From Switzerland and Iceland to Australia and Spain, a new global ranking highlights the best countries for living, earning, and raising a family in 2026.
The Remitly Immigration Index 2026 ranked countries based on living costs, safety, salaries, healthcare, and overall quality of life, revealing which destinations are becoming most attractive for people seeking a fresh start abroad.
Whether you’re moving with your family or looking for better opportunities and living conditions, several countries stand out from the rest.
There are many reasons why people relocate abroad, from career opportunities and relationships to the desire for a better climate and lifestyle.
To help identify the most attractive destinations, Remitly analyzed 82 countries using 34 different criteria, including living costs, purchasing power, education, healthcare, happiness levels, safety, and earning potential.
Switzerland claimed first place this year after finishing second in 2025. According to the report, the country stands out for its exceptional earning potential, world-class healthcare system, safety, and strong public infrastructure.
Iceland ranked second, followed by Luxembourg in third place. Australia and Germany completed the top five.
Top 10 Countries to Move to in 2026
Switzerland
Iceland
Luxembourg
Australia
Germany
Ireland
United States
Denmark
Norway
Spain
When it comes to families, Spain ranked first thanks to its strong education system, parental benefits, affordable childcare, and large number of international schools.
The report also examined which countries provide the best balance between income and living costs. Saudi Arabia ranked first globally, while Norway, Denmark, Luxembourg, and Ireland were the highest-ranked European countries in this category.