Best Countries for Living and Relocation in 2026
If you're planning to move abroad, these ten countries are the best for it right now.
Choosing the right country to live in involves much more than comparing salaries or the cost of living. Quality of life, healthcare, safety, taxes, infrastructure, immigration options and opportunities to build a long-term future all play an important role.
The Rumavi Global Relocation Index 2026 evaluates 192 countries and territories across 24 metrics, providing a comprehensive picture of where people can build a life abroad.
At the top of the overall ranking is Estonia, with a score of 72.8 out of 100. Its strong digital infrastructure, safety, governance and quality of life make the Baltic nation an attractive destination for professionals, families and entrepreneurs.
Singapore follows closely in second place with 72.6. The city-state performs particularly well for entrepreneurs and tax-friendliness, although relatively high housing costs can be a drawback.
Malaysia ranks third with 72.0, offering a combination of affordability, modern infrastructure and lifestyle appeal.
It is followed by Portugal, scoring 71.6, a long-standing favorite among international residents thanks to its climate, healthcare, lifestyle and range of residency options. Taiwan, with 71.4, completes the top five and benefits from strong infrastructure, healthcare and technology capabilities.
The next positions are shared by two countries and one major territory. Lithuania scores 71.0, supported by its green spaces and strong financial and digital infrastructure, while Hong Kong also scores 71.0, reflecting its world-class connectivity, financial system and business environment.
The Caribbean nation of St. Kitts and Nevis ranks eighth with 70.3, making it the highest-ranked Caribbean destination in the top 10. Czechia follows with 69.9, offering a central European location, strong infrastructure and high quality of life.
Finally, Malta rounds out the list with a score of 69.8, combining a Mediterranean lifestyle with English-language accessibility and European connectivity.
An important feature of the Rumavi index is that there is no single definition of the “best” relocation destination. Its methodology uses four broad pillars: financial and tax conditions, livability and health, safety and stability, and settling and opportunity, and reweights them for different groups, including retirees, digital nomads, families and entrepreneurs.
Together, these results show that the best relocation destinations in 2026 are geographically diverse. From Estonia and Lithuania in Northern Europe, to Portugal and Malta in Southern Europe, and Singapore and Malaysia in Asia, each offers a distinct combination of advantages for people seeking a better place to live, work and build their future.