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Choosing among the best countries to live in is no longer just about income. In 2026, people are prioritizing quality healthcare, safety, work-life balance, permanent residency options, climate, and long-term stability. Whether you are a student, professional, family, or remote worker, finding a good country to live in can redefine your future. This guide covers the 20 best countries to live in for a quality life in 2026, based on real factors expats and migrants care about.
Before exploring the top countries to live in 2026, we evaluated each destination using factors that truly define long-term comfort, stability, and happiness. Our ranking focuses on what matters most to individuals, families, and expats planning a better future.
We carefully considered:
Overall quality of life and global happiness rankings
Employment opportunities and long-term income potential
Cost of living in relation to average salaries
Accessibility and quality of healthcare and education systems
Immigration policies, residency options, and PR pathways
Safety, political stability, and overall lifestyle standards
Every country featured in this list earns its place as a best country to live in based on real expat experiences, data-backed indicators, and future migration trends for 2026 and beyond.
Canada consistently ranks among the best countries to live in due to its strong economy, inclusive society, and future-ready immigration system. For people searching for the best countries to move to or a good country to live in with long-term security, Canada remains a top choice in 2026.
Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, and Montreal are widely considered the best places for expats to live. These cities offer high employment opportunities, excellent public services, and a multicultural environment that makes settling in easier for newcomers.
Canada offers a rare balance between professional growth and personal well-being, making it a strong contender for the best country to live and work in the world.
Transparent and points-based immigration system
Strong job market across multiple industries
Free public healthcare for residents
High standard of education
Safe, politically stable environment
Canada’s immigration system is one of the most structured and migrant-friendly in the world.
For skilled professionals
Points based on age, education, work experience, and language skills
Province-specific job demand pathways
Faster PR for in-demand occupations
Post-study work permits
Canadian experience leads to permanent residency
These programs make Canada one of the best countries to live in for long-term settlement.
One major reason Canada ranks among the top countries to live in 2026 is its emphasis on employee well-being.
Standard 40-hour work week
Paid annual leave and public holidays
Strong labor laws protecting workers
Flexible work options in many industries
This balance makes Canada a good country to live in 2026 not just for work, but for life.
Australia remains a top performer among the best countries to live in, especially for people who value strong income potential alongside a relaxed, outdoor-focused lifestyle. With a stable economy, strict employment laws, and world-class infrastructure, Australia is widely recognized as one of the best countries to settle in for skilled workers and families in 2026.
Major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide rank among the best places for expats to live, offering excellent job opportunities, modern healthcare, and a safe urban environment. Melbourne, in particular, is known for its premium residential areas, including the richest suburbs in Melbourne, which attract professionals and families seeking high living standards and strong property value. For professionals searching for the best country to live and work in the world, Australia continues to be a reliable choice.
Australia stands out among the top countries to live in due to its ability to combine professional growth with quality living standards.
High earning potential across skilled occupations
Fair and employee-friendly workplace regulations
Globally respected education and training system
Clean cities with strong environmental standards
Australia offers multiple structured pathways for skilled migrants and graduates, making it one of the best countries to move to for long-term settlement.
No employer sponsorship required
Suitable for in-demand occupations
Faster processing for priority skills
Job-linked migration options
Post-study work rights
Clear transition to skilled migration
These options place Australia among the best countries to live in for professionals planning a stable future.
Australia is widely known for promoting balance between career and personal life, which helps it rank among the best countries to live in globally.
Standard working hours with overtime protection
Paid annual leave and public holidays
Flexible work arrangements in many sectors
Strong focus on mental health and well-being
This approach makes Australia a good country to live in for individuals and families alike.
Germany stands out as one of the best countries to live in 2026 for professionals who value job security, affordable living, and long-term settlement options. In 2026, it remains a top choice for engineers, IT specialists, healthcare workers, and skilled tradespeople looking for a good country to live in with strong social protection.
Cities such as Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Stuttgart are considered among the best places for expats to live, offering excellent public transport, high employment rates, and a strong quality-of-life index. Germany’s central location in Europe also makes it one of the best countries to move to for global career mobility.
