Best Countries To Live In 2024 Compared! Best places to live abroad

Last Updated on: 20th September 2024, 07:18 am

The quest for the ideal country to relocate in 2024 has seen a spike in interest, particularly following recent global developments. Curious minds and potential expatriates are keen to discover where they might find the best balance of quality of life and financial well-being.

The Expat Insider report by InterNations, which surveyed over 12,500 expatriates, sheds light on the top destinations to live in 2024. This extensive review evaluates countries based on several indices including quality of life, work-life balance, ease of settling in, and personal finance. Panama has emerged as the leading destination, with expatriates there expressing high levels of satisfaction regarding their lifestyle, disposable income, and housing affordability¹.

One of the standout features of Panama is that 82% of expatriates report being happy with their life in the country, a significantly higher percentage compared to the global average of 68%¹. Additionally, Panama has made remarkable strides in the Working Abroad Index, climbing from the 30th spot in 2023 to 12th in 2024¹.

In terms of financial contentment, 74% of expatriates in Panama are pleased with their financial situation, outperforming the global average of 54%. The country also ranks first in financial satisfaction, with 88% of respondents feeling their disposable income is sufficient for a comfortable life and 62% praising the affordability of housing¹.

Key Takeaways

• Panama leads as the top destination for expatriates in 2024 thanks to high levels of life satisfaction and financial contentment.
• 82% of expatriates in Panama are happy with their life, well above the global average of 68%¹.
• Panama jumped from 30th to 12th place in the Working Abroad Index¹.
• Financial satisfaction in Panama is higher than the global average, with 74% expressing contentment¹.
• 88% of expatriates in Panama feel their disposable income is adequate for a comfortable lifestyle¹.

For a more detailed analysis on choosing the best country to live in 2024, visit Expatriate Healthcare.

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Introduction

Exploring the top countries to live in 2024 can be an enriching experience for individuals looking to move abroad. With factors like financial satisfaction, public services, work-life balance, and overall happiness playing crucial roles, choosing the most livable countries in 2024 requires careful consideration of various aspects.

One of the key reports to examine when determining the best expat destinations is the Expat Insider report. This comprehensive study offers valuable insights, informed by the expat community itself, to help prospective movers make informed decisions. Over 8 million Americans currently live abroad, representing a significant expat population².

For example, Mexico has become a popular choice with 1.5 million American expats making it their permanent home². This speaks volumes about its attractiveness and suitability for those seeking a new place to call home.

Financial considerations are also pivotal. In Ecuador, the average expat salary is around US$48,000, making it an affordable choice for Americans relocating². Meanwhile, Canada boasts an impressive average expat salary of approximately US$111,000, showcasing good earning potential for those choosing to move north².

Besides financial incentives, health metrics also play a vital role in determining the most livable countries in 2024. According to the Bloomberg Global Health Index, Spain was ranked as the healthiest country in 2019, with an overall score of 92.75³.

Additionally, Australia’s strong health security measures and impressive rankings in global health indices make it a compelling option for health-conscious expatriates³. These health rankings highlight the importance of considering well-being and healthcare accessibility when selecting a new country.

Equally essential in this decision-making process are community and safety aspects. The Global Health Security Index in 2021 ranked the United States as the safest country, reflecting high-quality public services and secure living conditions³. Furthermore, many European nations such as Denmark, Sweden, and New Zealand rank highly for happiness, underscoring the importance of overall contentment and quality of life⁴.

Understanding the broader context of such rankings involves recognizing the multifaceted nature of lifestyle satisfaction. For instance, younger generations (aged 15-29) report greater happiness compared to older demographics in some EU states⁴. This intergenerational perspective sheds light on how different age groups might prioritize various elements like work-life balance and community integration.

In conclusion, choosing among the most livable countries in 2024 involves examining a robust mix of data points and personal preferences. By assessing rankings based on financial satisfaction, healthcare, safety, and community dynamics, expatriates can make well-informed decisions to optimize their living experiences abroad. For more detailed insights into the best cities to consider, explore this ranking of top global cities².

Panama: The Best Place To Live In 2024

Panama emerges as the top choice for expats in 2024, thanks to its unmatched quality of life, favorable financial conditions, and balanced work-life environment. Let’s delve into what makes Panama stand out in these areas.

