France Retains Top Place in the World to Live

For the fourth year, France has earned International Living magazine’s top spot as best places to live in the world on its Quality of Life Index. The retirement and relocation publication compared about 200 countries in nine categories including, cost of living, culture, economy, environment, freedom, health, infrastructure, safety and risk, and climate. Information was combined from official government sources, the World Health Organization and The Economist. Then editors asked for opinions from knowledgeable people around the world. France scored high marks across the board, but its main appeal is its culture and leisure activities. For Americans seeking a European retirement home or investment opportunity, France is a relative bargain compared to six months ago when the exchange rate made the euro worth nearly $1.60. Currently the euro is worth roughly $1.30, a difference which translates into a more than a $50,000 savings. Following France on the list of top places to live are Switzerland, United States, Luxembourg, Australia, Belgium, Italy, Germany, New Zealand and Denmark. See the complete list of countries in order of overall rankings. Click on any country to view individual category rankings.