The Best Countries For Gen Z Expats

Almost two-thirds (63%) of Gen Z would consider living and working overseas. Whether it is the ability to work remotely, embrace new cultures, or live more sustainably, Gen Z is shaping a global movement built on purpose and possibility.

Our Gen Z Expat Index reveals the countries offering the best overall experience for this new generation of global citizens. Each destination has been ranked on key factors, including affordability, safety, healthcare quality, environmental performance, equality, and connectivity, covering everything that matters when choosing where to live and work abroad.

Whether you are planning a year abroad, a career move, or a more permanent relocation, here’s your one-stop guide to help you find destinations that fit your lifestyle, priorities, and peace of mind.

Key findings

• Denmark is the world’s best country for Gen Z expats, earning a score of 7.88 out of 10, thanks to its mix of safety, equality, and high-quality healthcare.
• Luxembourg offers the strongest balance of affordability and environmental sustainability, with the average cost of living at just 15.5% of wages and one of the highest environmental scores globally.
• Iceland ranks highest for inclusivity, scoring 95 out of 100 on the LGBT Equality Index.
• Iceland is also considered one of the safest places to live, with a Global Peace Index score below 1.1, significantly lower than the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) average of 1.6.

Gen Z is now driving global mobility

Gen Z is fast becoming the most internationally mobile generation in history. According to Centuro Global, nearly 60% of all new international mobility applications now come from individuals under 30, and four in 10 of all applicants are aged 25-29.

As well as this, almost two-fifths (39%) of Gen Z and Millennials planned to live or work abroad in 2025.

For those considering a move overseas, understanding healthcare access is one of the most important steps.

Every country has its own system, and not all offer the same level of support to foreign residents. That is why securing international health insurance is essential, as it helps protect your well-being wherever you go.

Digital-first work has made this easier than ever. The rise of remote and hybrid roles means location no longer defines opportunity. Combined with high living costs in some home countries, flexible employment is allowing Gen Z to look beyond borders in search of affordability, balance, and a better quality of life.

At the same time, social media is fuelling inspiration. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube have made the idea of moving abroad feel more accessible and achievable. For many, it is no longer just a dream, but a practical and exciting next step.

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What are the best countries for Gen Z expats?

According to the Henley Global Mobility Report, younger professionals are increasingly choosing to relocate for lifestyle and well-being reasons, rather than solely for salary.

This index shows that countries in Northern and Western Europe are particularly attractive for these Gen Z workers, where many maintain high standards of healthcare, safety, and connectivity alongside relatively affordable living costs.

We’ve based the Gen Z Index on:

• Affordability
• Internet speeds
• Global Peace Index
• Health Care Index
• LGBT Equality Index
• Environmental Performance Index

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The top European countries for Gen Z expats

1/ Denmark

Gen Z expat score: 7.88/10

Denmark ranks first, offering an environment that blends digital connectivity, strong public systems, and social progress. Its capital, Copenhagen, was also recently named one of the world’s best cities for Gen Z to live in, according to survey data.

The country’s median broadband speed of 246.4 Mbps is comfortably ahead of the OECD average of 176.3, creating ideal conditions for remote work and digital-first careers. Safety is another major factor: with a Global Peace Index score of 1.4, Denmark sits among the 10 most peaceful countries studied.

Although Denmark’s cost of living represents around a fifth of average wages, it’s more affordable than places like Finland (21.8%) and Norway (21.5%).

2/ Netherlands

Gen Z expat score: 7.27/10

The Netherlands also performs strongly across areas that directly influence everyday quality of life, landing it in second place. Its Healthcare Index score of 80.6 is one of the highest in the dataset, just behind Switzerland. 

They’re looking to improve this even more, though. According to recent health policy reports, the Dutch healthcare system is pursuing changes to further improve accessibility and coverage, particularly in mental health and long-term care.

Similar to the other countries in the top three, affordability is another advantage of living in the Netherlands. Living costs account for around 18.6% of average wages, which is lower than in countries like Germany (19.8%). This means young professionals can enjoy a high standard of living without the same financial pressure found in some neighbouring countries.

3/ Luxembourg

Gen Z expat score: 7.22/10

Affordability is a standout strength for Luxembourg. The average cost of living accounts for 15.5% of wages, which is the lowest figure among the top 10. That makes Luxembourg noticeably more affordable than other European destinations such as Greece (33.5%) and Slovakia (28.5%). 