Quality of Life

Expats find Panama’s quality of life exceptional, with affordable public transportation, abundant leisure choices, and excellent healthcare facilities⁵. Panama also offers a variety of climates and landscapes, from lush green valleys in the highlands to pristine Caribbean beaches⁵. Direct flights from Miami to Panama take about 2 hours and 50 minutes, making travel convenient⁵. Residents praise the modern infrastructure, including reliable internet and good drinking water⁵, contributing to Panama being ranked the number one country for expats by InterNations⁶.

Financial Satisfaction

Financial satisfaction remains high among expats in Panama, where the cost of living is relatively low⁷. A couple can live comfortably on $2,600 a month or less, with rent included⁵. People can even find apartments in Panama City for $800 to $1,500 monthly⁵, and savvy expats can rent for $500 or less⁵. Affordable real estate options, such as two-bedroom condos for $160,000⁵, make Panama one of the best choices to live abroad in 2024. With 71% of expats feeling they are paid fairly⁶, it’s clear why financial satisfaction is notably high in this top expat location of 2024.

Work-Life Balance

Panama provides an admirable work-life balance, with many expats enjoying a comfortable general working schedule and adequate disposable income⁵. The slower pace of life, typified by the “mañana principle,” encourages residents to appreciate and adapt to a more relaxed lifestyle⁵. This approach ensures that Panama remains an appealing destination for both retirees and working expats.

Overall, these factors collectively establish Panama as the best place to live abroad in 2024, making it a highly desirable and top expat location for those seeking an enriched quality of life, sound financial satisfaction, and a balanced lifestyle.

Mexico: Another Expatriate Favorite

Mexico remains a top choice for many, with its blend of traditional charm and modern conveniences making it one of the most attractive destinations for expats. Renowned for its warmth and friendliness, the country draws people from all over the globe. The associated affordability and ease of settling in further enhance its appeal.

Happiness and Friendliness

Expats in Mexico report high levels of happiness and friendliness, with the nation continuously ranking as one of the top destinations for expats looking to live overseas⁸⁹. A survey by Internations.org reveals that Mexico ranked number one regarding ease of settling in for immigrants⁹. Cities like Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel de Allende, which boast large expatriate communities, contribute notably to this positive sentiment⁸. The overall happiness among expatriates in Mexico is significantly above the global average, making it a sought-after location for those searching for the best country for quality of life 2024.

Cost of Living

Mexico offers an attractive cost of living, with expats typically saving between 30-60% on health insurance costs compared to the US and other countries⁹. On average, a single person can live comfortably in Mexico on as little as $1,500 per month, while a couple can manage with $2,000 per month⁹. Popular areas like Lake Chapala, which hosts the largest concentration of U.S. expats globally, further enhance the economic attractiveness of living in Mexico⁸. Private healthcare costs are also notably affordable, with specialist consultations around $20⁹, driving more expats to consider Mexico as one of the top countries for expats 2024.

Safety Concerns

Despite its many advantages, safety concerns persist in Mexico, affecting its overall quality of life rating. Although expats enjoy a better cost of living and numerous amenities, safety remains a critical issue that deters some potential expatriates. Nevertheless, for many, the pros of living in Mexico, such as its vibrant culture and welcoming environment, outweigh these concerns. Areas like Tulum and Mérida, though, offer relatively safer environments and have become new hotspots for expats⁸. Additionally, Mexico’s policy allowing Americans to stay for up to six months on a tourist visa and longer with a temporary resident visa makes it an accessible and convenient destination for many¹⁰.

Indonesia: Rising Popularity Among Expats

Indonesia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expatriates, attractive for its affordable cost of living and positive work-life balance.

Cost of Living

Indonesia boasts an average cost of living of $567, which is 1.84 times less expensive than the world average, making it an ideal country to relocate in 2024¹¹. The city of Yogyakarta, Java offers an even more affordable lifestyle compared to Bali or Jakarta¹². Notably, compared to countries like Singapore and the United States, Indonesia is significantly more economical, with expenses nearly 81% lower than in Singapore¹¹.

