10 Best European Countries to Live in for Expats in 2025

When evaluating the best European countries to live in, it’s essential to go beyond surface-level appeal. In this guide, we’ve assessed the top destinations using a data-driven approach focused on what matters most to expats: quality of life, global mobility, affordability, healthcare, education, and ease of integration.

We analyzed various external and in-house sources and factored in average salaries, cost of living, job availability, and residency pathways such as digital nomad and Golden Visa programs.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, remote worker, retiree, or a family seeking a fresh start, this list highlights the best European countries to live in 2025 based on real expat priorities, including economic stability, work-life balance, access to services, and personal freedoms.

• How We Rank the Best European Countries to Live In
• 10 Best European Countries to Live In
• Best European Countries to Live In: Quick Comparison
• Frequently Asked Questions

How We Rank the Best European Countries to Live In

1. Quality of life rankings

We drew from authoritative indexes such as the Numbeo Quality of Life Index, the OECD Better Life Index, and the World Happiness Report. These sources evaluate factors like healthcare quality, safety, environmental cleanliness, political stability, and community well-being.

2. Passport power and mobility

Using the Global Passport Index by Global Citizen Solutions, we factored in mobility score (visa-free and visa-on-arrival access), personal freedoms, and the value of the passport for global mobility and economic strength — key for expats who value international travel.

3. Economic opportunities and cost of living

We evaluated GDP per capita, employment opportunities (especially in tech, healthcare, and startups), and average net salaries versus cost of living. We also looked at housing affordability and everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transport.

4. Expat-friendliness

We prioritized countries that offer easy pathways to residency, including digital nomad visas, entrepreneur permits, and Golden Visa programs. English language prevalence, cultural inclusiveness, and established expat communities were also important.

5. Healthcare and education

Countries with the best healthcare for expats, accessible private options, and strong international education systems were rated more highly, particularly for families and retirees.

10 Best Countries for Expats in Europe

1. Portugal

Portugal continues to be rated as one of the best countries for expats, thanks to its warm climate, friendly locals, and accessible residency programs. As one of the most affordable Western European countries, it consistently attracts retirees, remote workers, and families.

Lisbon and Porto attract the younger generations thanks to their lively nightlife and creative industries. Portugal is especially attractive to retirees and digital nomads, thanks to its low cost of living compared to other European countries and strong expat communities.

Portugal’s cost of living remains one of the most affordable in Western Europe, and though average monthly net salaries sit between €1,200 and €1,400, everyday expenses like groceries, transport, and rent are significantly lower than in nearby countries.

Portugal is especially attractive to retirees and digital nomads. The Portugal D7 Visa is available for those with passive income, while remote workers can apply for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa. Investors can apply for the Portugal Golden Visa, which offers a clear route to permanent residency and citizenship after five years with limited physical stay requirements. English is widely spoken in urban and tourist areas, making integration easier for expats.

2. Germany

Germany is one of the most popular destinations for expats thanks to its strong economy, world-class public infrastructure, and excellent healthcare. Among European countries, it remains a benchmark for safety, civic engagement, and public services.

Germany is also recognized by the Global Education Report for its prestigious education system. The country’s public universities offer low or even free tuition fees for both domestic and international students, making Germany a sought-after destination for globally minded, budget-conscious students.

Expats will feel welcome in this diverse country, which is home to one of the largest foreign-born populations in Northern and Western Europe. Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg offer a wide range of job opportunities, particularly in engineering, IT, manufacturing, and the automotive industry.

Salaries are competitive, with average monthly net income exceeding €2,500 in major cities. Public services, from transit to childcare, are high quality and widely accessible. Germany also scores highly for its excellent work life balance, with strong labor protections and holiday entitlements.

Germany offers multiple visa options for non-EU nationals, including the EU Residence Permit (also known as the EU Blue Card) for highly skilled workers, the digital nomad visa (aka the freelance visa) for self-employed professionals, job-seeker permits for recent graduates and specialists as well as the Germany Investor Visa. Permanent residency can typically be obtained after five years, and citizenship is possible after six to eight years of legal residence, depending on integration and language requirements.

3. Greece

Greece has become an increasingly popular destination for expats seeking a Mediterranean climate, rich cultural life, and low cost of living. While it ranks lower on the overall Quality of Life Index than some other Western Europe countries, it performs well in safety, climate, and community engagement, particularly in smaller towns and islands.

The average monthly salary is around €1,000, but the nation boasts among the lowest cost of living, especially outside Athens, in the EU. Rent, food, and utilities remain affordable even in larger cities.

Athens and Thessaloniki are growing hubs for remote workers and entrepreneurs, supported by a growing number of co-working spaces and English-speaking services.

