The Cities with the Most Billionaires

Ever catch yourself wondering where do billionaires live and why certain places attract them like magnets? The truth is, cities with the most billionaires often share a handful of special ingredients—dynamic economies, strong investment networks, and vibrant cultural scenes—that cater to the ultra-wealthy. From New York’s iconic skyline to Singapore’s polished avenues, each locale on our upcoming list offers its own unique recipe for success, luring in magnates from finance, tech, entertainment, and beyond.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a quick global tour of the cities with the most billionaires, spotlighting who calls these power hubs home and how they got there. We’ll also dig into what makes these metropolises so alluring—whether that’s cutting-edge technology ecosystems, centuries-old financial institutions, or simply a dash of irresistible luxury. So buckle up and join us as we explore the world’s leading billionaire enclaves and discover the secrets that keep them shining so brightly on the global stage.

‍1. New York City, USA

It’s no surprise that New York City tops countless lists of cities with the most billionaires—in fact, the Big Apple currently boasts 110 billionaire residents. When people wonder where do billionaires live, Manhattan’s upscale districts are often front and center. Media mogul Michael Bloomberg, for instance, keeps his primary residence in NYC. Julia Koch, the widow of industrialist David Koch, also resides in New York, collectively adding up to a hefty share of the city’s ultra-rich. Part of NYC’s enduring appeal is its status as a global finance hub, complete with Wall Street banks, top-tier universities, world-class cultural institutions, and a constant influx of high-powered business. In short, the city’s dynamic mix of industries lures all kinds of big earners.

Interestingly, NYC’s billionaire population surged by nine newcomers in just the past year—further proof it remains one of the cities with the most billionaires. For anyone looking at where do billionaires live, New York seems to provide endless avenues for wealth creation, from media to tech to real estate. With a skyline as iconic as its entrepreneurial spirit, there’s little doubt Manhattan will remain a billionaire magnet for years to come.

2. Moscow, Russia (Tie)

Moscow has also climbed the ranks among cities with the most billionaires, tying for second place globally with 74 of them. If you’re curious where do billionaires live in Russia, Moscow is unquestionably the epicenter. Despite geopolitical tensions, the city has added 12 new billionaires over the last year alone, many of them linked to the energy or retail sectors. Vagit Alekperov, former president of oil giant Lukoil, stands as Moscow’s wealthiest resident, while retail magnate Vladimir Melnikov (behind Gloria Jeans) found fresh success as foreign competitors withdrew from the Russian market.

Why does Moscow keep drawing so much wealth? The city’s role as Russia’s capital—and largest urban center—means it’s the country’s financial and political nucleus. Whether you’re dealing in commodities, real estate, or fashion, many top earners choose to live near the heart of the action. It’s a prime illustration of how “cities with the most billionaires” can reflect each region’s economic backbone, from oil to retail.

3. Hong Kong, China (Tie)

Sharing the second-place spotlight with Moscow, Hong Kong is another of the cities with the most billionaires—it, too, hosts 74. When anyone asks where do billionaires live in Asia, Hong Kong inevitably comes up. The city blends Eastern and Western influences, making it a top finance hub that attracts local tycoons and global investors alike. Legendary figure Li Ka-shing, nicknamed “Superman” for his business acumen, continues to live in Hong Kong, symbolizing the territory’s long-standing prosperity.

Venture capitalist Solina Chau recently joined Hong Kong’s billionaire club, illustrating that the city isn’t just about established property tycoons—it’s also a place for new faces rising to billionaire status. This fusion of old and new wealth cements Hong Kong’s reputation as a crossroads where global and regional capital intersect.

4. Mumbai, India

Mumbai takes a prominent spot among cities with the most billionaires, boasting 69 of them. If you wonder where do billionaires live on the Indian subcontinent, Mumbai stands out as the undisputed leader. Mukesh Ambani famously lives in his 27-story personal home, Antilia, located on Altamount Road—about as opulent as a residence gets. Retail magnate Radhakishan Damani, founder of DMart, also resides in the city’s exclusive enclaves.

Known as the financial capital of India, Mumbai isn’t all about fancy homes; it’s about robust industries like entertainment (Bollywood), banking, and technology. These sectors combine to create a steady pipeline of ultra-wealthy entrepreneurs and families. That’s why it consistently lands on any list of cities with the most billionaires. With 11 new entrants last year, Mumbai’s upward trajectory shows no sign of slowing down.

5. Beijing, China

Beijing, another major entrant on the roster of cities with the most billionaires, is currently home to 63 of them. Anyone curious where do billionaires live in mainland China might first look to Beijing for answers. Although it briefly claimed the top spot in 2021, the city has since settled a bit lower, yet remains a powerhouse for tech founders and investors. Zhang Yiming, TikTok (ByteDance) founder, is perhaps its most high-profile billionaire, while Robin Li of Baidu also lives and works in Beijing.

