If you’re searching for a better life away from the United States there’s lots of beautiful destinations with lively expat communites. We take a look at ten countries where expats consistently report high levels of happiness:
Belize
If you’re searching for a tropical environment, stunning beaches and a relaxed way of life, Belize is a terrific destination on the Yucatán Peninsula. According to the World Happiness Report, which looks at data on the likes of cost of living, government support and life expectancy, Belize had a score of 5.96 out of ten. As well as low cost of living and affordable utilities and healthcare, there’s lots to do for expats who choose to live here. From snorkeling and scuba diving to hikes and lazy beach days, outdoor enthusiasts love Belize.
Portugal
Portugal is a well-liked country for expatriates looking for a breathtaking country with a dynamic history and culture. Located in southwest Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, it experiences year-round pleasant weather, while winters can be harsh in certain areas.. With affordable living and a good healthcare system, Portugal ranks 35th on the happiness scale with a score of 6.44. Expats can enjoy a high standard of living and take part in many activities, such as sailing, golfing and watersports.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica consistently ranks as one of the happiest places in the world to live, with a score of 6.96 in the 2024 Happiness Rankings. Their 12th place spot is due to its affordable cost of living, good housing, delicious food and robust healthcare system. Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise with opportunities to indulge in birdwatching, spotting monkeys and encountering the abundance of wildlife in this eco-conscious country.
France
France is rich in history and culture and enjoys stunning scenery throughout its vast space. Ranking 27th on the Happiness scale with a score of 6.61 is a dream expat destination for many Americans. France is a center for art, music, film and theater with museums like the Louvre and the Musee D’Orsay in Paris that receive millions of visitors each year.
Mexico
Mexico enjoys a prime spot on the Caribbean coast and is a popular expat location with it being so close to America. With beautiful beaches, turquoise water and varied marine life mean Mexico is a great place to move for outdoor lovers. The relaxed lifestyle, great weather and affordable cost of living means Mexico has a happiness score of 6.68, which ranks 25th in the world.
Spain
Much of Spain enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine year-round. This is a major draw for expats seeking to escape colder climates and a low cost of living. This means Spain ranks 36th on the happiness scale with a score of 6.42. From the sandy beaches of the Costa del Sol to the rolling hills of Andalusia and the majestic peaks of the Pyrenees mountains, there’s a landscape for every mood. Compared to many parts of the United States housing, groceries and transportation can be significantly cheaper in Spain.
Italy
Italy enchants many Americans with its dream combination of interesting culture, breathtaking landscapes and mouth watering cuisine. Expats can make the most of their time immersing themselves in art at world-famous art museums like the Uffizi Gallery in Florence and architectural marvels like St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. While some areas can be expensive, the cost of living in Italy can be lower than in some parts of the U.S. The happiness rating for Italy is 6.32, which ranks 41st in the world.
Netherlands
The Netherlands has one of the best universal healthcare systems in the world that provides basic medical coverage to residents, including expats. Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht offer a vibrant mix of historical sites, renowned museums and charming canals. The country ranks 6th on the happiness rankings with an impressive score of 7.32 percent.
Norway
Just behind The Netherlands in the happiness rankings is Norway with a score of 7.32 putting them into 7th place. Norway is a land of fjords, mountains, glaciers and waterfalls. The scenery is simply breathtaking, offering endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure for expats.. It enjoys a very low crime rate, making it a safe place to live and explore and expats can feel comfortable in their surroundings. Norway does have a high cost of living so this needs to be taken into consideration, but the healthcare system is one of the best in the world and salaries are high.
New Zealand
With a score of 7.03, New Zealand ranks 11th on the world happiness scale. The country is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, with everything from snow-capped mountains and glaciers to pristine beaches, rolling hills and lush rainforests. It enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it an ideal place to live for those who want to escape the extremes of hot or cold weather. While New Zealand is not the most budget-friendly expat destination, the cost of living can be lower than the United States.
14 Cars with a Reputation for Running Forever and Why They Outperform the Rest
In the dynamic world of automobiles, some cars stand out for their remarkable longevity and enduring performance. These road warriors have earned a reputation for running seemingly forever, outpacing their counterparts. This article will explore 14 such vehicles and the reasons behind their legendary durability.
14 Cars With A Reputation For Running Forever And Why They Outperform The Rest
