10 Best Countries to Raise a Family Abroad in 2025

Relocating abroad with children is a major decision that goes beyond career or lifestyle considerations. Parents must evaluate safety, education, healthcare, and the overall cultural environment when choosing a country for their family.

The right destination offers a combination of affordable living, work-life balance, and a society that prioritizes children’s well-being. Millions of families have successfully relocated abroad, demonstrating that moving with kids can be both achievable and rewarding.

To help guide your choice, we’ve ranked the 10 best countries in the world for families, counting down from 10 to the top destination. Each country offers unique advantages—from generous parental benefits to affordable childcare and family-oriented cultural practices.

Photo: Tallinn Old Town streets with historic buildings and cafes / Pexels

10. Estonia

Estonia combines a tech-forward environment with family-friendly policies that emphasize equality and independence. Expats benefit from low stress, high maternity leave, and comprehensive parental allowances.

Estonia’s digital infrastructure makes daily life simpler for expat families. From e-residency options to online school enrollment and healthcare services, parents find it easy to manage household and administrative tasks.

Photo- Moniker-Eiffle Tower, Paris

9. France

France offers structured parenting, extensive child benefits, and a supportive work-life balance. Families enjoy generous maternity leave, cultural enrichment, and a high standard of living.

Beyond structured parenting, France offers a rich cultural environment for children to grow up in. Museums, historic sites, and art programs introduce kids to world-class education outside the classroom, while local traditions help them integrate into French society naturally.

Photo: Tourists in front of Senso-ji Temple-Hozomon Gate, Tokyo, Japan / Pexels

8. Japan

Japan excels in education, healthcare, and safety. The country provides substantial incentives for families, including birth bonuses and monthly child allowances. Ideal for parents who value academic excellence and long-term stability.

Japanese cities are exceptionally safe and child-friendly, with extensive public transport and parks designed for young families. Kids are often exposed to a blend of modern and traditional culture, which fosters adaptability and a global perspective from an early age.

Photo: Pexels

7. Hungary

Hungary emphasizes community support and affordable family living. Parents enjoy up to three years of maternity leave and grants for children, while rent and childcare costs remain low.

Hungary’s family-focused community events provide opportunities for socialization and cultural immersion. Festivals, music programs, and parenting networks create a supportive environment where children can develop socially while parents find local guidance and friendship.

Photo: Monumental House of Blackheads in Riga

6. Latvia

Latvia combines a low cost of living with evolving, child-focused parenting practices. Expats benefit from birth grants, monthly allowances, and a relaxed European lifestyle.

Latvia’s outdoor lifestyle is ideal for children, with access to forests, lakes, and winter sports. Families can enjoy recreational activities year-round, and the slower pace of life compared to major Western European cities helps children grow up in a less stressful environment.

City of Seinäjoki, Finland; Photo- Ninara | Flickr

5. Finland

Finland prioritizes holistic child-rearing and work-life balance. Families benefit from long parental leave, high-quality education, and an emphasis on outdoor activities and social well-being.

Finnish society encourages children to spend time outdoors in all seasons, promoting health and resilience. The country also fosters creativity through play-based learning, meaning children develop problem-solving skills while enjoying a strong connection to nature.

Photo: Pexels

4. Spain

Spain emphasizes family life, community support, and outdoor living. Government grants and child tax breaks further enhance the quality of life for expat families.

Spain’s emphasis on communal living allows children to develop social skills through interaction with extended family and neighbors. Festivals, beach outings, and local clubs create an environment where children can enjoy cultural experiences while forming lifelong friendships.

Photo: Duomo Milan Cathderal with Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade, Milan, Italy / Wikimedia Commons

3. Italy

Italy places family and intergenerational support at the core of society. Parents benefit from maternity cover, child allowances, and a strong focus on family cohesion.

Italy’s culinary culture provides families with opportunities to share meals together, reinforcing family bonds. Children often participate in cooking and local traditions, which helps them understand and appreciate cultural heritage while enjoying a balanced lifestyle.

Photo: Stockholm Old Town with the waterfront views, Sweden / Pixabay

2. Sweden

Sweden promotes gender equality, work-life balance, and affordable childcare. Families enjoy a safe, healthy, and culturally supportive environment with extensive outdoor activities.

Sweden’s public spaces and parks are designed for families, offering safe playgrounds, bike paths, and outdoor gyms. This encourages children to stay active and engage in communal activities, fostering independence and confidence in a supportive society.

Photo: Two-tiered Louis I Bridge in Porto, Portugal / Pexels

1. Portugal

Portugal is the top destination for families thanks to affordability, safety, and child-centered policies. Parents receive tax benefits, child allowances, and access to high-quality education, all within a relaxed cultural environment.

Portugal’s mild climate allows families to spend much of the year outdoors, from coastal beaches to charming towns. Local festivals and community gatherings provide children with opportunities to learn about Portuguese culture while forming connections with peers and neighbors.

Lisbon, Portugal; Photo- Wikipedia

Bottom Line

Relocating abroad with children is a major life decision, but choosing the right country can make all the difference in your family’s well-being and happiness.

While each destination offers unique advantages, what matters most is how your family’s needs and lifestyle align with the opportunities available.

With careful planning, research, and an open mindset, moving abroad can provide your children with enriching experiences, a strong sense of community, and a high quality of life that will benefit them for years to come.

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