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7 Best Places to Live Abroad With Family

Posted Country Guides / December 12, 2019

Deciding on the best places to live abroad with family involves weighing several factors. From the quality of international schools to the cost of living and healthcare, every aspect matters in ensuring a thriving life. Whether it’s for better job opportunities or a new cultural experience, finding the perfect destination when moving overseas means balancing practicalities with adventure. Let’s explore top global destinations that provide safety, education, and a fulfilling lifestyle for families embarking on a new chapter.

What are the Best Places to Live Abroad With Family?

Consider Finland, Singapore, Australia, Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, or Germany. Each offers unique benefits, from top-tier education and robust healthcare to scenic environments and family-friendly policies. Explore these ideal destinations for expats seeking a fulfilling family life abroad.

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#1 Finland is Safe and Inclusive

Finland is acclaimed globally as one of the safest countries, which is a significant appeal for families looking to relocate.

New parents in Finland benefit from a unique “baby box” program. This program supplies a container filled with baby essentials that can also serve as a crib.

Alternatively, families may opt for a no-tax cash benefit of 140 euros per newborn, underlining the government’s commitment to supporting families from the start.

There are around 470,000 expats in Finland

Furthermore, the maternity leave policy is exceptionally inclusive. It provides four months of paid leave to mothers regardless of their employment status, enhancing support for diverse family structures.

Here You’ll Easily Find Work

Finland boasts a robust economy with thriving sectors like technology, clean energy, and telecommunications. The country’s forward-thinking business culture is also remarkably inclusive, providing ample opportunities for expatriates, including those who are self-employed, students, or even temporarily unemployed.

Some of the largest companies offer exceptional work opportunities abroad:

  • Fortum – Electricity
  • Nokia – Technology
  • Nordea – Finances
  • Kone – Industrials
  • Neste – Oil and gas

So, if you are moving across the world without a job, worry not. Here, you will be able to find work swiftly. Just prepare your resume and let your experience speak for itself.

#2 Singapore is a Prime Destination for Expats With Children

Have you considered moving to Singapore? This bustling city-state consistently ranks as one of the top destinations for expatriates seeking a blend of excellent work opportunities and a high standard of family living.

One of the biggest upsides of living in Singapore is its safety, security, and cleanliness, which is unparalleled in Southeast Asia. The strict regulations and efficient governance ensure that crime rates are low and the streets are clean, offering peace of mind for families concerned about safety.

Here You’ll Get Career Opportunities in a Dynamic Economy

Singapore’s economy is vibrant and continuously evolving, particularly strong in the financial, engineering, and software sectors. The city-state is known for its meritocratic system that rewards talent and hard work, making it a magnet for professionals seeking career advancement. Singapore’s strategic position in Asia and its pro-business environment add to its appeal as a career hub.

#3 Australia is Ideal For Families With Active Lifestyle

Australia consistently emerges as a top destination for American expats looking to enhance their quality of life. Known for its robust health standards, efficient transportation system, and clean, fresh air, Australia offers a living environment that can significantly boost your well-being.

If you want to move to Australia, know that here, high quality of life is a standard. The well-maintained urban infrastructure, coupled with a reliable internet and public transportation system, ensures that daily life is both convenient and comfortable. Crime rates are exceptionally low, making it a safe haven for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of denser metropolitan areas.

The country is a paradise for those who love an active lifestyle, thanks to its vast and varied landscapes that offer countless outdoor activities, from surfing on its world-famous beaches to hiking through lush rainforests and rugged outback.

#4 Switzerland is All About High-Quality Living

Switzerland, renowned for its pristine landscapes and high-quality living, offers an exceptional environment for raising families and pursuing career opportunities. With a robust healthcare system and a supportive work culture, Switzerland is a top choice for expats who focus on family well-being and professional growth.

So, if you are ready to move to Switzerland, know that the relocation comes with many benefits. For starters, maternal and infant healthcare is unparalleled, ensuring that from birth, mothers and babies receive the best care possible. Hospitals provide a nurturing environment, with no rush to discharge new mothers, allowing ample time to establish breastfeeding and ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.

Switzerland Encourages Work-Life Balance for Parents

Swiss culture promotes a unique approach to parenting and work. Many parents prefer family-based childcare over formal settings, a trend rooted deeply in the country’s history and reflecting a preference for personal care from relatives such as grandparents. This familial approach to childcare is complemented by a flexible work culture, where more fathers are opting to reduce their work hours, and mothers often engage in part-time work, effectively balancing professional and family life.

There are Many Different Employment Opportunities and Cultural Enrichment

Switzerland offers a diverse range of job opportunities, especially in multilingual environments, given its French and German-speaking regions. The country’s economy is strong in sectors such as finance, pharmaceuticals, and technology, attracting professionals from around the world.

The country also scores highly for its safety, quality of life, and educational system, making it a desirable location for expatriate families. Its commitment to preserving natural spaces and promoting cultural offerings adds to the appeal, providing a rich environment for children to grow and learn. Notably, Basel has been recognized by UNICEF as the most child-friendly city in the world, underscoring Switzerland’s dedication to fostering supportive urban environments for families.

