HEALTHPLAN MAGAZINE

In a recent survey conducted by InterNations, where over 12,000 expatriates representing 177 nationalities across 181 countries shared their insights, Malaga has emerged as the world's premier city for foreigners to live and work. This survey, extensively covered by various media outlets, has brought to the forefront the factors that contribute to Malaga's undeniable appeal.

Why Malaga?

Malaga, situated on the Costa del Sol in Spain, secured the coveted first position, surpassing cities globally. Renowned for its rich history, vibrant arts and culture scene (as the birthplace of Picasso), pleasant Mediterranean climate, and delectable cuisine, Malaga garnered praise across various categories.

Expats particularly lauded the city for its local friendliness, favorable climate and weather, work and leisure balance, and work-life equilibrium. The city excelled in safety, affordable public transportation, diverse sports options, and a lively social scene. However, in the local job market category, Malaga took the 41st spot.

Spain's Triumph in Expat Appeal

Spain emerged as a standout destination, with a total of five cities securing positions in the top 20. Alicante and Valencia claimed the second and third spots, respectively, highlighting a shared appeal attributed to ease of settling in, high quality of life, and favorable personal finance conditions.

Madrid secured the sixth position, recognised for its robust digital infrastructure, sound personal finances, and an overall high quality of life. Barcelona also featured in the top 20, securing the 13th spot.

Global Shifts in Expat Preferences

The 2023 ranking saw a notable shift in expat preferences. In contrast to the previous year, the United States witnessed a decline in appeal, with Miami and New York dropping to the 39th position. Factors such as the high cost of living, fast-paced lifestyle, and challenges in maintaining personal and family balance contributed to this decline.

Cities like Milan and Rome found themselves at the bottom of the list, followed closely by Vancouver in Canada. The top 20 cities globally included diverse locations such as Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, Kuala Lumpur, Amsterdam, Nairobi, Zurich, Athens, Stockholm, Luxembourg, and The Hague.

The World’s 20 Best Cities to Live (Top 10 Included):

1. Malaga, Spain
2. Alicante, Spain
3. Valencia, Spain
4. Ras Al Khaimah
5. Abu Dhabi, UAE
6. Madrid, Spain
7. Mexico City, Mexico
8. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
9. Bangkok, Thailand
10. Muscat, Oman

The World’s 10 Lowest Ranked Cities To Live In 2023:

1. Milan, Italy (ranked 49 out of 49 countries overall)
2. Rome, Italy (ranked 48 overall)
3. Vancouver, Canada (ranked 47 overall)
4. Hamburg, Germany (ranked 46 overall)
5. Berlin, Germany (ranked 45 overall)
6. Dublin, Ireland (ranked 44 overall)
7. Istanbul, Turkey (ranked 43 overall)
8. London, U.K. (ranked 42 overall)
9. Paris, France (ranked 41 overall)
10. Seoul, South Korea (ranked 40 overall)

This article was brought to you by HealthPlan, leaders in expat health insurance in Spain.

Source: Forbes - Sur In English