The 10 Best Countries to Live In and Work Abroad

The 10 Best Countries to Live In and Work Abroad

Discover the top 10 best countries for expats and tourists in 2025. Explore the best destinations for work, quality of life, healthcare, and affordability. Learn how to move abroad successfully.

Introduction

Are you considering moving abroad for work or a better lifestyle? Whether you’re a tourist looking for extended stays or an expat seeking a long-term relocation, choosing the right country is essential. With the rise of remote work and international career opportunities, more people are exploring new destinations that offer affordability, high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and cultural richness.

In this guide, we explore the top 10 best countries to live and work abroad. We assess factors like cost of living, job opportunities, healthcare systems, and ease of settling in. Whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or professional, this list will help you find your ideal country.

What Makes a Country Ideal for Living and Working?

Before choosing a country, it’s crucial to consider several factors:

• Cost of Living – Can you afford to live comfortably?

• Quality of Life – Includes safety, healthcare, and work-life balance.

• Job Market & Income – Are there job opportunities, and do salaries match living expenses?

• Healthcare System – Access to high-quality medical care.

• Ease of Settling In – Language barriers, visa requirements, and expat communities.

Now, let’s dive into the best countries to live and work in 2025.

Top 10 Best Countries to Live and Work Abroad

1. Switzerland

• Average Expat Salary: $209,000

• Why Move Here? High wages, political stability, and excellent healthcare.

• Challenges: High cost of living, especially in cities like Zurich and Geneva.

• Healthcare: Switzerland has a private insurance-based healthcare system, making international health insurance necessary.

2. Mexico

• Average Expat Salary: $23,816

• Why Move Here? Low cost of living, warm climate, and friendly locals.

• Challenges: High crime rate in certain areas.

• Healthcare: Affordable medical care, but international health insurance is recommended.

3. Spain

• Average Expat Salary: $29,000

• Why Move Here? Affordable living, excellent healthcare, and rich culture.

• Challenges: Language barriers outside major cities.

• Healthcare: High-quality universal healthcare for citizens and expats.

4. Canada

• Average Expat Salary: $64,700

• Why Move Here? Free healthcare, high quality of life, and strong economy.

• Challenges: High cost of living in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

• Healthcare: Universal healthcare available to all residents.

5. Malaysia

• Average Expat Salary: $18,000

• Why Move Here? Low cost of living, warm climate, and growing job market.

• Challenges: Limited public healthcare options for expats.

• Healthcare: International health insurance is highly recommended.

6. Thailand

• Average Expat Salary: $34,000

• Why Move Here? Great food, low cost of living, and digital nomad-friendly.

• Challenges: Language barriers and limited public healthcare access.

• Healthcare: Quality healthcare available in private hospitals.

7. Norway

• Average Expat Salary: $54,159

• Why Move Here? High quality of life, strong economy, and social benefits.

• Challenges: High taxes and cost of living.

• Healthcare: Universal healthcare, but additional private insurance is beneficial.

8. Singapore

• Average Expat Salary: $75,888

• Why Move Here? Safe, business-friendly, and a global financial hub.

• Challenges: Expensive housing and strict laws.

• Healthcare: High-quality public and private healthcare.

9. Australia

• Average Expat Salary: $69,202

• Why Move Here? Warm climate, strong economy, and diverse culture.

• Challenges: Expensive cost of living in cities like Sydney.

• Healthcare: Universal healthcare with options for private insurance.

10. Finland

• Average Expat Salary: $51,388

• Why Move Here? High happiness index, quality education, and strong social support.

• Challenges: Harsh winters and high taxes.

• Healthcare: Universal healthcare for all residents.

Healthcare Considerations for Expats

When moving abroad, it’s essential to have access to reliable medical care. Expats and tourists can benefit from international telehealth services like Travel Doctor for basic primary care. For specific treatments, check What We Treat. Learn more about how telehealth works at How It Works.

For in-person medical care, visit:

• Paris: American Medical Center Paris

• Budapest: Expat Medical Hungary

• Berlin: Arzt Besuche

• Bucharest: Expat Medical Romania

• Telehealth in Argentina & Mexico: Travel Doctor ES

• Athens & Crete: Doctor Athens

• Krakow: Doctor Krakow

• Vienna: Doctors on Call

• Prague: Health Centre Prague

Summary of Key Points

• Switzerland offers high wages but a high cost of living.

• Mexico and Spain offer affordability and excellent healthcare.

• Canada and Australia provide strong economies and free healthcare.

• Singapore is great for professionals but expensive.

• Finland ranks high for happiness and social support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best country for expats in 2025?

Switzerland offers the highest salaries, but Mexico and Spain provide better affordability and lifestyle.

2. Which country has the best healthcare for expats?

Switzerland, Canada, and Finland offer some of the best healthcare systems worldwide.

3. Where is the cheapest place to live as an expat?

Mexico, Malaysia, and Thailand have low costs of living while still offering high quality of life.

4. How do I choose the right country for me?

Consider cost of living, job opportunities, healthcare, and lifestyle preferences before making a move.

Conclusion

Choosing the right country to live and work abroad requires careful planning. Whether you’re looking for a high-paying job in Switzerland, affordable living in Mexico, or excellent healthcare in Canada, there’s an option for everyone. Make sure to research visa requirements, cost of living, and healthcare options before making the move.

For personalized telehealth services while abroad, visit Travel Doctor to ensure you stay healthy and well-connected to medical professionals during your journey.