Th 10 Best Places for Expats to Live in 2024

Planning to move abroad? Seeking increased global mobility and a better work-life balance?

This guide aims to present aspiring expats or Americans living abroad with some of the best places to live as an expat.

Whether you elect Europe or the Caribbean islands as your chosen destination, we will walk you through several of the best places in the world to live, as well as the best places to start a new life.

In this guide, you will find out more about the best places for expats to live in the world. These are countries with a welcoming culture, a solid local job market with career prospects, where you can improve your financial situation, and enjoy a high quality of life.

Why do expats move abroad?

Many expats who choose to move abroad to a different country seek qualities that may not be available to them in their home countries. These include:

• Career opportunities
• A better quality of life and work-life balance
• A low general cost of living
• Attractive tax benefits to save on personal finances
• Incredible landscapes
• A slower pace of day-to-day life

Cities like Bangkok in Thailand have cheap and high-quality food. You can access recreational sports and adventure activities in Costa Rica. Malta offers local friendliness and political stability. Mexico City boasts low rental prices that you can enjoy while being on the doorstep of the US. Expats report in publications like the Expat Insider Survey that many of these qualities and more are available to foreign residents in some of the best expat locations to live in.

Where to live overseas?

Europe

Drawn by a mild climate and diverse cultures in some countries, and history and entertainment in others, it’s no wonder that Europe has some of the best countries to live in overseas. Not only will you be taken aback by the rich history, culture, friendly local residents, and optimal weather of European countries, but you’ll have access to a cheap cost of living, numerous delicious cuisines, and be able to make the most of the incredible scenery that you’ll find across countries in Europe.

EU countries like Portugal, Spain, Malta, and Cyprus are among the best places to live in Europe for families. Their heavy focus on community, an active social life, low rates of crime, and inherent family-friendly nature provide an environment for children to flourish.

The Caribbean

If you seek pristine waters, world-class beaches, a tropical climate, and a culturally rich and calm social life, the Caribbean islands are another popular destination that American expats choose to relocate to.

While it may not appeal to those seeking career opportunities for working abroad or big city life, retirees find it easy to enjoy a relaxed style of living and boost their mental well-being while admiring the wonders of nature in some of the best places to live in the world.

5 Benefits for an Expat Living in Europe

Living in Europe as an expat can offer a wide range of benefits, spanning cultural, professional, and personal growth opportunities. Significant attractions for Americans include a high standard of living, job security, and access to a world-class healthcare system and education. Most EU countries have affordable retirement plans, as well as the security of a second residence in a politically and economically stable country are just a few of the benefits available.

High Quality of Life: Many EU countries are known for their high standard of living, excellent public healthcare systems, efficient public transport, and strong emphasis on work-life balance. This can significantly improve the quality of life for expats and their families.

Travel Opportunities: Europe’s compact geography and excellent transportation networks make it easy to travel between countries. This accessibility allows expats to explore a variety of landscapes, historical sites, and cities on weekends or holidays, enriching their living experience.

Professional Growth: Europe is home to numerous multinational companies and industries, offering expats diverse career opportunities. Working in Europe can enhance an expat’s professional skills, expose them to international business practices, and expand their professional network.

Social Security and Healthcare: Many European nations offer comprehensive social security benefits and public healthcare to residents, including expats who meet certain criteria. This can provide peace of mind regarding health and financial security.

Cultural Exposure: Europe’s rich history and diverse cultures provide a unique tapestry of experiences. Expats have the opportunity to immerse themselves in different languages, traditions, cuisines, and festivals, enhancing their global understanding and appreciation for diversity.

The 5 Best Places to Live for Expats in Europe

Portugal

Portugal is rated as one of the best countries to live for expats. It scores highly on the Quality of Life Index, cost of living, personal safety reports, and friendliness of locals towards expats. Its mild climate, beautiful beaches, innovative tech sector, and slower pace of life make Portugal one of the best places to live overseas.

There are many advantages to living in Portugal as an expat. Its incredible weather, vibrant cities like Lisbon and Porto, and beaches are not the only reasons for expats to move to Portugal.

• The cost of living in Portugal is low.
• Its citizens have high English proficiency.
• There is adequate and accessible public transportation.
• It’s one of the easiest countries to live a great quality of life abroad.
• Career prospects are abundant in major cities.
• Expat families benefit from superb international schools.

