Best Places to Live - What Factors to Define a Country as a Good Place to Settle in?

Check out the magnificence of the top 15 best places to live in the world's greatest nations in 2022-2023 to figure out exactly your perfect destination to settle in. 

Economic growth, personal freedom, health, education, wealth, quality of life, personal welfare, climate, lifestyle, and population must all be met for a country to be the best place to live. Every rating has some element of subjectivity. 

Some rankings use three main categories of human development indicators, namely readiness to access education, decent living standards, and long, healthy lives. The UN's annual Human Development Report publishes the Human Development Index, or HDI, which is a measure of fundamental human development in some nations.

Top 15 Best Places to Live in the World in 2021

The World Economic Forum (WEF) uses the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) as a measure to assess micro-and macroeconomic factors that determine a nation’s competitiveness, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of countries. This is also seen as a measure to assess whether the quality of a country is worth living or not.

The United Nations has identified the top 15 most livable nations in the world, based on parameters such as life expectancy, education, gender equality, and financial stability, after surveying over 200 countries.

The following is a list of the world's 15 best places to live in, as established by the Good Country Index's overall ranking: 

1. Norway

Norway is a non-EU country whose currency is NOK, located west of the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe. Oslo is the capital of Norway and has a population of 5 million. In 2018, Norway was ranked as the most livable country in the world (According to the United Nations Annual Development Report).

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In the UNDP's Human Development Index (HDI), Norway always holds the top position and maintains a low unemployment rate (2%) and is ranked as the most prosperous country in the world. Despite being an industrialised country, Norwegians work the fewest hours of any industrial democracy's employees, have longer vacations than virtually any other country, and have an unusually liberal subsidy program.

Because of its huge forest area, this country is both a resource that is efficiently utilised and a top protected resource. Norway has now become the first country to prohibit deforestation and is actively involved in environmental protection.

Norway does not only have beautiful landscapes and pleasant weather, but it also provides good contributions to world peace, particularly via charitable efforts, refugee relief, and adherence to various United Nations international conventions.

2. Australia

Australia has the world's 12th largest economy and a human development index that is consistently in the top ten, rating high in a variety of international comparisons such as quality of life, health and education, economic freedom, and civil freedoms.

Because of the weather, Australia is considered a climatic paradise. There are four seasons in Australia: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The weather is not extreme, either too hot or too cold, as it is in Canada, the United States, or the United Kingdom; Sydney has an average temperature of around 25°C in summer and 16°C in winter. Australia has one of the world's strongest economies, with a per capita income higher than that of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. In 2013, the country was placed second in the United Nations Human Development Index, only after Norway.

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With a population of little more than 20 million people and a land area of 7.6 million square kilometres, Australia is rich in natural beauty. Many famous schools in Australia are consistently ranked among the finest in the world. Living here will provide you and your future generations with a world-class education. The Australian government has traditionally made significant investments, particularly in the realm of research, which is why a large number of international students choose Australia as their top study abroad location.

3. Switzerland

Switzerland, a landlocked country in Western Europe, with a population of around 7.5 million people. Switzerland is a federal republic made up of 26 cantons, with Bern as its capital city.

Switzerland is regarded as the safest country in the world since it has not had any war since 1815. The crime rate is relatively low, so you should be OK walking around alone in the middle of the night. There are no beggars on the streets, the streets are always clean, and the people here live very openly.

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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Swiss people have the world's second-longest life expectancy, with men and women living an average of 81.3 and 85.3 years, respectively, following Japan. Despite its modest working hours, Switzerland is among the top countries in the world in terms of per capita GDP. A waiter gets paid at least 20 CHF per hour, while engineers and bankers are paid considerably more than their counterparts in the United States. Furthermore, the taxes are significantly lower than in other countries.

In terms of economics, Switzerland is a country that is highly regarded for its free trade, ability to attract investment, and virtually perfect business climate. Banks in Switzerland are well-known across the globe for their privacy rules, and clients have always placed their trust in them.

