210 Interesting Made Up City Names for Your Fantasy World

Creating made up city names can be one of the most exciting parts of building a fictional world. Whether you’re writing a novel, developing a game, or just letting your imagination run wild, the right city name can add depth and character to your story.

These names help set the scene, giving your audience a sense of place and culture. From fantastical realms to futuristic landscapes, the process of inventing city names is all about blending creativity with meaning. Let’s explore some tips and examples to inspire your own unique creations.

Examples of Made Up City Names and Their Meanings

Creating city names for different genres can add depth and authenticity to your fictional world. Below are several categories of made-up city names, each tailored to specific settings such as fantasy, sci-fi, modern, dystopian, and historical fiction. Each name is unique across all categories.

1. Fantasy City Names

Fantasy city names are essential in creating the magical and otherworldly settings that define the genre. These names often evoke a sense of mystery, adventure, and ancient history, helping to transport readers to realms filled with mythical creatures, powerful sorcery, and epic quests. The following names are crafted to inspire awe and wonder, fitting seamlessly into any fantastical landscape.

1. Eldoria: A mystical city known for its ancient elven ruins and magical artifacts.
2. Thornwick: A fortified city surrounded by thick thorny forests, home to skilled warriors.
3. Brighthollow: A peaceful town nestled in a valley that glows with bioluminescent plants.
4. Shadowfen: A dark and mysterious swamp city, often shrouded in mist and legends.
5. Silverkeep: A prosperous city built around a towering silver fortress, known for its wealth.
6. Dragonspire: A mountainous city, home to dragon riders and dragon-forged weapons.
7. Ravenwood: A quiet, eerie town within a dense forest, often visited by ravens.
8. Starfall: A city where stars seem to fall from the sky, believed to be blessed by the heavens.
9. Frosthaven: A remote, icy city known for its resilience and hardy inhabitants.
10. Ironpeak: A mining city perched on a mountain rich with iron and precious metals.
11. Moonshade: A city bathed in perpetual twilight, with a strong connection to lunar magic.
12. Emberglade: A forest city that glows with the embers of ancient fires, never truly extinguished.
13. Windmere: A coastal city famous for its strong winds and expert sailors.
14. Stonehelm: A fortress city carved into a mountainside, known for its impenetrable defenses.
15. Darkwater: A port city with treacherous waters, often associated with pirates and outlaws.
16. Sunspear: A desert city known for its golden spires and scorching sun.
17. Mistveil: A hidden city cloaked in mist, accessible only to those who know the way.
18. Ashenvale: A city built in a charred forest, recovering from a great fire.
19. Crystalbrook: A city surrounded by crystal-clear waters, famous for its enchanting beauty.
20. Everpeak: A city high in the mountains, known for its eternal snow-capped peaks.
21. Thorncliff: A rugged city perched on the edge of a cliff, surrounded by thorny shrubs.
22. Winterhold: A city of eternal winter, where snow and ice are part of daily life.
23. Stormwatch: A coastal city constantly battered by storms, home to hardy seafarers.
24. Glimmerstone: A city built into a mountain of shimmering stones, known for its dazzling glow.
25. Bloodwood: A forest city with trees that bleed red sap, said to be cursed.
26. Ironforge: A bustling industrial city known for its blacksmiths and metalworks.
27. Brightforge: A city where the forges burn brightly, producing some of the finest weapons.
28. Blackthorn: A shadowy city surrounded by dark, twisted forests.
29. Frostwind: A city in the far north, where icy winds constantly blow through the streets.