Whatever you are looking for, there are plenty of places to live in Portugal. These are among the most popular spots for expats:

• The Algarve
• Cascais and Estoril
• Central Portugal
• Lisbon
• Porto

Portugal’s D7 Visa Program – also referred to as the Portugal Passive Income Visa – is an attractive residency option for non-EU nationals with retirement incomes or who work remotely. A monthly foreign income of €820.00 can make you eligible for the Portugal D7 Visa. The requirement also entails maintaining a bank balance of €19,840 for the duration of the application period.

This government-sponsored program offers several benefits for expats in Portugal. These include:

• The right to family reunification
• A waiver of the general residence visas for Portugal
• A visa exemption for Schengen Area travel
• The right to apply for permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship after five years, as long as you fulfill the program requirements

Spain

Famous for its food, culture, quality work-life balance, friendly locals, and celebrations, Spain is one of the best European countries for expats. You will not be disappointed by its diverse sceneries and various pockets of natural wonders to discover. It’s the closest taste of Latin America that you’ll find in Europe.

Spain has many qualities other countries don’t have, making life abroad a blast. Spain’s relatively low cost of living, growing population of young professionals, digital nomads, and remote workers, and diverse cities and landscapes are just a few reasons why Spain is one of the best places to live in Europe for young adults.

One of the main advantages of living in Spain as an expat is its rich quality of life. These advantages include:

• Fantastic beaches on the country’s mainland as well as various Spanish islands
• Great healthcare system available to all residents
• Some of the world’s most revered cuisine
• A rich and diverse culture
• Comfortable climate year-round with the option of cooler weather in the north and warmer weather in the south
• High-quality schools for children of expat families
• Friendly locals who welcome foreign nationals
• World-class museums like El Prado in Madrid and the Picasso Museum in Malaga

With Spain being the second largest country in Western Europe, you will find plenty of options to settle down in. Whether you prefer living in a large or small city or a picturesque villa on the Mediterranean coast, you will find all sorts of options in Spain. Some of the best places to live in Spain as an expat are:

• Barcelona
• Madrid
• Valencia
• Granada
• Bilbao
• The Canary Islands

The Golden Visa scheme in Spain is a type of residency by investment visa program several European countries have introduced. Established by the Spanish government in 2013, the program is designed for non-EU foreigners looking to invest in the country in exchange for residency. There is a range of investment options, with the minimum investment being €500,000 in real estate.

Qualifying applicants and their immediate family members are issued with a renewable residency visa, as well as a possible pathway to Spanish permanent residency after five years. Golden Visa holders who have lived in Spain for ten years may be eligible for Spanish citizenship.

Greece

White-washed buildings against the backdrop of deep blue seas in Mykonos are just one of the appealing aspects of relocating to Greece. The county is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and profound history, significantly contributing to the world’s cultural heritage. Greece’s influence on philosophy, art, politics, and language is immeasurable, and its ancient sites, like the Acropolis and Delphi, continue to inspire new generations. 

Greece provides a unique European experience for third-country nationals. The cost of living is lower than most countries in Western Europe, as well as the US, the UK, and Australia, and luxury properties are available at reasonable prices. 

One of the main advantages of living in Greece as an expat is an island living in a developed EU country. These advantages include:  

• Hundreds of beaches to choose from to invest in property 
• A reasonable cost of living  
• Numerous historical sites and artifacts to explore, like the Parthenon and Meteora 
• A warm Mediterranean climate 
• Friendly locals who welcome foreign nationals 
• A large expat community of British citizens and Americans 

Greece’s plethora of islands and regular transport links provide plenty of options for relocation. Whether you prefer living in a cosmopolitan city or a quiet village, there are all options in Greece. Some of the best places to live in Greece as an expat are: 

• Athens 
• Thessaloniki 
• Chania 
• Santorini 
• Corfu 
• Rhodes 

The Greek Golden Visa program is an immigrant investor scheme introduced by the Greek government to encourage third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss nationals) to invest in the Greek economy in exchange for residency. A range of investment options is available, and the most popular is a real estate purchase of at least €250,000. 

Qualifying investors and eligible family members gain a renewable permanent residence permit, initially valid for five years. After seven years of residency, Golden Visa holders may be eligible for Greek citizenship. 

Cyprus

Known as the jewel of the Mediterranean, Cyprus is a beautiful, laid-back island nation between Greece and Turkey. With its breathtaking coastal atmosphere, exotic cuisine, and rich culture and history, it is no wonder why it has become one of the best places to live overseas.

