Best Countries to Live In 2026

Choosing the best country to live in is a highly subjective process, as different sources may have differing thoughts on what constitutes “best.” To some, it may be overall financial stability. To others, it may be climate, life expectancy, the prevalence of green living practices, or the price of beer.

In an effort to obtain an objective evaluation of the best countries in which to live, many analysts turn to the United Nations’ Human Development Index (HDI) or the Gallup World Happiness Report. Both of these are aggregated metrics which collect a wide assortment of variables, from GDP per capita to unemployment to personal freedoms and more, and combine them into a single score.

Top 10 Countries in Which to Live (World Happiness Score 2024)

Compiled by the United Nations, the Human Development Index is arguably the world’s most comprehensive and practical analysis of each country’s level of development and overall quality of life. The annual HDI report compiles dozens of metrics and ultimately determines which countries are statistically considered the best in which to live.

Several alternate methods of determining the best countries to live in also exist. For example, the US News and World Report covers quality of life in its annual best countries list, and outlets such as CEO World frequently compile their own lists of the countries with the highest quality of life, which often equates to being a best place to live. Another high-profile alternative is the World Happiness Report, which takes a statistical approach similar to that of the Human Development Index, but with a more personalized survey-based approach that focuses more on personal feelings than economic and societal performance indicators. Below are the most recent top 10 best countries to live in, according to the World Happiness Report 2024.

1. Finland

Finland has earned the title of the world’s happiest country for several years running, including in the 2024 World Happiness Report, and it’s easy to see why. Life in Finland is built on a strong sense of trust—people trust each other, their government, and the systems that support them. Healthcare and education, even at the university level, are free, and work-life balance is taken seriously. Nature is everywhere and deeply cherished: forests, lakes, and the northern lights are part of daily life, and the Finnish concept of “everyman’s rights” allows anyone to roam and enjoy the outdoors freely. Even in cities like Helsinki, clean design and green living go hand in hand. At the heart of Finnish culture is the idea of “sisu”—a quiet kind of strength and perseverance that helps people face challenges with calm and resilience. It’s a country where simplicity, honesty, and connection matter, and where people genuinely enjoy life’s small, meaningful moments.

2. Denmark

Second on the World Happiness Report for 2024 is Denmark, ranking high in “social trust,” which measures people’s trust in one another, their government, and public institutions such as police and hospitals. Moreover, health care and education (including college/university) are completely free to all citizens. Denmark is both a global leader in industries including shipping, design, and architecture and also a green-forward country. Even in the capital city of Copenhagen, bicycles often outnumber automobiles, and the country is a global leader in the development of new methods of living cleaner and greener. Finally, the Danes have given the world the concept of “hygge” (pronounced “hooga”), a warmly human term for time spent away from the hustle and bustle, peacefully relaxing and appreciating life’s smaller joys, often with family and/or friends.

3. Iceland

The people of the third place holder Iceland enjoy long life expectancies and generous access to universal healthcare. Iceland ranks high in several measures of social equality and democracy, runs almost entirely on green energy, and ranked first in the 2022 Global Peace Index, which tracks the world’s most peaceful countries.

4. Sweden

A strong fourth, Sweden has an excellent social welfare system, providing top-notch healthcare and free education. Sweden’s social model focuses on growth, equality, freedom, and security. Sweden also provides excellent conditions for workers, such as a minimum of five weeks vacation and a government organization that supports entrepreneurs looking to start a company. Lastly, like the other Nordic countries, Sweden has very low rates of violent crime (1.14 incidents per 100,000 people) and ranks well for overall health and wellbeing.

5. Israel

Number five on the list, Israel may be small in size, but it’s big on innovation, culture, and everyday vibrancy. Often called the “Start-Up Nation,” it’s home to one of the highest numbers of tech startups per capita, with global leadership in fields like cybersecurity, health tech, and clean energy. Citizens enjoy universal healthcare and strong public education, and life in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem blends ancient history with modern energy. Outdoor life is a big part of the culture—weekends often mean beach days, hikes, or family barbecues. While the region faces ongoing challenges, many Israelis enjoy a high quality of life, tight-knit communities, and a deep sense of identity rooted in both history and hope.

6. Netherlands

One of Europe’s most densely populated countries, the Netherlands, placing sixth, is also one of the world’s leading exporters of agricultural products by value despite the fact that the country as a whole is barely larger than the US state of Maryland. The Netherlands is also known for its progressive philosophies in matters ranging from science to society. For instance, the country is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and in 2001 became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage.

7. Norway

Seventh on the list, Norway shares many of Switzerland’s best qualities, including very high per-capita wealth and a comprehensive and efficient national healthcare system—which, in Norway, delivers medical attention to all patients regardless of their financial status. Norway frequently ranks as one of the world’s most democratic countries and has one of the lowest crime rates of any nation.

8. Luxembourg

The number eight Luxembourg might be tiny, but it offers an incredibly high quality of life in a peaceful, easygoing setting. Tucked among Belgium, France, and Germany, it’s a place where city life and countryside calm blend seamlessly. Healthcare and education are top-notch and largely public, and getting around is a breeze—public transportation is free nationwide. With three official languages and nearly half the population made up of foreigners, Luxembourg feels naturally international yet close-knit. Its capital mixes old-world charm with modern energy, and you’re never far from forests, castles, or a good bakery. Safe, clean, and well-connected, Luxembourg quietly offers the best of both worlds: comfort and opportunity.

9. Australia

Ninth on the list, Australia is known for its stunning natural beauty, from sun-soaked beaches to vast outback landscapes, but its appeal goes far beyond scenery. The country consistently ranks high for quality of life thanks to a strong economy, excellent public healthcare, and a well-regarded education system. Cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane offer a vibrant cultural mix, thriving job markets, and easy access to the outdoors, making work-life balance feel more achievable. Australia is also one of the world’s safest countries, with a stable democracy and a welcoming, multicultural population—nearly a third of residents were born overseas. Whether you’re surfing at Bondi, hiking in the Blue Mountains, or enjoying a coffee in one of Melbourne’s laneways, life in Australia combines everyday comfort with adventure at your doorstep.

10. Switzerland

The people of the 10-th place holder Switzerland enjoy impressive health, including long life expectancies (82 years for males and 85.9 for females) and a relative lack of fatal diseases. Switzerland also boasts very high wealth per person (measurable as GNI per capita), and its gross domestic product per capita ranks among the world’s highest. While Switzerland’s cost of living is high, so too is its overall standard of living.

11. New Zealand (Honorable Mention)

New Zealand is known for its breathtaking landscapes, but it’s the laid-back lifestyle and strong sense of community that truly make it special. With a focus on work-life balance, clean air, and access to nature, life here tends to move at a more relaxed, intentional pace. Healthcare and education are publicly funded, and the country consistently ranks high for safety, stability, and personal freedom. Whether you’re in a buzzing little city like Wellington or near the mountains and beaches of the South Island, it’s easy to feel connected—to people, to nature, and to a strong culture of fairness and respect. From everyday outdoor adventures to a deep respect for Māori heritage, New Zealand offers a refreshing, grounded way of life that many find hard to leave behind.