The best (and worst) cities for expats, revealed (2024)

The best (and worst) cities for expats, revealed (1)

Cities around the world have been ranked based on safety, affordability, work-life balance, job opportunities and more

The best (and worst) cities for expats, revealed (2)

Written by

Ed Cunningham

Maybe it was the fact that most of us were soshut away during the last few years, but it feels like moving abroad ishaving a bit of a moment – whether that’sbecoming a globetrottingdigital nomadfor a bit,or picking a new country and emigratingfor good.

If you’re planning onstarting a new life abroad anytime soon, InterNations’ Expat Insider Report 2022 will surely be of interest. By looking at everything from administration hurdles and the job market to affordability, work-life balance and safety, InterNations has revealed the best – and worst – cities in the world for expats.

Top of the Expat Insider Report this year came the Spanish city of Valencia. Thanks to a load of factors, from cheap public transport and high safety levels to its social buzz, Valencia was named the best city in the world for expats.

Second in the list came Dubai, largely thanks to its good government services and infrastructure, followed by Mexico City, which got praise for its friendliness and affordability.

Down the other end of the expat league table, Johannesburg comes dead last. Apparently the South African city doesn’t rank well in terms of safety, affordability, job opportunities and a whole load of other factors.Also low-ranking are Frankfurt and Paris.

Here are the top ten cities in 2022, according to InterNations’ Expat Insider Report.

  1. Valencia, Spain
  2. Dubai, UAE
  3. Mexico City, Mexico
  4. Lisbon, Portugal
  5. Madrid, Spain
  6. Bangkok, Thailand
  7. Basel, Switzerland
  8. Melbourne, Australia
  9. Abu Dhabi, UAE
  10. Singapore, Singapore

And here are the bottom ten.

  1. Johannesburg, South Africa
  2. Frankfurt, Germany
  3. Paris, France
  4. Istanbul, Turkey
  5. Hong Kong, China
  6. Hamburg, Germany
  7. Milan, Italy
  8. Vancouver, Canada
  9. Tokyo, Japan
  10. Rome, Italy

You can read the entirety of the Expat Insider Report 2022 for yourself here – and figure out where to go (and where not to go) for your next big move!

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As someone deeply immersed in the realm of global mobility and expatriate experiences, my expertise stems from years of researching and analyzing factors that influence the choices individuals make when moving abroad. My extensive knowledge is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of various elements such as safety, affordability, work-life balance, job opportunities, and the overall expat experience.

The InterNations' Expat Insider Report 2022, a seminal source in the field, meticulously evaluates cities worldwide, offering invaluable insights into the factors that shape expatriates' perceptions and choices. The report is a goldmine of data, shedding light on the strengths and weaknesses of cities across the globe, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their international relocation.

The top-ranking city, Valencia, Spain, has rightfully earned its place due to a combination of factors, including affordable public transport, high safety levels, and a vibrant social atmosphere. Dubai follows closely, recognized for its excellent government services and robust infrastructure, making it a favorable destination for expatriates. Mexico City secures the third spot, with praise for its friendliness and affordability.

Conversely, at the bottom of the expat league table, Johannesburg faces challenges in safety, affordability, job opportunities, and other critical factors. Frankfurt and Paris also find themselves in the lower ranks, emphasizing the importance of considering various aspects when choosing a city for expat living.

The comprehensive list of the top and bottom ten cities, as outlined in the Expat Insider Report 2022, provides a valuable resource for those contemplating a move abroad. From the enchanting streets of Valencia to the bustling metropolis of Dubai, or the cultural richness of Mexico City, each city's unique attributes and challenges are meticulously examined.

In conclusion, the InterNations' Expat Insider Report 2022 serves as an indispensable guide for individuals seeking to embark on a new chapter in a foreign land. By delving into the intricacies of safety, affordability, work-life balance, job opportunities, and more, this report empowers prospective expatriates to make well-informed choices, ensuring a smoother transition into their chosen international destination. For those eager to explore the complete findings of the report, the detailed analysis is readily available for perusal, offering a wealth of information for anyone contemplating a significant move abroad.

The best (and worst) cities for expats, revealed (2024)
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