#5 Spain is a Chill Place with Friendly People

Relocating abroad with your family can be quite a challenge, especially for kids who might struggle with adjusting to a new language and culture. However, moving to Spain means settling in a place that stands out as a premier destination for expats, thanks to its universally welcoming people. This friendly vibe makes it easy for kids to make new friends and feel at home.

There are More Than a Few Career Opportunities

The job market in Spain is ripe with opportunities, especially for professionals in business consulting, finance, IT, and engineering.

This dynamic range of possibilities not only supports a stable career move but also enriches your family’s experience with diverse cultural and professional interactions. Keep that in mind when considering Spain as your future home.

 

There are around 42,000 Americans living in Spain

One thing you have to prepare when moving internationally to this European country is that many people use unofficial channels, like networking, word-of-mouth, and speculative applications, to get employment.

This is particularly true for small—to medium-sized businesses. As such, be proactive, look for chances, and network rather than limiting your job search to agencies and advertisements.

People are the Biggest Treasure of This Nation

The real charm of Spain lies in its relaxed lifestyle and the warmth of its people. This laid-back culture allows you and your family to settle in comfortably, making the transition smoother than you might expect. With its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant social life, the country offers a living experience that is both enriching and rewarding, setting the stage for a fulfilling expat life. Whether it’s unwinding on sun-drenched beaches or enjoying local festivities, Spain promises a balanced and enjoyable life for your whole family.

#6 Iceland Provides Great Work and Life Balance

Iceland not only captivates with its breathtaking landscapes but also stands as a beacon for family-friendly living, especially appealing to those seeking an optimal work-life balance. Known globally for its progressive stance on parenting, Iceland ranks as one of the best places for working parents due to its supportive policies and societal flexibility.

Icelandic culture strongly supports parental involvement from the earliest stages of a child’s life. Fathers are particularly notable for taking 100% of their three months’ paternity leave. This high level of engagement continues throughout the child’s development, illustrating a societal norm where both parents are hands-on. Mothers, too, experience unprecedented inclusivity, evident from the allowance of infants in workplaces and even in parliamentary sessions. This is a practice that reflects the national emphasis on keeping children close during critical developmental stages.

Here You’ll be Able to Balance Work and Family

Here parents do not face the common pressure to choose between career and family. The environment is crafted so that parents can share childcare responsibilities equitably while also finding time to pursue personal and professional growth. This balance is further supported by high scores in safety, healthcare, happiness, and childcare costs, making it an ideal setting for raising children.

It is an Ideal Spot for Those Who Love Cold Weather

Looking to relocate to a colder climate? Look no further. Iceland will be the place for you. Here, summers are very pleasant. Expect long days that last far into the night and typical temperatures of 10–13 °C (50–55 °F). The average temperature during the mild winters is about 0 °C (32 °F).

However, remember that Icelandic weather is always unpredictable and can change suddenly. In a few hours, one can encounter a wide range of meteorological conditions. Winter storms can occur frequently, and winds can be very powerful. Wear appropriate clothing. Always be on the lookout for weather warnings, and if necessary, heed government directions to stay inside.

#7 Germany is a Work and Family Hub

Germany offers a unique blend of modernity, safety, and abundant green spaces, making it an attractive destination for expatriates. The country’s cities are not only equipped with a wealth of leisure activities tailored for families but also maintain a charm that appeals to those seeking a balance between urban living and nature.

 

If you want to move to Germany, be prepared for a different work culture.

The country emphasizes work-life balance.

The norms against overtime and taking work home contribute to a healthier lifestyle, allowing expats and their families to spend more quality time together.

There are around 400,000 Americans living in Germany

This approach not only enhances personal well-being but also aids in smoother cultural integration for expatriate families, offering them a chance to fully explore and enjoy their new home without the constraints of excessive work hours.

Germany offers Cultural Richness and Accessibility

Germany’s rich cultural heritage adds another layer of appeal for expats. From historic landmarks and museums in cities like Berlin and Munich to music festivals and local culinary delights, Germany offers a vibrant cultural scene that is both enriching and accessible. The country’s central location in Europe also makes it an excellent base for exploring neighboring countries, which is ideal for families looking to experience the breadth of European culture and history.

The Benefits of Hiring an International Moving Company to Help You Relocate to the Chosen Country

When relocating abroad, the logistics can be overwhelming, from securing housing to navigating the legalities of international moves. Hiring an international moving company can alleviate much of the stress associated with such a big transition. These specialized overseas shipping companies offer a range of services designed to streamline the moving process and ensure that your belongings arrive safely and efficiently at your new home.

For example, if you hire an I Love International Moving crew, you’ll get professional international moving services. On top of that, we offer safe overseas vehicle shipping, as well as packing assistance.

Hiring an international moving company might seem like an added expense, but the cost is often justified by the peace of mind and ease of transition it provides. This makes them an invaluable resource for any family embarking on an international relocation.

Hire the I Love International Moving Crew for a Swift Relocation Abroad

When planning your move abroad, consider enlisting the expertise of the I Love International Moving crew. Our extensive experience in international relocations ensures that every detail of your move is handled with professionalism and care.

With I Love International Moving, you get more than just an international moving service – you gain a partner who is committed to making your international move as stress-free and efficient as possible. Give us a call, book your move, and the rest is up to us.

Blake Shaw

Bostonian and residential moving and packing expert. Blake Shaw enjoys bar-hopping, music, and writing insightful content.

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