In the search for a healthy work-life balance and cultural enrichment, more and more people are traveling abroad to explore different cities in the hopes of finding the top places to work and live permanently.
In this article we explore the top 10 best cities to work and live in the world along with why they stand out in terms of quality of life, job opportunities, cost of living, work-life balance and infrastructure:
What Makes A City a Great Place to Work and Live?
Ranking what makes a city a great place to work and live in will vary according to which criteria is used. The following factors are crucial to consider:
- Quality of life: Does the city give access to resources that positively impact physical, mental and social health? Is it a place where people can grow to their full potential and feel happy?
- Economic opportunities: Is there a wide range of activities related to wealth creation and job opportunities?
- Cost of living: How much money do you need to cover basic expenses, such as housing, food, healthcare and transportation?
- Work-life balance: Do you have a healthy equilibrium between your job responsibilities and personal life. In other words, do you have enough time for friends, family, hobbies and to maintain your overall well-being?
- Infrastructure: Does the city provide access to essential facilities to support your daily life and economic activity energy, transportation, telecommunication and water?
Top 10 Cities to Work and Live
1. Lisbon, Portugal
On Europe’s west coast, you’ll find Lisbon – a city that offers affordable housing and living costs compared to most major cities.
The city is safe, walkable, and has a low crime rate. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters. Job opportunities are growing in tech startups and tourism, though salaries are lower than the EU averages.
The international schools here are well-regarded, and public healthcare is accessible and affordable. The metro and tram system is efficient, and there is a strong, healthy work-life balance, with long lunch breaks encouraged.
The Portugal Golden Visa or Portugal Digital Nomad Visa offers great opportunities for expats to make Portugal their home.
| Quality of Life | Laid-back atmosphere, coastal beauty, low crime. |
| Economic Opportunities | Growing tech and startup ecosystem, especially for remote workers. |
| Cost of Living | Affordable by Western European standards. |
| Work-Life Balance | Emphasis on leisure and community. |
| Infrastructure | Good healthcare, expanding public transit, and fiber internet. |
| Average Salary | €2,215 per month/€26,580 annually |
Take a look at our expert guide to the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
2. Madrid, Spain
2. Madrid, SpainRanked as one of the safest cities to live in, Madrid offers low cost housing in comparison to similar cities and a less populated living experience. It is considered one of the best European places for digital nomads and professionals alike.
The city offers robust job opportunities in finance, tech, and education. Schools range from public to high-quality international options. Spain’s universal healthcare system is ranked among the world’s best.
The metro network is extensive, clean, and reliable. A strong social culture supports a good work-life balance, although work hours can be long.
| Quality of Life | Dynamic city with great weather, food, and nightlife. |
| Economic Opportunities | Financial and tech sectors are prominent. |
| Cost of Living | Moderate, with affordable healthcare and education. |
| Work-Life Balance | Good with long lunch breaks and emphasis on social time. |
| Infrastructure | High-quality public transport and healthcare. |
| Average Salary |
€2,282 per month/€27,384 annually |
3. Geneva, Switzerland
Frequently ranked as one of the best countries to live in for expats, and close to the French border surrounded by mountains, Geneva may not be the most populated of cities in Europe, but it certainly boasts a strong job market and excellent income.
Geneva is a hub for international organizations and finance, offering high-paying roles. Schools, especially international ones, are excellent but costly.
Swiss healthcare is private but world-class, requiring mandatory insurance. The public transport system is punctual and reaches far. While work culture can be intense, the Swiss generally still value a healthy work-life balance.
If being outdoors is high on your list of priorities for relocation and if you enjoy skiing in the mountains during winter or hiking in the summer, then Geneva is perfect for you.
| Quality of Life | Exceptionally high and the city is clean, safe, and scenic. |
| Economic Opportunities | Global finance and NGO headquarters (UN, WHO, etc.). |
| Cost of Living | Very high, particularly housing and dining. |
| Work-Life Balance | Strong labor protections and generous vacation policies. |
| Infrastructure | World-class healthcare, public transit, and education. |
| Average Salary |
€7,944 per month/€95,328 annually |
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague remains affordable, especially in terms of rent, dining, and public services. The city is safe and well-policed. It has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers.
Tech, tourism, and education offer solid job opportunities for expats. Education is good, with an increasing number of international schools.
Healthcare is of a high standard and cost-effective. Public transportation is efficient and cheap.
Czech culture favors a balanced lifestyle, with a growing emphasis on leisure and family time.
| Quality of Life | Historic architecture, vibrant arts, and expat-friendly. |
| Economic Opportunities | Growing IT, finance and service sectors. |
| Cost of Living | Affordable when compared to most of Europe. |
| Work-Life Balance | Flexible schedules that are common in especially tech companies and startups. |
| Infrastructure | Excellent transit and low-cost public services. |
| Average Salary |
€2,228 per month/€26,742 annually |
5. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin can be expensive when it comes to housing and childcare but the cheaper public transportation and groceries more than make up for it. The country is a major tech and finance hub.
The city itself has plenty of job opportunities, and Ireland’s economy growth has been persistently growing for more than a decade. What’s more, Dublin is a welcoming hub for international businesses as well as tech companies.
