FX.co ★ Paradise on Earth: 5 countries with top-notch living standards

1st rank – Denmark

Denmark tops the ranking, moving up three positions from last year. This Nordic country is renowned for its high scores in education, healthcare, and social welfare. The government provides free healthcare, and university education, and subsidizes childcare services. Additionally, Denmark is recognized as the best country for expats in terms of job satisfaction: 84% of foreigners are happy with their work-life balance, far above the global average of 60%.

2nd rank – Sweden

Though Sweden has ceded the top spot to neighboring Denmark this year, it still ranks high. The Swedish government offers free healthcare and education, along with a unique parental leave policy (legally, parents are entitled to 480 days of paid leave upon the birth or adoption of a child). Furthermore, Sweden has one of the highest life expectancies in the world at 82.8 years, reflecting its quality healthcare system.

3rd rank – Switzerland

Switzerland takes third place this year. The country is known for its stable economy, high safety levels, and low air pollution. The average per capita income here is $39,000 annually, well above the global average, and 80% of the working-age population holds well-paying jobs. Additionally, Switzerland ranks fourth in purchasing power and seventh in safety, making it one of the most comfortable countries to live in.

4th rank – Norway

Norway is another Scandinavian country that regularly ranks in the top five. This is due to a strong economy and high employment rates. In 2024, Norway’s nominal GDP reached $527 billion, and the long-term unemployment rate is just 0.9%, with 75% of working-age residents holding well-paid jobs. Norwegians also enjoy high life expectancy: men live an average of 80.9 years, and women 84.3 years.

5th rank – Canada

Canada ranks fifth thanks to a stable economy, a strong labor market, high household incomes, and a well-developed social sector. The average household income is 46,000 Canadian dollars annually, which is 5,000 CAD above the global average. The government offers free healthcare and quality education. Additionally, Canada has one of the highest employment rates globally. According to the latest data, 70% of Canadians aged 15 to 64 are employed, and the long-term unemployment rate is just 0.5%.