The cities with the highest quality of life, according to expats

If there’s one thing the 8 billion people on Earth have in common, it’s the pursuit of a better life for themselves and their families. Of course, that’s easier said than done.

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That’s why the Expat Insider report, created by the InterNations platform, has released its annual list of the cities with the best quality of life in the world. The survey asked 12,000 people from 175 different nationalities about their experiences living abroad. Curious to know where the current paradise on Earth is? Let’s dive in.

Foto: Unsplash - Artem Sapegin

Málaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol, is transitioning from a vacation hotspot to a permanent residence. And it’s no wonder — the city ranks at the top of the 2024 Expat Insider quality of life report.

What makes Málaga shine? Friendly locals, a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures, stunning natural surroundings, excellent healthcare, and a booming economy are just a few reasons. Oh, and the food isn’t bad either.

Not far from Málaga, Alicante takes second place, though it's been slightly held back by challenges that foreigners face when finding jobs. Even those who do find work often struggle with limited independence and flexibility.

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Despite these setbacks, Alicante is still ranked the most welcoming city in the world. It’s affordable, boasts great healthcare, offers plenty of leisure activities, and has a healthy climate and environment that keep it comfortably in second place.

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Closing out this trio of Spanish cities is Valencia, which excels in offering recreational and sports activities, as well as top-notch healthcare. These strengths help it secure its spot in this very Mediterranean top three.

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It doesn’t rank higher due to expatriates’ concerns about job security, but they do praise Valencia’s work-life balance. The cost of living and housing are affordable, and the locals are known for their warmth and active social lives.

Photo: Unsplash - Veres Szilard

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The capital of Ras Al Khaimah has nearly quadrupled its population in the past four years, evolving from a tourist destination to a permanent home. Strong transportation connections and an impressive range of sports options are just a few of its many draws.

Photo: Unsplash - Mostafa Ashraf Mostafa

In 2007, Abu Dhabi had fewer than 900,000 residents. Today, that number is nearly 4 million. This city has seen explosive growth, progress, and improvement in recent decades... all without feeling overcrowded... if you can believe it, this city still shows no signs of slowing down.

Photo: Unsplash - Gamze Teoman

Madrid, the capital of Spain, highlights the country’s strong sense of well-being. It’s one of four Spanish cities in the top six and the first one not by the coast. Madrid shines thanks to its unbeatable services and increasing job opportunities for people from around the world.

Photo: Unsplash - Florian Wehde

Mexico City is a beautiful chaos where almost everything works, and its more than 9 million residents coexist as harmoniously as mass urbanization allows. Its friendliness, culture, tradition, and, of course, its incredible food and cultural offerings are some of its strongest assets.

Photo: Unsplash - Jezael Melgoza

Kuala Lumpur’s equatorial climate, which ranges from 73°F to 93°F (23°C to 34°C) year-round, is one of the city’s biggest advantages. In addition to great weather, it boasts sustained economic growth and a wide range of leisure options.

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Bangkok could give New York a run for its money as “the city that never sleeps,” so you can imagine the energy awaiting you. More than 10 million people are ready to greet you with a warm welcome.

Photo: Unsplash - Florian Wehde

In less than 15 years, Muscat’s population has grown from 760,000 to over 4.5 million. Its rapid expansion has made it a global economic powerhouse, with all the perks (and few of the drawbacks) that come with such growth.

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Although Vienna didn't make the city list, Internations ranks Austria as the number two country when it comes to quality of life... only after Spain. Why? It's nature coincides with safety, affordability and great access to public services like healthcare and transport.

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