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Choosing the right destination to move to is one of the most important decisions an expat can make. The global landscape of expat living continues to evolve, with certain countries offering the perfect mix of professional opportunities, a high standard of living, and personal satisfaction. Whether you’re moving for work, adventure, family, or retirement, the best countries to live in can offer incredible possibilities. If you're considering relocating, we’ve curated a list of the top 20 countries best for expats to live help you in your decision-making process.
When evaluating the best countries to live in, Switzerland consistently ranks high due to economic stability, strong salaries, and exceptional public infrastructure. While it is not among the cheapest options, it remains one of the countries best for expats seeking financial growth and long-term security.
Switzerland offers:
Strong currency and low unemployment
Political neutrality and economic stability
High wages in finance, pharmaceuticals, engineering
Excellent healthcare and education systems
Cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Basel frequently rank in global quality-of-life reports. For professionals relocating with employer sponsorship, Switzerland remains one of the best countries to move in Europe.
Switzerland is expensive, so realistic budgeting is critical.Costs vary by canton, with Zurich and Geneva on the higher end.
Higher expenses are balanced by strong earning potential.
Taxation differs by canton, making location strategy important for expats.
Switzerland operates through structured residence permits:
EU/EFTA nationals have easier access.
Non-EU nationals require employer sponsorship.
Annual quotas apply.
Language integration required for long-term residency.
Among the best places for expats to live, Switzerland offers stability but demands compliance and preparation.
Best For: Senior professionals in finance, pharma, engineering
Not Ideal For: Budget-focused movers or freelancers without sponsorship
Visa Difficulty: Moderate to high (especially for non-EU nationals)
PR Feasibility: Strong but time-based (5–10 years)
Compared to Germany or Ireland, Switzerland offers higher average salaries but stricter work permit quotas and higher living costs.
Switzerland remains one of the best countries to live in for high-income earners prioritizing safety, infrastructure, and long-term residency stability. However, affordability is not its primary strength. For structured migration with employer backing, it stands out among the countries best for expats globally.
When evaluating the best countries to live in, Singapore frequently ranks high for economic stability, infrastructure efficiency, and safety. However, serious relocation decisions require more than reputation — they require clarity on cost, taxation, visa rules, and long-term residency feasibility.
Singapore remains one of the countries best for expats in finance, tech, and multinational sectors — but it operates under structured and policy-sensitive immigration controls.
Cost ranges below are based on aggregated 2024–2025 data from Numbeo Cost of Living Index, Singapore Department of Statistics (SingStat), and major relocation reports.
Housing remains the largest expense, especially in central districts.
Salary and tax data references:
Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS)
Singapore’s tax system is generally lower than many Western economies, but cost-of-living offsets must be considered.
Singapore does not offer open migration. Employment is qualification and salary based.
Major passes:
Important trust factors:
Employment Pass eligibility depends on salary thresholds and employer profile.
PR approvals are discretionary and influenced by economic contribution, duration of stay, and industry demand.
Approval statistics are not fully transparent.
Source: Ministry of Manpower (MOM) official guidelines.
Best For: Finance, tech, multinational professionals
Not Ideal For: Budget relocation or passive residency seekers
Visa Difficulty: Salary-dependent and quota-controlled
PR Feasibility: Competitive and discretionary
Housing costs are volatile and competitive.
Visa eligibility thresholds can change based on labor market policies.
PR approval timelines are unpredictable.
No dual citizenship policy in most cases.
Singapore is one of the best countries to move to for structured, employer-backed migration — but not for informal or independent relocation. Singapore remains one of the best countries to live in for career-driven expats prioritizing safety, infrastructure, and economic opportunity. However, relocation success depends heavily on employment qualification, income thresholds, and long-term migration planning.
When evaluating the best countries to live in, Canada consistently ranks high for quality of life, political stability, and transparent immigration systems. Unlike many developed nations, Canada offers structured permanent residency pathways, making it one of the countries best for expats seeking long-term settlement rather than temporary relocation.
Canada is particularly attractive for skilled professionals, international students, and families looking for social stability and healthcare access.
Cost estimates below are based on aggregated data from Statistics Canada, Numbeo Cost of Living Index, and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) reports.
Costs vary significantly by city. Toronto and Vancouver are premium markets, while cities like Calgary, Winnipeg, and Halifax are more affordable.
One of Canada’s strongest advantages is its transparent immigration structure.
Major pathways include:
Sources: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
PR is points-based, not discretionary like Singapore.
Selection depends on CRS score, occupation demand, and quotas.
Processing times vary based on intake volume.
Provincial streams have different criteria.
Among the best places for expats to live, Canada stands out for offering a clear route from temporary status to permanent residency.