Work-Life Balance

Expatriates in Indonesia benefit from a favorable work-life balance, which contributes to its rising status as the best country to live in 2024. Cities like Canggu, Bali, and Ubud, Bali offer unique lifestyles; Canggu attracts many digital nomads with its luxurious villas and top-notch co-working spaces, while Ubud is known for its slower pace and cultural richness¹². The job market in Indonesia is welcoming, particularly for expats skilled in education, technology, engineering, and hospitality, making it the ideal country to relocate in 2024¹¹.

Financial Satisfaction

Financial satisfaction is another significant draw for expatriates moving to Indonesia. The average after-tax salary in Indonesia is $332, which, though modest, is sufficient to cover living expenses for approximately 0.6 months due to the lower cost of living¹¹. The country’s varied accommodation options, from luxurious villas in Canggu to affordable housing in Yogyakarta, provide choices that suit different budgets¹². This financial comfort enhances the overall appeal, solidifying Indonesia’s reputation as an ideal country to relocate in 2024.

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Finland: Contrasting Happiness and Expat Experiences

Despite Finland being consistently ranked as the happiest nation globally according to the World Happiness Report¹³, expatriates often encounter a different reality. Renowned for offering high-quality public services, including top-notch healthcare and generous parental leaves¹³, Finland draws the attention of those searching for the most livable countries in 2024.

Quality of Public Services

Public services in Finland are among the best worldwide, characterized by free access to exceptional healthcare and education systems¹³. This is bolstered by the country’s supportive welfare system, which includes ample parental benefits and lengthy paid vacations¹³. Finland also stands out with its low rates of poverty and homelessness, ensuring a quality of life that’s hard to match¹³. Such factors contribute to its status as a leading contender among the top expat locations 2024.

Challenges for Expats

However, expatriates in Finland face notable challenges, particularly in adapting to the local language and severe climate. The average annual temperature varies drastically between seasons, from -7ºC in the south to -13ºC in the north in February¹⁴. Additionally, the country’s sparse population density and a short growing season due to the cold climate present unique hurdles for new residents¹⁴. These factors often complicate the integration process, contrasting sharply with the generally positive living experiences of native Finns.

Switzerland: High Salaries and Quality of Life

Switzerland stands out as one of the top destinations to live in 2024 due to its impressive salary levels, quality of life, and robust healthcare system. Below, we delve into key aspects such as income levels, healthcare, and the cost of living, providing a comprehensive overview of why Switzerland is considered the best country for quality of life 2024.

Income Levels

Switzerland is renowned for its high income levels. The average annual salary in Switzerland in 2024 is approximately 78,000 CHF, contributing significantly to the country’s high standard of living¹⁵. Minimum wage earners can expect around 4,426 CHF gross per month¹⁵. The IT and medical sectors are particularly lucrative, offering monthly salaries ranging from 6.5 to 12 thousand CHF and 7 to 12 thousand CHF, respectively¹⁵. With an average monthly income of US$7,958, Switzerland tops the global salary charts¹⁶.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Switzerland is of exceptional quality, contributing to one of the highest life expectancies in the world. Swiss law mandates health insurance for all residents, ensuring access to comprehensive medical services. Although the minimum health insurance coverage costs around 250 CHF per month, the benefits provided far outweigh the expenses¹⁵. This robust healthcare system is a pivotal factor that marks Switzerland as the best country for quality of life 2024.

Cost of Living

While Switzerland is one of the top destinations to live in 2024, it is important to note its high cost of living. Renting a flat can cost anywhere from 1,000 to 3,000 CHF per month, depending on the size and location¹⁵. Additional housing fees typically range between 150 to 250 CHF per month¹⁵. The monthly cost of groceries runs between 600-800 CHF¹⁵, and a public transport subscription costs about 70-100 CHF per month¹⁵.

In summary, despite the high cost of living, the combination of substantial income levels, exceptional healthcare, and overall quality of life make Switzerland a prime candidate for anyone seeking the best country for quality of life 2024.

Australia: Laid-Back Lifestyle with High Standards of Living

Australia combines a laid-back lifestyle with high living standards, making it a strong contender for the best place to live abroad 2024. With a favorable climate and stunning natural beauty, the country consistently ranks among the top countries for expats 2024.

