The best places to live abroad in 2025

Ranging from the rainforests of Panama to the cosmopolitan cities of Vietnam, these five nations present the best snapshot of cheap, vibrant and good life for expatriates.

More people are now living outside their country of origin than ever before: according to the World Migration Report, 3.6% of the global population are migrants or ‘expats’.

Leaving your home country and living abroad has both challenges and benefits, but a recent survey shows that there is one aspect that currently plays the most important role in expat happiness: money.

Internationals, a global community of people living and working abroad, surveyed more than 10,000 expats from 172 countries.

The countries that scored highest in terms of overall happiness this year also topped the survey's personal finance index, while the results in these same countries regarding quality of life and ease of living were also particularly positive.

1. Panama

Panama, ranked number one among 46 nations overall, was at the top of three of the survey's five indices: the first index was for living abroad, the second was for housing abroad, and the third index was for quality of life and money.

Favored by freelancers, digital nomads, and retirees, Panama is particularly appealing to those who enjoy its nature and outdoor adventures.

But bureaucracy is an issue, and getting professional assistance, like an attorney, takes a long time. Even getting a vehicle's license plate renewed takes an abundance of complicated documents.

2. Colombia

Colombia, the second-ranked country, scored the highest in the personal finance and ease of settling indices.

Four in every five immigrants report they are satisfied with their economic status here. 80 percent of the interviewed responded that they felt at home and welcomed in the country. Colombians are very warm-hearted and inquisitive by nature, making them excellent neighbors and friends.

There is real purpose and opportunity here. "Because of Colombia's complex modern history, there is hope and a spirit of collective effort for a better future."

3. Mexico

Mexico is third on the list, and the reason for this is its extremely friendly culture. Immigrants find that people here are more welcoming than in other countries in the world and that it is much easier to make connections here. "The people, the culture, the food, the beauty, the healthcare are all great reasons to live here," they say. " I am able to work from anywhere, so why not call paradise home."

English is used where tourists go, but to become a member of society, you must learn Spanish. Acquiring another language is acquiring a new perspective on the world.

4. Thailand

Thailand is in fourth place, thanks to its good scores on the happiness index and personal finance.

It is also said by foreigners that it is extremely simple to settle down here and befriend the locals.

Its facilities like hospitals, schools, shops and an airport, along with the convenience to forest strolls and peaceful beaches, make it a perfect location to reside.

English is spoken commonly here. Foreigners warn that cultural awareness is key. “Thai work culture is quite regimented,” Expats generally earn higher salaries than locals and are less affected by the country’s strict laws and social norms.

5. Vietnam

Vietnam is among the top five countries. It ranks first in terms of economic prosperity per capita and eighth in terms of overall prosperity.

Vietnam ranks first in terms of personal finance index and eighth in terms of overall prosperity. It is among the world's fastest-growing economies and boasts a huge expat population, a clear sign of the thrill and activity that can be discovered here.

Things here are fast-paced, there is so much development everywhere, and the people are wonderfully enthusiastic and friendly.