Germany combines economic strength with social welfare, making it a reliable option for people planning long-term migration and settlement.
Europe’s largest and most stable economy
High demand for skilled professionals
Affordable cost of education
Strong social security system
Clear pathways to permanent residence
Germany offers structured and skill-focused immigration programs that attract global talent.
Designed for highly skilled professionals
Offers a fast track to permanent residency
Allows mobility across EU countries
For non-EU professionals with recognized qualifications
Covers IT, engineering, healthcare, and technical roles
Low or no tuition fees at public universities
Post-study work opportunities leading to PR
These options make Germany one of the best countries to settle in 2026 for long-term career and life stability.
Germany is often listed among the top countries to live in 2026 due to its healthy approach to work and personal life.
Average 8-hour workday
Generous paid vacation and public holidays
Strong employee rights and labor unions
Emphasis on productivity over long hours
This makes Germany not just a place to work, but a good country to live in sustainably.
New Zealand is widely regarded as one of the best countries to live in for people who value safety, mental well-being, and a calm pace of life. In 2026, it continues to attract global migrants looking for a good country to live in that offers long-term stability without the stress of overcrowded cities.
Cities such as Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Hamilton are frequently ranked among the best places for expats to live due to their clean surroundings, friendly communities, and strong employment standards. For individuals and families searching for the best countries to move to with a focus on quality of life, New Zealand stands out as a reliable choice.
New Zealand combines natural beauty with strong governance, making it one of the top countries to live in for both professionals and families.
Peaceful society with strong personal safety
Clean air, green spaces, and sustainable living
Supportive work-life culture
Transparent government systems
High standard of public services
New Zealand offers clear and well-regulated immigration options designed to attract skilled talent and long-term residents.
Points-based system for qualified professionals
Pathway to permanent residency
Employer-sponsored route
Leads to residence after work experience
Post-study work opportunities
Skill-based transition to PR
These options make New Zealand one of the best countries to live in for those planning a permanent move.
One of the strongest reasons New Zealand ranks among the best countries to live in is its lifestyle-first approach.
Healthy working hours
Paid annual leave and holidays
Strong emphasis on family time
Low workplace stress culture
This makes New Zealand a good country to live in for those seeking balance over burnout.
New Zealand is ideal for:
Families prioritizing safety and education
Skilled professionals seeking long-term stability
Expats wanting a calm, nature-driven lifestyle
Individuals planning permanent settlement
Switzerland consistently appears among the best countries to live in thanks to its exceptional income stability, world-class healthcare, and unmatched safety standards. While the cost of living is high, Switzerland compensates with some of the highest salaries globally, making it a good country to live in for professionals focused on long-term financial growth.
Cities such as Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Bern are regarded as some of the best places for expats to live, offering clean infrastructure, efficient public services, and strong employment opportunities in finance, pharmaceuticals, and technology.
Switzerland’s economic strength and social systems make it one of the top countries to live in 2026 for people who value security, precision, and quality.
Exceptionally high salaries
Globally ranked healthcare system
Extremely low crime rates
Stable economy and currency
High-quality education and infrastructure
Although Switzerland has controlled immigration policies, it remains one of the best countries to move to for highly skilled professionals.
Strong demand in finance, IT, engineering, and healthcare
Competitive compensation packages
Clear permit structure (L & B permits)
Long-term settlement possible with continuous residence
These pathways make Switzerland a best country to live in 2026 for individuals planning a structured and secure future.
Despite being performance-driven, Switzerland offers a healthy work culture, which places it among the best countries to live in for professionals.
Regulated working hours
Generous paid leave policies
Strong respect for personal time
Clean and peaceful living environment
This balance reinforces Switzerland’s reputation as a good country to live in beyond just income.
Sweden is widely recognised as one of the best countries to live in for people who value equality, personal time, and long-term social security. In 2026, it continues to attract global talent due to its progressive workplace culture and people-first policies. For professionals and families alike, Sweden is a good country to live in with a strong focus on well-being rather than burnout.
Cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö are considered some of the best places for expats to live, offering modern infrastructure, excellent public services, and English-friendly workplaces. Sweden also ranks high among the best countries to move to for those seeking a calm, stable, and respectful society.
Sweden’s social model prioritizes balance, fairness, and quality of life, making it one of the top countries to live in for sustainable living.
Strong employee rights and job security
Emphasis on work-life balance over long hours
Equal opportunities regardless of gender
High-quality public services
Safe and transparent governance
Sweden is globally admired for its people-centric work environment, which is why many consider it one of the best countries to live and work in the world.
Focus on productivity, not overtime
Flexible schedules are common
Paid parental leave for both parents
Childcare support from the government
Fair wages
Secure contracts
These factors make Sweden one of the best countries to settle in for long-term career growth.
Sweden is especially attractive for families, contributing to its status as a good country to live in 2026.
Free education at public schools and universities
Inclusive learning environment
Child-focused education system
Strong emphasis on creativity and critical thinking
Sweden is ideal for:
Professionals seeking work-life balance
Families prioritizing education and equality
Expats who value social security
Individuals looking for long-term stability
The Netherlands is widely recognized as one of the best countries to live, for people who want a modern lifestyle, strong career opportunities, and a smooth transition as an expat. With a high standard of living and a workforce that operates comfortably in English, it remains one of the best countries to move to in 2026.
Cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Eindhoven are considered some of the best places for expats to live, offering vibrant city life, strong job markets, and excellent public services. The country’s open culture and progressive policies make settling in easier compared to many other European nations.
The Netherlands combines professional growth with everyday convenience, placing it among the top countries to live in 2026 for international workers and entrepreneurs.
English-friendly professional environment
Strong economy with global employers
High living standards and social security
Excellent urban planning and infrastructure
Healthy work-life balance culture
The Netherlands offers clear and structured pathways for professionals and entrepreneurs, making it one of the best countries to settle in 2026.
Designed for qualified professionals
Fast-track residence permits
For high-earning skilled workers
Mobility across EU countries
Ideal for entrepreneurs and innovators
Support from recognized facilitators
These options strengthen the Netherlands’ position as a good country to live in long term.
A major reason the Netherlands ranks among the best countries to live in 2026 is its balanced approach to work and personal life.
Shorter average workweeks
Flexible working arrangements
Generous parental leave policies
Strong employee rights
This lifestyle balance makes it a good country to live in for both singles and families.
Denmark consistently appears at the top of global happiness and quality-of-life rankings, making it one of the best countries to live, for people who value fairness, personal well-being, and job satisfaction. With its people-centric policies and transparent governance, Denmark is widely considered a good country to live in 2026 for professionals and families alike.
Cities such as Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense are among the best places for expats to live, offering excellent public services, modern infrastructure, and a welcoming international community. Denmark’s strong economy and ethical work culture also position it among the top countries to live in for long-term stability.
Denmark focuses on quality of life rather than long working hours, which is why it is often seen as one of the best countries to move to for a balanced lifestyle.
Universal healthcare system funded through taxes
Secure employment laws and worker-first policies
Transparent governance and low corruption
High social trust and community safety
Family-friendly environment
Singapore has earned its reputation as one of the best countries to live in 2026 for professionals who value high income, career acceleration, and a premium urban lifestyle. As a major global financial and technology hub, it attracts skilled talent from around the world, making it one of the best places for expats to live in Asia in 2026.
The country’s strategic location, business-friendly policies, and English-speaking environment make Singapore a good country to live in for individuals looking to work in finance, IT, logistics, healthcare, and multinational corporations. For those comparing the best countries to move to, Singapore consistently stands out for efficiency, safety, and economic strength.
Singapore offers a rare combination of strong earnings potential and an exceptionally high standard of living, positioning it as a serious contender for the best country to live and work in the world.
Strong economy with global career exposure
Highly competitive salaries for skilled professionals
English as a primary working language
Stable political and legal environment
High-quality urban lifestyle
Singapore provides structured pathways for skilled workers who want to live and work legally in the country.
