For gamers or esports enthusiasts searching for the next digital haven, this list is your treasure map! We’ve ranked the top 100 most populated cities in North America based on how awesome they are for gamers. We’re talking internet speeds faster than a level 99 character and gaming events more packed than a battle royale. With data on internet infrastructure, gaming-related businesses, and local gaming culture, we found the hotspots where pixelated dreams come true.
To find the best gaming cities in North America, we analyzed data on internet quality, gaming interest, events, and retail access. We pulled download speeds from the Speedtest Global Index and internet prices from Yahoo Finance and Canadian government sources—because fast, affordable internet is a gamer must-have.
Gaming interest was measured using Google Keyword Planner, while esports tournaments and gaming conventions came from eGamersWorld and VideoGameCons. We also counted GameStop and Best Buy locations using Google Maps to factor in retail access for gear and games.
All data was scored using Min-Max Scaling and weighted to create a final Gaming Score. Search interest and events made up the bulk of the score, while internet speed, cost, and store count rounded out the rankings. The result? A data-driven list of North America’s top gaming cities.
🥇 Best City for Gamers: Atlanta!
Atlanta, the bustling capital of Georgia, stands proudly at the top of our ranking with a Gaming Score of 56.53. It’s not just good old Southern hospitality that makes it number one; it’s the overwhelming interest in gaming. Imagine 2,335 video game searches per 100,000 people—heel-clickingly neat!
Residents have the joy of playing with lightning-fast internet of 188.13 Mbps, and the monthly cost is a gamer-friendly $37.50.
As for conventions? Atlanta’s got three annual ones, creating gaming gatherings more anticipated than the next patch update. Though there aren’t currently any esports tournaments, the city’s venues are perfectly poised for future championships.
For those tactile marvels of technology, gamers can drop by four GameStop locations and two Best Buy stores. For any aficionado seeking gaming gold, Atlanta marks the spot!
| Rank | City | City ‘Gaming’ Score /100 | Video Games’ Search vol. per 100K | Online Gaming’ Search vol. per 100K | Esports tournaments | Video game conventions (annually) | Median download speed (Mbps) | Internet price ($) | Game Stops | BestBuys |
| 1 | Atlanta | 56.53 | 2,335.42 | 559.73 | 0 | 3 | 188.13 | 37.50 | 4 | 2 |
| 2 | Miami | 55.28 | 1,743.23 | 624.12 | 0 | 3 | 238.30 | 42.50 | 3 | 0 |
| 3 | Dallas | 54.66 | 928.88 | 276.36 | 8 | 4 | 224.77 | 42.50 | 7 | 3 |
| 4 | Orlando | 53.92 | 2,003.97 | 485.81 | 0 | 2 | 238.30 | 42.50 | 6 | 3 |
| 5 | Boston | 47.96 | 844.53 | 250.23 | 2 | 5 | 225.76 | 34.99 | 3 | 5 |
| 6 | Cleveland | 39.39 | 1,234.03 | 532.88 | 0 | 1 | 216.68 | 37.50 | 4 | 2 |
| 7 | Seattle | 38.96 | 1,294.54 | 470.74 | 1 | 1 | 188.77 | 49.98 | 0 | 2 |
| 8 | Minneapolis | 38.05 | 1,281.49 | 450.89 | 0 | 2 | 183.47 | 37.50 | 2 | 0 |
| 9 | Los Angeles | 36.93 | 588.71 | 175.02 | 14 | 0 | 226.89 | 42.50 | 6 | 8 |
| 10 | Houston | 36.61 | 520.64 | 232.35 | 0 | 3 | 224.77 | 42.50 | 20 | 17 |
🥈 #2 – Miami, Florida
Second only to Atlanta, Miami scores 55.28—making it a sun-kissed haven for gamers. With 1,743 video game searches and 624 online gaming searches per 100,000 people, the city’s gaming culture is strong. Despite not hosting any esports tournaments, it has three buzzing conventions that keep the energy alive.
Downloading at 238.30 Mbps and popping off online is standard, though the $42.50 monthly cost for this high-speed access ensures gaming does more than just coast. The retail scene includes three GameStops, ensuring gadget goodies are within reach, though Best Buy visits might require a road trip.
🥉 #3 – Dallas, Texas
Dallas merges its Texan charm with enviable gaming passion, earning a Gaming Score of 54.66. It hosts a whopping eight esports tournaments annually, while four conventions paint it as a digital dream. The city’s energy is matched in gaming searches, with ample coverage at 928.88 video game searches per 100,000 people.
At 224.77 Mbps and internet costs of $42.50/month, Dallas equips players with a robust online network. Stock levels at seven GameStops and three Best Buys mean ready access to the latest titles is easier than finding salsa in Texas.
#4 – Orlando, Florida
In charming Orlando, every gamer finds magic beyond theme parks. Ranking fourth with a Gaming Score of 53.92, the city logs 2,003.97 gaming searches per 100K residents. Fast connections at 238.30 Mbps make competitive gaming compelling, while two conventions offer haven for like-minded players.
