For the seventh consecutive year, US News & World Report ranked the best countries in the world to live. In 2022, US News ranked 85 countries based on global perceptions. The survey, conducted in partnership with the BAV Group and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, polled 17,000 people around the world and ranked countries on 76 different indicators. In this article we talk about the countries with the best quality of life in 2022.
Best Quality of Life: Top 10 Countries
US News & World Report conducts a country survey each year to review education, health, GDP, and other aspects, including determining countries' quality of life. Through this survey, you can find out which countries have the best quality of life based on indicators such as purchasing power, average life expectancy, health, education, gender equality, security, and financial quality.
Let's review the top 10 countries listed in the Best Quality of Life sub-ranking.
1. Sweden
2. Denmark
3. Canada
4. Switzerland
5. Norway
6. Finland
7. Germany
8. Netherlands
9. Australia
10. New Zealand
1. Sweden
Sweden is the first country in the ranking for the best quality of life in 2022. The country stands out in the quality of life ranking for well-developed health and public education systems, security, economic and political stability.
In addition, Sweden is committed to sustainability, human rights, wealth distribution, and higher education. It is a beautiful country with breathtaking landscapes, amazing cities, and an extremely educated population.
Sweden – Quality of life attributes and ratings

2. Denmark
Denmark ranks second in the world in terms of quality of life. Factors such as income equality, stable politics, security, and good public education and healthcare systems influence Denmark's ranking.
The Danish government is known to be a very stable and transparent entity. The country operates under a constitutional monarchy, and members of Denmark's highest legislative body, the Folketing, are elected by the people. The Danish government is progressive and the social structure of the country shows an admirable social mobility.
With progressive taxes, the country has a universal healthcare system where citizens receive free healthcare. Higher education is also free.
Denmark has several leading industries such as food processing, iron, steel and engineering, and tourism. Agricultural and industrial machinery, pharmaceuticals, processed foods, and furniture are the main exports.
Denmark – Quality of life attributes and ratings

3. Canada
Canada is one of the safest countries. While the standard of living in each country varies greatly from person to person, a look at various social indices shows just how much Canadians can be thankful for. Canadians are generally healthy people who do not suffer from dangerous or contagious diseases in large numbers.
Canada is a high-tech industrial society. While the service industry is Canada's main economic engine, the country also exports large amounts of energy, food, and minerals. Canada is the third largest oil producer in the world. It also has the third largest proven oil reserves. Due to the strength of Canada's economy, Canadians have a very high quality of life.
Canada is in the first group of nations for most environmental quality criteria. The Constitution of Canada declares that men and women are equal before the law, and provincial and federal human rights laws protect them from gender discrimination by state and private companies. Marriage, divorce, and military service are formally gender-neutral under federal law.
Canada: Quality of Life Attributes and Ratings

4. Switzerland
Switzerland's ranking is ensured by factors such as the economy, stable politics and a well-developed public education system.
The country has a low unemployment rate and a well-educated workforce. The economy is fueled by low corporate tax rates, a sophisticated service sector with financial excellence, and a robust high-tech manufacturing industry. As a result, life in Switzerland becomes very attractive for those who are considering moving to Europe.
Also keep in mind that Switzerland comes first.The best countries for retirementOpinion poll.
Switzerland – Quality of Life Scores and Attributes

5. Norway
Norway ranks fifth overall in the survey. Norway's security, stable politics and a well-developed public education system stand out in the ranking. The country is prosperous, with one of the world's largest oil exporters, free higher education and a long literary tradition.
The country is one of the most developed in the world, with a high standard of living and a reputation for being one of the best places to live.
Norway is also considered an excellent country to work in Europe, highlighting policies such as maternity leave and gender equality. The unemployment rate is low and salaries are competitive, especially for those with advanced degrees.
Norway – Quality of life attributes and ratings

6. Finland
Finland stands out in the ranking for its safety, its well-developed public education system and its attractiveness for families.
The country is a world leader in education. Finland also scores very well in terms of civil rights, quality of life, and freedom of the press. Finland was also one of the first countries in the world to give women the right to vote.
Finland's economy is market-based and, like its Nordic neighbours, the country invests heavily in social safety nets and public services.
Finland – Quality of life attributes and ratings