30. Greystone: A somber city built entirely of grey stone, known for its stoic inhabitants.
31. Sunreach: A city on the edge of a desert, where the sun’s rays are particularly intense.
32. Emberstone: A volcanic city with streets lined with warm, glowing stones.
33. Hollowgrove: A haunted city within a hollowed-out forest, known for its eerie atmosphere.
34. Silverbrook: A city by a river that flows with silvery water, rich in minerals.
35. Firewatch: A city built to watch over a nearby active volcano, always on alert.
36. Duskmire: A swampy city where day and night blend into a perpetual dusk.
37. Goldspire: A city built around a massive golden spire, a symbol of wealth and power.
38. Ravencrest: A city on a high cliff, often shrouded in mist, known for its mysterious aura.
39. Starhaven: A city where the stars seem closer, believed to be a haven for stargazers.
40. Frostvale: A valley city covered in frost, with a cold but beautiful landscape.
41. Stormbreaker: A city that stands resilient against constant storms, known for its strong walls.
42. Moonfall: A city where the moon seems to touch the ground, creating a magical atmosphere.
43. Shadowglen: A dark, forested city where shadows are said to have a life of their own.
44. Ironwood: A forest city known for its incredibly strong ironwood trees.
45. Ashenstone: A city built from ash-colored stone, symbolizing endurance and rebirth.
46. Crystalfell: A city where crystalline structures are a common sight, reflecting light beautifully.
47. Everwood: A city within an ancient forest, where the trees are said to live forever.
48. Thornhaven: A secluded city surrounded by thorny barriers, difficult to approach.
49. Winterglow: A city that glows warmly even in the coldest winters, thanks to its enchanted lights.
50. Stormhollow: A city in a hollow that shields it from the worst of the storms.
51. Glimmerfall: A city near a waterfall that glimmers in the sunlight, creating a beautiful spectacle.
52. Bloodspire: A dark city with a tall spire, rumored to have a violent past.
53. Ironvale: A valley city rich in iron, where mining is the main occupation.
54. Brightwood: A lively forest city with trees that seem to radiate light.
55. Blackwood: A city in a dark forest, where the wood is as black as night.
56. Frostpeak: A city at the peak of a frozen mountain, where survival is a daily challenge.
57. Greenthorn: A city in a lush, thorny forest, known for its abundant wildlife.
58. Sunwatch: A city built on a high plateau, perfect for watching the sun rise and set.
59. Embercrest: A city on the crest of a mountain, where embers from old fires still glow.
60. Hollowshade: A shadowy city hidden within a hollow, known for its secretive nature.
61. Silverstone: A city where the buildings are made of silver-hued stone, giving it a unique shine.
62. Firepeak: A city on a volcanic peak, where the threat of eruption is constant.
63. Duskhaven: A city where the sun never fully rises or sets, existing in perpetual dusk.
64. Goldgrove: A city in a golden forest, where the leaves shimmer like gold.
65. Ravenpeak: A mountain city where ravens are a common sight, often seen as omens.
66. Starwatch: A city on a high plateau, perfect for observing the night sky.
67. Frostwood: A forest city where the trees are always covered in frost.
68. Stormcliff: A city perched on a cliff, constantly battered by storms.
69. Moonspire: A city with a tall spire that seems to reach for the moon.
70. Shadowstone: A city built from dark stone, where shadows play tricks on the eye.

2. Sci-Fi City Names

In the world of science fiction, city names reflect the advanced technology, futuristic societies, and often alien environments that define the genre. These names are designed to conjure images of sleek, towering skyscrapers, bustling spaceports, and technologically advanced civilizations. Each name in this list captures the essence of a futuristic setting, perfect for stories that push the boundaries of human imagination.

