Discover the Top Destinations for a Healthier and Happier Life
Moving abroad is always exciting, but relocating to one of the healthiest countries in the world can bring even greater benefits to your quality of life. If you're considering moving for health-related reasons, it's important to take a holistic view, looking beyond just access to healthcare.
For some, this might mean enjoying a healthier work-life balance in one of the world’s happiest nations. For others, it could be about access to a nutritious Mediterranean diet, affordable healthcare, or clean air – all of which contribute to overall well-being. To inspire your next move, this article highlights the world’s top destinations for expats in search of well-being and happiness abroad.
Moving abroad is always exciting, but relocating to one of the healthiest countries in the world can bring even greater benefits to your quality of life. If you're considering moving for health-related reasons, it's important to take a holistic view, looking beyond just access to healthcare.
For some, this might mean enjoying a healthier work-life balance in one of the world’s happiest nations. For others, it could be about access to a nutritious Mediterranean diet, affordable healthcare, or clean air – all of which contribute to overall well-being. To inspire your next move, this article highlights the world’s top destinations for expats in search of well-being and happiness abroad.
What Makes a Country "Healthy"?
What defines the healthiest countries in the world? While it’s easy to focus solely on healthcare systems, a truly healthy country is shaped by many interconnected factors.
This can range from government policies and environmental conditions to economic stability and even a nation's overall happiness.
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Key Factors Defining Healthiest Countries
Here are some of the key elements we considered when evaluating the world’s healthiest nations:
- Nutrition: Diet plays a significant role in overall health. For instance, the Mediterranean diet is often considered the world’s healthiest due to its emphasis on fresh, whole foods, healthy fats, and limited processed ingredients.
- Air Quality: Poor air quality can negatively impact daily life and lead to chronic health issues like asthma and allergies. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a valuable benchmark for comparing pollution levels worldwide.
- Water Quality: Reliable access to clean drinking water is essential to public health.
- Mental Health & Happiness: A positive outlook and general happiness are important to overall health. The World Happiness Report ranks nations by factors such as social support, freedom, and life satisfaction, which are all closely tied to mental well-being.
- Work-life Balance: Having enough personal time allows people to rest, build social connections, and pursue personal interests, which supports better physical and emotional health.
- Life Expectancy: Higher life expectancy often reflects strong public health infrastructure, access to care, and healthy lifestyles.
- Healthcare Infrastructure: The availability, affordability, and quality of medical services are fundamental to a nation’s health.
- Government Policies: Healthy countries often implement proactive public health policies, such as promoting vaccinations, encouraging nutritious diets, and regulating harmful substances, that help reduce health risks and support long-term well-being.
- Education: The world's healthiest countries often have solid education systems that emphasize health from a young age, including nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being.
- Socioeconomics: Wealthier nations often have more resources to invest in health, such as clean infrastructure, public healthcare, and education, though inequality within a country can also affect outcomes.
Key Differences Between the Healthiest and Unhealthiest Countries
According to the 2024 Bloomberg Global Health Index, the healthiest countries tend to have high levels of development, strong healthcare systems, and widespread economic stability.
In contrast, the world’s unhealthiest countries often face challenges like polluted air and water, malnutrition, limited access to care, lower life expectancy, and higher infant mortality.
However, even some highly developed countries struggle with issues like obesity, sedentary lifestyles, substance abuse, and mental health challenges, which can negatively impact overall public health.
Read More The Best Healthcare in the World: Country Rankings
How We Identified the Healthiest Countries in the World
In addition to the factors outlined above, we analyzed several independent global surveys and calculated average rankings across them. We then combined this data with our expertise in international health insurance to compile our list of the healthiest countries in the world.
Below is an overview of the key sources we used:
2024 Bloomberg Global Health Index
This survey ranks the healthiest countries in the world using data from reputable sources, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank.
It evaluates three main factors: life expectancy, environmental conditions (such as air pollution and water quality), and health risks (including obesity rates).