Expats can take advantage of several visa options. The Greece Golden Visa offers a five-year renewable residence permit with a minimum property investment of €250,000. The country also has the Greece Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers, and a 7% flat tax incentive for foreign retirees. Citizenship is available after seven years of residency, and integration is supported by Greece’s welcoming culture and strong expat communities.

4. Sweden

Sweden offers one of the highest qualities of life globally, with clean cities, beautiful natural landscapes, and strong social infrastructure. It ranks in the top 10 of the Global Passport Index, and consistently scores highly across the OECD Better Life Index and the World Happiness Report, particularly in safety, work-life balance, education, and public health.

The cost of living is relatively high, especially in Stockholm and Gothenburg, but is matched by generous public services, modern infrastructure, and average monthly salaries around €2,800. Sweden’s public transport is efficient, and many services are available in English, which is widely spoken across the country.

Job opportunities are strong in fields such as technology, gaming, engineering, and clean energy. The Talent Attraction Visa and other employment-based permits make it easier for professionals to settle, while permanent residency is available after four years. Citizenship can be applied for after five years of legal residence. Sweden is particularly well suited to families and professionals seeking long-term stability, education, and a healthy work-life balance.

5. Ireland

Ireland combines a strong economy with English as the primary language, making it a natural fit for many anglophone expats. The country ranks highly in income, personal safety, and life satisfaction, and its growing tech sector attracts professionals from across the globe.

Dublin is the main hub for jobs in tech, finance, and pharmaceuticals, while smaller cities like Galway and Cork offer a slower pace and more affordable housing options. While the cost of living is high, especially rent in Dublin, the average monthly salaries are around €2,700 and public services such as education and healthcare are widely accessible. Private insurance is often used to supplement Ireland’s public health system.

Residency options include the Stamp 1G visa for recent graduates, the Ireland Startup Entrepreneur Visa for business-minded individuals, the Critical Skills Employment Permit, and pathways for financially independent individuals and retirees. Ireland also allows residency for those with Irish ancestry. Citizenship can be applied for after five years of legal residence, or as little as three years for those with Irish-born grandparents.

6. Netherlands

The Netherlands is a favorite among expats thanks to its liberal values, well-connected cities, and widespread use of English in daily life and business. It also ranks in the top 10 of the Global Passport Index, with strong scores for personal freedom and global mobility.

Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Eindhoven are international hubs with job opportunities in technology, design, logistics, and sustainability. The average net salary is around €2,800, and while housing costs in major cities can be high, public transport is efficient, cycling is the norm, and healthcare is high-quality through a regulated private insurance model.

>Expats can apply for the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, the Dutch Startup Visa, or pursue self-employment routes. The 30% ruling offers a substantial tax break to qualified foreign workers. Citizenship can be pursued after five years of residency and meeting integration requirements. With excellent public infrastructure, a reputation for innovation, and inclusive policies, the Netherlands is especially appealing to globally mobile professionals and young families.

7. Malta

Malta offers a Mediterranean lifestyle with a unique combination of warm climate, English as an official language, and a welcoming environment for expats. While it ranks lower on the overall Quality of Life Index, it performs well in safety, climate, and healthcare access, making it an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads, retirees, and entrepreneurs.

Valletta and coastal towns like Sliema and St. Julian’s offer access to international schools, co-working spaces, and a vibrant social scene. The cost of living is moderate, though housing prices have risen in recent years. The average monthly net salary ranges between €1,200 and €1,400, and many expats find the island’s low taxes and lifestyle benefits outweigh the relatively lower income levels.

Malta offers several visa options, including the Nomad Residence Permit for remote workers and the Malta Residency by Investment program (formally known as the Malta Permanent Residence Program) for investors. Its Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program (aka Malta Citizenship by Investment) also offers a path to citizenship under specific criteria. The country’s EU membership, favorable tax regime, and safe, family-friendly atmosphere make it a strong option for those seeking residency with long-term potential.

8. Denmark

Denmark is widely regarded for its high standard of living, strong welfare model, and emphasis on work-life balance. It ranks near the top in the OECD Better Life Index, particularly in safety, environmental quality, civic engagement, and income equality.

Copenhagen and Aarhus are known for their design-forward culture, green spaces, and efficient transport systems. The average net monthly salary is around €3,300, one of the highest in Europe, although the cost of living, especially housing, can also be quite high. However, generous social benefits, free education, and universal healthcare help balance these costs.

Expats can apply for the Pay Limit Scheme visa for high-earning professionals, or the Startup Denmark visa for entrepreneurs launching innovative ventures. Permanent residency is available after eight years (or four under special conditions), and citizenship can be granted after nine years of legal residence. Denmark’s family-oriented culture, transparent public services, and inclusive values make it ideal for professionals with children or those seeking long-term settlement.

