Living abroad is no longer just an adventurous choice – for many, it’s a lifestyle decision. Millions of people leave their home countries each year in search of better career opportunities, affordable living, healthcare, safety and cultural experiences.
According to the World Migration Report, around 3.6% of the world’s population now lives outside their country of origin. This number is expected to keep growing as more people embrace remote work, global mobility and cross-cultural living.
In 2025, research shows that financial stability plays a bigger role than ever in shaping expat happiness. A recent Internations survey of over 10,000 expats across 172 nationalities revealed that countries offering a balance of affordability, friendliness and quality of life are ranked as the most desirable.
Here’s a closer look at the top 5 countries for expats in 2025 – why they stand out, what challenges they bring and tips for new arrivals.
1. Panama – A Paradise for Digital Nomads and Retirees
Panama topped the rankings, finishing 1st out of 46 countries overall. It scored exceptionally well across multiple indexes:
- Working Abroad (1st) – opportunities for freelancers and professionals
- Ease of Settling In (2nd) – friendly locals and welcoming environment
- Expat Essentials (2nd) – good internet, housing options and digital life
- Quality of Life (3rd) – stunning natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle
- Personal Finance (3rd) – affordable living compared to many Western countries
Why expats love Panama:
- Rich biodiversity with jungles, beaches and wildlife
- Affordable healthcare and retirement options
- Popular with digital nomads who value remote work flexibility
Challenges: Bureaucracy can be frustrating, so expats are advised to hire professionals (lawyers, consultants) to manage paperwork like visas or vehicle registration. Deforestation is also a growing concern and newcomers are urged to respect the local ecosystem.
Don’t miss: Cerro Hoyas National Park – a hidden treasure with waterfalls, rare birds and untouched forests.
2. Colombia – Warm Culture and Affordable Lifestyle
Colombia ranked 2nd overall with excellent results in:
- Personal Finance (2nd) – expats report strong satisfaction with their money situation
- Ease of Settling In (3rd) – Colombians are known for being warm and welcoming
Why expats love Colombia:
- Lower cost of living compared to North America and Europe
- A strong sense of community and belonging
- Vibrant culture with music, festivals and food
Lifestyle highlights:
- Expats describe Colombians as some of the friendliest people in the world
- Opportunities for business and social development are growing fast
- Beautiful destinations like Barichara (a colonial village), the coffee region and horse riding in Los Llanos
Challenges: Like many countries, safety can vary depending on the region, so it’s important to stay informed and integrate with local communities.
3. Mexico – Friendly, Affordable and Culturally Rich
Mexico came in at 3rd place, especially praised for:
- Friendliness – expats feel more welcome here than in most countries
- Ease of Making Friends – social connections happen quickly
Why expats love Mexico:
- Affordable cost of living (often cheaper than the US and Canada)
- Excellent healthcare at a fraction of the cost
- Rich food culture, historic sites and beautiful coastlines
- Strong internet infrastructure supports digital nomads
Things to know:
- Tap water is not safe to drink in most areas
- Learning Spanish is key to deeper integration
- Time perception is relaxed – “mañana” may not literally mean tomorrow
Don’t miss: Chichen Itza’s Mayan ruins, Yucatan cenotes, and Cabo San Lucas for whale watching.
4. Thailand – Balance of Happiness and Affordability
Thailand ranked 4th overall, standing out in:
- Overall Happiness (2nd)
- Personal Finance (3rd)
- Ease of Settling In (Top 10)
Why expats love Thailand:
- Welcoming culture with supportive expat communities
- Affordable housing, food and healthcare
- Beautiful islands, beaches and vibrant cities
- Strong infrastructure in major cities (hospitals, schools, airports)
Cultural insights:
- Thai culture values politeness, hierarchy and “saving face”
- Foreigners usually earn higher salaries than locals, which can create social differences
- Respect for Thai traditions and laws is essential
Don’t miss: Sailing through Phang Nga Bay, trekking in Khao Sok National Park and experiencing local festivals like the Phuket Vegetarian Festival.
5. Vietnam – Affordable and Fast-Growing
Vietnam ranked in the top five, placing 1st in Personal Finance and 8th in Happiness.
Why expats love Vietnam:
- A rapidly growing economy creates a dynamic lifestyle
- Very affordable cost of living compared to Western countries
- Fresh and healthy cuisine (famous for pho, bánh cuốn and Vietnamese coffee)
- Warm and helpful local people
Lifestyle highlights:
- Great locations like Phu Quoc (island paradise) and Da Nang (city with beaches and modern facilities)
- Popular among young professionals and digital workers
- Different climates across north, central, and south – allowing expats to choose based on preference
Tips for new expats:
- Learn basic Vietnamese phrases (like xin chào = hello, cảm ơn = thank you)
- Always check the weather when traveling between regions
- Be ready for busy traffic and fast-paced city life
Final Thoughts – Choosing the Right Expat Destination
The top expat destinations of 2025 prove that happiness abroad is about more than just income. The best countries offer a mix of affordability, opportunities, friendliness and culture.
- Panama – Best for retirees and remote workers who love nature
- Colombia – Ideal for community-driven people who value warmth and affordability
- Mexico – Perfect for those seeking culture, food, and a friendly atmosphere
- Thailand – Great for happiness, lifestyle balance, and supportive expat communities
- Vietnam – Affordable, dynamic, and full of opportunity for growth
If you are planning to move abroad in 2025, these five countries are leading the way in creating positive expat experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which country is best for expats in 2025?
According to Internations’ 2025 survey, Panama is ranked as the best country for expats, followed by Colombia, Mexico, Thailand and Vietnam.
2. What is the cheapest country for expats to live in 2025?
Vietnam is considered one of the cheapest countries for expats, offering low living costs, affordable housing and great food at budget-friendly prices.
3. Which country has the happiest expats?
Thailand ranks very high for expat happiness thanks to its welcoming culture, beautiful landscapes and affordable lifestyle.
4. Is Mexico a good country for expats?
Yes. Mexico is among the top three expat destinations in 2025. Expats love its friendly people, food, healthcare and affordability.
5. Where can I move abroad with low income?
Countries like Vietnam, Colombia, and Mexico are great options for expats on a budget, offering affordable living costs and a good quality of life.
6. Which country is safest for expats in 2025?
While safety can vary by city, Spain, Portugal and Thailand are often mentioned among the safest expat-friendly countries.
7. Do I need to learn a new language to live abroad?
Not always. In popular expat countries like Panama, Mexico and Thailand, English is spoken widely in big cities, but learning the local language helps with integration.
8. Which country is best for digital nomads in 2025?
Panama, Thailand and Vietnam are very popular among digital nomads because of strong internet, affordable lifestyle and supportive expat communities.
9. What is the best country to move to from the USA in 2025?
Expats from the USA often choose Mexico, Panama and Colombia because of proximity, affordability and cultural connections.