We all fantasize about starting again from time to time. Whether it’s a new career, a breakup or a new season in life, we yearn for the chance to start over in a new city with new friends and a new job. But where do you go once you’ve made the decision to relocate?
Based on the cost of living, employment market, cost of housing, and quality of life, we’ve prepared a list of the 15 greatest cities to start a new life. These cities range in size from mid-sized to huge metro areas, providing a diverse world of options and lifestyles. Here are our top twenty picks, in no particular order.
In Which City Can I Start a New Life?
There are many cities around the world where you can start a new life, but we have to pick out 15 to make choosing one easy for you. If you are relocating on a budget, you may want to see the 10 Best Places To Move To With Little or No Money. Meanwhile, here is a list of the best cities to start a new life.
1. London, United Kingdom
London is a place for individuals who like a diverse range of activities; firms to work for; locations to visit, and restaurants to dine at. You have almost everything you need just outside your door, and one aspect that may surprise you is the amount of green space available.
According to Greenspace Information for Greater London, green space makes up about 47 percent of the city, with parks and gardens accounting for nearly 6 percent of that.
Although life in London might be costly, you receive great value for your money by having practically just about everything you want right on your doorstep. At the same time, the high incomes serve to balance things out. The average cost of rent in Greater London is roughly 1,615 GBP (2,030 USD), whereas the annual salary is about 35,500 GBP (43,300 USD).
Although London is considered a fairly safe city to live in, awful things may happen anywhere. Theft is perhaps the most major crime in Greater London.
2. Austin, United States
Austin is consistently ranked among the greatest locations to live. While the cost of living continues to rise, the state capital of Texas continues to attract large corporations and new residents to set up shop or expand their footprints. During the pandemic, more than 150 businesses said they would move to Austin or grow there.
Even if you’re relocating to Austin to work for Tesla, Dell, Apple, or another major tech firm, there are lots of ways to get away from the office. You’ll discover activities that bring color to life everywhere, from early morning bike rides to late-night dance celebrations on Sixth Street.
The lack of a personal or corporate income tax is one of the reasons Austin continues to draw new transplants. However, like many other cities around the country, property prices in Austin have risen substantially in recent years. When housing expenses are compared to the median household income, Austin is not as affordable as similar-sized cities.
If you’re considering a move to the US, our article 10 Best Places to Move to in The US is the guide you need.
3. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is the capital of Japan, the seat of power, and the residence of the Emperor. In TripAdvisor’s World City Survey, Tokyo was voted “Best overall experience.” Everything your heart desires may be found in Tokyo.
Despite the fact that every country does have some crime, and Japan is no exception, it is considered a low-crime country. It’s a location where schoolchildren train to go to school by themselves. There is no pocket thievery, no guns (or the enforcement of strict laws), simply a city that works together and prioritizes the interests of others.
However, the cost of living in Japan is extremely high. You should expect to pay a lot of money for rent if you want to reside near a city center in Tokyo. Japan has long had one of the world’s highest living costs, and while the city has become more reasonably priced in recent years, it is not yet a cheap place to live.4
4. San Francisco, United States
San Francisco is attractive, it’s varied, it passes every vibe test, and it’s only a (long) drive from L.A. There is a slew of beautiful neighboring beaches and coves. There are also plenty of profitable work opportunities in the area, and there’s much to do.
Zoning limitations and residents’ aspirations to stifle population expansion have resulted in a decrease in new housing units inside city limits, causing home prices and the cost of rental in San Francisco to rise dramatically in recent years.
The area’s homeless population is increasing due to a shortage of affordable housing solutions. Food and transportation, which are both necessary expenses, are not inexpensive. Basic goods and petrol are significantly more expensive than the national average.
Regardless, San Francisco and its environs attract career-driven young people, giving the metro region a youthful vibe despite the fact that the median age has constantly climbed. San Francisco’s booming employment market and dynamic atmosphere have drawn newcomers from all over the world, especially from Asia.
5. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is a green, clean, and lovely city overflowing with culture, but especially with spectacular vistas of water and mountains at every corner. And, thanks to multiple universities, the city is home to a large number of young people, so you’ll be in great company.
Vancouver is one of the country’s most ethnically diverse cities. Because it is such a young city (it was founded in 1886), there is no real sense of ownership, and everyone just gets along.
Summers are usually dry and temperate, and only occasionally unbearably hot. Because Vancouver’s public transportation is so good, it’s simple to plan your trips.
When it comes to living costs, it’s safe to say that Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in Canada. Depending on what research you check, the average cost of renting just one apartment in Vancouver is presently between $1,900 and $2,000 per month.