Regarded as a diverse city, Dublin is also the proud home of many international people, making it a great place for expats to relocate to.
| Quality of Life | Modern city with a youthful, social vibe. |
| Economic Opportunities | European HQ for many tech giants (Google, Facebook, etc.). |
| Cost of Living | Costs have risen recently, especially when it comes to rent. |
| Work-Life Balance | Irish culture values social downtime and companies are catching up to this sentiment. |
| Infrastructure | Solid healthcare and education, though housing availability is tight. |
| Average Salary |
€4,600 per month/€55,000 annually |
Start your new life in Dublin with the Ireland Startup Entrepreneur Visa
6. Calgary, Canada
In comparison to other Canadian cities, Calgary is one of the most affordable, with accessible housing and moderate living costs.
It is safe, with a low crime rate with a strong market for energy, engineering, and IT roles.
Public and private schools are of high quality. Healthcare is publicly funded, with good access to services. Transit options include a reliable light rail and bus network.
Canadians value work-life balance, and Calgary’s proximity to nature supports an active lifestyle. This is helped along by its proximity to the Rocky Mountains means that you’re never too far from going on an outdoor adventure.
| Quality of Life | Clean, safe, surrounded by nature (the Rockies). |
| Economic Opportunities | Strong in energy, tech, and finance. |
| Cost of Living | Moderate compared to Toronto and Vancouver. |
| Work-Life Balance | Very good with the outdoor lifestyle being a big draw. |
| Infrastructure | High-quality education, healthcare, and roads. |
| Average Salary |
$4,853 per month/$58,243 annually |
7. Singapore City, Singapore
Though Singapore City is known for being expensive, especially for rent and international schooling, it does offer affordable dining and utilities.
It is one of the safest cities globally, thanks to the country’s strict laws and low crime rate. The climate is tropical and humid year-round.
This city-state is a leader in finance, biotech, and tech, offering high salaries. Schools, particularly international ones, are excellent but costly.
Healthcare is among the best in Asia, blending public and private systems. Public transport is fast, clean, and extensive. Although the work culture can be demanding, the city promotes a structured, efficient lifestyle.
| Quality of Life | Ultra-modern, clean, efficient, safe. |
| Economic Opportunities | Major global business hub, particularly in finance, tech and biotech. |
| Cost of Living | High, particularly for expat housing and cars. |
| Work-Life Balance | Improving but some sectors remain intense. |
| Infrastructure | Outstanding public transit, healthcare, and connectivity. |
| Average Salary |
S$5,783 per month/S$69,396 annually |
8. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen has high living costs, especially in housing, but also offers high wages.
It is a very safe, bike-friendly, and socially inclusive culture. The climate is oceanic with cold winters and mild summers.
Green tech, life sciences, and design are key industries. Education is free and high-quality, with international options available.
Healthcare is public, universal, and efficient. The transport network is highly functional. Denmark is renowned for a strong work-life balance, with flexible hours and generous vacation policies.
| Quality of Life | Consistently ranked among the world’s happiest cities. |
| Economic Opportunities | Strong in green tech, pharmaceuticals, and design. |
| Cost of Living | High, but offset by generous social services. |
| Work-Life Balance | Exceptional as 37-hour workweeks are standard. |
| Infrastructure | Excellent bike lanes, public transport, and public services. |
| Average Salary |
$6,970 per month/$83,640 annually |
9. Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s diverse, strong economy provides opportunities in technology, media, and finance.
With a relatively low cost of living compared to other major European cities, Berlin offers affordable housing and a high quality of life. Its efficient public transportation system, extensive green spaces, and rich historical landmarks make it a dynamic and livable city.
Additionally, Berlin’s multicultural atmosphere and inclusive society make it welcoming for expats.
| Quality of Life | Diverse, creative, and culturally rich with a progressive atmosphere. |
| Economic Opportunities | Strong startup ecosystem, especially in tech, media, and design. |
| Cost of Living | Reasonable for a capital city, though rising in recent years. |
| Work-Life Balance | Generally good, with regulated hours and strong employee protections. |
| Infrastructure | Excellent medical care, efficient public transport and free university education. |
| Average Salary |
€4,580 per month/€55,000 annually |
10. Austin, Texas, USA
Austin is one of the most livable cities in the U.S., offering a strong mix of affordability, employment growth, and lifestyle perks.
The city is relatively safe, especially in suburban neighborhoods, and is known for its welcoming community. Austin has a hot, sunny climate most of the year, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
It’s a thriving center for tech, startups, and creative industries, with major employers, like Dell and Apple now settling here. Public schools are strong in several districts, and the University of Texas is one of the top institutions in the country.
Healthcare is high-quality, with leading facilities and research institutions. Though public transport is limited, efforts are underway to expand it, and biking is increasingly viable. The city’s culture emphasizes a healthy work-life balance, live music, outdoor living, and a casual, entrepreneurial spirit.
| Quality of Life | Offers a vibrant culture, outdoor lifestyle, and a strong sense of community. |
| Economic Opportunities | Thriving tech and startup scene with growing opportunities in healthcare and education. |
| Cost of Living | More affordable than major coastal cities, though housing prices have risen. |
| Work-Life Balance | Known for its relaxed, creative atmosphere and emphasis on personal time. |
| Infrastructure | Expanding road networks and public transit, with a bike-friendly urban core. |
| Average Salary |
$6,234 per month/$74,818 annually |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cities have the highest employment rate?
Are there good places to live in central Europe?
Prague, in the Czech Republic offers low unemployment, rising pay, and housing affordability.
Is Hong Kong a good place to live and work?
Which city is the best for entrepreneurs?
Singapore City is in first place due to its robust economy, favorable business regulations, strategic location in Asia, and a highly skilled workforce.
Ireland is a close second place due to a business environment that specifically fosters job creation and entrepreneurship.
