The Level of Innovation of European Capitals and Cities – The Innovation Cities Index in EU and Non-EU Countries

The study aims to assess innovation levels of European cities and capitals using both hard data and soft indicators that shape an innovation-friendly climate. Innovation Cities Index 2023 data (2ThinkNow) covering 139 European cities, including 34 capitals, were analyzed. Capitals were compared with other national cities, and countries were grouped by innovation gaps between capitals and second-ranked cities. EU capitals outperform other European capitals, while non-EU capitals with close EU cooperation also achieve higher scores. Capitals generally exceed other cities in innovation, with exceptions. Two structural patterns emerge: countries with large capital-city innovation gaps versus those with balanced urban development. Results provide guidance for policymakers and urban planners seeking to foster balanced and sustainable innovation across national urban systems. The study uniquely integrates hard and soft innovation data to reveal how EU integration influences comparative urban innovation patterns across Europe.