But the average annual pay for a Vancouver resident is $56,603 CAD, and the living wage in the Vancouver Metro area is $20.91 per hour. This makes Vancouver one of the best-paid cities in Canada.
6. Fort Wayne, United States
Fort Wayne is a mid-sized city that is suitable for those looking for a “good” affordable place to live with a short commute and lively nightlife. Food, utilities, petrol, transportation, and medical services are all substantially less expensive than in a normal city. The median home price in the area is $108,700, with a monthly rent of $670.The typical household income is $43,774.
A clubhouse, b-ball courts, a small-scale park, and pools are just a few of the great amenities and services available in certain Indiana apartments. Some people already have their own belongings and minimal gear.
Although the price may be a little higher, it is well worth the effort if you want to experience such luxuries. If you have a limited budget, though, you might choose residences that do not have such extras. As a result, you won’t have to be concerned about any additional costs or expenses.
This town in northeastern Indiana is not only made up of lovely and peaceful neighborhoods, but it also has a thriving arts scene with year-round events and festivals. The annual Three Rivers Festival is one such summertime delight for families.
7. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Many people who want to live in Amsterdam will find that it has a lot to offer. Cultural events such as concerts, art expositions, and other exhibitions abound in the city, catering to a wide range of tastes. The area is bustling with clubs and nightlife, as well as a diversified culinary scene with restaurants serving a wide range of cuisines.
Nonetheless, the city’s noise and vibrancy are not too distracting. Apart from the throngs of tourists in the center of the city, Amsterdam is a very quaint and village-like city. Everything is within walking distance or a short tram ride away. The city is lush with parks, and the inhabitants are generally pleasant.
Amsterdam has a good standard of living in general. Education and healthcare are both at an excellent level. Although housing is rare, it is frequently refurbished or new and well-maintained. People seem to make enough money to appreciate the amenities that this diversified and lovely city has to offer.
8. San Jose, United States
San Jose’s sprawling city is defined as much by its outer suburbs and massive tech complexes as it is by its soaring commercial area. Apple, Google, and Facebook are the area’s largest private-sector employers, so you’ll have little trouble getting work.
Silicon Valley has one of the highest costs of living in the country. While the tech boom has increased job opportunities, it has also made most of the metro area unaffordable for those who do not earn high-tech salaries.
Housing expenses are much higher than in most other parts of the country, and residents frequently pay significantly more than the average American for basic essentials like groceries, utilities, and gasoline.
San Jose, on the other hand, offers a diverse range of activities. From San Pedro Square Market in the east to Santana Row in the west, you can go on a shopping binge. If you enjoy sports, there are plenty of games to keep you entertained if you enjoy sports.
9. Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt, in Southwest Germany, sits on the Main River and is only Germany’s fifth-largest city. But don’t let its small size deceive you: the city, often known as Manhattan, is one of the world’s most important economic centers.
This city is home to all of the major international banking players, including the European Central Bank. In other words, all monetary policy decisions—for a region with a population of about 330 million people—are made in Frankfurt.
Frankfurt boasts one of Germany’s lowest unemployment rates and annually attracts tens of thousands of foreigners. You’re more likely to hear English, Turkish, Spanish, or Hindi in Frankfurt than German. Approximately 30% of the population are ex-pats.
Living in Frankfurt gives you access to all major German cities in 4 to 6 hours. Cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, Brussels, Luxembourg City, and Bern are all less than 5 hours away.
On the flip side, the demand for affordable housing in the Hessian metropolis considerably outnumbers the available supply. Because of this, housing costs keep going up, and Frankfurt is now the second most expensive city in Germany to rent an apartment.
10. Richmond, United States
Today, the city’s diversity shines (almost 40% of the population is black), and there is a major emphasis on attracting private companies, many of which are black, female, or migrant employees. In addition, unlike in larger cities, residents can get by without having five roommates.
Richmond’s population has increased by 12% during 2010, exceeding both Virginia and the United States as a whole. What is generating this population increase? It’s primarily due to the low cost of living in the city!
The cost of living in Richmond is in line with the national average and is 6% less than the state average. Furthermore, the cost of living is reasonable! New Richmond residents will have little trouble finding residences that match their needs, with an average home price of $199,300 and an average monthly rent of $916.
If you’re thinking about moving to Richmond, there’s a lot to look forward to. It’s a laid-back town with a pleasant attitude towards life. Whatever the case may be, what sets it apart is the plethora of activities available. If you have a family, this is especially true.
Also, the education system is excellent, making sure that your kids get the education they need.
