New study reveals the best countries to live and work in
A new study has revealed the countries around the world that are the best to live and work in based on nine key factors. Here’s more…
The best countries for living and working – ranked
With the modern workplace increasingly emphasising work-life balance and career development (as well as a healthy taste for adventure), more employees are considering international opportunities and the best countries for it more than ever before.
“As the remote work revolution makes relocation more accessible to the average person, various countries are investing in policies that promote progressive work culture, healthcare, and family support initiatives in an effort to attract foreign talent,” says Wayne Mills, Head of Operations at Seven Seas Worldwide, a shipping company for international movers.
To find out which countries could be the best destinations for those looking to relocate, Wayne and his team conducted a study using data from the Standard of Living Index.
They calculated a livability score based on nine factors: human rights, democracy, freedom, economy, health, corruption, competency, future, and actions abroad. Each factor was given a score out of 100, with the totals added up to calculate each country’s final score (out of 900).
The top 10
According to the study, the top 10 best countries were as follows:
| Rank | Country | Total Score |
| 1 | Norway | 874.00 |
| 2 | Finland | 874.00 |
| 3 | Ireland | 851.00 |
| 4 | Netherlands | 851.00 |
| 5 | Luxembourg | 846.00 |
| 6 | Denmark | 846.00 |
| 7 | Estonia | 844.00 |
| 8 | Iceland | 842.00 |
| 9 | New Zealand | 841.00 |
| 10 | Switzerland | 840.00 |
Norway came first with an overall score of 874.
“Norway was impressive across the board, scoring 100 in six of the nine categories countries were rated on,” says Wayne. “It only scored lower in three categories: democracy and freedom, where it still scored in the nineties, and actions abroad, where it scored 87.”
Well known for its stunning mountain, fjord, and glacier landscapes, Norway has a strong economy, an excellent healthcare system, and little corruption. However, be aware that taxes are famously high.
Finland came second, also scoring 874. Though it had the same score as Norway, it had fewer 100s, instead scoring in the high 90s across most categories.
“It scored 100 in Health and Corruption, which reflects the country’s famously comprehensive healthcare system and stable democracy,” says Wayne.
The Republic of Ireland came third, scoring 851 overall. Ireland scored 100 in two categories: Human Rights and Economy. It scored 90+ in all other categories except Corruption, where it scored 84.
“Ireland offers the option between stunning natural landscapes, especially coastlines, and swiftly growing cities like Dublin,” says Wayne. “Plus, it’s rumoured they keep all the best Guinness for themselves!”