Year-round sunny weather and affordable living costs are some of the main advantages of living in Cyprus as an expat. Other considerable benefits include:

• Low crime rates compared to other EU countries
• A number of tax concessions to save on personal finance
• A reputation as one of the best places to live in Europe for English speakers due to high English proficiency among Cypriots

This beautiful island offers many wonders to discover, but here are some of the best places to live in Cyprus:

• Paphos
• Limassol
• Nicosia
• Larcana
• Famagusta
• Kyrenia

The Cyprus Permanent Residence Program allows individuals to obtain Cypriot residency by investing in the country’s economy, usually in real estate or government bonds. In Cyprus, you can acquire a renewal permanent residence permit through a qualifying investment of €300,000 in real estate purchases, shares in a Cypriot company, or units of a Cyprus Collective Investment Organization (e.g., AIF, AIFLNP, RAIF).

Interested in the Cyprus Permanent Residence Program? Get in touch with our specialists at Global Citizen Solutions for more information on how we can help you secure Cypriot residency in no time.

Malta

Steeped in history and culture, Malta is a beautiful Mediterranean island nation with some of the world’s best diving spots. Do not be deterred by its small size, as Malta offers many kinds of entertainment and historical wonders, from dancing the night away on the Isle of MTV to gazing at the Ggantija Temples and drifting through the eerie remains of the HMS Maori in St. Elmo Bay.

Living in Malta as an expat has many benefits. You can limit the culture shock due to the absence of language barriers, as English is the joint official language in the country. Since 88 percent of the population speaks fluent English, it’s one of the best EU countries for an American expat to live in.

The health care system is also excellent, living costs are very affordable, the economy is booming, making it ideal for optimizing personal finances, and the weather is incredible all year. Malta is also one of Europe’s most politically stable countries, with over 40 years of political neutrality.

Malta is a small island, so real estate is relatively limited compared to countries like Spain and Portugal. However, it offers a great variety of places to discover along the coast, in the countryside, or the urban areas. Here are some of the best places to live in Malta:

• Valletta
• St. Paul’s Bay
• Victoria
• Mdina and Rabat
• City of Birgu

The Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program (CES) provides a quick and efficient journey to a European passport. Maltese citizenship by naturalization can be obtained after 12 months with a minimum investment of €600,000 and after 36 months with a minimum investment of €750,000. In total, three payments need to be made before qualifying for citizenship.

The three investments include:

1. A direct, non-refundable investment: An exceptional direct investment of a minimum value of €600,000 or €750,000 for the main applicant, depending on the residence period selected: 12 or 36 months (an additional investment of €53,000 is required for each dependent in the application).
2. Real estate investment: A lease for residential real estate for a minimum of €16,000 per year for five years or a real estate purchase for a minimum of €700,000. Purchased properties must be kept for at least five years.
3. Philanthropic donation: A donation of €10,000 to a registered sport, cultural, scientific, philanthropic, the welfare of animals, or artistic non-governmental organization or society as approved by the Community Malta Agency (CMA).

The citizenship program may include additional fees, such as the due diligence and administration fees.

The 5 Best Places to Live for Expats in the Caribbean

More and more American expats are moving to the Caribbean due to its tranquil lifestyle, world-class beaches, stunning scenery, political stability, and proximity to the US. US expats also consider Latin American countries like Mexico and Costa Rica for similar reasons.

Caribbean countries are very popular for American expats looking for a second passport. For example, the St. Kitts and Nevis passport offers visa-free travel to over 150 countries globally, and the passports of other Caribbean countries, like St. Lucia and Antigua and Barbuda, also provide substantial visa-free access. All these passports include visa-free access throughout the EU’s Schengen Area without having to secure a tourist visa.

Many investors can permanently settle in the Caribbean thanks to Caribbean citizenship by investment (CBI) programs. With the highest score on the CBI Index for 2022, Dominica has consistently been rated as the best place to live as a US expat.

Dominica

A tropical paradise in the Caribbean, Dominica has plenty to offer expats. Its waterfalls, volcanoes, hot springs, and beautiful beaches create the ideal setting for an adventurous and relaxing life as an expat.

It’s also an environmentally conscious and sustainable destination. The Dominica government has put much effort into conservation, preservation, and green energy. With a very affordable local cost of living, this unspoiled paradise will give you a remarkable daily life.

The country offers one of the cheapest real estate prices per square meter in the Caribbean and the cheapest place to buy residential and commercial property of all Caribbean CBI countries.

Dominica’s citizenship by investment program offers individuals the unique ability to obtain citizenship by investing in the nation’s economy. The country offers two investment options: real estate investment or a government contribution to the country’s Economic Diversification Fund (EDF).

With its breathtaking scenery, luscious national parks, friendly locals, and gorgeous beaches, Dominica’s citizenship program has become extremely popular, granting qualifying applicants Dominica citizenship and a second passport within three to six months.

