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A new global study by escort consultancy group Erobella found the world’s most sexually liberated cities in 2025 based on data from 41 major cities across the globe. By assessing factors like LGBTQ+ venues, contraception access, transgender rights, sex work laws, and anti-discrimination laws, the study reveals which urban centers truly champion sexual freedom and inclusivity.
Amsterdam ranks #1 worldwide, thanks to its strong legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, comprehensive sexual health infrastructure, and an active and visible gay culture—further bolstered by its landmark legalization of sex work in 2000 and early decriminalization of homosexuality in 1811.
Ranking second is the only U.S. city in the top ten: San Francisco, home to the iconic Castro District and enduring Pride traditions—defiant in the face of cultural and political pushbacks in recent years.
Europe dominates the rest of the top ten: Cologne (#3), Vancouver (#4), Lisbon (#5), Berlin (#6), Manchester (#7), Hamburg (#8), Vienna (#9), and Barcelona (#10).
“Sexual freedom is a benchmark for social openness,” explained Brenda Jensen, Head of Data & Research at Erobella. She added, “With the Sexually Liberal City Index, we wanted to go beyond surface level assumptions and create a data driven picture of where people can truly be themselves. Whether you’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community, sex-positive, or simply value the freedom to express yourself without fear, this index highlights cities that don’t just tolerate sexual and gender diversity, they actively celebrate it.”
What makes a city ‘sexually liberal’?
Erobella’s index evaluates multiple metrics, including:
- Availability of gay bars and LGBTQ+ events
- LGBTQ legal protections
- Access to sexual health services and contraception
- Sex work regulation
- Anti-homophobia and transphobia statutes
One striking finding: European cities dominate the top ten, with eight of ten spots, while U.S. representation is limited to San Francisco. This marks a significant shift from 2024, where seven American cities were in the top 20. The researchers attribute this to recent “politicization of sex in the U.S.,” with conservative policy rollbacks impacting reproductive health, LGBTQ+ rights, and sex work laws. Read here and here for more information.
Having said all that, we want to hear from you, Adam4Adam blog readers! Do you live in—or have you ever visited—one of these cities? How would you rate its nightlife? Would you say they are LGBTQ+ inclusive and sexually liberal? Whether you’re attracted to LGBTQ+ nightlife, sex-positive spaces, or progressive policies, let us know your thoughts and stories in the comments section down below.
Who comes up with this stupid crap? Houston next to Moscow at 40 and 41, respectively? Gimme a break. Clearly, the author of this trash obviously thinks they’re the ruler of Animal Farm where some animals are more special than others. It would appear their thoughts encompass an ideology whereby because somebody happens to be gay there should be special laws just to protect them specifically. Last time I checked, in Houston, Texas, it was illegal to assault, threaten, or otherwise impair ANYBODY’S freedoms. Those laws cover gay people the SAME as anybody else. As such, there is no need… Read more »