Luxembourg also scores exceptionally well for sustainability, earning an Environmental Performance Index score of 75.1, second only to Estonia. The government’s ongoing investment in greener living is visible in everyday life. One example of this was the decision to make all public transport free in 2020, aimed at reducing car usage and addressing environmental problems.

The global appeal to younger professionals is clear. A recent survey found that 95% of Gen Zs would consider Luxembourg as a place to live and work, while 52% said it would be their first choice if relocating abroad.

The top 10 European countries for Gen Z expats

Rank

Country

Gen Z expat score / 10

1

Denmark

7.88

2

Netherlands

7.27

3

Luxembourg

7.22

4

Iceland

7.17

5

Spain

6.97

6

Austria

6.77

7

Finland

6.56

8

Belgium

6.41

9

Norway

6.21

10

France

6.11

Safety and security are important when moving abroad

We take a look at some of the safest countries in the world

The top non-European countries for Gen Z expats

While Europe leads much of the rankings, a few destinations beyond the continent also perform strongly.

The top 5 non-European countries for Gen Z expats

Rank

Country

Gen Z expat score / 10

1

Canada

6.21

2

New Zealand

5.86

3

Australia

5.61

4

Japan

5.46

5

United States

4.80

Canada ranks highest outside Europe with a score of 6.21, matching Norway. It combines reliable broadband (235.6 Mbps) and a high LGBT Equality Index score of 79, creating an environment that feels both inclusive and globally connected.

New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and the United States also rank within the top five non-European destinations, each offering a different draw for younger movers. New Zealand scores highly for safety (1.3 on the Global Peace Index), while Japan ranks among the world’s best for healthcare (80.2). Australia scores well across all categories, and the US stands out for connectivity (289.4 Mbps), which is the second-highest in this study.

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What are the most affordable countries for Gen Z living abroad?

Luxembourg is the most affordable country for Gen Zs

Affordability (% of wages): 15.5%

To calculate affordability, we measured the annual cost of living for a single person (sourced from Numbeo) as a percentage of each country’s average annual wage, based on OECD data. 

A lower percentage indicates a more affordable destination, where day-to-day expenses take up a smaller share of income.

The most affordable countries for Gen Zs

Rank

Country

Affordability (% of wages)

1

Luxembourg

15.5%

2

United States

17.0%

3

Belgium

17.3%

1. Luxembourg is the most affordable country in the analysis, with living expenses accounting for just 15.5% of average wages. That’s a notably lower share than in Mexico (40.2%) or Greece (33.5%), which are the least affordable.
2. In second place, the United States records living costs at 17.0% of average wages, supported by high earning potential and access to one of the world’s most developed job markets.
3. Belgium follows closely, with 17.3%, combining stable wages with affordable living costs.

Could you earn more in a different country?

Find out if other countries offer higher salaries for your job

What are the safest countries for young people moving overseas?

Iceland is the safest country for Gen Zs living abroad

Global Peace Index score: 1.1

Safety and stability are key priorities for anyone planning life abroad, particularly for younger movers seeking independence and reassurance in a new environment.

The Global Peace Index (GPI), produced by the Institute for Economics and Peace, is the world’s leading measure of global peacefulness. It analyses 23 indicators across three key areas – societal safety and security, ongoing conflict, and militarisation – covering nearly every country in the world. A lower score indicates a more peaceful and stable society.

The safest countries for Gen Zs

Rank

Country

Global Peace Index score

1

Iceland

1.1

2

Republic of Ireland

1.3

2

New Zealand

1.3

2

Switzerland

1.3

2

Austria

1.3

Safety levels vary widely across the rankings.

1. Iceland, with a GPI score of just 1.1, is the safest country globally. In contrast, nations such as Mexico and the United States record scores above 2.4, reflecting higher crime rates and greater instability.
2. The Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, Switzerland, and Austria follow closely behind Iceland, each scoring 1.3. These countries have a combination of low crime rates, political stability, and strong community networks – factors that can help newcomers feel at home more quickly.

It’s important to look out for your well-being while living abroad

We share some top safety tips for expats

Where are the most inclusive destinations for Gen Z expats?

Iceland is the most inclusive destination

LGBT Equality Index score: 95

The LGBT Equality Index, produced by Equaldex, measures legal rights, protections, and social attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community worldwide. Higher scores reflect stronger equality laws, better representation, and greater societal acceptance.