7. Germany
Germany is undoubtedly one of the strongest economic powers in the world and ranks seventh on the list. The country has a strong economy and well-developed public health and education systems. Other advantages include a well-educated and diverse workforce, and booming telecommunications, healthcare, and tourism sectors.
Germany is also a world leader in imports and exports and the birthplace of numerous historical cultural icons.
Germany – Quality of life attributes and scores

8. Netherlands
In the 2022 survey, the Netherlands ranked eighth overall. Political stability and well-developed education and public health systems characterize the country in the rankings. It was the first country to legalize same-sex marriage and is known for its tolerant society. It has the highest concentration of museums in the world and 32,000 kilometers of cycle paths, which encourages people to be more active.
The Dutch pay 52% tax on their salaries. However, they do not complain as their country offers them a quality life. Public transportation is very efficient, salaries are good, the country is safe, and education is excellent.
The Netherlands – Quality of life attributes and ratings

9. Australia
Australia is a prosperous country with a market-based economy. . Australian residents love to play sports and life expectancy is high for both men and women. Australia's cities often rank highly in quality of life ratings. In late 2017, voters overwhelmingly voted to legalize same-sex marriage.
The high quality of Australian education is also known around the world.
Australia: quality of life attributes and ratings

10. New Zealand
New Zealand is known around the world for its high quality of life and slow pace of life.
New Zealanders are known for their hard work ethic, but they also value a healthy work-life balance. Even in the largest cities, a beach, a bike path or a national park are never far away. If you are a citizen, resident or have a work visa valid for at least two years, public health care in New Zealand is free or low cost. Even if you have a temporary visa, you can use a variety of services under certain circumstances.
New Zealand – Quality of life attributes and ratings
Conclution
Are you from one of the countries mentioned above? Have you ever lived in one of them? Share your experiences with us. If you are interested in surveys, be sure to read other articles likesafest countriesyDigital Quality of Life Index 2021.
FAQs
Which is the best country in the world 2023? ›
- Switzerland. #1 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Germany. #2 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Canada. #3 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- United States. #4 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Sweden. #5 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Japan. #6 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Australia. #7 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- United Kingdom. #8 in Best Countries Overall.
- Sweden. #1 in Quality of Life. #5 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Denmark. #2 in Quality of Life. #10 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Canada. #3 in Quality of Life. ...
- Switzerland. #4 in Quality of Life. ...
- Norway. #5 in Quality of Life. ...
- Finland. #6 in Quality of Life. ...
- Germany. #7 in Quality of Life. ...
- Netherlands. #8 in Quality of Life.
- United Kingdom. GDP per capita, Purchasing Power Parity in 2021: $49,675.3. ...
- France. GDP per capita, Purchasing Power Parity in 2021: $50,728.7. ...
- Finland. GDP per capita, Purchasing Power Parity in 2021: $55,006.6. ...
- Australia. ...
- Germany. ...
- Austria. ...
- Belgium. ...
- Sweden.
#1 Singapore. Read More About SingaporeSingapore's economic freedom score is 84.4, making its economy the freest in the 2022 Index.
What is the best country to live in as a single woman? ›1. Denmark | Single Women Liveability Score: 6.80/10.
Which country is easy to move to from USA? ›- Why Move Abroad Anyway?
- The 11 EASIEST Countries for Americans to Move to in 2023. #1. Mexico. #2. Portugal. #3. Spain. #4. Greece. #5. Turkey. #6. Malta. #7. The Netherlands. #8. Thailand. #9. Belize. #10. Georgia. #11. Canada.
- Before you go… Related articles:
- Albania.
- Portugal.
- Costa Rica.
- Panama.
- Mexico.
- Thailand.
- Malaysia.
- Vietnam.
...
Countries With The Highest Average Life Expectancies In 2030:
Country | Japan |
---|---|
Rank 2018 | 1 |
Life expectancy 2018 | 83.7 |