1. Employment Pass (EP)
For professionals with recognized qualifications
High salary threshold and global employer demand
2. S Pass
For mid-skilled professionals
Industry-specific workforce demand
3. Permanent Residency (PR)
Available after work experience
Strong pathway for long-term settlement
These options make Singapore one of the best countries to settle in 2026 for professionals focused on career growth.
Japan stands out as a good country to live for people who value safety, advanced technology, and a deeply rooted cultural heritage. In 2026, Japan is increasingly recognized among the best countries to live in 2026 as it opens more doors to skilled professionals, students, and long-term expats.
Cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, and Fukuoka are gaining popularity as some of the best places for expats to live, offering a unique mix of modern infrastructure and traditional living. With rising demand for foreign talent, Japan is becoming one of the best countries to move to for those seeking stability and career growth in Asia.
Japan offers a highly organized lifestyle, strong public systems, and a safe environment, making daily life comfortable and predictable for residents.
Extremely safe cities with minimal violent crime
Technology-driven economy with global companies
Clean, organized, and efficient public services
Respectful work culture with improving work-life balance
Japan’s economy is innovation-led, creating opportunities in IT, engineering, robotics, healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
Skilled worker and Highly Skilled Professional visas
English-speaking roles in tech and education
Strong labor protections
Competitive salaries in urban regions
These factors help Japan earn its place among the top countries to live in 2026.
Japan’s urban planning and public transport systems are often considered among the best in the world.
Punctual and affordable public transport
Clean streets and well-maintained public spaces
High-speed rail connecting major cities
Advanced disaster preparedness systems
These features make Japan a good country to live for both individuals and families.
Austria stands out as one of the best countries to live for people who want European living standards without the extreme costs seen in some Western European nations. Known for its high safety levels, efficient public services, and excellent healthcare, Austria offers a lifestyle that is both comfortable and sustainable, making it a good country to live for professionals, families, and retirees.
Cities like Vienna, Graz, and Linz are frequently ranked among the top countries to live in city-wise comparisons, especially for cleanliness, safety, and public transport. Vienna, in particular, is often highlighted as one of the best places for expats to live due to its affordable housing, cultural richness, and strong social security system.
Austria combines Central European affordability with Western European infrastructure, positioning it firmly among the best countries to move to in 2026.
High quality of life at a relatively lower cost
Well-organized healthcare and social security system
Safe cities with low crime rates
Easy access to other European Union countries
Clean environment and efficient public transport
Austria offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to many Western European destinations, while still delivering premium public services.
Austria is widely regarded as a good country to live for those who value personal time and well-being.
Regulated working hours
Generous paid leave policies
Strong employee protections
Supportive family and childcare benefits
This healthy balance is a key reason Austria remains one of the best countries to live for long-term settlement.
Norway is widely recognized as one of the top countries to live for people who value economic security, social welfare, and a peaceful lifestyle. Backed by a strong economy and progressive governance, Norway consistently appears on lists of the best countries to live for long-term settlement in 2026.
With clean cities, low crime rates, and excellent public services, Norway is considered a good country to live in 2026 for professionals and families looking for stability rather than fast-paced urban chaos. Cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger offer strong employment opportunities, especially in energy, technology, healthcare, and engineering.
Norway’s focus on equality, fair wages, and quality public services makes it one of the best countries to move for a secure future.
High-income economy with fair salary distribution
Strong social security and welfare benefits
Low income inequality
Safe and transparent governance
High environmental standards
Norway supports long-term settlement through a structured system that benefits both locals and immigrants.
Competitive salaries even for entry-level roles
Strong employee protections
Public universities with low or no tuition fees
High-quality schooling for children
Predictable laws and low corruption
Strong public trust in institutions
These factors position Norway among the best countries to settle in 2026 for the long run.
Norway strongly values personal time, which is why it ranks among the best countries to live in 2026 for mental well-being.
Shorter working hours
Generous parental and annual leave
Strong support for families
Outdoor-oriented lifestyle
This balance makes Norway a strong contender for the best country to live for quality living rather than just income.