Canada offers permanent residency through structured systems rather than employer dependency alone.
PR holders receive:
Access to public healthcare
Ability to change employers
Pathway to citizenship (after residency requirement)
Citizenship eligibility generally requires physical presence and language testing. Compared to Switzerland, Canada provides faster structured PR options but may offer lower salary ceilings.
Best For: Skilled professionals, families, long-term settlers
Not Ideal For: High-income earners seeking low-tax jurisdictions
Visa Difficulty: Competitive but transparent (points-based)
PR Feasibility: Strong and structured
Compared to Australia, Canada offers similar skilled migration pathways but may have harsher winter climates and regional employment concentration.
When evaluating the best countries to live in, Australia consistently ranks high for lifestyle balance, structured migration pathways, and economic stability. From exploring opportunities in major cities and the top suburbs in Melbourne to regional migration options, Australia offers diverse settlement choices. Unlike many destinations, Australia provides clear skilled migration programs, making it one of the countries best for expats seeking long-term residency options rather than short-term relocation.
With strong healthcare, stable governance, and a multicultural society, Australia remains one of the best countries to move to for professionals and families alike.
Cost ranges below are based on aggregated 2024–2025 data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), Numbeo Cost of Living Index, and major city rental reports (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane).
Costs vary significantly by city, with Sydney and Melbourne at the higher end, particularly in premium areas and the richest suburbs in Sydney, where housing and living expenses are considerably higher.
Data references:
Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)
Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
Australia’s wage levels are strong relative to cost of living, but taxation is higher than Singapore or UAE.
Australia operates one of the most structured skilled migration systems globally.
Major visa pathways include:
Sources: Department of Home Affairs (Australia)
Among the best places for expats to live, Australia stands out for transparency in its immigration system.
Australia provides universal healthcare (Medicare) for eligible residents.
Public healthcare available after certain visa types.
Private health insurance may be required for temporary visa holders.
Healthcare quality ranks highly among OECD countries.
Source: Australian Government Department of Health.
Australia offers direct PR pathways under skilled migration streams, making it one of the best countries to move to for structured settlement.
However:
Points thresholds fluctuate based on demand.
Invitation rounds depend on federal and state allocations.
English proficiency is mandatory.
Skills assessment required before visa application.
PR is attainable — but policy-driven.
Best For: Skilled professionals, families, long-term migrants
Not Ideal For: Low-skilled migration without employer sponsorship
Visa Difficulty: Competitive but transparent
PR Feasibility: Strong under skilled pathways
Compared to Singapore, Australia offers clearer permanent residency routes but higher taxation. Compared to Switzerland, entry is more structured through points rather than employer-only sponsorship.
Australia continues to rank among the best countries to live in for expats prioritizing long-term residency, family stability, and public infrastructure quality. While cost of living and tax rates must be considered, its transparent migration framework positions it strongly among global relocation destinations.
Germany ranks among the best countries to live in for skilled professionals due to strong labor protections and EU mobility access.
Total monthly estimate: USD 1,800 – 3,200
Rent (1BR city): USD 900 – 1,800
Average salary: USD 50,000 – 75,000/year
Income tax: 14% – 45%
EU Blue Card available for skilled professionals
PR possible after 21–33 months (with language integration)
Best For: Engineers, IT professionals
PR Feasibility: Strong and structured
Among the countries best for expats, the Netherlands offers high English proficiency and tech opportunities.
USD 2,200 – 3,500 monthly
Average salary: USD 55,000 – 80,000
Tax: Up to 49%
Highly Skilled Migrant visa
Orientation Year visa for graduates
PR after 5 years
Visa Difficulty: Moderate
PR Feasibility: Strong under employment
New Zealand remains one of the best places for expats to live for work-life balance. New Zealand is also popular among international students. Many applicants first enter through the New Zealand student visa pathway and later transition to post-study work visas or skilled migration categories, depending on eligibility.
USD 1,800 – 3,000 monthly
USD 45,000 – 70,000/year
Skilled Migrant Category (points-based)
Employer-sponsored visas
PR pathway available
Best For: Healthcare, agriculture, trades
When evaluating the best countries to live in, Norway frequently ranks high for safety, welfare benefits, environmental quality, and work-life balance. However, relocation to Norway requires understanding cost structure, taxation, and visa controls.
Norway is considered one of the countries best for expats in energy, engineering, maritime industries, and technology — but affordability is not its strength.
USD 2,500 – 4,000 monthly
USD 65,000 – 100,000/year
Tax: 22%+ progressive
Norway operates structured immigration rules under UDI (Norwegian Directorate of Immigration).
