Study Reveals the Best Countries to Live and Work In 2025
With the modern workplace increasingly emphasizing work-life balance and career development (as well as a healthy taste for adventure), more employees are considering international opportunities than ever before. In fact, the Association of Americans Resident Overseas (AARO) estimates that currently, 5.5 million Americans live and work abroad.
“As the remote work revolution makes relocation more accessible to the average person, various countries are investing in policies that promote progressive work culture, healthcare, and family support initiatives in an effort to attract foreign talent,” says Wayne Mills, Head of Operations at Seven Seas Worldwide, a shipping company for international movers.
To find out which countries could be the best destinations for those looking to relocate, Wayne and his team conducted a study using data from the Standard of Living Index.
They calculated a livability score based on nine factors: human rights, democracy, freedom, economy, health, corruption, competency, future, and actions abroad. Each factor was given a score out of 100, with the totals added up to calculate each country’s final score.
Table 1: The Top Ten Best Countries to Live And Work In
Rank | Country | Total Score |
1 | Norway | 874.00 |
2 | Finland | 874.00 |
3 | Ireland | 851.00 |
4 | Netherlands | 851.00 |
5 | Luxembourg | 846.00 |
6 | Denmark | 846.00 |
7 | Estonia | 844.00 |
8 | Iceland | 842.00 |
9 | New Zealand | 841.00 |
10 | Switzerland | 840.00 |
#1 Norway
Norway came top of the table with an overall score of 874. “Norway was impressive across the board, scoring 100 in sixof the nine categories countries were rated on,” says Wayne. “It only scored lower in three categories: democracy and freedom, where it still scored in the nineties, and actions abroad, where it scored 87.”
Well known for its stunning mountain, fjord, and glacier landscapes, Norway has a strong economy, an excellent healthcare system, and little corruption. However, be aware that taxes are famously high.
#2 Finland
Finland came second, also scoring 874. Though it had the same score as Norway, it had fewer 100s, instead scoring in the high 90s across most categories. “It scored 100 in Health and Corruption, which reflects the country’s famously comprehensive healthcare system and stable democracy,” says Wayne.
#3 Ireland
The Republic of Ireland came third, scoring 851 overall. Ireland scored 100 in two categories: Human Rights and Economy. It scored 90+ in all other categories except Corruption, where it scored 84.
“Ireland offers the option between stunning natural landscapes, especially coastlines, and swiftly growing cities like Dublin,” says Wayne. “Plus, it’s rumored they keep all the best Guinness for themselves!”
#4 The Netherlands
The Netherlands came in fourth, scoring 851 overall. Although this was the same score as Ireland, the Netherlands was ranked lower because it scored in the 80s in two categories rather than just one. These categories were Future and Actions Abroad.
“The Netherlands did score 100 three times, however, in Economy, Health, and Corruption,” says Wayne. “This suggests it's a great place to relocate to, offering a good range of jobs and a strong healthcare system to support foreign guests.”
#5 Luxembourg
The small but influential country of Luxembourg claimed fifth place ahead of many much bigger nations, with a final score of 846. Luxembourg scored 100 in three categories: Human Rights, Health, and Competency. It had scores of over 90 in all other categories except Freedom, where it scored only 78.
“This is partially due to concern over laws banning face coverings in certain public settings, which some argue unfairly target Muslim residents,” says Wayne. “However, Luxembourg has a strong economy and bright future, so it's definitely a stable place to invest and potentially relocate to.”
In Conclusion
Selecting a place to live and work isn’t just about the job title or paycheck. When people consider relocating, they often focus on career advancement but overlook how important the location’s work-life balance culture is to their well-being. For example, cities with shorter commute times, ample green spaces, and plentiful cultural activities enhance your quality of life, reducing stress.
“These balanced environments allow professionals to excel in their careers and thrive in their personal lives,” concludes Wayne. “When you choose a location that aligns with your work and lifestyle needs, you’re setting yourself up for sustainable success.”