CEOWorld Global Health Index 2024
Conducted by a leading business magazine, this index ranks the world’s healthiest countries based on 10 key factors, providing a comprehensive overview of national health.
These factors include life expectancy, blood pressure, glucose levels, obesity, depression, happiness, alcohol use, tobacco use, physical inactivity, and government healthcare spending.
United Nations Human Development Report 2024
While this report focuses broadly on the quality of life in each country, it provides valuable insights into national health rankings.
It considers factors such as life expectancy, expected years of schooling, and gross national income per capita.
World Happiness Report 2025
This annual report ranks countries based on how happy citizens believe they are, using a single question from the Gallup World Poll.
The researchers then assess these alongside factors such as social support, freedom, generosity, and corruption using open-access data.
OECD Better Life Index
This well-respected index ranks OECD countries based on their performance across 11 factors deemed essential to quality of life.
These factors include housing, income, community, education, environment, health, and work-life balance, providing a comprehensive snapshot of life in each country.
Read More: The Best Countries for Women’s Healthcare
The Top 10 Healthiest Countries in the World in 2025
Here are the countries that lead the way in health, happiness, and overall quality of life in 2025.
Spain
Spain consistently ranks among the healthiest countries in the world – and it's easy to see why. Its robust healthcare system provides citizens with high-quality, affordable medical care, while Spanish cuisine centers around the Mediterranean model, which is said to be the healthiest in the world.
Residents also tend to stay active, enjoying outdoor activities and playing football. The country boasts a life expectancy of 86 years. Additionally, socializing and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are key aspects of Spanish life.
Read More: Health Insurance in Spain
Italy
Another of the healthiest countries in the world, Italy boasts a ranking of 91.59 on the 2024 Bloomberg Global Health Index. Italians typically follow a predominantly Mediterranean diet, have access to a robust healthcare system, and spend plenty of time outdoors.
The country's environment is also favorable, with good air quality and clean drinking water. Additionally, Italians prioritize work-life balance, often taking time to socialize over long lunches and enjoy quality moments with family and friends.
Read More: Health Insurance in Italy
Iceland
Ranked third in the 2024 Bloomberg Global Health Index with a score of 91.44, Iceland is one of the purest places on earth. Its pristine air and water quality are among the best in the world, and residents stay active through outdoor activities in the country's breathtaking landscapes.
Iceland also benefits from a wealthy economy and a robust healthcare system, which contribute to an average life expectancy of 83 years. Like Spain and Italy, Icelanders value work-life balance, making time to socialize and enjoy leisure activities with friends and family. Additionally, the country ranks 3rd in the World Happiness Report, highlighting its strong social support, high quality of life, and overall well-being.
Japan
Japan is renowned for the longevity of its population, with an average life expectancy of 83 years. The country fosters many healthy habits, from a family-centered culture to regular physical activity.
The Japanese diet is also exceptionally nutritious and rich in heart-healthy fish and vegetables. Additionally, Japan is one of the wealthiest countries and boasts one of the best healthcare systems in the world, with high-quality, universal coverage.
Read More: Health Insurance in Japan
Switzerland
It should come as no surprise that Switzerland is one of the healthiest countries in the world. The country consistently performs well across all key factors and enjoys significant wealth, both at the government level and among its residents.
Switzerland is also a leader in healthcare, with a strong focus on preventative care that contributes to an average life expectancy of 83 years. Its stunning natural environment encourages residents to stay active, with hiking, swimming, and walking being popular pastimes. Additionally, the World Happiness Report ranks Switzerland as the 9th happiest country, partly thanks to its strong work-life balance.
Read More: Health Insurance in Switzerland
Sweden
Sweden’s well-funded universal healthcare system ensures all residents can access high-quality care. As a result, the average life expectancy in this Nordic country is 82 years. This is partly due to the country’s active outdoor lifestyle, with hiking, swimming, and the famous Swedish sauna culture being popular pastimes.
