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Where Expats Find Happiness: The Best Cities to Live Abroad
Created10.01.2025, 14.15
Updated13.01.2025, 14.51
For those considering a move abroad, selecting the right city is more than just about finding a new place to live, it’s about finding the best environment to live, work, and thrive abroad. Whether you’re seeking professional opportunities, better quality of life, or a new adventure, the top cities for expats in 2025 offer a wide range of options that promise an enriching lifestyle, strong job markets, and a welcoming environment for international residents.
Based on the Internations Expat Insider Report, the best places to live for expats, work, and thrive in 2025, not only provide job opportunities for expats, but also boast vibrant communities, a low cost of living for expats, excellent healthcare options, and a fulfilling expat lifestyle.
1. Valencia, Spain: A Mediterranean Oasis for Expats
Valencia has become one of the most attractive expat lifestyle destinations in Spain, offering a perfect blend of culture, affordability, and modern conveniences. Known for its warm Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and rich history, Valencia offers a low cost of living compared to larger cities, making it an ideal location for both young professionals and retirement planning for expats.
Cost of Living | Real Estate | The Expat Community |
|---|---|---|
25% cheaper than Madrid in terms of rent and groceries. | Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: €700–€900/month, compared to €1,100–€1,400 in Madrid. | Around 9% of the population being foreign-born, mostly from the UK, Germany, and Latin America |
The city is rapidly becoming a top choice among digital nomad destinations and remote workers due to its growing tech scene, vibrant international community, and quality healthcare. Whether you’re seeking job opportunities for expats in Spain or simply looking for a slower-paced yet fulfilling life by the sea, Valencia offers the best of both worlds.
Why Choose Valencia in 2025?
- Affordable living with great real estate investment opportunities
- Excellent healthcare and public services
- Strong expat community and growing job market in tech and creative sectors
2. Malaga, Spain: A Coastal Haven for Expats
Malaga is quickly becoming one of the most popular expat cities in Spain. Situated on the stunning Costa del Sol, the city offers a laid-back lifestyle while still providing excellent access to modern amenities. For those seeking to live, work, and thrive abroad, Malaga offers a low cost of living for expats, making it an affordable alternative to larger Spanish cities.
Cost of Living | Real Estate | The Expat Community |
|---|---|---|
23% cheaper than Madrid | 1-bedroom apartment:
| Ranked #2 for overall quality of life in Spain. |
Why Choose Malaga in 2025?
- Growing digital nomad community with ample opportunities for remote work
- Lower cost of living with access to beautiful beaches
- High-quality healthcare and a warm, welcoming environment
Malaga’s growing tech scene and its popularity among digital nomads make it an excellent choice for remote workers, while its diverse and welcoming expat community ensures that newcomers feel at home. The city's perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty makes it an ideal place to live.
3. Alicante, Spain: A Quiet Yet Vibrant City for Expats
Alicante, nestled on Spain's stunning Costa Blanca, is one of the best-kept secrets for expats looking to escape the hustle of major cities without sacrificing modern conveniences. This vibrant coastal city offers a relaxed expat lifestyle with affordable real estate options, an excellent climate, and a rich cultural scene.
Cost of Living | Real Estate | Quality of Life |
|---|---|---|
27% cheaper than Madrid for rent and day-to-day expenses. | 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: €550–€750 | Ranking in the top 10 cities for expat lifestyle in Spain. |
Why Choose Alicante in 2025?
- Great value for money with affordable living and real estate
- High-quality healthcare and public services
- Quiet, yet vibrant lifestyle with access to Spain’s cultural and natural attractions
Alicante is becoming increasingly popular among retirees and remote workers who want to enjoy a high quality of life without the high costs of larger Spanish cities. Additionally, the city’s strategic location, great healthcare options for expats, and strong international community make it an ideal destination for those looking to move abroad as an expat.
4. Panama City, Panama: The Gateway to Latin America
Panama City has long been a top destination for expats looking to work and live in Latin America. With a stable economy, modern infrastructure, and tax benefits for expats, Panama City is the perfect place for those looking to combine business opportunities with a high quality of life. It is especially popular among professionals in finance, technology, and logistics.
Cost of Living | Real Estate | Expat Population |
|---|---|---|
20% cheaper than New York | 1-bedroom apartment in Panama City’s center: $800–$1,200 per month. | 8.7% of the total population |
Why Choose Panama City in 2025?
- Business-friendly environment with tax incentives for expats
- Affordable real estate and a rapidly growing economy
- Vibrant expat community and easy access to natural beauty
In terms of real estate investment for expats, Panama City offers a range of affordable options, with potential for long-term growth. With a thriving international business community and a welcoming environment, Panama City is a prime location to live, work, and thrive abroad.5. Mexico City,
5.Mexico: A Dynamic Metropolis for Expats
Mexico City is one of the most popular expat cities in Latin America and continues to attract expats looking for exciting job opportunities and a rich cultural experience. The city’s unique combination of modernity and tradition makes it an ideal place for professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs.
Cost of Living | Real Estate | Expat Satisfaction |
|---|---|---|
50% cheaper than New York for everyday expenses. | 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $450–$650/month | 6th in terms of overall expat lifestyle satisfaction. |
Why Choose Mexico City in 2025?