Finland is widely regarded as one of the best countries to live in 2026 for people who value education, social equality, and emotional well-being. In 2026, it continues to attract families, professionals, and expats looking for a good country to live with long-term stability and a peaceful lifestyle.
Cities such as Helsinki, Espoo, Tampere, and Turku are among the top countries to live in urban hubs, offering safe neighborhoods, clean air, and excellent public services. Finland’s strong social systems make it one of the best places for expats to live, especially for those planning permanent settlement.
Finland focuses on overall life satisfaction rather than just income, which is why it frequently ranks high among the best countries to live globally.
People-first social policies
Equal access to education and healthcare
Transparent and ethical governance
Strong community values
Finland’s systems are designed to support lifelong learning and trust-based governance, making it one of the best countries to settle in 2026 for families.
No tuition fees for public education
Focus on creativity, not exam pressure
Consistently top global rankings
Highly transparent institutions
Fair access to public services
Strong legal protections
Safe communities
Reliable public services
Inclusive society
Flexible working hours
Generous parental leave policies
Emphasis on mental well-being
Respect for personal time
This makes Finland a strong contender for the best country to live in 2026 if quality of life is your priority.
Finland is widely regarded as one of the best countries to live in 2026 for people who value education, social equality, and emotional well-being. In 2026, it continues to attract families, professionals, and expats looking for a good country to live in 2026 with long-term stability and a peaceful lifestyle.
Cities such as Helsinki, Espoo, Tampere, and Turku are among the top countries to live in urban hubs, offering safe neighborhoods, clean air, and excellent public services. Finland’s strong social systems make it one of the best places for expats to live, especially for those planning permanent settlement.
Finland focuses on overall life satisfaction rather than just income, which is why it frequently ranks high among the best countries to live globally.
People-first social policies
Equal access to education and healthcare
Transparent and ethical governance
Strong community values
Finland’s systems are designed to support lifelong learning and trust-based governance, making it one of the best countries to settle in 2026 for families.
No tuition fees for public education
Focus on creativity, not exam pressure
Consistently top global rankings
Highly transparent institutions
Fair access to public services
Strong legal protections
Safe communities
Reliable public services
Inclusive society
Finland stands out among the best countries to live for its balanced approach to work and personal life.
Flexible working hours
Generous parental leave policies
Emphasis on mental well-being
Respect for personal time
This makes Finland a strong contender for the best country to live in 2026 if quality of life is your priority.
France stands out as a good country to live in 2026 for people who value lifestyle quality alongside social protection. In 2026, it will continue to rank among the best countries to live in 2026 due to its strong public systems, rich culture, and employee-friendly work environment. For families, professionals, and long-term settlers, France offers stability without sacrificing enjoyment of life.
Cities such as Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Nice are popular choices among locals and expats alike. These cities are often counted among the best places for expats to live because of their healthcare access, public transport, education facilities, and cultural openness.
France offers a well-rounded lifestyle where personal time, social security, and cultural experiences are given equal importance. This balance places it among the top countries to live in 2026 for long-term residents.
Strong social security and welfare system
Employee-focused labor laws
Affordable and accessible healthcare
Globally respected education system
Deep cultural and historical heritage
France’s healthcare system is widely regarded as one of the best in the world, making it a good country to live for families and retirees.
Universal healthcare coverage for residents
Low out-of-pocket medical expenses
Government-backed health insurance support
High-quality public and private hospitals
These benefits contribute to France being viewed as one of the best countries to settle in 2026 within Europe.
A major reason France is counted among the best countries to live in 2026 is its strong emphasis on worker protection and quality of life.
Legally capped working hours
Generous paid annual leave
Strong employee unions and protections
Clear work-life boundaries
This approach makes France attractive for those searching for the best country to live and work in the world without burnout.
France is a great option for:
Families prioritizing healthcare and education
Professionals seeking work-life balance
Retirees looking for social security
Expats interested in culture and lifestyle
Spain has emerged as one of the best countries to live in 2026 for people seeking a relaxed lifestyle without sacrificing modern comforts. In 2026, it continues to attract retirees, freelancers, and digital nomads who want a good country to live in 2026 with lower living costs, rich culture, and a pleasant climate.