1. Novaterra: A new Earth-like colony, renowned for its advanced technology and sustainable living.
2. Skylor: A floating city in the clouds, known for its breathtaking views and sky gardens.
3. Vortexia: A city built around a massive energy vortex, a hub of futuristic research.
4. Cyberion: A city where cybernetic enhancements are the norm, blending humans with technology.
5. Nexon: A cutting-edge metropolis at the forefront of interstellar trade and innovation.
6. Luminae: A city bathed in perpetual light, powered by an advanced energy source.
7. Exoville: A thriving city on an exoplanet, known for its diverse alien population.
8. Zenithon: A city at the peak of technological advancement, where the impossible becomes possible.
9. Stratos: A high-altitude city in the stratosphere, where the air is thin but the innovation is thick.
10. Hyperion: A massive city built on a space station, serving as a hub for intergalactic travel.
11. Omega Prime: The last city of its kind, known for its resilience and advanced defenses.
12. Quasar: A city near a powerful quasar, harnessing its energy for unimaginable power.
13. Technopolis: A sprawling city where technology governs every aspect of life.
14. Solaris: A city powered entirely by solar energy, located on a planet with eternal daylight.
15. Chronos: A city where time manipulation is possible, with residents living in multiple timelines.
16. Nexus: A central city connecting various dimensions, serving as a crossroads for travelers.
17. Cyberport: A bustling port city for cybernetic beings, a melting pot of artificial life.
18. Astropolis: A city located in space, orbiting a distant star and thriving on interstellar trade.
19. Megaplex: A massive urban complex spanning multiple planets, interconnected by high-speed transit.
20. Photon City: A city where light is the primary source of power, known for its glowing architecture.
21. Neoterra: A new world city, built as a model of futuristic living and sustainability.
22. Stellarion: A city that drifts through space, powered by the energy of distant stars.
23. Astrodome: A domed city on a barren planet, shielded from the harsh environment outside.
24. Vireon: A virtual city existing entirely in cyberspace, where the rules of reality don’t apply.
25. Quantum Bay: A city on the edge of a quantum rift, where science pushes the boundaries of reality.
26. Metropolis-7: One of several interconnected cities in a vast space-faring civilization.
27. Aurora Prime: A city under constant auroras, known for its stunning light shows and advanced tech.
28. Fusion City: A city powered by nuclear fusion, offering limitless energy to its inhabitants.
29. Synthonia: A city where synthetic life forms coexist with humans, blurring the lines between organic and artificial.
30. Ionis: A city where ion energy is harvested, leading to breakthroughs in propulsion and energy.
31. Cyberhaven: A sanctuary city for advanced AIs and cybernetic beings, governed by logic and order.
32. Neoville: A newly established city on a distant planet, teeming with potential and new beginnings.
33. Starlink: A city connected by a network of satellites, enabling instant communication across galaxies.
34. Helix Prime: A spiraling city built vertically, with each level representing a different era of development.
35. Pulsar City: A city near a pulsar, harnessing its rhythmic energy for technological advancements.
36. Infinitas: A city with infinite possibilities, where the laws of physics are constantly rewritten.
37. Arcadia Nova: A utopian city, known for its harmony with nature and cutting-edge technology.
38. Andromeda: A city in the Andromeda Galaxy, known for its strategic importance in intergalactic politics.
39. Stellar Nexus: A city at the crossroads of major space routes, a hub of trade and diplomacy.
40. Techspire: A city built around a towering spire of technology, symbolizing innovation and progress.
41. Quantum Ridge: A city on the edge of a quantum field, where reality itself is a fluid concept.
42. Skyport: A city high in the atmosphere, serving as a launching point for space expeditions.
43. Titanopolis: A city on a massive asteroid, known for its mining and industrial prowess.
44. Cyberdome: A city enclosed in a protective dome, where cybernetic enhancements are a way of life.
45. Astra Nova: A city that shines brightly in the night sky, known for its pioneering spirit.
46. Omega City: A final bastion of civilization, built to withstand any apocalypse.
47. Zenith Prime: The pinnacle of human achievement, a city that represents the height of progress.
48. NeoGenesis: A city at the forefront of genetic engineering, where new life forms are constantly being created.
49. Starfall Station: A space station that serves as a city, located near a beautiful starfield.
50. Quanticore: A city at the heart of quantum research, where the mysteries of the universe are unraveled.
51. Hyperdome: A city under a massive dome, protecting its inhabitants from a harsh, inhospitable planet.
52. Exotica: A city on an exotic alien world, known for its vibrant culture and diverse inhabitants.
53. Interplex: A city that serves as an interstellar crossroads, connecting multiple star systems.
54. Photon Bay: A city by a glowing bay, where light is the most valuable resource.
55. Neonexus: A neon-lit city that never sleeps, a hub of entertainment and nightlife.
56. Astrotech: A city dedicated to the advancement of space technology, a leader in innovation.
57. Mechara: A city dominated by massive machines, where robotics plays a central role in daily life.
58. Starforge: A city where new stars are literally forged, shaping the future of the galaxy.
59. Skyvault: A city high above the clouds, where the air is pure and the future is bright.
60. Technis: A city where every aspect of life is governed by advanced technology.
61. Hyperplex: A sprawling complex of interconnected cities, each specializing in different industries.
62. Celestis: A city in the stars, where the boundaries between space and civilization blur.
63. Metron City: A highly organized city known for its efficient transportation and infrastructure.
64. Chronoville: A city where time is fluid, and residents can move through different eras.
65. Etherion: A city that exists on the edge of reality, where the rules of physics don’t always apply.
66. Infinitron: A city powered by an infinite energy source, providing limitless possibilities.
67. Cybernox: A city known for its advanced cybernetic enhancements and artificial intelligence.
68. Astroreach: A city at the edge of explored space, constantly pushing the boundaries of exploration.
69. Nexar: A city at the nexus of multiple dimensions, a place of constant flux and change.
70. Arcadia Prime: A utopian city that represents the ideal future, blending technology with nature.