11. Paris, France
Parisian life is glamorous and exhilarating, but it is also costly. In France’s most populous city, daily necessities and housing come at a high cost. Around 2.2 million people live in the city, which is divided into 20 municipal districts.
There is a housing crunch as a result of many individuals wanting a piece of Paris’ je ne sais quoi. Getting anything affordable is a different problem entirely. But don’t let this deter you from pursuing your Parisian dream.
Despite its housing problems, Paris has much to offer its residents. Experiencing life in Paris can be enlightening. As an ex-pat, you must step outside of your comfort zone and make an attempt to integrate.
You won’t be able to switch to English as readily as you would if you relocated to an ex-pat haven. Paris might be a genuine pain in the neck, but if you embrace it for what it is, you will be able to see the city through the eyes of a true Parisian.
Fresh pastries and happy hour with finger food), the most French things you’ll want to include in your life, at the conclusion of a long workday at the brasserie near your workplace, are probably two things you’ll never tire of.
12. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of the most visited cities on the planet, and it’s also a popular relocation destination. Foreigners make up about 20% of the city’s population, and the number is expanding every day.
It’s lovely, enticing, intriguing, and attractive, and it’s jam-packed with things to do. Plus, you get world-famous food and drink, high quality of life, and some breathtaking scenery.
Temperatures in Barcelona are rarely below freezing, and rain is uncommon. Even in the winter, temperatures rarely drop below 8 or 9 °C, so if you enjoy avoiding the cold, this is the spot for you.
Barcelona, on the other hand, can be somewhat expensive when compared to other parts of Spain. Nonetheless, it is still less expensive than in many other parts of Western Europe. Furthermore, work can be difficult to come by, and pay is generally low. But there is some good news: the situation is improving, and the rate of unemployment is decreasing.
13. Sydney, Australia
Sydney is widely regarded as one of the world’s most attractive, safest, and livable cities. Sydney’s low crime rate allows you to roam about the streets and ride public transportation at any time of day or night. Sydney is well-known for its stunning beaches and pleasant weather.
Working in Sydney is both beautiful and exciting. Hospitality, tourism, and catering are three industries that employ more than two million people in the city. As one of Australia’s most populous cities, job seekers may face stiff competition.
Due to the abundance of work options and educational prospects, Sydney residents enjoy a good standard of life. You can make the most of your free time thanks to the laid-back, comfortable atmosphere. Sydney residents put in a lot of effort in order to have a good time.
The cost of living in Sydney is relatively high, owing to the high expense of renting an apartment. Depending on what you want, rent will usually cost more than AU $250 per week. This is why a lot of young adults in Sydney with working vacation visas stay in hostels for a long time.
14. Chicago, United States
Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, is suitable for individuals seeking a world-class metropolis with Midwest values. The “Third-Coast” is a metropolis rich in culture, a world-class Central Business District, Michelin-starred restaurants, and communities that form the core of the city’s wonderful history.
The city has a richer history than Los Angeles and its streets are cleaner than New York. Even though many Chicago locals have roots that stretch back several generations, the city warmly welcomes newcomers.
Despite its lack of proximity to the sea, the Chicago lakefront remains an important component of city life. With its beaches, restaurants, and many other things to do, the lakefront is a great place to get away from the summer heat.
Even though Chicago’s cost of living is greater than the state average, it is more affordable than big cities such as New York City and San Francisco, where the cost of living is 61 percent and 105 percent higher than the national average, respectively. The typical rental rate in Chicago is roughly $2,000, and those wishing to buy a property can find a relatively modest median price.
15. Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and the UK’s fourth-largest metropolis. It is on the edge of the River Clyde and is full of parks and quiet places in the middle of a busy city.
Glasgow is known for its vibrant and diverse restaurants and food markets. The city’s diverse ethnic groups ensure that there are plenty of culinary delicacies to be found. Not to mention the shops and restaurants that serve authentic Scottish cuisine.
Art, culture, and museums are some of the nicest aspects of living in Scotland. Glasgow has a long history of amazing art. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the Glasgow Necropolis, and the Glasgow City Center Mural Trail are all must-sees.
The majority of people relocate to Glasgow in search of a job. Manufacturing, healthcare, retail, banking, and business services are all important job areas in Glasgow. Glasgow’s salaries are not as high as those in other big cities throughout the world.
Glasgow is substantially less expensive to live in than other big cities throughout the world. Prices vary based on the place you choose, but they typically run from 500 to 900 pounds each month.
If you plan to relocate from the US, you might want to see 10 Best Countries to Move to from the USA.