The most inclusive countries for Gen Zs

Rank

Country

LGBT Equality Index score

1

Iceland

95

2

Norway

87

3

Spain

83

1. Iceland ranks first in inclusivity, scoring 95 out of 100. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010, and equal adoption rights have been in place since 2006. The country’s constitution prohibits discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, while public support for equality remains among the strongest in Europe.
2. Norway follows with an LGBT Equality Index score of 87.
3. Spain takes third place with 83. Both of these countries are recognised for progressive laws and widespread social acceptance of LGBTQ+ communities.

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Which are the best countries for healthcare for younger expats?

South Korea is one of the best countries for healthcare

Health Care Index score: 95

Access to quality healthcare is a major consideration for anyone moving abroad. For younger expats in particular, knowing that medical services are reliable and easily accessible can make settling into a new country far smoother.

The Health Care Index, compiled by Numbeo, compares healthcare systems worldwide based on cost, accessibility, and quality. A higher score reflects better medical infrastructure, patient satisfaction, and service availability.

The best countries for healthcare for Gen Zs

Rank

Country

Health Care Index score

1

South Korea

82.8

2

Netherlands

80.6

3

Japan

80.2

1. South Korea leads the chart with a Health Care Index score of 82.8, thanks to its universal coverage under the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). The system achieved full population coverage by 1989. 
2. The Netherlands comes in second place with a Health Care Index score of 80.6.
3. Japan scores 80.2, due to its long-established universal system. The Japanese government is also aiming to become a global leader in healthcare by further upgrading its system and collaborating with the World Health Organization (WHO) to detect public health emergencies.

Quality of healthcare varies from country to country

Which countries have the best healthcare in the world?

Gen Z expats and insurance: Key insights

As younger generations become increasingly mobile, their relationship with insurance is evolving.

For Gen Zs, health cover isn’t just a formality – it’s an expectation of transparency, flexibility, and digital accessibility. They are more likely to see insurance as a service that should fit seamlessly into their lifestyle rather than as a long-term contract buried in fine print.

Gen Z’s view on insurance

Research from Deloitte indicates that Gen Z is highly proactive when selecting insurance, yet still struggles to fully understand it. Nearly three-quarters (73%) already have some form of insurance, and 78% compare offers from different providers, showing a generation that wants to make informed, independent choices.

However, that awareness doesn’t always translate into confidence. More than a quarter (27%) of those without insurance say they simply hadn’t thought about it, while 23% admit they’ve never had time to understand how it works.

YouGov’s travel insurance study found that 26% of Gen Z respondents had travel insurance on their most recent trip, slightly ahead of Millennials. This suggests that when cover is presented as part of an experience (such as travelling), younger consumers are more open to it, particularly when it’s convenient, digital, and easy to use.

Advice for navigating healthcare and insurance overseas

As more young people take their first steps into international life, it’s essential to recognise that access to healthcare and financial protection can vary significantly from one country to another. Even in destinations with strong public systems, cover for foreign residents isn’t always guaranteed. 

Factors like employment changes, travel, or illness can leave gaps in support.

Joe Holden
Relationship Manager at William Russell says…

“Moving abroad is an exciting milestone, but it’s easy to overlook the practicalities that protect your health, income, and future. Many younger expats assume that local healthcare will be free or that their employer will take care of everything, but that’s not always the case.

Before you move, take time to understand how the local system works:

• Who qualifies for public healthcare?
• How do sick pay or benefits work?
• Do you need additional cover?

Having the right international plan in place—whether health insurance, life insurance, or income protection insurance—makes sure you’re prepared for whatever happens, wherever you go.

Planning ahead gives you continuity of care, financial stability, and peace of mind. Especially if you work remotely, switch contracts, or live between multiple countries.

If you’re preparing to move abroad, explore our guides on accessing healthcare abroad, obtaining prescriptions overseas, and income protection for expats to help you make informed choices before you move.”

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Gen Z Expats

Frequently asked questions

Which country has the largest number of Gen Zs?

India has the world’s largest Gen Z population, with 374 million people born between the late 1990s and early 2010s. China follows with around 246 million, while Indonesia (69 million) and the US (66 million) also rank among the top five.

How do I know which country is the right fit for me?

