Rising from 4th to first place this year, Portugal has been awarded an average score of 87.43. The European nation last topped in the index in 2020 and stands out for its excellent Healthcare score – the highest on this list – as well as its impressive Development/Governance score (94) and its Visas/Benefits score (90).

Other draws to Portugal include its large expat community of around 500,000 people and the fact that foreigners can easily exchange their native driver's license for a Portugese one, no test required. An American couple can live comfortably in Portugal for around $2,500 to $3,000 per month.

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