Dreaming of a new life abroad? The world’s best countries to relocate to have been revealed

Many Britons dream of leaving the UK for a better life abroad, drawn by warmer weather, a healthier work-life balance and, in many cases, the chance to start a new adventure.But deciding where to relocate isn’t always straightforward, with options ranging from accessible European countries offering excellent healthcare to exciting destinations further afield.A new report, the Rumavi Global Relocation Index 2026, has revealed the best places in the world to move to this year – and the results may surprise you.The UK ranks a disappointing 49th, while the number one spot goes to a country many people might not expect.The index also includes separate rankings for digital nomads, families, entrepreneurs and retirees.Here’s a look at the top 10 destinations to relocate to.1. Estonia  Estonia tops the ranking as the world’s best country to move to in 2026Estonia, which ranks 11th on the Women, Peace and Security Index, is widely considered to be a safe, stable country in Europe – and tops this list with a high score of 72.8.Standout features include exceptional banking infrastructure, business opportunity and property rights for non-citizens.It’s ranked as the best destination for families, too, making it an ideal relocation spot to raise children. Not only is it considered budget-friendly and welcoming to travellers, but getting there won’t break the bank either.Flights from London to Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, start from as little as £23 one way with Wizz Air.2. Singapore  Singapore ranks as the second best country to move to this yearIn second place is Singapore, known for having great conditions for both entrepreneurs and families seeking stable places to live.This country ranks extremely well for currency and banking, climate risk and digital infrastructure.But the index warns: ‘Relocators should weigh severe housing costs and limited pathways to permanent residency against these advantages.’ 3. Malaysia  Malaysia came in third place in the analysis, taking home the bronze medalMalaysia also scored well, coming in third place – it ranks especially well for retirees and digital nomads.Despite recent changes to visa tiers, the country offers lower costs than the UK, alongside favourable treatment of foreign income in many cases.The tropical weather, as well as the common use of English, adds to the appeal of Malaysia as a retirement destination as well as one for expats.4. Portugal  Portugal, known for its scenery and balanced lifestyle, took the fourth spotThe mass British exodus to Portugal is easy to understand: sunny weather, a laid-back lifestyle and better prices make for a welcome change from the soaring cost of living in the UK. It has been ranked among the world’s top retirement destinations, including coming fourth in the UK Retirement Destinations Attractiveness Report 2026.Its D7 Passive Income Visa and strong private healthcare sector make it easy to settle in the country.And the stats back this up – the number of British expats living in Portugal almost tripled between 2014 and 2024, according to the Portuguese immigration authority (AIMA), now standing at 48,238. 5. Taiwan  Taiwan takes fifth place on the ranking, with majestic scenery to exploreTaiwan has recently hit travellers’ bucket lists for its safe environment and excellent sights – and takes fifth place on this list with a score of 71.4.’Digital infrastructure and healthcare are standout strengths, though language barriers, climate risk, and restrictive residency pathways present meaningful drawbacks,’ the index explains. Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, might not come to mind immediately when considering your next trip – but is a highlight for both travellers and expats seeking a new home.But there’s so much to see and do here, from the Four Beasts Mountains to the Taipei 101, the city’s gargantuan skyscraper.6. Lithuania Lithuania took sixth place in the Rumavi Global Relocation Index 2026Lithuania is another surprising addition to the list – but with great currency and banking infrastructure, abundant green space and robust property rights for non-citizens, it makes an excellent choice for expats.Families in particular could benefit from relocating to this Eastern European spot.It’s even been ranked as one of Europe’s cheapest destinations in the 2026 Post Office City Costs Barometer.Staying in capital, Vilnius, costs around £289 for a two-night trip, with great prices including £2.12 for coffee, £11.87 for a 48-hour travel card and many attractions with free entry.7. Hong Kong  Unsurprising given its popularity among expats, Hong Kong came in seventh placeNext up is Hong Kong, which gained a score of 71 – and is a top choice for entrepreneurs and those prioritising tax efficiency.The index adds: ‘Whilst it offers world-class banking and digital infrastructure, relocators should weigh exceptional housing costs and climate exposure against its financial advantages.’ Hong Kong is a popular spot on multi-stop itineraries due to its excellent transport links, making it a great gateway to other Asian destinations.As well as being a business hub, it is known as a ‘shoppers’ paradise’ and is famous for its food scene.8. Saint Kitts and Nevis  Saint Kitts and Nevis is known for its peace and high quality of lifeJoining the list in eighth place is Saint Kitts and Nevis, a Caribbean nation with volcanic peaks, hiking trails and gorgeous beaches.The weather here is tropical with warm temperatures year-round, typically 24–32°C.Plus, the exceptional tax advantages and minimal climate risk make it appealing to foreigners.It’s ideal for retirees, too, ranking sixth in the specific list. 9. Czechia  Joining the ranking is Czechia, home to the gorgeous city of PragueYou’d more likely associate Czechia with a weekend getaway to Prague than a relocation destination.But according to the index, it’s one of the world’s best relocation destinations. It’s great for families, and the advantages include currency and banking infrastructure, property rights security, and low climate risk.10. Malta  Next up is veritable safe haven Malta, taking position number tenRounding out the list is Malta, a favourite destination for retirees as well as a cheap holiday destination.The EU base has English as an official language and a remittance tax system available to UK residents.Malta’s capital city, Valletta, was also handed the coveted title of best city in the world at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2025.The European hotspot is known for its Mediterranean sun, as well as fabulous architecture, great food and impressive prices.