- Affordable living with access to world-class amenities
Diverse and dynamic professional opportunities in various sectors- Rich culture and vibrant social life
Mexico City’s cost of living for expats is relatively affordable, and it offers an abundance of cultural, social, and professional opportunities. For those considering a move abroad, Mexico City also provides excellent healthcare options for expats and an active international community.
6. Ras Al Khaimah, UAE: The Emerging Expat Haven
Ras Al Khaimah is quickly emerging as one of the top expat cities in the UAE, offering a high standard of living without the intensity of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Known for its stunning landscapes, including beaches and mountains, Ras Al Khaimah offers tax-free salaries and an increasingly attractive environment for remote workers and entrepreneurs.
Cost of Living | Real Estate | Expat Satisfaction |
|---|---|---|
15–20% cheaper than Dubai, particularly when it comes to housing and groceries. | 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: AED 3,500–AED 5,500/month. | Nearly 80% of residents come from abroad. |
Why Choose Ras Al Khaimah in 2025?
- Tax-free salaries and high disposable income
- Stunning natural scenery with access to modern amenities
- Growing expat community and sustainable living initiatives
The emirate’s growing focus on sustainability, along with its investment in green industries, makes it an appealing destination for expats looking to live in a luxurious yet environmentally-conscious community. With excellent healthcare options for expats and family-friendly living, Ras Al Khaimah is becoming a top choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
7. Madrid, Spain: A Vibrant Cultural Hub for Expats
Madrid is Spain’s bustling capital, known for its rich history, lively cultural scene, and thriving professional opportunities. For expats seeking a balance of work, culture, and lifestyle, Madrid offers an exciting urban environment combined with world-class amenities and excellent transportation links. It also remains one of the top expat lifestyle destinations in Europe.
Cost of Living | Real Estate | Expat Community |
|---|---|---|
Affordable cost of living compared to other major European cities like Paris or London. | 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: €1,100–€1,400/month. | 12% of its population. |
Why Choose Madrid in 2025?
- Rich cultural and professional opportunities
- A well-established expat community with strong international connections
- Access to world-class public transportation and healthcare
With job opportunities in finance, education, technology, and the arts, Madrid remains a top city for those looking to work abroad while immersing themselves in a dynamic and cosmopolitan lifestyle.
8. Bangkok, Thailand: The Gateway to Southeast Asia
Bangkok is increasingly becoming one of the top destinations for expats and digital nomads in Asia. Known for its vibrant culture, affordable cost of living, and strong job opportunities for expats, especially in the tourism, tech, and education sectors, Bangkok offers a rich lifestyle for those seeking to experience the energy of Southeast Asia.
Cost of Living | Real Estate | Expat Community |
|---|---|---|
40% cheaper than major Western cities. | 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: €400–€670. | 10% of the city’s population. |
Why Choose Bangkok in 2025?
- Affordable living and high-quality amenities for digital nomads
- A growing tech and remote work scene
- Easy access to other countries in Asia and a rich cultural environment
As a digital nomad hub, Bangkok is known for its affordable living, modern infrastructure, and ease of access to other Asian countries, making it a great place to base yourself for work or leisure.
9. Abu Dhabi, UAE: Modern Luxury and Professional Opportunities for Expats
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, offers a mix of modern luxury, vast green spaces, and an international business environment. It’s particularly attractive for professionals working abroad in energy, finance, and international business, offering some of the best job opportunities for expats in the Middle East.
Cost of Living | Real Estate | Expat Community |
|---|---|---|
15-20% cheaper than major Western cities. | 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: AED 5,000–AED 8,000/month. | 85% of the residents. |
Why Choose Abu Dhabi in 2025?
- Tax-free income and high salaries
- A family-friendly environment with world-class amenities and infrastructure
- Strong job prospects, especially in sectors like finance, energy, and healthcare
Abu Dhabi also offers a higher quality of life than some of its neighbors, with cleaner streets, better infrastructure, and more green spaces. As part of the UAE, expats benefit from tax-free salaries and excellent healthcare options.
10. Dubai, UAE: The Global Expat Hub for Business and Leisure
Dubai remains one of the most popular expat cities in the world, known for its dynamic business landscape, world-class amenities, and luxury lifestyle. As a hub for international business, Dubai provides excellent opportunities in industries like finance, real estate, technology, and tourism. It’s also an attractive place for digital nomads due to its modern infrastructure and tax incentives for remote workers.
Cost of Living | Real Estate | Expat Community |
|---|---|---|
Groceries and transportation can be 20–30% more expensive than cities like Barcelona or Madrid. | 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: AED 6,500–AED 10,000/month. | Over 80% of Dubai’s population. |
Why Choose Dubai in 2025?
- A booming international business scene with ample professional opportunities
- High salaries and tax-free income
- World-class infrastructure, entertainment, and lifestyle options
Despite its higher cost of living, Dubai continues to offer unparalleled opportunities for career advancement, especially in sectors like real estate, technology, and finance. The city’s luxurious lifestyle, modern architecture, and abundance of entertainment options make it a desirable place for those looking to live, work, and thrive abroad.
As we move into 2025, the best cities for expats are those that offer a mix of job opportunities, affordable living, and a thriving expat community. Whether you’re seeking adventure, a quieter lifestyle, or a bustling metropolis, these cities have something for everyone. From the low cost of living for expats in Valencia and Malaga, to job opportunities for expats in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, to the family-friendly environments of Ras Al Khaimah and Alicante, there are countless options to live, work, and thrive abroad.
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