Mayoral election schedules vary by country, region, and local rules. Here’s a concise overview to set expectations and guide you to the specifics you might need. Core answer
- In the United States, there is no single nationwide cadence for mayoral elections. Most large cities and many smaller municipalities hold mayoral elections on a city-by-city basis, with schedules often tied to state law, local charters, or ballot referenda. Common patterns include once every four years, sometimes aligned with federal or state elections, and occasional off-cycle elections that occur in different years depending on jurisdiction. Turnout for these off-cycle races is typically lower than in presidential election years. These patterns can lead to mayoral contests in some cities every four years, while others may hold elections in odd or even-numbered years depending on local law.
Regional highlights (illustrative)
- United Kingdom (London): The Mayor of London is elected every four years using a first-past-the-post system for the top office, with separate elections for the London Assembly. The latest London mayoral election occurred in 2024, with the term lasting four years.
- England (other cities): Mayoral elections across England occur in various formats and frequencies depending on whether a mayor is directly elected or a different governance model is used. The specific arrangements depend on local governance structures.
- Other countries (example): In some European cities, mayors may be elected on different cycles (e.g., six-year terms in certain German cities), with dates set by local authorities. Always check the city’s official election calendar.
How to find the exact schedule for a specific city
- Identify the city or cities of interest.
- Check the city’s official government or election office website for current election calendars, term lengths, and filing deadlines.
- If needed, verify with state or regional election authorities for any overlapping rules that affect timing.
If you share a specific city or country you’re curious about, it’s possible to give a precise cadence and the current/next election date for that locale.