3. Modern or Realistic Fiction City Names

Modern or realistic fiction city names bring a sense of familiarity and believability to contemporary or near-contemporary settings. These names are often inspired by real-world geography, culture, and history, making them perfect for stories grounded in reality. Whether you’re crafting a small town with close-knit communities or a bustling metropolis, these names will help create a vivid, relatable backdrop for your narrative.

1. Riverdale: A picturesque town by the river, known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
2. Pinehurst: A small, charming town surrounded by pine forests, famous for its annual festivals.
3. Brookstone: A suburban community with a strong sense of tradition and family values.
4. Westhaven: A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed lifestyle.
5. Maplewood: A town filled with tree-lined streets, known for its vibrant fall colors.
6. Greenfield: A rural town surrounded by farmland, known for its close-knit community.
7. Lakeside: A town by a large lake, popular for boating, fishing, and summer vacations.
8. Oakridge: A suburban area with rolling hills and oak trees, known for its excellent schools.
9. Crestview: A town with panoramic views from its many hills, offering a peaceful retreat.
10. Ashford: A historic town with old-world charm, known for its cobblestone streets and antique shops.
11. Briarwood: A town nestled in a dense forest, with a mysterious and tranquil atmosphere.
12. Silverlake: A vibrant, artsy neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of shops and cafes.
13. Ridgefield: A suburban town on the edge of a mountain range, offering outdoor activities and stunning views.
14. Hampton: A coastal city with a rich maritime history, known for its historic landmarks and museums.
15. Windcrest: A breezy town on a hill, known for its wind turbines and sustainable living practices.
16. Clearview: A town with clear, open skies, known for its starry nights and observatories.
17. Stonebridge: A town known for its historic stone bridge, a local landmark with a rich history.
18. Elmwood: A suburban area with tree-lined streets, known for its friendly community and annual parades.
19. Lakewood: A lakeside town known for its summer homes and water sports activities.
20. Northgate: A bustling city known for its gateway to the north and as a center of commerce.
21. Fairview: A town with beautiful, expansive views, known for its well-maintained parks and gardens.
22. Cedarhill: A town surrounded by cedar trees, known for its rustic charm and outdoor activities.
23. Woodcrest: A suburban neighborhood with lots of green spaces, perfect for families and nature lovers.
24. Hillcrest: A town on a hill with scenic views, known for its hiking trails and nature reserves.
25. Eastwood: A neighborhood known for its historic homes and quiet, tree-lined streets.
26. Kingsley: A town with a regal history, known for its historic estates and grand architecture.
27. Greenwood: A town surrounded by forests, known for its green spaces and environmental initiatives.
28. Seabrook: A coastal town known for its fishing industry and beautiful seaside views.
29. Westgate: A town on the western edge of a large city, known for its shopping centers and entertainment options.
30. Meadowbrook: A town with expansive meadows and a slow-paced, relaxing atmosphere.
31. Brookside: A town by a small river or brook, known for its quaint charm and peaceful vibe.
