The World's Ten Best Countries to Live in: 2025 Ranking
Edition MSN compiled a list of ten countries in the world where life is the best and the residents are the happiest and most prosperous people. Denmark topped the list.
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Denmark - happiness in Viking style
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In 2024, Denmark ranked first in the world for quality of life, up from fourth place in 2023.
And here's the paradox: despite high taxes (up to 50% of income), residents enjoy free healthcare, subsidized kindergartens, and free higher education. Imagine giving half of your salary to the state and still being among the happiest people on the planet.
In addition, Denmark is the second happiest country in the world according to the World Happiness Report 2024. What's the secret?
The country ranks fourth in our Quality of Life Index for its citizen happiness, safety and income equality.
On the subject: How much is happiness: scientists have found how income levels affect attitudes towards life
Switzerland - both your bank account and your soul are safe
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Switzerland is ranked as the best country in the world for quality of life, according to CEOWORLD Magazine's 2024 Human Progress Index (HPI). It has pristine lakes, snow-capped mountains, and trains that run on time.
Although the cost of living in Switzerland is one of the most expensive in Europe, the average salary is also one of the highest. Monthly living expenses in Zurich range from $2500 to $3500, depending on housing and lifestyle.
The Alpine country is not only famous for its scenery: it has low unemployment, a skilled workforce and an impressive GDP per capita. The financial sector and a strong high-tech industry, combined with attractive corporate taxes, strengthen the Swiss economy.
Living there is like staying in a luxury hotel where the staff really cares about you.
Sweden - Work-Life Balance
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Sweden has dropped from first to second place in the quality of life rankings this year, but don’t let that fool you. The Scandinavian country still offers plenty of benefits. In 2023, Sweden topped the quality of life rankings.
The country is a leader in many areas: a developed education and healthcare system, a high level of security, political and economic stability. And here's what might make you envious: Sweden offers 480 days of paid parental leave.
That's more than a year spent with a baby while still earning a salary! The average life expectancy in Sweden is 82,8 years, according to the CIA World Factbook.
In addition, the Swedish government is recognized as the least corrupt in the world. In addition, the country has a high level of environmental protection, respect for human rights, and a fair distribution of wealth.
Norway - Oil Wealth and Social Conscience
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Norway proves that having huge oil reserves does not necessarily mean giving up on values. Norway ranks fourth thanks to its universal healthcare system, political stability and social support.
The country offers high levels of job security, job satisfaction, and work-life balance. Imagine earning more than the average American and living among picturesque fjords.
The average salary in Norway is about $55, compared to $000 in the United States. Like most Scandinavian countries, Norway has an efficient and simple healthcare system.
Private health insurance is not required, as all residents have access to virtually free healthcare (except for a token fee for some services up to an annual limit). The Northern Lights are just a nice bonus to this Nordic paradise.
Canada - North America's Polite Powerhouse
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A U.S. News & World Report study ranked Canada fifth in the world for quality of life.
From the Rocky Mountains to the seaside, Canada offers more than just picturesque landscapes and friendly neighbors. Canada is known as a family-friendly country with excellent government services and high levels of income equality.
Canada consistently ranks highly in livability rankings, with Canadian cities regularly ranked among the most livable in the world.
But what makes Canada special isn't just universal healthcare or maple syrup - it's a genuine sense of community, where diversity is not just tolerated, but celebrated. The winters are harsh, but the warmth of Canadian society makes up for it.
Germany - efficiency plus quality engineering
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Hong Kong came in fourth, ahead of Sweden, with Denmark and Germany in sixth and seventh place respectively. Germany may lack Scandinavian charm, but it makes up for it in stability and opportunity.
Like Australia, Germany places great importance on education. Almost the entire population has a higher education: 96% of the country's residents have graduated from universities, where education is free.
Germany's economy is the largest in Europe and one of the largest in the world.
Whether it's a beer in a Munich beer garden or a stroll through Berlin's art scene, you live in a country that values both tradition and innovation.
Ireland - The Emerald Isle of Opportunity
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The top ten countries to live in included Ireland, Singapore and Australia, which came in eighth, ninth and tenth, respectively. Ireland isn't all rolling green hills and Guinness, although that's nice.
Like Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Switzerland, Ireland is among the world's most democratic countries, with low levels of violent crime and high levels of personal freedom.
Ireland has transformed itself from an agricultural economy into a tech hub, attracting global corporations with its favorable business conditions. In 2022, the country was ranked the third most peaceful country in the world.
Imagine working for an international company during the day and exploring ancient castles on the weekends – that's the Irish ideal.
Singapore - The Garden City of the Future
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Singapore proves that size doesn't matter when it comes to quality of life. Ranked 30th in the world and first among Asian cities, the country is known for its consistently high standard of living.
The city-state combines cleanliness, safety and highly efficient infrastructure. This tiny island nation has achieved what many large countries still struggle with: building a multicultural society.
From world-class street food to skyscrapers that reach into the clouds, Singapore offers the best of city living in a finely tuned machine with excellent cuisine.
Australia - country down below, life up above
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Australia consistently ranks among the best countries in the world for quality of life, and it's easy to see why. It's the only country outside Europe and Asia to make the top 84,1, with a life expectancy of XNUMX years.
Picture finishing the workday and heading out to ride the waves at Bondi Beach or explore the bush on the weekend. The relaxed lifestyle and love of nature make Australia an attractive destination for many.
Australians have mastered the art of living well - they work hard but always find time to enjoy the great outdoors, whether it's diving in the Great Barrier Reef or hiking in the Blue Mountains.
The Netherlands - Bicycles, Canals and Progressive Thinking
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The Netherlands rounds out the top ten thanks to its unique combination of liberal values and high standard of living.
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Amsterdam's canals tell the story of a country that has always been ahead of its time. The Dutch approach to life is practical and common sense: bicycles are a cult, work-life balance is a must, and tolerance is more than just a slogan.
The Netherlands offers a high standard of living thanks to progressive policies and efficient public services. Imagine a country where your main problem on the road is hordes of cyclists and the government actually listens to its citizens.
Well, the tulips and windmills are just nice additions.
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