Best Countries To Raise a Family (Top Picks for American Expats)
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: Sweden, Norway and Germany are the best countries to raise a family, thanks to their work-life balance, access to affordable healthcare, and solid education systems.
If you’re looking for a fun family adventure or a new place to call home, we’ve got a breakdown of all the top global destinations for you and your loved ones.
No matter what spot on the globe you decide to go, hiring a quality international mover to get there can make the relocation process much easier, so check out our top recommendations and other helpful tips for raising a family abroad.
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1. Sweden
Sweden earned the top spot here due to their generous parental leave policies and overall safety ratings. The country also boasts one of the best education systems in the world.
Cost of living
Housing costs in Sweden’s most expensive locales are above average by US standards, but many other costs are low by comparison. For example, government-subsidized healthcare caps medical costs at a low per-person annual amount, and food is generally less expensive.
| Cost of living factor | US average annual costs* | Sweden average annual costs** |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $25,436 | $29,208 |
| Transportation | $13,174 | $2,743 |
| Healthcare | $6,159 | $330 |
| Food | $9,985 | $6,057 |
| Entertainment | $3,635 | $1,326 |
| Education | $1,656 | $3,000–$10,000^ |
Education
While education is only mandated for ages six through 15 in Sweden, as a resident, you can take advantage of publicly funded preschool — called Förskola — for children between one and five. Individual municipalities offer Förskola programs, which are subsidized depending on a child’s age and the number of working parents.
If you’re worried about your kids having to learn a new language, rest easy knowing English is a required subject throughout Sweden.
College or university studies are free for Swedish and European Union (EU) citizens. In 2011, Sweden began requiring non-permanent residents to pay full tuition and fees to attend college within its borders. According to Study.Eu, these range from $9,000–$17,000 per year — markedly lower than the average annual cost of college in the US ($10,940–$39,400, according to Coursera.org).
Healthcare
While healthcare isn’t necessarily free in Sweden, it is relatively low-cost compared to American consumer medical costs. It also comes with some built-in protections and yearly spending caps.
In the US, adults can stay on their parents’ healthcare plans until age 26. Swedish citizens have access to free general healthcare until age 20 and free dental care until age 23. While private healthcare options exist in Sweden, most healthcare is government-subsidized and paid for by taxes.
Swedish citizens enjoy cost protections under this healthcare system, which include the following caps:
- Hospitalization: 130 SEK ($11.90 USD) per day for the first 30 days and 65 SEK ($5.95 USD) per day after this mark within a 12-month period
- Outpatient care: 1,400 SEK ($128.19 USD) per year
- Primary medical care: 1,150 Swedish Krona (SEK), or $105.30 USD per year
Work-life balance
This area is one of the key differences between the US and Sweden. While the US has no federally-mandated paid time off, Swedish workers are guaranteed 25 days of leave per calendar year.
Some states have parental leave policies and protections in place, but the United States has no blanket parental leave mandate. By comparison, Sweden’s 480 days of paid parental leave per child greatly reduces the pressure of finding daytime care during early development.
Languages spoken
Swedish is the primary language spoken throughout Sweden, but most residents are at least somewhat fluent in English. In fact, the country ranks fourth out of 116 nations for English skills, according to the English Proficiency Index.
*Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
**Housing prices reflect the average three-bedroom rent in Stockholm, and healthcare costs show the cap for yearly out-of-pocket expenses per person. (Source: InterNations)
^Annual cost of private international school
2. Norway
Norway’s subsidized healthcare, relatively low cost of living, and competitive family leave policies make it one of the easiest places to raise a family internationally. Their policy of 48 weeks of parental leave — per parent — alone often attract expats and their families.
Cost of living
Generally, the cost of living in the United States is higher than in Norway. While your tax burden in Norway may be higher, a substantial portion of this goes towards funding healthcare, education, and public transportation services.