9. Switzerland

Switzerland offers a consistently high quality of life, with a reputation for safety, stability, and exceptional public services. It performs strongly on the Numbeo Quality of Life Index and ranks in the top 10 of the Global Passport Index, thanks to its strong economy, personal freedoms, and global mobility.

Cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne are financial and cultural hubs, offering high salaries, often exceeding €6,000 per month in net income. Though the cost of living is among the highest in Europe, the overall standard of healthcare, education, and infrastructure offsets these costs. Switzerland also has low crime rates and a well-managed environment, making it particularly appealing to families.

Expats can apply for residence permits through employment, self-employment, or financial independence. Although the country is not an EU member, it maintains bilateral agreements with the EU and has streamlined residency processes for many nationalities. Citizenship can be applied for after 10 years of residency, with requirements for integration and language proficiency. Switzerland is a top choice for professionals and families seeking security, outdoor living, and economic opportunity.

10. Finland

Finland is renowned for its strong social systems, environmental sustainability, and one of the highest levels of public trust in the world. It consistently ranks in the top 5 of the World Happiness Report, with high scores for safety, education, and personal freedom.

Helsinki, Tampere, and Espoo are hubs for innovation, education, and clean technology. The average monthly salary is around €2,700, and although costs in Helsinki can be moderate to high, healthcare and education are largely state-funded, and housing remains more affordable than in neighboring Nordic capitals.

Expats can relocate through employment, self-employment, or the Finnish Startup Permit, and recent efforts have made the country increasingly attractive to remote workers. Permanent residency can be obtained after four years, and citizenship is generally available after five years of legal residence, with basic integration requirements.

With its widespread English fluency, progressive values, and strong support for families, Finland continues to appeal to both young professionals and those seeking a future-proof environment for long-term living in Europe.

Best European Countries to Live In: Quick Comparison

• Switzerland leads with the highest net salary (€7,330) and top-tier safety. Even though living costs are high, services and wages offset the expenses.
• Nordic countries (Finland, Denmark, Sweden) top global happiness and work-life balance rankings, with high safety and universal healthcare.
• Netherlands combines high salaries, excellent public services, and the highest English proficiency in Europe.
• Germany and Ireland offer the best balance with strong economies, universal healthcare, and better-than-average salaries in Western Europe.
• Portugal, Greece, and Malta stand out for affordability which is ideal for those seeking lower living costs within European Union countries.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best European Countries to Live In

What are the most affordable Western European countries to live in?

Portugal and Greece are among the most affordable countries in Western Europe, offering lower costs for housing, transportation, and food.

While salaries may be lower than in Northern Europe, the overall cost of living allows for a comfortable lifestyle on a moderate budget.

Which European countries offer the best work-life balance for professionals?

Scandinavian countries such as Sweden, Denmark, and Finland consistently rank highest for work-life balance.

These nations offer shorter working hours, generous paid leave, and strong labor protections, allowing professionals to enjoy both career success and personal time.

What are the best European countries for raising a family as an expat?

Finland, the Netherlands, and Ireland are excellent choices for families. They offer safe environments, strong education systems, and family-friendly benefits such as subsidized childcare, parental leave, and inclusive schooling options.

Which European countries are best for starting a business or launching a startup?

Germany, the Netherlands, and Estonia are particularly supportive of entrepreneurs.

Which countries in Europe have the most English-speaking population?

Ireland, the Netherlands, Malta, and the Scandinavian countries (Sweden, Denmark, Finland) have high English proficiency, making them some of the best English-speaking countries to live in.

What are the easiest EU countries to get long-term residency in?

Portugal, Greece, and Malta offer accessible long-term residency through Golden Visa programs, digital nomad visas, or passive income routes. These countries also have relatively straightforward pathways to permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship.

Which European cities are best for remote workers and digital nomads?

Lisbon, Tallinn, Berlin, and Amsterdam are top picks for digital nomads due to excellent internet, co-working spaces, and visa flexibility. Cities like Athens and Valencia are also growing in popularity for offering lifestyle appeal at a lower cost.

Are public healthcare systems in Europe accessible to non-EU expats?

Yes, many European countries, like Portugal, Germany and Finland, allow legal residents, including non-EU expats, to access public healthcare systems.

Do any European countries offer citizenship through ancestry or descent?

Yes. Ireland, Italy, Poland, and Hungary are among the European countries that offer citizenship by descent.

Which European countries offer the best public transport for expats without a car?

Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Germany are known for efficient and reliable public transportation. Urban residents in cities like Zurich, Amsterdam, and Berlin often don’t need a car thanks to extensive metro, tram, and cycling networks.

How do education systems compare across top European expat destinations?

Countries like Finland, Germany, and the Netherlands rank highly for education quality. Public education is often free or low-cost, and international schools are widely available in major cities.