Finding the right country starts with understanding what you want from life abroad. Some people prioritise career growth or digital connectivity, while others look for safety, healthcare quality, or cultural openness. Taking time to list what matters most can help narrow your options.

Once you’ve identified your priorities, compare destinations on factors such as cost of living, local salaries, visa availability, and access to healthcare. It’s also worth checking how easy it is to settle – including language, social opportunities, and community support. The best fit will be a country that aligns with both your long-term goals and your lifestyle.

How can I build a new social life and avoid loneliness?

Building a social life abroad takes time, but it’s one of the most rewarding parts of relocating. Joining local communities, clubs, or sports groups is one of the easiest ways to meet people who share your interests. Many cities also have expat networks or language exchange meetups, which can help you connect with others going through the same experience.

Staying in touch with family and friends back home is equally important. Scheduling regular calls or video chats can help ease the transition and keep you grounded while you settle in.

For younger professionals, coworking spaces and volunteering projects can be great ways to meet new people while giving structure to daily life. Online platforms and apps – such as Meetup, InterNations, or Facebook pages – are also popular tools for finding friends and communities wherever you move.

Ways to overcome feelings of loneliness

What motivates Gen Zs to travel?

Studies show that Gen Z’s motivation to travel and live abroad goes far beyond tourism. Research from Centuro Global and the Henley Global Mobility Report highlights a range of reasons, including flexibility, affordability, personal growth, and cultural exploration.

Many young professionals are drawn to the freedom of working remotely and experiencing different lifestyles, while others view international experience as a means to build confidence and independence.

Why is moving abroad a viable option for Gen Z?

For Gen Z, moving abroad feels more attainable than it did for previous generations. Affordable flights, widespread remote work opportunities, and easier access to information have significantly reduced many of the traditional barriers to relocation.

Digital tools now make it simple to compare living costs, apply for international roles, and build support networks before arriving. Many countries also offer relocation incentives or simplified visa options for young professionals.

Many employers with global workforces also offer strong relocation packages that cover everything from visas to housing support. They also help new hires settle in by connecting them with colleagues in the destination country and sharing useful insights about local life, culture, and everyday logistics. This level of employer-backed guidance makes the move smoother and helps Gen Z professionals feel supported from day one.

What visa options are available for remote workers?

Many countries now offer digital nomad visas, which enable individuals to live and work remotely abroad for an overseas employer or run their own business. These visas typically last 90 days to two years and are designed for professionals who can work entirely online.

Popular options include the Estonia Digital Nomad Visa, the Portugal Temporary Stay Visa, and the Spain Digital Nomad Visa, each offering flexible stays for remote workers who meet minimum income requirements. Outside Europe, countries like Costa Rica and Dubai have also introduced similar schemes.

For those planning to take a role with a local employer, a working visa may be a more suitable option. These allow you to work legally for a company in your destination country, typically requiring a formal job offer and sponsorship from your employer. Working visas often lead to longer stays or residency, whereas digital nomad visas are intended for shorter-term, location-independent work.

What documents will I need for an overseas visa?

The documents you’ll need depend on your destination and the type of visa, but most countries ask for the same core paperwork when applying for visas or residency. These typically include:

• A valid passport (often with at least six months’ validity remaining)
• Proof of income or employment, such as recent payslips, a work contract, or business registration
• Evidence of accommodation, like a rental agreement or a host invitation letter
• Health or travel insurance documentation covering your stay
• Financial proof, such as recent bank statements showing sufficient funds
• Educational or professional certificates, if applying for a work visa
• Police clearance certificates to confirm your criminal record status

Some countries may also require medical checks or translated documents. It’s best to confirm the exact requirements with your destination’s embassy or consulate before applying.

What are my health insurance options for long-term stays abroad?

For long-term stays abroad, you’ll usually have three main options for healthcare cover:

1. Public healthcare – Some countries allow foreign residents to access their national health system after registering or contributing through local taxes. However, coverage levels and waiting times can vary, and not all expats qualify immediately.
2. Local private insurance – Many residents opt for local plans for faster access to care, but these policies are often limited to treatment within a single country.
3. International health insurance – Designed for individuals living or working abroad for an extended period, these plans provide comprehensive global coverage, enabling you to access private hospitals, select your preferred doctor, and receive treatment across multiple countries.