Expats and families with international students have the option of choosing private institutions for their primary and secondary education needs. This can substantially increase annual costs, but is not a necessary expense to incur given the access to public education services.
| Cost of living factor | US average annual costs* | Norway average annual costs** |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $25,436 | $11,040 |
| Transportation | $13,174 | $9,600 |
| Healthcare | $6,159 | $222 |
| Food | $9,985 | $8,028 |
| Entertainment | $3,635 | N/A |
| Education | $1,656 | $20,000–$24,000^ |
Education
All primary and secondary education is free in Norway. This right is available to both Norwegian and EU citizens and Americans living abroad. Private schooling options are available for international students, but the fees can be high. For example, the Oslo International School has a tuition of 264,200 Norwegian Krone (NOK), or $23,671 USD.
University studies are only free for Norway and EU citizens. International college students often pay yearly tuition fees between $11,500 and $36,000.
All Norwegian public schools teach mandatory English as a secondary language courses to all students, so integration for your kids won’t be difficult.
Healthcare
Norway’s healthcare system is almost entirely subsidized by taxes and government funding. According to the International Trade Administration, Norway spent 8.1% of its GDP — $8,637 per citizen — on healthcare in 2021.
This means foreign permanent residents get free general, pregnancy, childbirth, and child healthcare. Some services result in small fees, but these are capped at $250 per year.
Like in the US, citizens have access to private insurance options but insurance is not required for general health coverage.
Work-life balance
Norway’s mandated vacation and parental leave makes it a great place to raise a growing family. According to the mandate, Norwegian employers must offer at least 25 days of paid vacation annually.
In addition, parents each get 48 weeks of paid parental leave. Mothers can take nine weeks of paid maternity leave ahead of this as well. For comparison, the US has no such federal mandates. While some employers may offer this, it is far from a guarantee.
Languages spoken
Norway’s two official languages are Norwegian and Sami. Both are widely spoken, with most citizens and permanent residents also fluent in English.
*Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
**Source: InterNations
^Annual cost for private international school
3. Germany
Many US residents move to Germany for the flexible maternity and parental leave policies that make it a great place to live if you’re planning on having children or growing your family after your big move. Along with this, the free education offered through college can ease your financial burden as your kids grow older.
Cost of living
The total cost of living per month for a family of four ranges between $3,450 and $3,912 between Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Leipzig.
Here’s a comparison of annual costs for the US and Germany:
| Cost of living factor | US average annual costs* | Germany average annual costs** |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $25,436 | $19,200 |
| Transportation | $13,174 | $733^ |
| Healthcare | $6,159 | $8,196 |
| Food | $9,985 | $6,000^^ |
| Entertainment | $3,635 | N/A |
| Education | $1,656 | $2,600–$26,330 for private schooling |
Education
Similar to the US, Germany offers free compulsory education starting at age six and for at least nine years from that point. You’ll need a residence permit to qualify for this benefit, but you won’t need to be a full citizen or have permanent resident status.
Aside from primary and secondary education, Germany’s universities are free for all residents, including EU and non-EU transplants.
Healthcare
Health insurance is a requirement for all who live in Germany, with most residents covered by statutory or state-sponsored plans. The US and Germany are each among the highest health spending per capita — $12,555 and $8,011, respectively. However, most people living in Germany have the majority of their expenses covered through state insurance.
Anyone making more than $69,600 annually can pursue their own insurance coverage through a third-party insurer. Residents over that income threshold can stay on state insurance, but will have to pay the maximum premiums, which are currently $760 per month.
Work-life balance
Germans working a standard five-day week are entitled to at least 20 days of paid time off per year, with many employers offering more. This is in addition to 10–14 paid holidays, depending on which of the 16 German states you live in. .
Parental leave in Germany is among the most comprehensive and flexible available. Each parent can take 24 months off with the birth or adoption of a child. This can begin immediately after the addition of a new child, and can be taken in different increments up until a child’s eighth birthday.
German employers don’t provide paid leave, but the government offers an allowance for new parents on leave (called “Elterngeld”). Through this, parents can claim a portion of their previous salary for the length of their leave, which usually amounts to 60%–65% of full pay.
Languages spoken
German is the official language of Germany, but other commonly-spoken languages include French, English, and Russian. English is taught in all schools in the country, so proficiency rates are high.
*Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
**Source: InterNations
^Cost of a yearly “Deutschlandticket” pass for unlimited travel on trains, trams, and buses
^^Source: Research in Germany
4. Portugal
Like other locales on this list, moving from the US to Portugal affords expats and their families a relatively low cost of living and affordable college education.
