Whether it’s the cost-of-living crisis, the hunt for better weather, or the desire for a higher quality of life, the thought of starting fresh in another country is appealing to many of us. But where should you go to make the most of your career while keeping expenses in check?
New research reveals that the drive to leave the UK is stronger than ever, particularly among younger generations. The 2024 British Expat Report shows that 38 per cent of under-35s in the UK are considering emigrating in the next five years, with 11 per cent ready to leave right now.
According to the data, 532,000 Brits emigrated last year. Their motivations? A better quality of life (45%); the cost-of-living crisis (39%); the weather (37%).
It’s not just wanderlust driving these decisions — it’s about finding a place where work-life balance is achievable, and hard-earned money goes further.
Analysis from Instant Offices compared salaries for the most in-demand jobs with the cost of living across global cities. The results might surprise you — and could inspire your next big move.
The best cities for work and life
If you’re considering a move, the choice of city can make all the difference. Among the top-performing cities globally, Dallas, Seattle, and Los Angeles stand out for offering high salaries in key industries while keeping expenses manageable. For instance:
- Chemical engineers in Tokyo benefit from a salary that leaves just 5 per cent of their earnings spent on living costs;
- Architects and software engineers also thrive financially in cities like Seattle and Dallas, where salaries outweigh expenses.
On the other hand, professions like civil engineering and welding, while still essential, tend to fare worse globally in terms of earnings vs. expenses.
The top professions leaving the UK
Certain industries are seeing significant emigration rates:
- IT professionals (48%)
- Healthcare workers (30%)
- Educators (22%)
These fields often translate well internationally, offering transferable skills and high demand in many countries. For IT professionals, for example, cities like Seattle and Dallas provide lucrative opportunities, thanks to their booming tech sectors and competitive cost of living.
Worst cities for professionals
Not all global hubs are created equal. London makes multiple appearances on the “worst cities” list, with the highest living costs paired with some of the lowest salaries for key professions. While the UK capital might offer cultural and networking opportunities, the financial strain can make it an unattractive choice for workers in industries like civil engineering and education.
The USA: A mixed bag for expats
The United States offers promising career opportunities, and according to the Expat Insider 2024 report — which surveyed more than 12,500 expats from around the world — 67 per cent say the local business culture supports flexibility, while 65 per cent report being happy in their jobs.
That said, when it comes to quality of life, the US ranks 46th out of 53 countries. Expats cite expensive healthcare, safety concerns, and difficulties settling in or making friends as significant downsides.
Further findings from the Expat Insider 2024 report
According to the report by InterNations, these were the top cities offering the best working hours, career prospects, and overall experience of working abroad in 2024:
- Copenhagen
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Brussels
- Riyadh
- Amsterdam
- Sydney
- The Hague
- Dublin
- Dubai
- New York City
While life abroad in general, was found to be best in these cities:
- Valencia
- Málaga
- Alicante
- Panama City
- Mexico City
- Ras Al Kaimah
- Madrid
- Bangkok
- Abu Dhabi
- Dubai
Planning your next move
If you’re considering emigrating, here’s what to keep in mind:
- Do your homework. Cities like Dallas, Tokyo, and Seattle top the list for financial benefits, but weigh factors like healthcare, safety, and cultural fit.
- Think beyond the salary. While higher earnings are tempting, balance them against cost of living and quality of life.
- Pick the right industry. Chemical engineers, architects, and software engineers enjoy the best financial prospects globally.
Moving abroad can open doors to better opportunities, higher earnings, and a new way of life — but it’s essential to make an informed decision. Whether you’re chasing higher salaries or just considering a fresh start, success lies in understanding how your profession and priorities align with your chosen destination.