Natural Beauty and Climate

Australia’s natural landscapes offer a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Cities like Brisbane enjoy over 300 days of sunshine annually, while Perth boasts a sunny Mediterranean climate¹⁷. Hobart, in Tasmania, offers a mild and balmy summer climate, enhancing the appeal of settling down in this stunning region¹⁷.

Healthcare and Education

Australia provides access to its public healthcare system for some subsidized services¹⁸. Most residents also maintain private health insurance to supplement public healthcare, with comprehensive coverage available from providers like Allianz¹⁸. For education, the country offers quality options, with annual secondary school tuition fees varying from $158 for public primary schools to $12,860 for independent secondary schools¹⁹. University tuition in Australia ranges greatly, from $300 a week for English Language courses to between $11,000 and $121,000 per year for an MBA¹⁹.

If you want to learn more about settling in Australia, you can read this comprehensive guide.

Work-Life Balance

Australia’s emphasis on a balanced lifestyle makes it one of the top countries for expats 2024. The average workweek here fluctuates, with the median weekly earnings ranging from $1,200 in South Australia to $1,550 in the Australian Capital Territory¹⁹. Additionally, co-working spaces are readily available in major cities, supporting a flexible work environment for remote workers¹⁸.

Cost of living is also a pivotal factor. For example, the cost of living in Australia in 2024 is estimated at around AU $4,312 per month for a single person or AU $7,786 per month for a family of four¹⁹. Sydney leads as the best place in Australia to find work, but it’s also one of the more expensive cities¹⁷. In contrast, places like Adelaide offer lower costs of living and stable house prices, making them attractive for those looking to balance their finances effectively¹⁷.

Norway: High Quality of Life and Safety

Norway stands out as an ideal country to relocate in 2024 due to its high quality of life and safety. The country consistently ranks highly in various quality of life indices, including the Quality of Life Index by Numbeo and the Human Development Index (HDI) from the United Nations, reflecting a very high standard of living and well-being²⁰. U.S. News Best Countries Report listed Norway as the 4th best country for quality of life²⁰.

Living Conditions

When it comes to living conditions, Norway is among the most livable countries in 2024. The country’s population of approximately 5.5 million enjoys unprecedented benefits, including up to five weeks of paid summer vacation and 25 annual paid vacation days²¹. This substantial vacation time contributes significantly to a favorable work-life balance, which is one of the indicators researchers use to evaluate the Human Progress Index²².

Safety

Safety is another crucial aspect of Norway’s allure. With a remarkably low crime rate, residents and expatriates alike can enjoy an environment focused on personal freedoms and security. This low crime environment not only elevates the sense of well-being among its residents but also contributes to Norway’s high ranking on global safety indices²².

Public Services

Norway’s public services are exemplary, setting it apart as one of the most livable countries in 2024. The country’s extensive public healthcare and education systems add to its appeal. The public healthcare system is comprehensive but often involves long waiting times for non-urgent surgeries, such as up to two years for a deviated septum surgery²¹. Such statistics highlight areas of both strength and needed improvement, but overall, Norway’s commitment to providing robust public services significantly contributes to its high quality of life.

In summary, Norway’s impressive rankings across various indices and its strong focus on citizen well-being make it an ideal country to relocate in 2024. The nation’s excellent living conditions, safety, and public services underscore why so many expatriates consider it one of the most livable countries in 2024²².

Denmark: A Perfect Blend of Modernism and Tradition

Denmark uniquely combines modernity and tradition, making it one of the top destinations to live in 2024. Expats and locals alike appreciate its robust work-life balance, community-centric culture, and high-quality public services. It is recognized globally as a haven for quality living due to its well-structured socio-economic setup and emphasis on sustainable living²³.

Work-Life Balance

The concept of work-life balance is seamlessly integrated into Danish culture. Denmark’s welfare system guarantees residents a fair allocation of time between professional commitments and personal life. Many expats admire the strong distinctions observed between work hours and personal time, complementing a high overall quality of life²³.

Community and Culture

Community and social connections are paramount in Denmark, offering a warm welcome to new arrivals. The country’s vibrant culture, characterized by festivals, historical sites, and a strong sense of togetherness, makes it a prime candidate for those searching for the best country for quality of life 2024²³. Museums such as the Hans Christian Andersen birthplace, built in 2007, and art collections at Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek highlight Denmark’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its rich heritage²⁴.