Rank 2030 | 2 |
Life expectancy 2030 | 85.7 |
Rank | Country | Proj. GDP (2030, PPP) |
---|---|---|
#1 | China | $64.2 trillion |
#2 | India | $46.3 trillion |
#3 | United States | $31.0 trillion |
#4 | Indonesia | $10.1 trillion |
Rank | City | Starting over score |
---|---|---|
1 | St. Louis, MO | 71.4 |
2 | Buffalo, NY | 68.9 |
3 | Hartford, CT | 68.6 |
4 | Providence, RI | 67.0 |
Which will be the best country to live in in the next 10 years? ›
Sweden. Sweden is the top country in 2022 best quality of life rankings. The country stands out in the ranking of quality of life for health systems and well-developed public education, security, economic stability, and politics.
Which country is best for living and earning? ›- Canada. #1 in A good job market. #3 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Germany. #2 in A good job market. ...
- United Kingdom. #3 in A good job market. ...
- United States. #4 in A good job market. ...
- Australia. #5 in A good job market. ...
- Japan. #6 in A good job market. ...
- Switzerland. #7 in A good job market. ...
- Sweden. #8 in A good job market.
- Cuenca, Ecuador. ...
- Coronado, Panama. ...
- San José, Costa Rica. ...
- Koh Samui, Thailand. ...
- Vienna, Austria. ...
- Capetown, South Africa. ...
- Merida, Mexico. ...
- Montevideo, Uruguay.
In 2020, United States has dropped to rank 17 according to The Human Freedom Index. The Freedom Index does not measure democracy, but it does measure freedom of speech and media, press killings, political imprisonment, etc.
Which is the best place to live peacefully? ›- Iceland. Apart from dramatic scenery, Iceland has a 100% literacy rate in the 300,000 population Living among an educated population which is tolerant towards minorities is a great bonus. ...
- Denmark. ...
- New Zealand. ...
- Austria. ...
- Switzerland. ...
- Japan. ...
- Finland. ...
- Canada.
Overall Rank | City | Total Score |
---|---|---|
1 | Seattle, WA | 64.77 |
2 | Madison, WI | 62.62 |
3 | Denver, CO | 62.05 |
4 | San Francisco, CA | 61.53 |
Ireland scored the highest among nearly all of the factors Bounce analyzed in its study. The country ranked at the top for having laws in place to protect women from violence and its people's attitudes toward violence against women.
What country are most US citizens moving to? ›Mexico is the top destination for Americans moving abroad, followed by the U.K., Canada and Australia. So far in 2022, ~75% more Americans have moved to Mexico than Canada. Portugal has seen the biggest percentage increase in Americans moving in (+122% from 2019-2021)
What is the cheapest country for an American to live in? ›Costa Rica
And you don't need to go broke while living and working there, because Costa Rica is one of the cheapest countries to live in for Americans.
What countries can Americans freely move to? ›
- Svalbard.
- Mexico.
- Portugal.
- Ecuador.
- Malta.
- Spain.
- South Korea.
- Australia.
The table is led by Australia. At the bottom of the list, we see that Sudan probably has the toughest living conditions. Thanks to its good civil rights and general popularity, the USA ranks 21st and still quite high up in the table, although the high cost of living and the climate in some areas are negative.
What country has the best healthcare? ›- South Korea. South Korea tops the list of best healthcare systems in the world. ...
- Taiwan. Taiwan is second in the best healthcare systems in the world. ...
- Denmark. ...
- Austria. ...
- Japan. ...
- Australia. ...
- France. ...
- Spain.
When asked to rate their general satisfaction with life on a scale from 0 to 10, Americans gave it a 7 grade on average, higher than the OECD average of 6.7.
What is the safest country to live in America? ›When evaluated by 2022 GPI, the top three safest countries in North America are Canada, Costa Rica, and Panama.
What is the cheapest and safest English speaking country to live in? ›1. India. You'll love the magic (and affordable cost of living) of India. India is hands down the cheapest English speaking country to live in, to travel, or to retire, and it claims to be the world's second largest English speaking country.
What is the easiest country to move to? ›- Canada. If you have your heart set on living in North America but don't qualify for any visas in the United States, their neighbor to the North might be a good choice for you. ...
- France. ...
- The Caribbean. ...
- Spain. ...
- Mexico. ...
- Croatia. ...
- Indonesia.
- Guyana. Average growth 2022-2026: 25.8% ...