Popular cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Malaga, and Seville are considered some of the best places for expats to live, offering reliable public transport, quality healthcare, and vibrant social life. For those exploring the best countries to move in Europe, Spain offers an excellent balance between affordability and quality living.
Spain stands out among the top countries to live in 2026 due to its cost-effective lifestyle and expat-friendly policies.
Affordable housing compared to Western Europe
High-quality public healthcare system
Relaxed pace of life with strong social culture
Well-connected cities and transport networks
Spain has introduced flexible residency options, making it one of the best countries to settle in 2026 for non-EU citizens.
Designed for remote workers and freelancers
Allows long-term legal residence while working online
Ideal for retirees and financially independent individuals
No local employment requirement
Available for skilled professionals in demand sectors
These pathways make Spain a practical choice for those seeking the best country to live in 2026 with lifestyle freedom.
Spain’s culture emphasizes enjoying life outside of work, which places it among the best countries to live in 2026 for mental well-being.
Flexible working hours in many sectors
Long lunch breaks and relaxed routines
Strong focus on family and social life
Outdoor lifestyle supported by climate
This makes Spain a good country to live in 2026 for those prioritizing lifestyle over long working hours.
Portugal has quickly emerged as one of the best countries to live in 2026, especially for expats looking for comfort, affordability, and long-term residency options. With its relaxed lifestyle, safe cities, and welcoming culture, Portugal is often ranked among the best places for expats to live in Europe.
Popular cities such as Lisbon, Porto, Braga, and Faro attract professionals, retirees, and remote workers who are searching for a good country to live without the high costs seen in many Western European nations. For those exploring the best countries to move to in 2026, Portugal offers both lifestyle quality and legal simplicity.
Portugal offers a strong mix of affordability, safety, and lifestyle freedom, making it a competitive option among the top countries to live globally.
Simple and expat-friendly residency options
Lower cost of living compared to most EU countries
Safe environment with low crime rates
Pleasant climate year-round
Relaxed work-life culture
Portugal’s residency framework is one of the reasons it attracts thousands of expats every year.
Clear documentation process
Option to move toward permanent residency
Suitable for professionals and freelancers
Legal routes for business owners
Easy sponsorship for close family members
Stable long-term settlement opportunities
These pathways make Portugal one of the best countries to live in 2026 for those planning a permanent move.
Portugal places strong value on personal time and quality living, which is why it’s considered a good country to live in 2026 for lifestyle-focused migrants.
Shorter working hours in many sectors
Strong emphasis on family and leisure
Coastal lifestyle promoting outdoor activities
Stress-free daily routine compared to major EU economies
The United Arab Emirates has rapidly emerged as one of the best countries to live in 2026 for professionals seeking high income, global exposure, and a modern lifestyle. With cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the UAE attracts talent from across the world, making it one of the best countries to move for ambitious expats in 2026.
Known for its business-friendly policies and world-class urban planning, the UAE offers a lifestyle that blends luxury, safety, and opportunity. For skilled professionals and entrepreneurs, it is often considered the best country to live and work in the world, especially for tax-efficient earnings and career acceleration.
The UAE stands out among the top countries to live in 2026 due to its economic strength, futuristic infrastructure, and international work culture.
Tax-friendly income structure
Rapidly growing job market
High standard of living
Safe and well-regulated cities
Multicultural expat population
While the UAE does not follow a traditional permanent residency model, it offers flexible long-term residence options that attract global professionals.
Sponsored by employers
Suitable for skilled professionals
Long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled individuals
No frequent renewal pressure
Ideal for digital professionals
Allows legal residence without local employment
These options position the UAE as one of the best countries to live in 2026 for career-focused individuals.
Despite its fast-paced professional environment, the UAE offers structured work systems that support personal well-being.
Competitive salary packages
Fixed working hours with weekends
Strong workplace safety laws
Access to luxury leisure and travel options
This balance makes the UAE a good country to live in 2026 for professionals seeking both financial growth and lifestyle comfort.