32. Oakview: A suburban area with views of ancient oak trees, known for its parks and open spaces.
33. Highfield: A town on elevated land, known for its cool breezes and panoramic views.
34. Springdale: A town known for its natural springs and fresh, clean air.
35. Summerhill: A town known for its warm climate and summer festivals.
36. Northwood: A town in the northern woods, known for its hunting and outdoor activities.
37. Lakeview: A town with beautiful views of a large lake, perfect for vacation homes and retreats.
38. Bayside: A coastal town known for its bayside docks and seafood restaurants.
39. Fairmont: A town known for its fair and just governance, with a focus on community well-being.
40. Woodridge: A town on a wooded ridge, known for its hiking trails and natural beauty.
41. Maplecrest: A town known for its maple trees and fall festivals.
42. Riverbend: A town on a bend of a river, known for its scenic views and water activities.
43. Stonegate: A town known for its historic stone gates, a symbol of its rich past.
44. Elmhurst: A town known for its elm trees and historic district.
45. Ridgewood: A suburban town on a ridge, known for its beautiful homes and quiet streets.
46. Ashville: A town with a rich history, known for its historic buildings and cultural heritage.
47. Brookfield: A town known for its fields of wildflowers and babbling brooks.
48. Westfield: A town on the western side of a large city, known for its suburban charm.
49. Pinewood: A town surrounded by pine forests, known for its fresh, clean air.
50. Hamptonville: A town with a rich history, known for its stately homes and historic sites.
51. Westbrook: A town known for its small-town charm and proximity to larger cities.
52. Clearbrook: A town with a clear, sparkling brook running through it, known for its natural beauty.
53. Eastgate: A town on the eastern edge of a large city, known for its gateway to new opportunities.
54. Woodlake: A town with a large lake surrounded by woods, perfect for nature lovers.
55. Ridgeview: A town with stunning views from its high ridge, known for its peaceful environment.
56. Brookhaven: A town known for its welcoming community and peaceful surroundings.
57. Cedarwood: A town surrounded by cedar trees, known for its rustic charm and cozy atmosphere.
58. Westwood: A town on the western side of a large city, known for its suburban feel and family-friendly environment.
59. Seaview: A coastal town with beautiful views of the sea, known for its laid-back lifestyle.
60. Pinecrest: A town with pine-covered hills, known for its quiet, serene environment.
61. Mapleview: A town with views of vibrant maple trees, especially beautiful in the fall.
62. Riverwood: A town surrounded by rivers and woods, perfect for those who love the outdoors.
63. Highland: A town in the highlands, known for its cool climate and scenic beauty.
64. Meadowfield: A town with expansive meadows, known for its wildflowers and open spaces.
65. Bayview: A coastal town with stunning views of the bay, known for its seafood and maritime culture.
66. Greenhill: A town with rolling green hills, known for its peaceful atmosphere and outdoor activities.
67. Hillwood: A town on a wooded hill, known for its hiking trails and nature reserves.
68. Oakdale: A suburban area with lots of oak trees, known for its parks and family-friendly environment.
69. Springwood: A town with natural springs and woods, known for its clean air and fresh water.
70. Summerfield: A town with warm summers and fields of wildflowers, known for its relaxed pace of life.

