The top expat destinations have changed over the years. Traditionally, expats have chosen to live and work in well-known Western hubs like the UK or France, but recent global surveys show a shifting trend due to factors such as affordability, lifestyle, and flexibility.
For those planning a move, having practical guidance for settling abroad is essential. Start your journey here, with our guide to the top 7 countries for expats.
Affordability without compromise
With the rising cost of living worldwide, affordability and the power of currency has become a leading factor for those planning to live and work overseas. While Southeast Asia is a popular tourist destination, it’s also a popular expat hub, thanks to its low cost of living that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.
Vietnam ranks as one of the most affordable countries to live in globally, with its low housing and daily costs allowing remote workers and retirees to live a high quality of life on a modest budget. Similarly, Thailand offers a balance of affordability with well-developed infrastructure, and is known for its established expat community. Malaysia provides a slightly more elevated feel, with widespread English use, modern healthcare, and long-term visa options being attractive to expats.
Lifestyle-first living
Some expats move for culture, climate, and a slower pace of life – and this is where countries that offer a balance between work and life shine.
Spain continues to attract foreign nationals: in the latest available data from the Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE) from January 2026, the country is host to over 10 million foreign nationals – over 20% of their over 49.5 million inhabitants. The country’s relaxed lifestyle, excellent healthcare and infrastructure, and rich, vibrant culture make it an attractive destination for expats worldwide. Compared to other European countries, they also offer relatively reasonable living costs, adding to its appeal.
Mexico’s proximity to North America makes it a popular choice among expats from the region. The country offers choices for people with different lifestyle preferences from beach towns to major cities. Integration is easy with lower living expenses, and the social culture is laid-back and enjoyable – perfect for workers looking for work-life balance.
Financial and career advantage
For other expats, their focus is on long-term gains, whether financial or career-wise – like earning potential, tax breaks and residency programs, and opportunities for professional growth.
Panama topped the 2025 Expat Insider Survey as the best country for expats for the second year in a row, ranking high in several factors that make it attractive: ease of settling (2nd), economic practicality (3rd in personal finance), quality of life (3rd), and experience in working abroad (1st). Those who come to work here have also expressed a desire to stay: Panama is also a popular destination among retirees.
Similarly, Colombia, which ranked second in the same survey, offers both financial and job satisfaction to those who decide to move here. 81% of respondents said they were satisfied with their financial situation in Colombia – significantly higher than the 54% globally. In addition, they cited a better quality of life, low cost of living, and even love as what drew them to the country.
Choosing what works for you
There’s no single “best” country for expats; the key is knowing your priorities, whether it’s maximizing your savings, enjoying a slower pace of life, or advancing your career. Understand what matters to you, and choose a place that supports it.