>> Read more: All about Switzerland Travel Restrictions

4. Germany

Germany is a magnificent country in the heart of Europe, with an old and serene beauty and a long-standing human culture. In addition, it is one of the most developed economies in the world. This is an extremely secure and democratic country.

Germany is a country that has played a significant influence in determining the global economic situation in the past and continues to do so today. Refugees will be helped if they are truly in need, and the state will have very genuine backing.

As of October 2014, all German universities were free for both locals and international students. From basic school to university, education is provided for free. As a result, the Germans get a very good education, and a student has no debt after completing a university program and still has a degree. Germany is also a country where more than 96% of the population has a high school education or a higher education degree.

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The Autobahn system, or motorways, is unique to Germany. The speed restriction for vehicles moving on the Autobahn will be essentially non-existent. However, Germany has a fairly low rate of road accidents. Now, you may pick from a variety of low-cost public transportation choices to travel around Germany. In Germany, privacy is the most valued right. So, when you meet or approach each other, keep a safe enough space for them to feel comfortable. Standing too close to them is impolite and makes them feel uncomfortable when they meet.

5. Denmark

Denmark, formally known as the Kingdom of Denmark, is a tiny Scandinavian country. Denmark is consistently ranked as the happiest country in the world, with high standards of education and healthcare. Furthermore, it is the country with the world's least corrupt government.

Denmark is well-known for its magnificent castles. Because Denmark has one of the world's longest-lived monarchies, numerous castles have been or are the Royal Family's residences, including palaces with huge dining halls, groomed gardens and even Danish royal treasures.

In Denmark, the working week is normally 37 hours and 5 days long, and full-time employees are routinely granted 5 weeks of paid vacation to travel, regardless of their position or field of expertise. 

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Danes are known for their friendliness, openness, and excitement since they prefer to focus on economic matters rather than confrontations. Denmark educates the country's future generations in two languages: Danish and English, to provide them with the required views and abilities to become global citizens. Furthermore, most colleges are prepared to reduce tuition costs and provide student subsidies to promote studying.

6. Singapore

Singapore is the smallest island republic in Southeast Asia and is a lively, affluent, and colourful country located in the south of Malaysia. According to data, the average yearly income of a Singaporean resident is 139,000 US dollars, which is 43% greater than the global per capita income. Working hours are typically from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Because of the country's talent recruitment program, supremely talented workers are especially welcome in Singapore.

This little island country boasts the most developed infrastructure and industry in Asia and the globe. Singapore's seaport is one of the most significant in the area. Its traffic serves both people's travel demands and the economy's transportation needs. It may be claimed that Singapore's transportation system and public transportation are a source of pride.

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Because of the integration of people from many nations, Singapore's culture is becoming more varied and rich. Singaporeans have a rather long life expectancy of over 83 years. The administration of this country is particularly concerned about the health of its citizens. Singaporeans have not had to worry about medical expenditures when they are ill since 1984, thanks to the Contingency Fund.

7. Netherlands

The Netherlands is a nation in Western Europe that is the main component country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which also comprises three Caribbean island dependencies.

The Netherlands now has the world's most modern sea dike system. As a result, visitors that come here frequently see the vast dykes and breakwaters. However, the landscape of the Netherlands has many more magnificent vistas in addition to irrigation works.

The Netherlands is also recognized for its dense population. They are nice and open-minded, and if you ask, they will try their best to accommodate you. Another unique trait of this nation is that its residents enjoy travelling by boat and bicycle. Because there is a significant demand for bicycles, there are distinct lanes and particular laws in place to protect cycling safety. The Netherlands has a high standard of living, a relatively high happiness rating, and is ranked among the top countries in the world for food diversity at reasonable rates.

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The Netherlands was the first country in the world to allow same-sex marriage in 2001. The law allows same-sex couples to marry, divorce, and adopt children. Not only does the gorgeous landscape make this paradise worth living in, but the Netherlands also draws travellers from all over the world with its distinct culture. Few countries, if any, have as many festivals spaced out throughout the year as the Netherlands.