Here, six GameStops and three Best Buys close the gap between a player’s wishlist and reality. So, Florida’s magic kingdom has more than meets the pixelated eye.
#5 – Boston, Massachusetts
Boston marries innovation with play, garnering a Gaming Score of 47.96. It benefits from five conventions and two esports tournaments annually—ensuring gaming’s thriving scene runs deep. With a heartening download speed of 225.76 Mbps costing only $34.99 monthly, the city’s gamers are both cost-savvy and connected.
When they crave new challenges, three GameStops and five Best Buys answer, from hand-eye coordination to building the rig of a digital dream.
#6 – Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland, rocking with over 1,200 searches per 100K, jumps to 39.39, fortifying its sixth position. It sports just one convention but a palpable anticipation for growth stalls its stage. The city’s reliable speeds of 216.68 Mbps with internet costs positioned at $37.50 monthly empower local legends.
GameStop supplies vital refreshment as four locations pepper the city. Meanwhile, two Best Buys ensure hardware needs face minimal hurdles.
#7 – Seattle, Washington
Seattle blends cloudy atmospheres with dazzling digital ambitions for a Gaming Score of 38.96. Strong search numbers reflect satisfaction with a gaming culture spanning the range of genres. As one esports tournament vies for attention, the city flirts with planning more events.
Costing $49.98 monthly for 188.77 Mbps means serious speed comes with a price. However, prioritizing the peripheral supply chain could make Seattle better served toward digital supremacy.
#8 – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minnesota’s Minneapolis captivates with a Gaming Score of 38.05, cultivating interest through focused online research boasting top-tier connectivity at 183.47 Mbps. Despite missing esports championships, convention circuits spark effervescent venues—bridging the virtual divide with physical resources.
While GameStop offers two lifelines, Best Buys remain elusive. With its competitive set favorable, Minneapolis can navigate reaping more spoils.
#9 – Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles entertains both locals and tourists, claiming a Gaming Score of 36.93. Bursting with 14 esports events colored against Hollywood backdrops, the city’s reputation precedes it as game-hosting capital—even sans conventions.
Every connected Angeleno enjoys consistent broadband (226.89 Mbps) within a moderate $42.50/month. Beyond silver screen spectacles, six GameStops and eight Best Buys immerse gamers into urban offerings, sealing La La Land fame in play and production.
#10 – Houston, Texas
Houston, Texas, caps its top 10 with a Gaming Score of 36.61, as vast digital exploration shapes sharp cellular ranks. Internet surfing clocks at 224.77 Mbps there, thanks to extensive potential paired with industry insights. Surveying the expansive horizon, Houston hosts 3 conventions curating future community cohesion.
Leading retail pursuits with twenty GameStops and seventeen Best Buys, Houston constructs a gamer haven akin to its vast backyard palaces—robust, and ready for play.
🍁 What About Canada?
| Rank | City | City ‘Gaming’ Score /100 | Video Games’ Search vol. per 100K | Online Gaming’ Search vol. per 100K | Esports tournaments | Video game conventions (annually) | Median download speed in Mbps | Internet price ($) | Game Stops | BestBuys |
| 49 | Surrey | 20.35 | 253.18 | 481.04 | 0 | 0 | 94.57 | 70.00 | 3 | 4 |
| 51 | Brampton | 19.82 | 230.52 | 553.24 | 0 | 0 | 98.61 | 77.50 | 3 | 2 |
| 53 | London | 19.26 | 288.38 | 374.89 | 0 | 0 | 98.61 | 77.50 | 5 | 5 |
| 65 | Winnipeg | 16.29 | 205.68 | 300.60 | 0 | 0 | 110.20 | 67.00 | 8 | 7 |
| 71 | Edmonton | 14.09 | 119.60 | 151.08 | 0 | 2 | 101.37 | 65.00 | 6 | 12 |
| 72 | Calgary | 14.05 | 171.81 | 213.28 | 0 | 1 | 101.37 | 65.00 | 6 | 20 |
| 73 | Mississauga | 13.64 | 194.45 | 358.99 | 0 | 0 | 98.61 | 77.50 | 5 | 4 |
| 75 | Toronto | 12.65 | 101.67 | 152.51 | 4 | 1 | 98.61 | 77.50 | 4 | 7 |
| 79 | Windsor | 12.08 | 212.22 | 258.98 | 0 | 0 | 98.61 | 77.50 | 2 | 3 |
| 84 | Hamilton | 11.51 | 192.33 | 307.72 | 0 | 0 | 98.61 | 77.50 | 3 | 3 |
Surrey, BC
Surrey, British Columbia stands at 49th, with a Gaming Score of 20.35 owing to steady interest in gaming. Despite no esports tournaments or conventions, Surrey holds its ground with a median download speed of 94.57 Mbps, albeit at a higher internet cost of $70. Players lean on three GameStops and four Best Buys for their gaming needs, keeping hardware and software within a stone’s throw.
