDP Per Capita: $81,290

Summary Table of the Top 10 Richest Capital Cities in the World