The 2014 Expat Explorer Survey drew responses from over 9,000 expats all over the world, who were quizzed on factors such as quality of life, financial well-being and family friendliness.
Dean Blackburn, head of HSBC Expat, had the following to say on the top-rated country: “Not only are Switzerland-based expats enjoying the good climate and pleasant scenery, with the country home to the sportiest expats, but over half of the expats there also say they have a better work/life balance than they had at home.”
Asia-based expats enjoying life
Singapore came in second place, praised for its safety, efficiency, quality accommodation and status as a mecca for foodies.
“Every group lives peacefully united and in harmony with each other regardless of race, religion or color. It is simply a beautiful place to experience,” an expat in Singapore told HSBC.
Despite recent reports on the dreadful air quality in its major cities, China found itself in third place, mainly because expats find themselves with a lot of disposable income due to high salaries and low cost of living. Almost 25% of expats living in China earn over $300,000 per year, a far greater proportion than the global average of 5%.
Heading back to Europe, Germany placed fourth on account of its reputation as a safe and reliable destination. Bahrain was the top destination in the Middle East, with expats particularly happy with the work/life balance that they enjoy in the Gulf state.
Switzerland-based expats: Family considerations
New Zealand came in sixth place, however it was voted the ideal place for raising children, who enjoyed better health and felt safer than in their home countries.
Financial considerations were important for those who had moved to Thailand, where the low cost of living allows many expats to enjoy a higher quality of life than at home.
Taiwan, India and Hong Kong came in 8th, 9th and 10th respectively, continuing a strong showing for Asia in the latest rankings.
For those of you considering a move abroad, detailed results can be found here.