For those planning to live abroad for several years or move between locations, international health insurance is often the most flexible and comprehensive choice.

Will my mental health be covered?

Mental health coverage depends on your insurance plan and the country you’re living in. Many public systems provide access to mental health services, but waiting times, availability, and language support can vary widely. In some destinations, counselling and therapy may only be available privately.

Most international health insurance plans include mental health support, covering services such as therapy, psychiatric consultations, and prescribed medication. Some also offer virtual consultations or access to online well-being platforms.

When choosing a plan, check whether mental health is included and what limits apply. It’s also worth confirming if your insurer provides support for preventative care, such as stress management or wellness programmes.

Learn more about mental health cover with William Russell

What are the financial implications of moving abroad?

Moving abroad can bring exciting opportunities, but it also comes with financial responsibilities that are easy to overlook. Beyond flights and accommodation, it’s important to plan for visa costs, insurance, shipping belongings, and setting up essentials such as bank accounts or mobile plans.

Once you’ve arrived, expenses such as rent deposits, utility bills, and healthcare can vary significantly depending on local systems. You may also encounter hidden costs, such as international transfer fees or tax obligations in both your home country and the destination country.

It’s worth thinking beyond immediate costs, too. Exchange rate fluctuations, pension access, and long-term savings options can all affect your financial security while living abroad. Setting up a clear budget – and seeking professional advice where needed – can help you stay in control and make your move sustainable in the long run.

It’s also worth considering income protection insurance, which is designed to support you if an illness or injury prevents you from working while you’re living overseas.

Learn more about international income protection insurance

What are the realistic start-up costs for a move?

Start-up costs will depend on your destination, lifestyle, and whether you’re relocating alone or with family, but most moves require a similar set of initial expenses. These typically include:

• Flights and transport to your new country
• Visa and application fees
• Shipping or luggage costs if you’re bringing personal belongings
• Initial accommodation, such as rent deposits or short-term stays, while you find a home
• Essential setup costs, like local SIM cards, furniture, and household items
• Health insurance or other mandatory coverage

Many expats also set aside extra funds for emergencies or unexpected costs, such as coverage for medical expenses or changes in exchange rates.

As a guide, relocation experts generally recommend having enough savings to cover three to six months of living expenses in your new country. Creating a clear budget before you move can help you stay financially secure during the transition period.

Wherever you go, go with total peace of mind

At William Russell, we have over 30 years’ experience of helping expatriates finding best places in the world to move abroad and settle into their new lives overseas by providing world-class international health insurance.

Making the move to another country can be challenging. But no matter where you go, you can take one thing off your mind. William Russell offers global health insurance that covers you for everything from minor injuries to long hospital stays, and we can even offer emergency medical evacuation to patients who require emergency life or limb-threatening treatment in other countries where it’s not available locally.

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Terms & conditions apply to our insurance products and services. You can find full details of what our plans cover (and what they don’t cover) in our plan agreements.

Discover more about how international health insurance can support your health overseas

Learn More

Methodology

William Russell provides international health, life, and income protection insurance to people living and working abroad. With over 30 years of experience supporting individuals, families and global professionals, we help expats access quality healthcare, safeguard their income, and plan for a secure future wherever they choose to live.

As Gen Z becomes the most internationally mobile generation to date, we wanted to understand what drives their relocation choices and which countries offer the best quality of life for young professionals starting overseas.

To explore this, we analysed the following factors for each OECD country, normalising the data on a 0-10 scale before combining them into a final Gen Z Expat Score, with each factor weighted equally.

Affordability

We divided the estimated monthly cost of living for a single person, sourced from Numbeo, and multiplied this by 12 for an annual figure. This was then calculated as a percentage of the average annual salary, sourced from OECD.

Internet speed

The median fixed broadband download speed (Mbps), sourced from Speedtest.

Note: Data for 2025 was unavailable for Lithuania, so data from 2024 was used.

Global Peace Index

The Global Peace Index (GPI) score was sourced from Vision of Humanity.

Note: A lower GPI score indicates a safer country. Data for 2025 was unavailable for Luxembourg, so data from 2024 was used.

Healthcare quality

Health Care Index score sourced from Numbeo.

LGBT equality

LGBT Equality Index score sourced from Equaldex.

Environmental performance

Environmental Performance Index score sourced from EPI.

All data was collected in October 2025 and is correct as of then.

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