Key realities:
Non-EU nationals require employer sponsorship.
Skilled roles prioritized.
Language integration encouraged but not always mandatory initially.
Processing times vary by workload.
Among the best places for expats to live, Norway offers strong welfare security but controlled migration access.
Challenge: High taxation
When evaluating the best countries to live in, Sweden consistently ranks high for social welfare, safety, and work-life balance. It is frequently listed among the countries best for expats seeking structured employment, universal healthcare, and long-term residency stability.
However, Sweden combines high taxation with strong public benefits — making financial planning essential before relocation.
USD 2,000 – 3,500 monthly
USD 45,000 – 75,000/year
Tax: 30–55%
Sweden operates employer-driven work permits.
Key trust considerations:
Job offer required before entry (in most cases).
Employer must meet salary threshold.
Processing timelines vary.
PR eligibility subject to legal compliance and income stability.
Source: Swedish Migration Agency.
Best For: Tech & sustainability professionals
Among the best countries to live in, the United Arab Emirates (particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi) attracts expats due to its tax-free income structure, strong job market, and modern infrastructure. While it offers high earning potential, residency remains employment-linked rather than permanent settlement–oriented.
The UAE is often considered one of the countries best for expats in finance, construction, hospitality, aviation, and tech-driven sectors.
USD 2,000 – 3,800 monthly
Tax: 0% personal income tax
Unlike many Western nations, UAE residency is employer-sponsored.
Important:
Residency linked to employment or investment.
No traditional permanent residency in the European sense.
Citizenship pathways are extremely limited.
Source: UAE Government Portal & Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
Best For: Finance, hospitality
PR Feasibility: Limited
Portugal is among the best places for expats to live in Southern Europe and is often considered the most affordable country to live in the region due to its lower cost of living and high quality of life.
USD 1,500 – 2,800 monthly
USD 30,000 – 50,000/year
D7 visa
Digital Nomad visa
PR after 5 years
Best For: Remote workers, retirees
When evaluating the best countries to live in, Japan stands out for infrastructure efficiency, safety, and technological advancement. While it is not the easiest immigration destination, it remains one of the countries best for expats in engineering, technology, research, and education sectors.
Japan combines modern innovation with deep cultural tradition — but relocation requires understanding its visa structure and integration expectations.
USD 1,800 – 3,200 monthly
USD 40,000 – 70,000/year
Japan operates under occupation-based work visas.
Important:
Job offer required before visa application.
Points-based fast track available for high earners.
The Japanese language improves long-term prospects.
Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
Challenge: Language barrier
When evaluating the best countries to live in, France attracts expats for its healthcare system, cultural richness, and structured residency framework. It is often listed among the countries best for expats in Europe, particularly for professionals, families, and long-term settlers seeking stability within the EU.
However, relocation to France requires understanding taxation, visa categories, and integration requirements.
USD 2,000 – 3,500 monthly
USD 40,000 – 65,000/year
Tax: Up to 45%
France operates under structured EU immigration laws.
Key migration considerations:
Employer sponsorship is often required.
The French language improves integration prospects.
PR requires continuous legal residence and integration.
Citizenship possible after extended residency.
France remains one of the best places for expats to live within the EU for structured long-term settlement. France remains among the best countries to live in for expats prioritizing healthcare, education, and structured EU residency pathways. While taxation is higher than some alternatives, long-term stability and public services make it one of the countries best for expats seeking permanent European settlement.
When discussing the best countries to live in, Spain frequently appears due to its relatively affordable lifestyle, strong public healthcare system, and attractive residency programs. Among the countries best for expats, Spain stands out for those seeking European access, warm climate, and moderate living costs. However, relocation feasibility depends on visa type, income qualification, and long-term residency planning.
USD 1,600 – 2,800 monthly
Spain offers multiple structured visa routes.
Trust consideration:
Non-lucrative visa does not allow employment in Spain.
Work permits require employer compliance.
PR requires continuous residence and tax compliance.
Source references: Spanish Ministry of Inclusion, Migration & Social Security.
Spain balances affordability, European access, and structured residency pathways. Among the countries best for expats, it is ideal for those prioritizing climate, healthcare, and long-term European settlement over high income.
When evaluating the best countries to live in, Ireland consistently appears as one of the countries best for expats, particularly in technology, pharmaceuticals, and finance. As an EU member with strong multinational presence, Ireland offers structured work visa pathways and access to the broader European market.
However, housing pressures and cost variations must be carefully assessed before relocation.
USD 2,200 – 3,800 monthly
Ireland offers structured employment permits.
Key trust considerations:
Employer sponsorship required.
Occupation eligibility list matters.
Processing times vary by permit category.