8. Ireland

Ireland is an island country in northwest Europe that has English as its official language. This country is one of the world's top eight most developed, with a fast-expanding economy and a high-quality education system. Ireland increased 13 places in the annual United Nations development index between 2012 and 2017 and is currently second only behind Norway, Switzerland, and Australia.

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Ireland has the fastest expanding economy in Europe, with a GDP index that ranks sixth in the world. The country has a youthful knowledge-based economy that is centred on high-tech and service sectors. Ireland is a nation that values neutrality. Ireland maintains peaceful diplomacy with other nations and has a relatively low crime rate.

According to the 2014 Pearson Index, Irish education is ranked ninth in the world, including world-class colleges such as Trinity College Dublin. Your child will obtain a good education while living in Ireland. Irish citizens and permanent residents are likewise entitled to free public school education until the conclusion of high school.

>> Read more: Can I travel to Ireland from UK right now?

9. Iceland

Iceland is the world's 18th biggest young island and the second-largest in Europe after the United Kingdom. You will be able to view the oddest beaches on the planet firsthand here. The Black Sea, for example, can be found exclusively in Iceland, an island nation. Furthermore, Iceland boasts a ‘Translucent Sea’ where icebergs wash ashore, producing an appealing transparent tint.

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At night, the Northern Lights phenomena are spectacular here. This phenomenon occurs in numerous nations, but the light in Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, captivates visitors because it resembles a ‘flashlight of the galaxy’.

Because Iceland is the only country without an army, navy, or police, it is regarded as one of the world's most tranquil nations. It is a country with no corruption and attractive employment opportunities. People do not have the idea of working long hours and living quietly, because people frequently change professions to further their careers and earn more money.

Icelanders have the cleanest food and the best diet. They do not use pesticides or other chemicals in their fruits and veggies. They value and defend the living environment and the natural world around them. As a result, males have the greatest life expectancy in the world (80.55 years).

Because of the frigid temperature in which mosquitoes cannot survive, Iceland is called a mosquito-free zone.

10. Canada

Canada is a country in North America, ranging from the Atlantic to the Pacific Oceans. Because of the diversity of geography, ecology, vegetation, and terrain in this nation, many magnificent and lyrical landscapes have been formed. According to the findings of the United Nations annual study of quality of life in 174 nations, Canada is one of the top three places in the world for having the best living conditions.

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Canada has a highly developed economy and is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, with an annual GDP of more than $1.4 billion. Possessing the 9th largest economy, Canada is a good place to live for those who are looking for growth opportunities and want a stable and prosperous life.

Canada boasts a modern education system that is regarded as one of the best in the world. Degrees in Canada are recognised in all developed nations because they meet all international standards and are rigorously accredited.

Those who live and visit Canada may appreciate hundreds of architectural works, as well as visit art museums around the country to discover and learn about millions of masterpieces by Canadian and worldwide artists. In addition, you may immerse yourself in the colourful and friendly lives of Canadians by participating in artistic and cultural events that take place all year long.

11. USA

The United States of America is the world's third-biggest country in terms of area and population. This country is located in North America and is bounded to the west by the Pacific Ocean and the east by the Atlantic Ocean. Canada forms the northern border to America, and Mexico forms the southern border.

The population is diverse, with citizens from all over the world seeking a better life and a place to live. The United States is separated into six major cultural regions: New England, the Mid-Atlantic, the South, the Midwest, the Southwest, and the West.

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With a defence expenditure of up to 600 billion USD, the United States is regarded as the world's most powerful nation today, exerting significant influence on global structure and order. With the most developed economy, the United States provides several professional prospects for its citizens while also improving their quality of life.

The United States is one of the top ten countries in terms of employing technology in education. Pupils and students are permitted to utilize cutting-edge equipment and learning materials to aid in the collecting and processing of critical information. In the United States, the government pays for all medical expenditures for the elderly and has a unique and preferential treatment policy for the old.

Travel is an essential element of life, and America is magnificent due to its 50 states and several notable sites. Reasonable protection regulations implemented by the US government make these environments less vulnerable to damage over time, which is an outstanding example of sustainable development.

12. Hong Kong

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Hong Kong was formerly renowned as Asia's dragon, with a new sector that saw fast growth and development. However, despite this powerful and contemporary growth, the people of Hong Kong continue to conserve, protect, and promote the city's traditional culture.

Hong Kong is regarded as the ‘Town That Never Sleeps’. It is a very culturally diverse city with ever-changing hues. Because Hong Kong's traditional culture originated from Chinese culture, they also place a high value on feng shui.

The Hong Kong population is highly friendly since Hong Kong is a very open city in the sense that people care about tourists and are thus always prepared to help. Furthermore, the average life expectancy in this country is 84 years.

Hong Kong's public transportation is contemporary, clean, and dependable, and the inhabitants are quite polite. Taxis, for example, are inexpensive and come in a range of styles.

13. New Zealand

New Zealand is an island country in the Southwest Pacific area comprising two main mainlands, the North and South islands, located around two hours from Australia. As a result, New Zealand's landscape, life, and civilization are very similar to those of Australia. New Zealand is a developed country that is listed at the top of the list of countries worth living in.

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The climate is never excessively hot or too cold due to the impact of latitude and closeness to the ocean. New Zealand's economy is heavily reliant on trade, particularly with Australia, Japan, and the United States (USA). It is an export-based economy, with ores and metals accounting for one-third of its GDP. New Zealand has one of the world's lowest personal income tax rates.

New Zealand's education and training system is built on the British high-quality education system, with high-quality facilities and international-quality teaching personnel that meets the most stringent criteria.

14. Sweden

Sweden is a nation in Northern Europe that is surrounded by Norway in the west and Finland in the northeast. It is connected to Denmark in the south by the Oresund bridge, and the remainder of its border is bounded by the Baltic Sea and the Kattegat Sea.

Sweden is the home of the worldwide recognised IKEA company, as well as its renowned chocolate and the Absolut Vodka brands, and is one of 15 nations that are highly regarded for their levels of wealth, equality, and climate change. Sweden has very high job security when growing up and security at work is very high so adults, as well as children, will never fall into underemployment or be treated unfairly in the workspace.

Sweden has a moderate climate with four distinct seasons. Temperatures are pleasant all year, milder and drier than in other similar latitudes.

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Sweden's per capita income is now among the highest in the world. According to the International Monetary Fund, this country is in the top 15 in the world in terms of per capita income. 

The Swedish people are well-known for their civilisation, which is based on the principles of balance, simplicity, and harmony with nature. And it can be seen in every aspect of life.

15. Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is the smallest German-speaking country in the world, located in Central Europe between Switzerland and Austria. The region comprises a tiny amount of land in the middle Alps and alluvial plains on the Rhine's right bank, with a population of over 35,000 people. Liechtenstein is the only country in the world whose whole territory is contained inside this mountain range.

Despite its small size of roughly 160 square kilometres, Liechtenstein boasts the world's second-highest GDP per capita. According to the World Tourism Organization, Liechtenstein received just 85,000 tourists in 2018. After San Marino, it is Europe's least visited country. So, if you live here, you will have a sense of serenity and comfort and will not feel crowded during the holidays.

The unemployment rate in Liechtenstein is 2.1%. Only 406 persons were jobless in the nation in 2016. (according to the Liechtenstein Statistical Office). Furthermore, this country doesn't have an army.

If you absolutely need a quiet and peaceful and basic place to ‘run away’ from the city's bustle, this is the greatest place for you because it has very few public services and very few tourists. As a result, you will feel entirely at ease here.

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These top 15 best countries to live in the world. If you have a chance, attempt to visit these locations to locate your ideal accommodation! 

Vy Nguyen