You can acquire a Dominica passport by contributing $100,000 to the country’s EDF or purchasing pre-approved real estate for at least $200,000.

Antigua and Barbuda

Blessed with some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world, crystal clear waters, and a year-round warm climate, as well as low crime rates due to strict law enforcement, Antigua and Barbuda stands out as one of the best countries for safety in the Caribbean to live a pure life as an expat.

For those looking for the best countries for American expats with families, Antigua and Barbuda has a highly rated school system and international schools with a lower average student-to-teacher ratio than comparable schools in the US.

Antigua and Barbuda established its citizenship by investment initiative in 2012 to promote economic growth sustainably by attracting overseas developers and increasing foreign direct investment in the nation.

You can acquire an Antigua and Barbuda passport by investment by making a government contribution to the country’s National Development Fund (NDF), purchasing government-approved real estate, or establishing a business on the islands.

An added benefit is the country provides the option to invest in the University of the West Indies Fund, which includes a one-year scholarship for one dependant.

Starting from a qualifying investment of $100,000, you and your immediate family can acquire Antigua and Barbudan passports in three to six months.

You can find out more about the program in our article: Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Ultimate Guide.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Famously known for its stunning scenery, clean city streets, white sandy beaches, and tropical climate, St. Kitts and Nevis is one of the top places to settle down and live a relaxed lifestyle.

The St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship by investment program allows qualifying investors to obtain dual citizenship and keep more money in their bank account by earning a tax-free worldwide income.

Its program starts with a contribution of $250,000 to the country’s Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC), and investors also have the option to purchase pre-approved real estate to qualify for one of the Caribbean’s most powerful passports.

Grenada

Known as ‘The Spice Island of the Caribbean,’ Grenada is a beautiful island nation and cultural melting pot with a large expat community.

The country is famous for its white-sandy beaches, coral reefs, and unspoiled landscapes, providing the ideal setting for a relaxed life in paradise.

Although the country is relatively expensive, you’ll enjoy a simple lifestyle among warm and welcoming locals. You’ll also benefit from modern amenities like fast internet speeds.

Grenada’s citizenship by investment program offers the unique ability to obtain citizenship by investing in the country’s economy.

While it doesn’t stake claim to the cheapest living costs, its CBI program is affordable among Caribbean nations, starting with a minimum investment of $150,000.

A purchase of pre-approved real estate is also a viable option for citizenship, and an added advantage is that the country sits outside the hurricane belt, shielding it from the severe hurricane damage that affects many other Caribbean nations.

St. Lucia

One of the world’s number one countries with a laid-back culture and island life, Saint Lucia is an incredible island nation in the Caribbean, comprising picturesque beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanoes.

The country’s hospitable people will welcome you in one of the best places to live outside the US that speaks English. The country ranks highly for ease of settling in, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful social life in this tropical paradise through its welcoming atmosphere.

St. Lucia’s citizenship by investment program provides the opportunity to obtain citizenship by investing in the nation’s economy. Investments start from $100,000, and expats can choose to invest in real estate, the National Economic Fund, government bonds, or a new enterprise.

Best Expat Online Communities

Are you intimidated by the prospect of leaving your home country and moving abroad to start a new life in a new country? Do not worry. Plenty of expat community groups are available, providing you with a personal support network to ease the transition to a new chapter abroad and introduce you to the local expat communities.

InterNations allows you to connect and exchange directly with other international people who live or work abroad. Quickly get in touch with other like-minded expats, attend events and activities, and build a network of expat friends. The platform’s Expat Insider Survey provides a detailed perspective on living abroad through the lens of expats.

Meetup helps you find and create local social support groups. Use Meetup to encounter new people and international workers working abroad, try new activities, learn expat essentials, and build new friendships. It’s also a helpful platform to find housing in foreign countries.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Places to Live for Expats

Where is the best place to live?

Portugal has been ranked in numerous global studies as the top country in the world for expats seeking a new residence. A warm climate, fresh seafood, and stunning beaches make Portugal popular for expats looking to move abroad.

Portuguese residents also benefit from a consistently low cost of living compared to other nations in Western Europe, as well as excellent public services and infrastructure. Part of Portugal’s appeal lies in its options for residency.

Foreigners can gain renewable residence permits through the Portugal Golden Visa program, starting with a minimum investment of €250,000. The country also provides one of Europe’s most accessible foreign income visas, the Portugal D7 Visa, which requires an income of just €820.00 in addition to a bank deposit.

What is the cheapest and safest country to live in?