Beijing’s allure lies in its dual identity as a historical capital and a modern tech hub. Government initiatives, world-class universities, and a culture of startup innovation help many entrepreneurs catapult to billionaire status. That synergy keeps Beijing among the cities with the most billionaires—and might see it surge again if China’s tech scene picks up even more steam.

6. London, United Kingdom

If you’re mapping out cities with the most billionaires across Europe, London stands head and shoulders above the rest, hosting 62 ultra-rich residents. For those wondering where do billionaires live when they seek a mix of heritage, global finance, and cultural prestige, London is a frequent pick. Sir Len Blavatnik, a British-American industrialist, is often cited as the UK’s wealthiest man, while steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal also maintains an opulent home in Kensington Palace Gardens—famously dubbed “Billionaires’ Row.”

As an international hub that marries tradition with innovation, London beckons not just European moguls but also global investors and wealthy families. Banks, hedge funds, and private equity firms abound, contributing to the city’s staying power among the cities with the most billionaires. Factor in the grandeur of British aristocracy, museums, and a globe-trotting social scene, and it’s clear why high-net-worth individuals find London irresistible.

7. Shanghai, China

Shanghai also shines in the lineup of cities with the most billionaires, currently housing 54. With its status as China’s premier commercial and financial center, it’s become a magnet for e-commerce, real estate, and tech entrepreneurs. Colin Huang, founder of Pinduoduo, heads Shanghai’s billionaire list, personifying the city’s emphasis on digital innovation and large-scale commerce.

Shanghai’s glittering skyline is a testament to modern China’s rapid economic development. That forward motion helps explain why it’s among the cities with the most billionaires: new wealth is generated constantly by successful IPOs and multinational expansions. For those curious about where do billionaires live in the broader Asia-Pacific region, Shanghai’s mix of old-world charm and futuristic ambition offers a compelling answer.

8. Los Angeles, USA

Los Angeles, with 53 billionaire residents, exemplifies how the “cities with the most billionaires” label extends beyond traditional finance hubs. Known for Hollywood, LA’s wealthy base increasingly includes tech entrepreneurs, sports figures, and entertainment moguls. One highlight is basketball superstar LeBron James, who has soared past the billion-dollar net worth mark and calls LA home. Kim Kardashian, famed media personality and entrepreneur, also resides there, further expanding the city’s star-studded billionaire circle.

When people wonder where do billionaires live on the U.S. West Coast, they might first think of San Francisco, but LA’s unique blend of glam, real estate, and entertainment is fostering a growing billionaire demographic. It’s not all about film studios, either—real estate developments, e-commerce, and diverse investments help drive LA’s billionaire surge. Even Rihanna has joined this Angeleno wealth bracket, pointing to the entertainment industry’s evolving path to mega-wealth.

9. Singapore

Singapore has quietly but emphatically emerged among cities with the most billionaires, hosting 52. This city-state’s reputation as a safe, business-friendly hub with low taxes and top-notch infrastructure appeals to high-net-worth individuals from around the world. Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin made headlines when he relocated to Singapore in 2012, effectively cementing its status as a magnet for tech-savvy billionaires.

Zhang Yong, founder of the Haidilao hotpot chain, also resides in Singapore after emigrating from China—further proof that the city’s appeal transcends cultural borders. If you’re tracking where do billionaires live across Southeast Asia, Singapore is likely at the top of the list. With stable governance, global banks, and an efficient healthcare system, the city offers a premium lifestyle that suits the ultra-wealthy perfectly.

Where do Billionaires Live Their Billion-Dollar Lives?

This overview of cities with the most billionaires highlights how various economic sectors—finance, tech, real estate, retail, and entertainment—shape global wealth distribution. From New York’s finance sector to Beijing’s tech scene and London’s blend of tradition and innovation, each city offers distinct advantages that keep the ultra-wealthy coming back. Wondering again, “where do billionaires live?” The answer typically lies in these thriving metropolises that offer robust business climates, cultural prestige, and strategic global connections.

Whether they’re seeking synergy with major industries or simply craving a luxurious lifestyle, the ultra-rich show us that cities with the most billionaires typically boast high-octane economies and world-class amenities. Keep an eye on these locales if you’re watching the next wave of billionaire breakthroughs. After all, where do billionaires live is closely tied to where new trends are born, from cutting-edge tech to emerging cultural hotspots—a constant cycle that will no doubt keep reshaping these top cities year after year.

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