Lisbon Named World's Best City for Expats in 2026

More than 300 million people now live outside their birth country, and a new study just revealed where they're thriving most.

Lisbon, Portugal claimed the top spot in the inaugural World's Most Livable Cities for Expats ranking, released by Global Citizen Solutions. The study evaluated 35 cities worldwide on what actually matters when relocating: healthcare access, safety, cost of living, air quality, social integration, English proficiency, and visa opportunities.

Amsterdam came in second, followed by Melbourne in third. Five European cities landed in the top 10, reflecting the continent's strong showing across nearly all categories.

Unlike typical city rankings that focus on tourist appeal or business climates, this study zeroed in on daily life quality for international residents. Safety and healthcare carried the heaviest weight, recognizing their importance for long-term moves.

Lisbon's win wasn't about dominating one category but performing consistently well across all seven. The Portuguese capital scored high marks for affordability compared to other European hubs like Vienna and Copenhagen, where living costs can stretch budgets thin.

The city also offers clean air, strong safety ratings, and widespread English proficiency. Portugal's multiple pathways to residency, including digital nomad visas and residence-by-investment programs, make settling there more accessible than many competitors.

Amsterdam's second-place finish came from its exceptional healthcare, spotless air, and being the most English-friendly city in Europe. Walking, cycling, and public transport account for over 70% of trips there, ideal for car-free living. Its main drawback? High costs that put it out of reach for some expats.

Melbourne rounded out the top three with pristine air quality, excellent healthcare, and perfect English proficiency. The Australian city remains especially popular with expats from other English-speaking countries seeking stable governance and well-developed urban systems.

The Ripple Effect

This ranking arrives as remote work and digital nomad lifestyles continue reshaping where people choose to live. The number of people living abroad has nearly doubled since 1990, and post-pandemic flexibility accelerated that trend.

Cities that prioritize livability over flashiness are winning. Lisbon's success shows that affordability, accessibility, and quality of life matter more than prestige when people choose where to build their lives.

For the 300 million people living far from home, this research offers a roadmap to cities that actually support thriving, not just surviving.