Public Services

Denmark’s public services are exemplary, featuring an affordable and high-quality education system, as well as a unique healthcare framework where healthcare payments are deducted from paychecks as tax withholdings²³. Additionally, the country supports equality and provides extensive social programs, strengthening its appeal as one of the top destinations to live in 2024²³.

Expats should note that Denmark offers four main types of visas: work visa, student visa, family reunification visa, and spouse visa. A temporary residency permit is valid for five years, ensuring newcomers can comfortably establish themselves in this modern yet traditionally rich nation²³.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when evaluating the *best country to live in 2024*, the findings suggest a diverse range of options catering to various preferences and needs. Panama stands out for its excellent quality of life, financial satisfaction, and work-life balance, making it a top contender for expatriates. Conversely, Mexico offers happiness, friendliness, and an affordable cost of living, despite some safety concerns.

Indonesia appeals to many with its rising popularity among expats, due to its affordable living costs and satisfactory work-life balance. Finland, though highly rated for public services and happiness, presents certain challenges for expatriates. On a similar note, Switzerland offers high-income levels and superior healthcare, albeit at a higher cost of living.

The *top countries to live in 2024* also include Australia, known for its laid-back lifestyle, excellent healthcare, and education, alongside Norway, renowned for its high quality of life and safety. Denmark seamlessly blends modernism and tradition, enhancing work-life balance and community engagement, setting the benchmark for exemplary living conditions. For more detailed insights, readers can explore the Global Peace Index report which highlights the safest countries, including Iceland, Singapore, and Japan, noted for their safety and quality of life here²⁵. These insights help guide those planning a move abroad in making informed decisions about their prospective homes.

Source Links

1. https://www.forbes.com/sites/laurabegleybloom/2024/07/08/expats-rank-the-best-places-to-live-in-the-world/
2. https://www.william-russell.com/blog/best-countries-for-american-expats-to-move-and-live-abroad/
3. https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/healthiest-countries
4. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/30-best-countries-live-world-193938173.html
5. https://internationalliving.com/countries/panama/live/
6. https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/04/the-no-1-country-for-expats-to-live-and-work-abroad.html
7. https://panamarelocationtours.com/living-in-panama
8. https://internationalliving.com/best-places-live-mexico-u-s-expat/
9. https://mexicorelocationguide.com/living-in-mexico/
10. https://www.veranda.com/travel/g60717973/best-countries-for-expats/
11. https://www.reloc8asia.com/in-focus/everything-you-need-to-know-when-relocating-to-indonesia-in-2024/
12. https://www.exotiqproperty.com/blog/where-do-most-expats-live-in-indonesia
13. https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2021/04/finland-happiness-lagom-hygge.html
14. https://finland.fi/life-society/nature-in-finland/
15. https://conotoxia.com/news/blog/your-finances/earnings-in-switzerland-in-2024-what-kind-of-a-paycheck-can-we-count-on
16. https://nomadcapitalist.com/finance/countries-with-highest-salaries/
17. https://www.simpsons-uk.com/best-places-to-live-in-australia
18. https://www.allianzcare.com/en/about-us/blog/an-expat-guide-to-living-in-australia.html
19. https://www.upmove.com.au/post/cost-of-living-in-australia
20. https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/standard-of-living-by-country
21. https://www.cnbc.com/2024/08/03/american-millennial-living-in-norway-im-so-much-happier-here.html
22. https://ceoworld.biz/2024/07/21/human-progress-index-hpi/
23. https://internationalmoving.com/moving-to-denmark/
24. https://www.martinrandall.com/danish-art-design
25. https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/moving-services/best-cities-to-move-to/

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Richard Hopp

As a passionate, global-thinking Real Estate Investor I am constantly looking for the best opportunities to invest in Properties. With Aparthotel.com I am building an All-In-One Global Real Estate Platform, where people can analyse, rent or invest in properties. Additionally I help Investors with comparing the best financing options as well as give detailed Consultation on the buying process for Real Estate Investments around the world. I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge on this Website and feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions.