Defoes Lifestyle Travel Team

Blog featuring travel tips, packing guides, videos and photography from around the world.

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Navigating the Global Landscape: Unveiling the Best Expat Havens of 2023

In an era of unprecedented global mobility, the annual Expat City Ranking by InterNations has become an indispensable compass for those seeking the ideal destination to live and work abroad. With its finger firmly on the pulse of the expatriate community, the 2023 edition of this renowned survey has once again illuminated the most coveted corners of the world for expats, shedding light on the cities that offer the most rewarding experiences.

Drawing insights from the perspectives and experiences of over 12,000 expatriates, the Expat City Ranking has meticulously dissected the multifaceted aspects contributing to a genuinely enriching expat life. This comprehensive survey delves into myriad factors, ranging from the quintessence of quality of life and the ease of settling into a new culture to the intricate tapestry of personal finance and professional opportunities. The result is a holistic and nuanced assessment that goes beyond the glossy facade of a city, presenting a dynamic portrait of the best places to call home in 2023.

As the world continues to shrink, the choices for expatriates abound, and the stakes for choosing the right destination have never been higher. Join us as we unveil the highlights and insights gleaned from the Expat City Ranking, offering a sneak peek into the cities that have emerged as the most enticing hubs for global citizens in the coming year. Whether you’re contemplating a bold move for personal growth, career advancement, or simply seeking a change of scenery, this guide is your key to navigating the global landscape and discovering the cities that promise not just a change in location but a transformative expat experience.

The World’s Top 5 Cities to Live in 2023:

Malaga, Spain: Topping the list as the best city to live and work, Malaga is celebrated for its rich history, vibrant arts and culture scene, pleasant climate, and excellent cuisine. Expats appreciated local friendliness, favourable weather, safety, affordable public transportation, and a robust social life.
Alicante, Spain: Another Spanish gem, Alicante secured the second spot, emphasizing ease of settling in, high quality of life, and strong rankings in personal finance. The welcoming culture and affordability contribute to its appeal.
Valencia, Spain: Last year’s winner, Valencia, maintained a strong presence in the top three, scoring well in settling in, quality of life, and personal finance. The city is lauded for its enjoyable and affordable lifestyle.
Ras Al Khaimah: Making its mark in the top five, this city in the United Arab Emirates stands out for its positive work and leisure environment and solid work-life balance. Expats praised the welcoming atmosphere and quality of life.
Abu Dhabi, UAE: The capital of the UAE secured a top-five position, excelling in work and leisure, work-life balance, and quality of life. Expats highlighted the city’s safety and positive social environment.

Spain Shines:

Spain emerged as a notable winner in this year’s ranking, with five cities in the top 20. Malaga, Alicante, and Valencia share common attributes of ease of settling in, high quality of life, and strong rankings in personal finance, fostering an enjoyable and affordable lifestyle.

United States Falls Short:

In contrast, the United States experienced a decline in expat satisfaction. In the previous year, Miami and New York City secured spots in the top 20, but no U.S. cities made the cut this year. New York City, in particular, dropped significantly from 16th place to 39th, with expats expressing challenges related to the high cost of living and a less-than-desirable work-life balance.

The Bottom Three:

Milan, Italy, claimed the lowest rank (49 out of 49) on the list, followed by Rome, Italy (48) and Vancouver, Canada (47). Expats in Milan and Rome reported dissatisfaction with quality of life and work conditions, while Vancouver faced overall happiness and personal finance challenges.

This Expat City Ranking provides valuable insights for those considering a move, offering a comprehensive view of expat experiences across the globe.