- Macao. Average growth 2022-2026: 11.9% ...
- Fiji. Average growth 2022-2026: 7.7% ...
- Niger. Average growth 2022-2026: 7.6% ...
- Libya.
The U.S. will still remain the most powerful country in 2025, but it will have a little over 18 per cent of the global power. China will closely follow the U.S. with 16 per cent, EU with 14 per cent and India with 10 per cent.
Which country will be next superpower? ›By 2050, more countries are likely to be defined as superpowers, joining the United States and creating a multipolar world order. Extrapolating current economic, geopolitical, and demographic trends would suggest that China is likely to become a new superpower, although its economy is currently faltering.
Who will rule the world by 2030? ›
By 2030, India might lead the world in every category, a former top America's diplomat has said asserting that the two largest democracies of the world can do much together.
Which countries will be richest in 2050? ›As a result, six of the seven largest economies in the world are projected to be emerging economies in 2050 led by China (1st), India (2nd) and Indonesia (4th) The US could be down to third place in the global GDP rankings while the EU27's share of world GDP could fall below 10% by 2050.
Who will rule the world in 2050? ›China is expected to hold on to the number one spot. In 2050, the Asian giant is forecast to have the largest economy on the planet. With an ageing population and an annual GDP growth rate averaging just 4.4%, however, China isn't projected to enjoy the exceptional economic growth it experienced during the 2000s.
What is the best city in America to start over? ›St. Louis takes the cake as the best city in the country for young people looking to start over, thanks to a combination of affordability and social opportunities. St. Louis has the lowest monthly rent costs for a downtown apartment of any city in the country ($1,151.11), and the fourth-lowest overall cost of living.
Where can I move for a simpler life? ›- Sandpoint, ID.
- Gulfport, FL.
- Montpelier, VT.
- San Marcos, TX.
- Greenville, SC.
- Canandaigua, NY.
- Port Townsend, WA.
- Logan, UT.
- Bhutan. Bhutan is one of the most interesting places in the world, and not just because it is home to some of the highest mountains in the world. ...
- Japan. ...
- New Zealand. ...
- Canada. ...
- Australia. ...
- Singapore. ...
- Finland. ...
- Norway.
- Malta.
- Antigua and Barbuda.
- St. Kitts and Nevis.
- Turkey.
Iceland is followed by New Zealand, Ireland, Denmark, Austria, and Portugal. So if you're looking to relocate to Europe soon, make sure to check out the list below. Take a detailed look at the top 10 countries, and make sure to check out the end of the article to see a list of the top 20 safest countries.
What is the most stable country to live in? ›Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world in 2021, a position it has held since 2008. It is joined at the top of the index by New Zealand, Denmark, Portugal, and Slovenia. Conflict in the Middle East has been the key driver of the global deterioration in peacefulness since 2008.
Which country has high income and low cost of living? ›Like other Middle Eastern countries, Oman is rich in oil and gas that make it a wealthy economy with the highest purchasing power in the list at 57.5 per cent with cost of goods that are comparatively cheaper. If you live in Asuncion, the country's capital, your monthly living expenses will fall to Rs 24,000 a month.
What country pays a lot of money? ›
Rank | Country | Average Monthly Net Salary (US$) |
---|---|---|
1 | Switzerland | 6142.1 |
2 | Singapore | 4350.79 |
3 | Australia | 4218.89 |
4 | United States | 3721.64 |
...
Millionaire Outflows.
- Panama – Quality of Life. ...
- Thailand – Historic Retirement. ...
- Spain – Affordable Quality. ...
- Malta – Island Paradise. ...
- Mexico – Budget Retirement. ...
- Malaysia – Cosmopolitan Comfort. ...
- Portugal – Romantic Retirement. ...
- Nicaragua – Adventure Retirement.
The Top 25 Best Countries to Retire in
With an overall score of 81%, Norway comes in at number one as the most retirement-friendly country on the list.
- Malaysia. ...
- Spain. ...
- Costa Rica. ...
- Panama. Cost of Living Index: 48.25. ...
- Peru. Cost of Living Index: 30.74. ...
- Slovenia. Cost of Living Index: 47.30. ...
- Austria. Cost of Living Index: 64.11. ...
- Australia. Cost of Living Index: 72.27.
...
Free.
Rank | 1 |
---|---|
Country | Singapore |
Overall | 84.4 |
Change | -5.3 |
rank | 5 |
