Living and working in another country is something that many of us consider for a variety of reasons, but how many of us actually take the plunge? Figures show that around 7% of Britons currently live abroad, with the majority staying put for more than four years. But are some relocation destinations better than others? According to the seventh annual NatWest International Personal Banking Quality of Life Index, carried out by the Centre for Future Studies, the answer is ‘yes’.
The study, which collates the opinions and attitudes of 1,800 British expats living and working abroad, concluded that Australia remains the number one destination for expats in search of an improved quality of life and greater career success. Some of the benefits of life in Australia cited by British expats living there, include the country’s buoyant economy (88%), a better environment to raise children (82%), improved health (73%), and a greater disposable income (68%). As you would expect, more sunshine also featured as another popular benefit of living Down Under.
Canada and the United Arab Emirates came second and third respectively, with Singapore increasing in popularity to now rank fourth overall. But the country to have gained the most significant ground in the rankings was China, making a six-place leap from eleventh to fifth.
The study revealed that expats who move to China do so for its increased job prospects (71%) and higher wages (87%). Other benefits of living in China include its welcoming culture, tasty food, and a better work-life balance. Nearly half of those questioned also mentioned China’s impressive and extensive public transport network including bullet trains, subways and buses.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) maintained its number three position in the index for the second year in a row. Expats living there reported their reasons for moving to Dubai and Abu Dhabi were a high disposable income (92%), good working environment (84%), and superb career prospects (82%). However, cultural and social integration posed a problem for nearly three-quarters of those questioned.
According to the report, Singapore’s rise in the index is largely due to the country’s “excellent” childcare and education options offered to expats choosing to move there.
While the Middle and Far East are attracting more of Britain’s expats, European countries are faring less well. Some 63% of the UK’s Europe-based expats said that a combination of austerity measures and lack of job security meant they were considering a move back to the UK.
NatWest Head of International Personal Banking, Dave Isley, said: “Better career prospects and higher wages are enjoyed by many in China, Singapore and Hong Kong, which has lifted these countries up the league table.”
The top ten countries, as ranked by the index, for the healthiest and wealthiest lifestyle are:

1. Australia
2. Canada
3. United Arab Emirates
4. Singapore
5. China
6. New Zealand
7. South Africa
8. Hong Kong
9. USA
10. France

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