Cost of living
The cost of living in Portugal is far below what you’ll find in many locales and urban areas throughout the US. Cities like Lisbon and Porto are costlier options for foreign residents, but are still relatively affordable.
| Cost of living factor | US average annual costs* | Portugal average annual costs** |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $25,436 | $17,724 |
| Transportation | $13,174 | $1,224 |
| Healthcare | $6,159 | $440–$1,100^ |
| Food | $9,985 | $4,416 |
| Entertainment | $3,635 | N/A |
| Education | $1,656 | $3,960–$4,950 |
Education
Private options are available to all, but public education is free and required for children aged six to 18. English is a required subject from age eight onward.
International schools are also an option for expats and their children, although this can cost anywhere from $420 to $1,900 per month, depending on your location and choice of school.
College is not free in Portugal. However, tuition fees are low — often ranging between $1,550 and $4,250 per year.
Healthcare
All primary healthcare is free for Portuguese citizens and legal residents. All EU citizens have access to care in Portugal by presenting proof of citizenship or their European Health Insurance Card.
You’ll still be obligated to pay small co-pays (typically $5–$21) for basic services like doctor appointments. Similar to the US, you’ll also have the option of purchasing private insurance coverage, which ranges between $440 and $1,100 per year in most cases.
Work-life balance
Unlike the US, Portugal offers a generous guaranteed PTO of at least 22 days per year. Some employers provide more, but this is the minimum you will be entitled to when working here.
Parental leave is equally competitive with many other countries, as it mandates a minimum of 120 days per parent after birth or adoption. These 120 days are fully paid, with additional leave available in special circumstances.
Languages spoken
Portuguese is the primary language spoken throughout the country. English, French, and Spanish are also commonly spoken, with English being taught in all public schools.
*Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
**Source: InterNations
^Cost for private insurance and private primary schooling, according to Internations.org
5. Denmark
One thing to note about moving from the US to Denmark is the latter country’s relatively high cost of living. However, mostly free healthcare and excellent parental leave and PTO allowances make it one of the easier places to raise a family as an expat.
Cost of living
Your yearly cost of living in Denmark will depend on where you decide to settle down. For instance, the housing cost below reflects the yearly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Copenhagen. If you’re looking to raise a family, you’ll need more living space and will pay more per month.
You can also save money on education by gaining permanent residency. Private education is available, but will have high associated costs.
| Cost of living factor | US average annual costs* | Denmark average annual costs** |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $25,436 | $28,932 |
| Transportation | $13,174 | $1,050 (public transport pass) |
| Healthcare | $6,159 | $230 |
| Food | $9,985 | $10,100–$13,640 |
| Entertainment | $3,635 | $7–$30^ |
| Education | $1,656 | $3,000–$15,000^^ |
Education
Education is free for all Danish and EU citizens, and is compulsory between ages six and 16. While this is comparable to the public school system you may enjoy in the United States, all Danish and EU citizens also have access to free advanced education via the many universities in the country.
You can also go to college for free if you have permanent residential status. If you fall outside this category, university costs typically range from $6,317–$16,847 per year. This compares favorably to annual US education expenses, which can range as high as $17,600 for in-state public universities and upwards of $53,000 for private institutions.
Healthcare
Denmark provides free basic healthcare to all citizens and permanent residents. This includes:
- Primary care
- Specialist visits
- Hospital visits
- At-home nursing services
You may incur some out-of-pocket costs within this program, however. Dental care is only free until you turn 18, and some prescription medication is not fully covered.
Work-life balance
Denmark’s national paid-time-off policy isn’t as straightforward as some other countries, but it still offers more guaranteed vacation and sick leave than the US as a whole. Employees accrue a little over two days off per month of employment, which equals 25 days per year.
Danish citizens and permanent residents also have access to longer periods of parental leave after the birth or adoption of a child. After an initial 10-week stint of maternal leave, each parent can take up to 32 weeks off when a new child has been added to the family. As a bonus, one parent can transfer up to 13 of these weeks to the other if circumstances require it.
Languages spoken
Denmark’s official language is Danish, with Dutch and Icelandic also being spoken. As a bonus for American transplants, 86% of Danish citizens speak English as a second language.
*Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
**Averages in Copenhagen (Source: InterNations)
^Average cost per activity, including theater or concert tickets
^^Annual cost of private primary or secondary education
Our picks for international movers
Choosing an international moving company to facilitate your upcoming move is one of the most important steps you’ll take during the planning phase.
We’ve carefully vetted all such movers against our rating criteria to make sure you pick from among international movers with solid industry reputations, pricing practices, and service offerings.
We recommend starting with these top-notch companies:
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Once you’ve calculated your general moving costs with at least three companies and have a budget in mind, you can begin narrowing down your search.
Shipping your car overseas
Car shipping is a vital component of many international relocations. We’ve comprehensively rated more than 2,000 auto transport providers in the industry and these are our picks:
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It’s important to note that International Van Lines or JK Moving Services can coordinate vehicle transport globally. So, if you pick one of those companies for your move, you’ll be able to get moving and car shipping services from one provider.
Tips for moving abroad with kids
Moving is already a pretty stressful experience, but relocating your entire family to another country comes with an added layer of to-do’s and potential headaches. When you have children, you’ll want to consider the effect this change of scenery will have on their lives as well.
Follow these tips to make the transition as seamless as possible:
- Secure housing. Aside from the actual cost of moving internationally, securing a new home for purchase or rent in your new country is a major consideration that should be at the top of your list before relocating.
- Plan ahead. Planning for an international move should begin at least six months before your planned move date, if possible. Having children in the mix will only add to the number of moving parts you’ll have to coordinate, between school, properly packing, and setting a budget.
- Most international movers set prices based on shipment weight or volume and move distance. So, getting rid of unnecessary stuff before you move is a great way to cut costs. When you have kids, the amount of seldom-used goods tends to grow rapidly with each passing year. If your relocation is a temporary one, you could store these goods domestically before you relocate like our international moving checklist suggests.
- Reduce culture shock. Begin educating your kids about the country you’ll be moving to. This could include foreign language instruction or classes, consumption of media from your future home, and more. While you’re preparing to move, be sure to remind them that any misgivings they may feel about the move are totally normal, and encourage them to vocalize their worries. Doing so can help to ease the transition.
- Prepare your documents. Many of the best international moving companies offer assistance with customs clearance, but you’ll still have to assemble and keep track of plenty of key documents. These include birth certificates, visas, banking documents, medical and vaccination records, and employment records.
- Move during summer break. Your kids will already have a difficult enough time adjusting to their new surroundings, as will you. Moving in the summer — when you’ll be more likely to have sustained time together — can make this easier for all involved. Just keep in mind that the peak moving season is mid-May through mid-September, so booking your move as far in advance as possible will help ensure you get the moving date you need at a more affordable rate.
FAQ
What is the safest country to raise a family in?
Iceland is the safest country in the world, according to Global Peace Index rates. Iceland has earned the index’s most favorable ratings for violent crime, access to weapons, political stability, and many other key factors. Of the countries that made our list, Portugal and Denmark are also in the top 10 on the Global Peach Index.
What is the easiest country to immigrate to from the USA?
Due to proximity, Canada is the easiest country to immigrate to from the US. While immigration to any country is complex and involves lots of paperwork, you can apply for Express Entry into Canada if you work in specific skilled trades — like healthcare — and meet certain eligibility requirements.
How do I choose the right international moving company?
Planning your move well in advance and getting multiple quotes from top providers is the best way to book with the right international mover. When you get quotes, consider a mover’s added benefits and convenience factors like assistance with customs clearance and partnerships with companies in other countries.
Which country has the best child benefits?
Sweden has the best child benefits, due in large part to its parental leave allowance. At 480 days, it offers the longest fully paid time off for new parents.
How do I access healthcare in a new country?
To access healthcare in a new country, you may need to first rely on your current private insurance from a US provider. If your new country offers state-sponsored healthcare, then you should be able to enroll in such a program after establishing residency. This process will vary, depending on the country you choose.
More international moving resources
Considering an international move elsewhere? We have comprehensive guides for moving from the U.S. to the following countries:
- Australia
- Canada
- Denmark
- France
- Germany
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Mexico
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Portugal
- Puerto Rico
- Scotland
- South Africa
- Spain
- Switzerland
- United Kingdom
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