Many residents also follow a healthy diet that focuses on fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and fish. Additionally, the Swedish government invests heavily in public mental health services, which contributes to its ranking as the 4th happiest country in the world. The nation's strong policies that protect air and water quality also have a positive impact on public health.
Read More: Health Insurance in Sweden
Australia
Australia is the highest-ranking country in the Asia-Pacific region and has all the elements necessary to be one of the healthiest countries in the world. Aussie culture promotes outdoor activities like surfing, swimming, and sports like cricket and rugby.
The country’s agricultural industry also ensures a steady supply of fresh, high-quality meats, fish, fruits, and vegetables. Australians place a strong emphasis on work-life balance, and the government supports public health with initiatives like anti-smoking campaigns and vaccination programs. Additionally, residents have affordable access to a universal healthcare system.
Read More: Health Insurance in Australia
Singapore
Singapore stands as a shining example of success in promoting well-being. This success is rooted in a robust education system that instills healthy eating and exercise habits in children, alongside the country's strong economic prosperity and a world-class universal healthcare system.
The government has implemented various initiatives, such as compulsory vaccinations and preventative testing. It has also invested in a network of community sports centers and gyms to make it easier for residents to stay active and healthy. Many Singaporeans also benefit from regular physical activity through the extensive use of public transport.
Read More: Health Insurance in Singapore
Norway
Norway has many qualities that make it a strong contender for the title of the healthiest country in the world. It ranks 7th in the World Happiness Report, reflecting its high levels of mental health and overall well-being. The average life expectancy is 83.46 years, thanks to above-average health expenditure and a strong healthcare system.
Norway also performs exceptionally well in air quality rankings – its capital, Oslo, is often cited as the greenest city in Europe. Add to that a population that embraces walking, cycling, and a diet rich in fresh, healthy ingredients, and it’s easy to see why Norway stands out as one of the world’s healthiest places to live.
Read More: The Best Countries to Live in as an Expat
Finland
Finland is another country that stands out as one of the healthiest in the world. It excels in every aspect, from healthcare to lifestyle, making it a model for overall well-being. It boasts a strong, well-funded healthcare system, abundant green space, access to quality food, and a national preference for outdoor activity.
Finland also continues to lead in happiness rankings. According to the World Happiness Report, it is the happiest country for the eighth consecutive year. With excellent air quality and substantial investment in health education, Finland is a well-rounded model of national wellbeing.
Read More: Health Insurance in Finland
Top Health Insights from the 2025 Rankings
With climate change, shifting geopolitics, and evolving societal preferences, the list of the healthiest countries in the world sees some movement each year.
Of course, Scandinavian nations, along with countries like Japan and Switzerland, consistently rank at the top, but even within the top 10, rankings can shift due to changing global factors.
Key Factors Driving Changes in the 2025 Rankings
One of the key factors influencing the 2025 rankings is air quality. Several countries, including Italy, Spain, Canada, and Singapore, saw their rankings drop due to significant declines in air quality.
On the other hand, countries like Norway and Finland experienced an improvement in their overall rankings, thanks to enhanced air quality and expansive green spaces.
According to the World Air Quality Report, only seven countries met the safe air quality guidelines: Australia, Estonia, Finland, Grenada, Iceland, Mauritius, and New Zealand.
Puerto Rico, Bermuda, and French Polynesia also fell within acceptable levels, while countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Tajikistan, Burkina Faso, and Canada were among those with some of the most polluted cities in the world.
The World Happiness Report 2025 also saw some shifts in rankings. Afghanistan experienced the most significant drop in happiness since 2012, with its change score nearly double that of Lebanon. Countries like Zimbabwe, Venezuela, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Lesotho, and Congo also saw significant declines.
Conversely, nations such as Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Kosovo, Lithuania, Togo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, and Armenia experienced notable improvements.
However, the Northern European countries of Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and the Netherlands continue to dominate the top of the happiness rankings.
