As the trend of working abroad continues to rise, more and more individuals are leaving their homelands to pursue opportunities in foreign countries. These expatriates, commonly referred to as expats, often seek destinations that offer not only career prospects but also an appealing lifestyle. But what are the top countries drawing in expats today? Interestingly, Indonesia has surged to become one of the most favored destinations for expatriates. Curious why? Let’s explore how this nation found its way into the top three.
The Expat Insider 2024 survey, conducted by InterNations, provides a deep dive into the experiences of expatriates worldwide. Gathering data from over 12,500 expats representing 174 countries and regions, the survey ranks the best places to live based on several criteria, including quality of life, ease of settling, job opportunities, finances, and digital connectivity.
According to reports from Forbes and InterNations, the Expat Insider survey has now completed its 11th year. This comprehensive analysis offers insights that help identify the countries that provide the best experiences for expats. In 2024, Panama, Mexico, and Indonesia emerged as the top three destinations, with Indonesia climbing an impressive 10 spots from last year’s 13th place to claim the 3rd position.
Indonesia’s rise in the rankings is attributed to a variety of factors. One major draw is the country’s low cost of living, which ranked 4th globally. Expats particularly appreciate how affordable life in Indonesia is compared to other countries. They also highlighted the friendly nature of Indonesians, ranking the nation 2nd in terms of hospitality. Many expats report an excellent work-life balance, noting that they enjoy their professional lives without sacrificing personal well-being.
Read also: Rising Expatriates in Indonesia Drive Up Rental Prices for SCBD Jakarta Apartments
For expats working in Indonesia, the benefits go beyond just a pleasant lifestyle. Many noted that their income allows them to live comfortably, with easy access to housing and transportation. These practical considerations make settling into life in Indonesia even smoother.
In addition to the financial and logistical advantages, Indonesia offers expats a wide range of lifestyle perks. The country’s warm climate, diverse culinary offerings, and vibrant cultural scene make it an attractive place to call home. Whether exploring the bustling nightlife or enjoying the rich local traditions, expats find plenty to love about their new surroundings.
However, despite all the positive aspects, Indonesia still faces challenges. The survey identified two key areas for improvement: healthcare services and air quality, both of which impacted the country’s overall Quality of Life Index.
Looking at the broader picture, the Expat Insider survey reveals that Southeast Asia continues to be a popular region for expats, with five countries from the area making it into the top ten. Meanwhile, four countries from the Americas also made the list, and Spain was the only European nation in the top tier, securing the 4th spot.
Here is the full ranking of the 20 best countries for expats in 2024:
- Panama
- Mexico
- Indonesia
- Spain
- Colombia
- Thailand
- Brazil
- Vietnam
- Philippines
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Costa Rica
- Oman
- Saudi Arabia
- Kenya
- Portugal
- Australia
- Qatar
- Belgium
- China
- Luxembourg
With the country’s significant rise in the rankings, Indonesia is clearly becoming a hot spot for expatriates seeking both professional and personal fulfillment. Its balance of affordability, culture, and friendly atmosphere continues to attract expats from around the globe, solidifying its place as one of the world’s top destinations for those seeking a new life abroad.