The Czech Republic has quietly emerged as one of the best countries to live in 2026 for people who want European living without Western Europe’s high costs. With its central location, reliable public services, and growing job market, it is a good country to live in 2026 for professionals, students, and expats seeking affordability with quality.
Cities like Prague, Brno, and Ostrava are increasingly popular among international residents and are considered some of the best places for expats to live in Central Europe. These cities offer modern infrastructure, vibrant culture, and strong employment opportunities, making the Czech Republic one of the best countries to move in 2026.
The Czech Republic stands out among the top countries to live in 2026 due to its lower living expenses while still offering European standards of safety, healthcare, and public services.
Affordable housing and daily living costs
Central European location with easy travel access
Stable political and economic environment
High safety levels compared to many EU countries
The Czech Republic offers clear pathways for foreigners looking to settle within the European Union.
Access to Schengen countries
Long-term stability within the EU
Growing demand for skilled workers
Opportunities in IT, engineering, and manufacturing
Affordable education options
Post-study work opportunities
These options make the Czech Republic one of the best countries to settle in 2026 for long-term European residence.
One of the main reasons the Czech Republic ranks among the best countries to live in 2026 is its cost-to-quality ratio.
Rent is significantly lower than Western Europe
Public transport is efficient and affordable
Healthcare costs are manageable for residents
Daily essentials remain budget-friendly
This balance makes it a good country to live in 2026 without compromising lifestyle standards.
Iceland proudly completes the list of the 20 best countries to live in 2026, standing out for its exceptional safety, environmental leadership, and balanced way of life. For people looking for a good country to live with peace, sustainability, and social trust, Iceland offers a uniquely calm and secure living experience.
Despite its small population, Iceland consistently performs well on global quality-of-life indexes. Its low crime rate, transparent governance, and strong social systems make it one of the best countries to live in 2026 for individuals and families who value stability over fast-paced urban life.
Iceland’s appeal lies in its simplicity, safety, and deep respect for nature. It is often chosen by professionals and families seeking a slower, healthier lifestyle.
Extremely low crime rates
Clean air and pollution-free cities
Strong environmental policies
Supportive social welfare system
Iceland is globally recognized for its commitment to renewable energy, making it one of the most environmentally responsible top countries to live in 2026.
Nearly 100% of electricity from renewable sources
Geothermal and hydroelectric power dominance
Low household energy costs
Eco-conscious urban planning
This focus on sustainability attracts people searching for the best countries to move with a future-ready approach.
One of the strongest reasons Iceland ranks among the best countries to live in 2026 is its healthy approach to work and personal life.
Shorter working weeks
Strong employee protections
Flexible work arrangements
High respect for personal time
This balance makes Iceland a good country to live for those prioritizing mental health and family time.
Canada and Australia are widely considered the best countries to live due to immigration access, healthcare, and job opportunities.
Portugal, Canada, Australia, and Germany are among the best places for expats to live in 2026.
Australia, Germany, and Singapore are top contenders for the best country to live and work in the world.
Canada, Sweden, and Finland are excellent choices for families.
Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Germany are among the best countries to settle in long-term.
Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and New Zealand are among the top countries to live in 2026 for work-life balance and personal well-being.
Portugal, Spain, and the Czech Republic are considered affordable countries to move to in Europe without compromising quality of life.
Canada, Germany, Australia, and Ireland are among the best countries to live for international students due to education quality and post-study work options.
Iceland, Finland, Denmark, and New Zealand are some of the safest best countries to live in 2026 with very low crime rates.
Compare factors like job opportunities, cost of living, healthcare, climate, and PR options to find the best country to live in based on your goals.
Choosing from the best countries to live in in 2026 depends on what matters most to you—career growth, family security, lifestyle, or long-term settlement. Countries like Canada, Australia, Germany, and Portugal continue to stand out as good countries to live in due to strong healthcare systems, job opportunities, and clear residency pathways.
There is no single best country to live and work in the world for everyone, but these 20 best countries to live in offer reliable options for expats, students, and families alike. By aligning your goals with the right destination, you can confidently choose among the top countries to live in and build a stable, fulfilling future abroad.