Brampton, ON
Brampton, Ontario ranks 51st with a Gaming Score of 19.82. This city is yet to host tournaments, but boasts reliable connectivity at 98.61 Mbps, though steep internet fees ($77.50) might cost you a health potion and a mana bar. Gamers support their fandom at three GameStops and two Best Buys, underlining its potential for emerging gamer culture.
London, ON
In 53rd, London takes its place with a Gaming Score of 19.26, backed by substantial interest—though shy on formal events. Download speeds match Brampton at 98.61 Mbps for the same cost. However, five GameStops and five Best Buys service the city well, inviting players to likely replenish their quest essentials.
Winnipeg, MB
Winnipeg hops in at 65th with a Gaming Score of 16.29, boasting respectable internet capability at 110.20 Mbps yet no spotlight-stealing events. At $67, connection costs wise up in great measure, while eight GameStops and seven Best Buys expand possibilities for the discerning virtual explorer.
Edmonton, AB
Edmonton, Alberta ranks 71st with a Gaming Score of 14.09, thanks in part to its two gaming conventions. Fostering a closer network through 101.37 Mbps connectivity enhances gaming’s vitality, with $65 covering internet service costs. The availability of six GameStops and an impressive twelve Best Buys promises extensive hardware options for Edmonton’s gaming community.
Calgary, AB
Calgary mirrors Edmonton’s tier at 72nd, with a Gaming Score of 14.05, benefitting from a singular convention event. Bandwidth sans hiccups (101.37 Mbps) pairs seamlessly with latency considerations. Hardware hauls are simplified with six GameStops and twenty Best Buys, cementing Calgary as a retail powerhouse awaiting additional cultural reinforcement.
Toronto, ON
Despite Toronto’s 75th position, a Gaming Score of 12.65 ensues, punctuating diverse interest beyond the city’s urban sprawl. With median speeds of 98.61 Mbps costing $77.50, holistic gaming approaches are amplified through four esports tournaments and a singular convention venue. The city is complemented through four GameStops and seven Best Buys, ensuring Toronto, remains a connected vital cog in Canada’s gaming compass.
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Methodology
This project ranks the Top 100 most populated cities in North America (U.S. & Canada) based on factors relevant to gamers, including internet infrastructure, gaming-related businesses, and local gaming culture.
Data Collection & Sources
1. Internet Infrastructure
Median Download Speed (Mbps) (State/Province Level)
Source (U.S.): Speedtest Global Index
Source (Canada): Speedtest Global Index
Only median download speed was used, as it is the most commonly cited metric for internet speed.
Internet Cost (USD) (State Level)
Source (U.S.): Yahoo Finance: Cost of Internet Across the U.S.
Source (Canada): Manual Google Search, taking average given from AI overview.
2. Gaming Interest & Events
Search Volume for Gaming-Related Keywords (City Level)
Source: Google Keyword Planner
Keywords Used:
“video games”
“online gaming”
Esports Tournaments (City Level)
Source: eGamersWorld
Metric: Number of esports tournaments hosted annually in each city.
Video Game Conventions (City Level)
Source: VideoGameCons
Metric: Number of gaming conventions held annually in each city.
3. Gaming Retail Presence
GameStop Stores per 1M Residents (City Level)
Source: Manually collected using Google Maps.
Method: Counted the number of GameStop locations in each city and adjusted per 1M residents.
Best Buy Stores per 1M Residents (City Level)
Source: Manually collected using Google Maps.
Method: Counted the number of Best Buy locations in each city and adjusted per 1M residents.
Data Processing & Normalization
1. Normalization (Min-Max Scaling)
Each metric was normalized to a scale of 0 to 1 using Min-Max Scaling:
Xnormalized = (X – Xmin) / (Xmax – Xmin)
This ensures that all factors contribute proportionally to the final ranking.
2. Weighting the Factors
Each factor was assigned a weight based on its importance:
Factor Weight
Video game KW – 20% Indicates gaming interest in the city
Online gaming KW – 20% Shows demand for online gaming
Esports tournaments – 20% Measures competitive gaming activity
Video game conventions – 20% Reflects gaming culture in the city
Median download speed – 10% Faster speeds improve online gaming
Internet price – (-10%) High cost negatively affects gaming
Best Buy per 1M residents – 5% Availability of gaming hardware
GameStop per 1M residents – 5/% Access to physical gaming stores
3. Final Score Calculation
The City Gaming Score was computed using the formula:
City Gaming Score=∑(Normalized Factor×Weight)
4. Ranking the Cities
For the final ranking, we scaled the scores on a scale 0-100 where the best gaming city has the score of 100 and the city with lowest ranking got the score of 0.
Cities were sorted in descending order based on their City Gaming Score.
Final rankings were presented in a table.
Limitations & Considerations
State-Level Internet Data: Since city-level internet speed and pricing data was unavailable, state-level values were used instead.