The Role of Lifestyle Factors and Health Risk Determinants
Lifestyle factors play a crucial role in influencing a country’s health rankings. For instance, despite consistently ranking as one of the healthiest and happiest countries, Finland has seen some shifts in its position.
This is due to several factors, such as higher rates of alcohol and tobacco use, a less-than-ideal diet, and higher levels of obesity. While Finland's overall health and happiness scores remain impressive, these lifestyle factors contribute to its fluctuation in the rankings.
How Does the US Compare?
While the U.S. doesn't top any of the rankings used to determine the healthiest countries in the world, it does perform relatively well compared to many other nations. According to the 2024 Bloomberg Global Health Index, the U.S. scored 73.02, placing it 34th.
Additionally, the Legatum Prosperity Index ranks the U.S. 19th, behind countries like Denmark, Switzerland, Germany, New Zealand, Japan, and Singapore.
Read More: The US Healthcare System
This lower rank is primarily due to weak scores in health, safety, and security. Similarly, the World Happiness Report 2025 places the U.S. in 24th place, behind the U.K., Germany, the UAE, Canada, Israel, and most of Northern Europe.
The OECD Better Life Index also highlights that Americans tend to have less work-life balance compared to the global average, which can limit time for socializing, exercising, and eating well. Additionally, issues such as late public spending on child welfare and education, as well as the lack of parental leave, place extra stress on families.
Eating habits are another factor affecting the U.S.'s lower rankings. Americans generally consume larger portions of food rich in salt and sugar, and they prefer ultra-processed foods over fresh, whole ingredients.
As a result of these factors, many expats who move to countries that rank higher, such as Australia or Switzerland, report greater satisfaction. They often feel they have better access to healthcare and education, improved work-life balance, and superior childcare options.
Read More: How Much Does Healthcare Cost in the U.S.?
The Unhealthiest Countries in the World
While it’s hard to single out the unhealthiest country in the world, there are a few that may qualify. Certain nations consistently rank at the bottom of health, happiness, and safety indexes.
Many of these countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, face significant challenges in these areas, which contribute to their low rankings in terms of overall well-being.
The Legatum Prosperity Index tracks twelve composite categories, including health. It also considers factors like safety and security, personal freedom, governance, social capital, investment environment, living conditions, health access, education, and the environment.
Based on the Index, the following countries are among the least prosperous – and in this case, the most unhealthy – countries in the world:
- South Sudan
- Yemen
- Central African Republic
- Afghanistan
- Somalia
- Chad
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Eritrea
- Syria
- Burundi
Protect Your Well-Being Wherever You Go
Living in one of the healthiest countries in the world naturally makes it easier to prioritize your well-being. These nations offer nutritious food, strong healthcare systems, clean environments, and a good work-life balance, making them ideal for a healthy lifestyle.
Whether you're drawn to the Scandinavian countries, the Mediterranean way of life, or the peaceful landscapes of Iceland, each of these top-ranking nations offers something unique when it comes to health and happiness.
However, no matter where you choose to relocate, securing international health insurance is essential. It ensures access to quality healthcare and provides peace of mind.
In addition to health coverage, it's important to research the country’s healthcare system, work-life balance, diet, air quality, and overall happiness, all of which are key to a fulfilling life abroad.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes and coverage options
- Work with an insurance expert at no additional cost
- Find the best plan for your needs and budget
While living in a healthy country makes well-being easier to maintain, your personal choices – such as eating a balanced diet, avoiding pollution, and focusing on mental health – remain essential.
So, whether you’re considering the fresh air of Finland, the outdoor lifestyle of Australia, or the robust healthcare system of Japan, be sure to plan ahead. Doing your research and securing robust medical insurance will give you the peace of mind you need to thrive.
After all, a healthy move is the happiest move. Make sure you’re covered and ready to embrace a fulfilling life wherever you go.
Read More: Compare Global Health Insurance Plans
