The World’s Top 25 Cities For Expats In 2024

by THEFUTURE.TEAM
November 27, 2024
Top 25 Cities for Expats

Disclaimer: Data for the Expat City Ranking was collected in February 2024 prior to the floods in some regions of Spain that occurred in October and November. It therefore does not reflect the impact of these catastrophic events.

Are you searching for the best places to live abroad? InterNations, the largest global community for expatriates, has released its annual “Expat City Ranking” a comprehensive survey revealing the top cities in which to live and work internationally. Based on responses from over 12,500 expats across 53 cities in 35 countries, the ranking evaluates locations on key indices like quality of life, ease of adaptation, personal finances, and more. This report serves as a guide for those seeking to thrive in new destinations, offering insights on the cost of living, job satisfaction, and social integration.

Valencia: The Return of a Global Favorite

After dropping to third place in 2023, Valencia reclaimed its title as the world’s best city for expats in 2024. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable lifestyle, Valencia ranked highest in the Quality of Life Index. Expats praise its accessible public transportation (96% positive feedback) and abundant recreational opportunities (95% approval). Remarkably, all surveyed expats felt safe in the city.

However, Valencia faces challenges in the Work Abroad Index, ranking 31st due to limited career opportunities and a competitive job market. Despite this, the city’s appeal is undeniable—27% of expats relocated to Valencia for its superior quality of life.

Spain Shines with Multiple Entrants

Spain dominates this year’s ranking, with five cities in the top 25.

  • Málaga (2nd place): Topping the Ease of Adaptation Index, Málaga is home to the happiest expats globally. Though it struggles in the Work Abroad Index (44th), retirees (43% of respondents) find the sunny weather and laid-back lifestyle idyllic. An impressive 99% of expats praise Málaga’s climate.
  • Alicante (3rd place): Affordable housing and strong digital infrastructure helped Alicante secure 7th in the Expat Basic Needs Index. Nearly 70% of respondents agree that housing is budget-friendly.
  • Madrid (7th place) and Barcelona (21st place): While Madrid maintains a strong position, Barcelona has slipped from previous rankings. Despite this, Barcelona continues to be celebrated for its world-class cultural and culinary offerings.

Global Highlights: A Diverse Top 10

Beyond Spain, cities from around the world round out the top 10, offering unique advantages:

  • Panama City (4th) and Mexico City (5th): Both excel in Personal Finance and Ease of Adaptation, with Panama City praised for affordability and Mexico City for its dynamic social and cultural scenes.
  • Bangkok, Thailand (6th): Expats appreciate the city’s low cost of living and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Abu Dhabi (8th) and Dubai (9th), UAE: These cities shine in the Expat Basic Needs Index for their efficient administration, affordable housing, and robust digital infrastructure.

Top 25 Cities to Live in 2024

  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

Challenges for Some Global Hubs

Not all cities performed well. Canadian cities Vancouver and Toronto ranked last (53rd and 51st), alongside several German cities, including Hamburg (52nd) and Munich (50th). These cities were criticized for high living costs and challenges in work-life balance.

While some locations excel in quality of life and adaptation, others face challenges in career prospects or cost of living. Spain emerges as a clear winner, cementing its reputation as an expat haven, with Valencia leading the way. Whether you’re seeking sun-soaked beaches, cultural vibrancy, or affordable living, this list provides a roadmap for choosing your ideal new home.

Full report here.

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