Dreaming of packing your bags and moving to one of the world’s best cities? You’re not the only one! As interest in life abroad continues to rise, especially among Americans seeking a fresh start, the timing couldn’t be better for the latest Expat City Ranking by InterNations.
This annual report highlights the top destinations for living and working abroad, offering invaluable insights for expats and dreamers alike. As the world’s largest global community for expatriates, InterNations knows exactly what makes a city shine for those looking to build a life away from home. They asked over 12,500 expats about their life abroad, from quality of life to personal finances to find out which cities offer the best living experience.
Spain a big winner this year
Spain has truly shone on the global stage this year, sweeping the top ranks in the latest survey of the best cities to live in as an expat. With five cities featured in the top 25—three of them taking the gold, silver, and bronze spots—Spain has cemented its reputation as a dream destination for anyone seeking sunshine, culture, and a high quality of life. Valencia, Málaga, and Alicante lead the charge, offering expats everything from stunning landscapes to affordable living and a relaxed lifestyle.
Last year, Valencia came in third and Málaga won, so it seems that these cities will continue to swop places in this ranking and continually attract people from all over the world for their enviable quality of life.
Málaga – Happiness and Hospitality
Málaga has quickly become a favourite for expats around the globe. Situated along Spain’s Costa del Sol, Málaga combines stunning coastal scenery with a warm, welcoming community. The city excels in “ease of settling in,” with expats consistently praising the locals’ friendliness and the city’s laid-back vibe. Whether you’re sipping a café con leche in a plaza or enjoying fresh seafood along the beach, Málaga offers a lifestyle that feels like a perpetual vacation.
One standout feature of Málaga is the happiness of its residents. According to the survey, this city is home to some of the happiest expats in the world. That joy is easy to understand when you consider Málaga’s sun-soaked weather, rich cultural heritage, and abundance of activities. From visiting the Picasso Museum to exploring historic castles and lively markets, there’s always something to do. On top of that, the city is a growing hub for digital nomads and remote workers, thanks to its excellent digital infrastructure and affordable cost of living.
Spain’s Other Stars
While Valencia, Málaga, and Alicante grabbed the spotlight, Spain’s bustling capitals also made the cut. Madrid ranked seventh, thanks to its world-class culture and career opportunities, while Barcelona secured the 21st spot for its vibrant mix of cosmopolitan living and beachside relaxation. Both cities offer their own unique blend of history, gastronomy, and modernity, proving that no matter where you land in Spain, there’s something special waiting for you.
Global Contenders: Beyond Spain
Spain may have dominated the rankings, but other global cities also made a strong showing. Panama City and Mexico City stood out for their affordability and ease of integration, while Bangkok impressed expats with its low cost of living and lively atmosphere. Abu Dhabi and Dubai, meanwhile, were celebrated for their efficient administration and excellent digital infrastructure, making them attractive hubs for expats worldwide.
How did the US and Canada fare?
For the second year running, no U.S. city has cracked the top 25 in global rankings. New York City, the highest-ranked American city, lands at a disappointing 28th place. The report points to challenges like affordability and work-life balance as key issues. While expats rave about the Big Apple’s rich cultural scene and world-class dining, many struggle with the sky-high cost of living and housing woes. As one respondent put it, “The cost of living here is outrageous, and it feels impossible to save.”
Canadian cities fare even worse, with Vancouver sinking to dead last at 53rd place and Toronto not far behind at 51st. Housing costs are a glaring problem, with Vancouver taking the unfortunate title of the least affordable city for housing in the world. Career prospects are also grim in Vancouver, where nearly 30% of expats are actively job hunting—three times the global average. Adding to its woes, the city gets a failing grade for its social scene, with 63% of expats saying they struggle to make local friends.
Spain’s remarkable sweep of the top spots this year showcases the country’s unparalleled ability to offer a high quality of life, cultural richness, and affordability. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant metropolis, a tranquil seaside retreat, or something in between, Spain’s cities promise an expat experience like no other.
The 25 Best Cities To Live In The World according to InterNations Annual Report
1. Valencia, Spain
2. Málaga, Spain
3. Alicante, Spain
4. Panama City, Panama
5. Mexico City, Mexico
6. Bangkok, Thailand
7. Madrid, Spain
8. Abu Dhabi, UAE
9. Dubai, UAE
10, Vienna, Austria
11. Lisbon, Portugal
12. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
13. Basel, Switzerland
14. Muscat, Oman
15. Athens, Greece
16. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
17. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
18. Amsterdam, Netherlands
19. Copenhagen, Denmark
20. Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
21. Barcelona, Spain
22. Zurich, Switzerland
23. Stockholm, Sweden
24. Taipei, Taiwan
25. Nairobi, Kenya
You can see the complete list here, and also comments from people who took part in the survey.
Source: Forbes
