What are the 10 best places to live in 2023?

Looking to relocate and want to know where the best living is? US News & World Report gives you the answer, based on a survey of 17,000 people worldwide, evaluating 85 countries based on 76 indicators.

From education to health care and safety, there are many factors to consider when measuring quality of life. So if you're ready to discover the best places to live, work and play, keep reading.

1. Sweden

Sweden is the leading country in the ranking of the best quality of life for 2022. The country stands out in the ranking of the quality of life for well-developed health and public education systems, security, economic stability and politics. Additionally, Sweden is committed to sustainability, human rights, wealth distribution and university education. It is a beautiful country, with stunning landscapes, amazing cities and an extremely educated population.

2. Denmark

Denmark is second in the world in terms of quality of life. Factors such as income equality, stable politics, security and good education and public health systems influence Denmark's ranking. The Danish government is known as a very stable and transparent entity. The country operates under a constitutional monarchy and the members of Denmark's highest legislative body, the Folketing, are elected by the people. The Danish government is progressive and the country's social structure has admirable social mobility. Through progressive taxation, the country has a universal health system in which citizens receive free medical care. Higher education is also free. Denmark has several major industrial sectors such as food processing, iron, steel and machinery manufacturing and tourism. Agricultural and industrial machinery, pharmaceuticals, processed foods and furniture are the main exports.

3. Canada

Canada is one of the safest countries. While the standard of living in any country varies greatly by individual, a look at some social indices reveals much that Canadians can be thankful for. Canadians are generally healthy people who do not suffer from any dangerous or infectious diseases in large numbers. Canada is a high-tech industrial society. While the service industry is the most important economic driver in Canada, the country also exports a lot of energy, food and minerals. Canada is the third largest oil producer in the world. Because of the strength of the economy, Canadians have a very high quality of life. In terms of most criteria of environmental quality, Canada is in the top tier of nations. The Canadian constitution states that men and women are legally equal, and provincial and federal human rights legislation protects them from gender discrimination by government and private sector businesses. Marriage, divorce, and military service are all formally gender-neutral under federal law.

4. Switzerland

Switzerland's ranking is ensured by factors such as 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 highly developed service sector with excellence in the financial sectors, and a strong high-tech manufacturing industry. As a result, living in Switzerland becomes very attractive for those thinking of moving to Europe. Also, note that Switzerland ranks first in the survey of the best places to retire.

5. Norway

Norway's security, stable politics and 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 as one of the best places to live. Norway is also considered a great place to work in Europe, with policies such as maternity leave and gender equality. The unemployment rate is low and salaries are competitive, especially for those with advanced degrees.

6. Finland

Finland stands out in the ranking for its safety, well-developed public education system and attractiveness for families. The country is a global leader in education. Finland also ranks high for performance in civil rights, quality of life and press freedom. Finland was also one of the first countries in the world to give women the right to vote. Finland's economy is free-market oriented and the country, like its Nordic neighbors, invests heavily in social safety nets and public services.

7. Germany

Germany is undoubtedly one of the biggest economic powers in the world, ranking seventh on the list. The country has a strong economy, as well as well-developed education and public health systems. Other advantages include a trained and diverse workforce, as well as booming telecommunications, health and tourism sectors. Germany is also a global leader in imports and exports, as well as the birthplace of numerous historic cultural icons.

8. The Netherlands

In the 2022 survey, the Netherlands came in eighth place. Political stability and well-developed public health and education systems distinguish the country in the ranking. It was the first country to legalize same-sex marriage and is known for its tolerant society. It has the world's highest concentration of museums and 32,000 kilometers of bike paths, encouraging people to be more active. The Dutch pay 52% tax on their wages. However, they do not complain as their country offers them a quality life. Public transport is very efficient, wages are good, the country is safe and the education is excellent.

9. Australia

Australia is a prosperous country with a market-based economy. Australians love to play sports and life expectancy is long for both men and women. Cities in Australia usually rank high in liveability ratings. In late 2017, voters overwhelmingly approved the legalization of same-sex marriage. The high quality of Australian education is also recognized around the world.

10. New Zealand

New Zealand is known worldwide for its high quality of life and slow pace of life. Zealanders are known for their hard work ethic, but they also value a healthy work-life balance. Even in the biggest cities, a beach, bike path or national park is never far away. If you are a citizen, or 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 may be able to get a range of services under certain circumstances.