Tips for Creating Made Up City Names

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Creating compelling and memorable city names is an essential part of world-building in fiction, games, and other creative projects. A well-chosen name can add depth to your setting, hint at the culture, history, and geography of the place, and evoke specific emotions or imagery. Here are some detailed tips to help you craft made-up city names that stand out and resonate with your audience.

1. Consider the Setting and Culture

Geographical Influence: The geography of your fictional world can significantly influence the city name. For example, a city located near mountains might have names like “Ironpeak” or “Stonehelm,” reflecting the rugged, elevated terrain. A coastal city could be named “Seabrook” or “Harborview,” indicating its proximity to water. Think about the natural features surrounding your city—rivers, forests, deserts—and how they can inspire the name.

Cultural Significance: The culture and history of the city’s inhabitants should also play a role in the naming process. A city with a rich history of warrior clans might have a strong, assertive name like “Thornwick” or “Bloodwood.” Conversely, a city known for its peaceful, scholarly pursuits might have a softer, more refined name like “Silverbrook” or “Windmere.” Consider the traditions, language, and values of the people living in your city and let these elements inform the name.

2. Use Linguistic Techniques

Prefix and Suffix Combinations: One effective way to create believable city names is by combining prefixes and suffixes that resonate with the setting. For example, prefixes like “Raven-“, “Storm-“, or “Sun-” can be paired with suffixes like “-wood”, “-stone”, or “-hollow” to create names like “Ravenwood,” “Stormstone,” or “Sunhollow.” This method allows you to generate names that feel cohesive and fitting for the world you’re building.

Root Words and Meaning: Incorporate root words that carry meaning related to the city’s characteristics. For instance, using “terra” (meaning “earth”) for a city located on a fertile plain, like “Terravale,” or “aqua” (meaning “water”) for a city near a large body of water, like “Aquaris.” The use of meaningful root words can make the city name more relevant and immersive.

Language Influence: Drawing inspiration from real-world languages can add authenticity and depth to your city names. For example, using elements from Latin, Norse, or Celtic languages can create a sense of ancient history or mysticism. A city with Latin roots might be named “Luminara” (from “lumen,” meaning “light”), while a city with Norse influences could be named “Bjornhold” (from “bjorn,” meaning “bear,” and “hold,” meaning “fort”).

3. Ensure Pronounceability and Memorability

Simple and Clear: While it’s tempting to create complex names, it’s crucial to ensure that the city name is easy to pronounce and remember. A name like “Starfall” or “Pinehurst” is straightforward and easy for your audience to recall, while a more complicated name might be harder to remember and less impactful.

Avoid Overcomplication: Names that are too complex or difficult to pronounce can disrupt the reader’s or player’s immersion. Strive for a balance between uniqueness and simplicity. Names should be distinct enough to stand out but not so complicated that they become cumbersome. For example, “Vortexia” is unique yet simple enough to be easily remembered.

Test the Name: Before finalizing a city name, say it out loud, and perhaps even write it down in different contexts within your story or game. Does it flow well with the narrative? Is it easy to pronounce and understand? Getting feedback from others can also be valuable in ensuring the name works well in the context of your world.

4. Incorporate Meaning or Symbolism

Symbolic Representation: A city name can symbolize the city’s identity, history, or values. For instance, “Brightforge” could symbolize a city known for its thriving industry and skilled blacksmiths, while “Moonshade” might evoke a city that is mysterious and closely connected to night or the moon. Consider what your city stands for and how its name can reflect that symbolism.

Historical References: If your city has a rich history, you might want to incorporate references to significant events, figures, or legends within the name. For example, a city named “Ashenvale” could indicate a past where a great fire ravaged the land, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and rebirth.

Cultural or Mythical Elements: Integrating elements of mythology or culture into the name can add layers of depth. A city named “Dragonspire” might hint at a history of dragons or dragon worship, while “Crystalbrook” could suggest a place revered for its pure, crystal-clear waters that hold spiritual significance.