The 10 Best European Countries for Expats in 2025

Moving to Europe? These Are the Best Countries for Expats

Packing your bags, booking that one-way ticket, and diving into a whole new culture—there’s nothing quite like the thrill (and chaos) of becoming an expat. Whether you're chasing a dream job, looking for better weather, or just craving a fresh start, Europe has plenty of options. But let’s be real—not all countries are created equal when it comes to expat life. Some offer sky-high salaries but come with impossible housing prices. Others have a laid-back, sun-soaked vibe but make job hunting feel like an Olympic sport.

So, where should you go? Based on insights from over 12,000 expats, we’re breaking down the top 10 European countries that expats actually love living in. From Spain’s unbeatable quality of life to Luxembourg’s job security paradise, this list will help you figure out where to set up your next home—and maybe even call it your forever place.

10. Estonia – The Digital Nomad Haven

Estonia might not be the first place you think of when it comes to expat life, but it’s a hidden gem for remote workers and tech-savvy professionals. Known for its strong digital infrastructure and work-life balance, Estonia ranks first in the world for work culture and satisfaction.

✅ Pros:

• Thriving tech scene and digital-friendly services
• High work-life balance and job flexibility
• Beautiful nature and safe environment

❌ Cons:

• Lower salaries compared to Western Europe
• Difficult to make friends with locals
• Limited entertainment options

9. Greece – Sun, Sea, and Social Life

Greece may not be an economic powerhouse, but expats love its warmth—both in climate and people. While job stability and salaries are low, Greece ranks high for friendliness, quality of life, and cost of living. If you're looking for a slower, more relaxed pace of life, this might be the place for you.

✅ Pros:

• One of the friendliest countries for expats
• Affordable cost of living compared to other European nations
• Stunning landscapes and Mediterranean lifestyle

❌ Cons:

• Poor job market and low salaries
• Slow bureaucracy and lack of digitalization
• High unemployment rates

8. Sweden – Work-Life Balance at Its Best

Sweden is a dream for career-driven expats looking for stability and a high quality of life. Expats praise Sweden for its excellent work culture, job security, and work-life balance. However, many find it challenging to integrate socially, as Swedes can be a bit reserved.

✅ Pros:

• Excellent career opportunities
• Strong work-life balance
• Clean environment and great public services

❌ Cons:

• Difficult to make friends with locals
• High taxes and cost of living
• Harsh winters

7. Switzerland – High Salaries, High Costs

Switzerland is a top choice for expats looking for financial stability. It ranks second in the world for salaries and offers one of the best healthcare systems. However, expats complain about the high cost of living and the difficulty of making friends.

✅ Pros:

• One of the highest salaries in Europe
• Low bureaucracy and excellent healthcare
• Beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities

❌ Cons:

• Expensive cost of living and housing
• Strict residency and visa regulations
• Not the most socially welcoming country

6. Netherlands – A Work Paradise for Expats

If you're moving to Europe for career growth, the Netherlands is a top contender. It ranks first in the world for work-life quality and offers great salaries and job security. However, expats note that making friends with locals can be difficult.

✅ Pros:

• High salaries and career prospects
• Excellent work-life balance
• Strong infrastructure and digital services

❌ Cons:

• Difficult to integrate socially
• High housing costs
• Surprisingly low healthcare satisfaction among expats

5. Czech Republic – Affordable and Safe

The Czech Republic is a favorite among expats for its affordability and great public transportation. While bureaucracy can be a headache, it ranks high in personal finance and safety, making it a solid choice for those seeking stability.

✅ Pros:

• Affordable cost of living
• Safe and secure environment
• Well-connected public transport system

❌ Cons:

• Complicated bureaucracy
• Difficult to make local friends
• Salaries lower than Western Europe

4. Luxembourg – Small but Mighty

Luxembourg might be tiny, but it ranks first for job security and expat salaries. It’s also one of the easiest places to build a career. The downside? It’s expensive and not the most exciting place for leisure.

✅ Pros:

• High salaries and strong job market
• Low bureaucracy and efficient public transport
• Great healthcare system

❌ Cons:

• Expensive cost of living
• Difficult to find affordable housing
• Limited entertainment and social scene

3. Finland – The Ultimate Work-Life Balance

Finland is ranked #1 in the world for work-life balance. It’s clean, safe, and highly digitalized. However, the language barrier and long, dark winters can be challenging for some expats.

✅ Pros:

• Best work-life balance in Europe
• Safe, clean, and highly digitalized
• Stunning natural landscapes

❌ Cons:

• Harsh winters and long nights
• Finnish is a difficult language to learn
• Can feel isolated outside of major cities

2. Portugal – Friendly, Laid-Back, and Affordable

Portugal might not offer the highest salaries, but it wins big on quality of life. Expats love the warm climate, friendly locals, and relaxed pace of life.

✅ Pros:

• Affordable cost of living
• Warm and welcoming people
• Great climate and natural beauty

❌ Cons:

• Low wages and job stability
• Rising housing prices
• Slow and complex bureaucracy

1. Spain – The Expat Dream

Taking the #1 spot, Spain is the best European country for expats. It offers an unbeatable mix of social life, climate, and affordability. Whether you’re moving for work, retirement, or adventure, Spain has it all.

✅ Pros:

• Top-ranked quality of life
• Friendly locals and easy social integration
• Affordable living and excellent public transport

❌ Cons:

• Lower salaries compared to Northern Europe
• Bureaucracy can be slow
• Rising housing prices in major cities

Europe is a playground for expats, but finding the perfect spot depends on what you value most—career growth, quality of life, or social vibes. Whether you're drawn to Spain’s sunshine and easygoing culture, Switzerland’s financial security, or Portugal’s warm and welcoming charm, there’s a place for everyone. The trick? Balancing work, lifestyle, and affordability to create the life you actually want.

No country is perfect, but if you’re ready to embrace new challenges, cultures, and friendships, Europe is full of opportunities. So, where’s your next move? Are you chasing adventure, stability, or maybe just a killer work-life balance? Whatever it is, the right country is out there waiting for you.

Stay inspired and keep exploring the world with Woke Waves Magazine!