In the 2022 index, New Zealand is ranked most free overall, while North Korea is last.
What is the nicest place on earth to live? ›- Sweden. #1 in Quality of Life. #5 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Denmark. #2 in Quality of Life. #10 in Best Countries Overall. ...
- Canada. #3 in Quality of Life. ...
- Switzerland. #4 in Quality of Life. ...
- Norway. #5 in Quality of Life. ...
- Finland. #6 in Quality of Life. ...
- Germany. #7 in Quality of Life. ...
- Netherlands. #8 in Quality of Life.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen earned an index of 98, with perfect scores in stability, education, and infrastructure.
- Alexandria, Virginia.
- Boulder, Colorado.
- Madison, Wisconsin.
- Clearwater, Florida.
- Charleston, South Carolina.
- Tampa, Florida.
- Virginia Beach, Virginia.
- Providence, Rhode Island.
Where is the easiest place to move from the US? ›
Portugal, Malta and Spain are some of the easiest countries to relocate to from the United States. American citizens can either gain permanent residency or apply for citizenships via each country's Citizenship by Invest programs.
What is the best state to move to alone? ›Topping the list is Idaho, which earned high rankings for safety and volume of group activities. Not far behind is Nebraska, which also ranks as one of the most affordable states with an average monthly rent of $833.
What is the best state to meet a woman? ›Augusta, a small city near Georgia's border with South Carolina, is one of the cheapest and safest places to live in the USA. It has a low crime rate and a low cost of living, making it perfect for those looking to live comfortably and save money.
What US city has the lowest cost of living? ›According to their methodology, America's cheapest city is Harlingen, Texas, a small city of less than 72,000 people at the southern tip of Texas near the Mexican border.
What is the best country to have a baby in? ›- First Place: Poland – Overall Score 7.05. Recognised as the best place to give birth worldwide is Poland. ...
- Second Place: Estonia – Overall Score 6.98. ...
- Third Place: Japan – Overall Score 6.82. ...
- Belgium – 71.51. ...
- Greece – 43.4 weeks with 27 weeks full-rate equivalent.
1. Denmark | Single Women Liveability Score: 6.80/10.
What country sees 2023 first? ›The first country and city to celebrate New Year's Eve annually is Kiritimati, Kiribati.
Which country is in the year 2023? ›Country that celebrate New Year first and Last
Kiritmati, a part of Kiribati Islands wis the first place on earth to usher in New Year 2023. Located on the Pacific Ocean and is a part of the countries in Oceania. It will be just 3.30 pm on December 31 in India, according to the IDL.
Rank | Country | Proj. GDP (2030, PPP) |
---|---|---|
#1 | China | $64.2 trillion |
#2 | India | $46.3 trillion |
#3 | United States | $31.0 trillion |
#4 | Indonesia | $10.1 trillion |
What country is ahead of everyone in time? ›
Kiribati – pronounced Kiribas – is the only nation on Earth to permanently trespass into GMT+14: the earliest time zone in the world. You can think of Kiribati as the eternal land of tomorrow: if it's Sunday where you are, it's probably Monday in Kiribati.
What will be the newest country in 2027? ›In late 2019, a non-binding independence referendum was held with 98.31% voting for independence rather than continued autonomy within Papua New Guinea. As a result, the regional authorities intend to become independent by the end of 2027, pending ratification by the Papua New Guinean government.
Which country turns 2023 last? ›Which country celebrates New Year last? The uninhabited islands of Howland and Baker Islands, near the United States, are the last places to welcome the New Year. They ring in the New Year at 12 pm GMT or 5:30 pm IST on January 1.
Which country is predicted to be the most populous in 2023? ›When it comes to demographic shifts, 2023 is going to be a big year. India will overtake China to become the world's most populous country in 2023—and China's population will start to shrink.
Which country is 7 years back? ›Ethiopia, the country that follows a 13-month calendar, and is 7 years behind the rest of the world!
Which country is growing the fastest? ›Rank | Country | Real GDP growth rate (%) |
---|---|---|
1 | Libya/FER | 296.1 |
2 | Maldives | 31.712 |
3 | Guyana | 19.994 |
4 | Macao | 18.033 |
While challenges remain, most experts believe that China will be the new superpower by 2050. China GDP in 2050 is expected to be around $58.5 trillion.