When considering both factors equally, Portugal is the cheapest and safest country to live in. It was rated as the best country for expats to retire abroad, scoring highly on the Quality of Life Index and with a low general cost of living and clean air.

Regarding safety, Portugal is a favored destination for many expats looking to relocate who are concerned about personal safety. The country ranked seventh out of 163 countries in the Global Peace Index. This was largely attributed to Portugal’s low crime rates, political stability, and good relations with neighboring countries.

Where can expats live permanently?

Expats have many options to choose from when thinking about permanently living abroad. Portugal and Spain’s Golden Visa schemes allow non-EU citizens to move to Europe and obtain residency, provided they first meet the program’s investment requirements. Foreign nationals can apply for permanent residency after renewing their visa and five years of residency.

Several Caribbean islands are also popular options for American expats due to their proximity to the US, high standards of living, and minimal bureaucracy when applying for citizenship. Caribbean citizenship by investment countries like Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Grenada are ideal as investors can contribute to their economy and gain citizenship to live there permanently.

How can a non-EU citizen move to Europe?

Non-EU citizens have many options on the table when considering moving to Europe. Malta offers a relatively straightforward way to obtain EU residency through its permanent residence program. Non-EU citizens can purchase or rent property for a specified period and amount to receive a renewable permanent residence permit in Malta.

Malta also has a citizenship by naturalization program, allowing non-EU nationals to gain Maltese citizenship, provided they make three qualifying investments. The qualifying investments include:

• A real estate purchase or lease.
• A government contribution.
• A philanthropic donation amounting to a total investment of at least

The total investment amounts to at least €690,000. In return, they receive Maltese citizenship and an EU passport in 12 to 36 months.

Meanwhile, Italy and Spain’s Golden Visa programs permit foreigners to reside in the country, provided they make a qualifying investment in the economy, which starts at €500,000. Foreign nationals can renew their visa, provided they maintain their investment for at least five years. After five years, investors are eligible for permanent residency.

What is the Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa is a residency by investment program allowing individuals and their immediate families to obtain a residency permit in a foreign country by making a qualifying investment in its economy. Various countries offer this investment program to attract foreign investors and stimulate economic growth.

The specific requirements and eligible investments vary from country to country but commonly include options like real estate investment, establishing new businesses, purchasing government bonds, or other forms of capital infusion.

Which country in Europe is easiest to get citizenship?

Malta is the easiest overall option for expats seeking EU citizenship. After meeting the requirements for the Malta Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program (CES), non-EU nationals can gain Maltese citizenship by naturalization in 12 to 36 months.

Italian nationality laws will allow persons with Italian heritage to fast-track citizenship through ancestry. Applicants must prove that their parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents were Italian citizens. Additionally, Italy has no official generational limit to quality for citizenship by descent.

Meanwhile, Spain offers the fastest way to get EU citizenship if you’re a national of one of the former Spanish colonies.

Which country gives citizenship by buying property?

Countries that allow foreign nationals to acquire citizenship through investing in real estate are:

• Malta
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominica
• Saint Lucia
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• Grenada
• Turkey
• Jordan

The specific requirements for citizenship by investing in real estate vary from country to country. Some may include additional financial contributions or government fees.

Can a non-EU citizen live in Spain?

Non-EU citizens can live in Spain thanks to Spain’s Golden Visa program. The investment program grants foreign nationals a renewable residence permit in exchange for investing at least €500,000 in the Spanish economy.

The Spain Non-lucrative Visa is another viable option to reside in Spain legally. You can gain Spanish residency if you can support yourself with an annual foreign income of at least €28,800.

Which countries offer Golden Visas?

Countries that offer Golden Visas are:

• Spain
• Italy
• Greece
• United Arab Emirates

How can I get permanent residency in Spain?

To obtain permanent residency in Spain, you must reside in the country for five years, and the primary condition is that, during those five years, you will not have been out of the country for more than ten months at a time.

The Spanish Golden Visa provides a route to legally reside in Spain until eligible for permanent residency. The visa requires a minimum investment of €500,000, which must be maintained for a five-year period to maintain a valid residence permit.

Do US citizens pay taxes in Spain?

If you are considered a Spanish tax resident, you must file a tax return and pay tax to the Spanish government. However, a US–Spain tax treaty was originally signed in 1990 with an additional protocol signed in 2013 but only ratified in 2019 that reduced withholding taxes on dividends, interest, and royalties and increased tax information sharing between the two countries.

Additionally, US citizens living or working abroad may be eligible for tax relief of up to $112,000 through the provision of the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion, as well as the Foreign Housing Exclusion or Deduction, helping US citizens living abroad reduce taxation on their overseas income.