PR pathway exists but requires continuous lawful stay.
Ireland remains one of the best places for expats to live for professionals seeking EU access with an English-speaking environment, but affordability must be realistically evaluated. Ireland remains one of the best places for expats to live for professionals seeking EU access with an English-speaking environment, but affordability must be realistically evaluated.
When assessing the best countries to live in, Luxembourg often appears as a premium European option. It is small in size but economically powerful, with one of the highest GDP per capita levels globally. For finance, banking, and EU policy professionals, it remains one of the countries best for expats in Western Europe.
However, high salaries are balanced by high living costs and competitive housing conditions.
USD 2,800 – 4,500 monthly
USD 80,000+ average
Luxembourg operates under EU mobility rules plus national work permits.
Important trust factors:
Job offer required before relocation (for non-EU nationals).
Housing availability can be more restrictive than visa approval.
PR requires continuous legal stay and integration.
Source: Luxembourg Immigration Directorate.
Luxembourg remains one of the best countries to move to for skilled professionals seeking EU residency stability and strong income potential. While not budget-friendly, its structured immigration pathway and economic resilience position it among the best countries to live in for long-term professional relocation.
When evaluating the best countries to live in, Costa Rica is often highlighted for its affordability, environmental stability, and retiree-friendly residency options. While it does not offer high corporate salary structures like Singapore or Switzerland, it remains one of the best places for expats to live for lifestyle-driven relocation and long-term residency planning.
USD 1,500 – 2,500 monthly
Costa Rica offers structured residency categories:
Key considerations:
Residency categories are income-based.
Healthcare registration required (Caja system).
Processing timelines vary.
Spanish language integration is beneficial but not mandatory for residency.
Compared to many Western nations, Costa Rica offers more accessible residency structures, making it one of the best countries to move to for retirees and income-qualified applicants. Costa Rica remains one of the best places for expats to live if your relocation priority is affordability, territorial taxation, and structured residency options rather than corporate salary growth.
When assessing the best countries to live in for expats seeking European access, Belgium stands out due to its central location, EU institutions presence, and multilingual environment. While it is not the cheapest option, it remains one of the countries best for expats working in international business, diplomacy, and EU-related sectors.
USD 2,000 – 3,200 monthly
Belgium offers structured migration under EU regulations.
Key Trust Notes:
Non-EU nationals require employer sponsorship.
Salary threshold applies for EU Blue Card eligibility.
Regional governments (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels) handle work authorization.
Integration and language may influence long-term residence status.
Source: Belgian Immigration Office (Office des Étrangers).
Belgium allows:
Permanent residence after 5 years of legal stay.
Citizenship possible after extended integration and residency compliance.
Access to broader EU mobility once PR is secured.
Among the best places for expats to live, Belgium appeals to professionals wanting EU market access. Belgium earns its place among the best countries to live in for professionals seeking EU access, political stability, and strong public services. While taxation is high, the trade-off comes in social security, healthcare quality, and long-term residency security.
When evaluating the best countries to live in, Denmark frequently appears in global happiness and quality-of-life rankings. It is considered one of the countries best for expats who prioritize social stability, sustainability, and structured welfare systems.
However, Denmark is not a low-tax environment — and immigration is policy-driven.
USD 2,500 – 4,000 monthly
High progressive rates
(Source: Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration – SIRI)
Key realities:
Salary threshold reviewed periodically.
Danish language integration required for PR.
Points-based conditions apply for faster settlement.
Among the best places for expats to live, Denmark offers strong social protection — but immigration requires structured eligibility.
Among the best countries to live in in East Asia, South Korea stands out for its technological advancement, public safety, and structured employment visa system. It is frequently considered one of the countries best for expats in technology, education, and manufacturing sectors.
However, relocation requires employer sponsorship and cultural adaptability.
USD 1,800 – 3,000 monthly
South Korea does not operate open migration. Most expats enter via employer-sponsored visas.
Key migration notes:
Employer sponsorship required for most work categories.
F-2 residency possible after meeting income & points criteria.
Korean language ability improves long-term settlement prospects.
South Korea remains one of the best countries to live in for expats seeking a technologically advanced, safe, and organized environment. However, successful relocation depends heavily on employer sponsorship and long-term integration planning.
Selecting from the best countries to live in is no longer just about lifestyle or scenery. For serious expats, the right decision depends on cost of living, visa structure, tax systems, long-term residency options, and career feasibility.
Some destinations offer higher salaries but stricter migration controls. Others provide affordability but limited permanent residency pathways. The best places for expats to live vary depending on whether your priority is income growth, tax efficiency, safety, work-life balance, or long-term settlement.
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