🌍 Which Top 12 Countries Do the Most People Want to Relocate To (2026-27 Trends & Insights)
Relocating abroad—whether for a better quality of life, career opportunities, safety, education, or simply adventure—is a major aspiration for millions worldwide. In 2026-27, the destinations people most commonly express interest in moving to reflect a mix of economic opportunity, lifestyle appeal, cultural openness, and perceived stability. These preferences can be measured through global search data on queries like “move to,” “live in,” and “immigrate to,” as well as large-scale survey data on desired migration destinations.
Below is the top 12 list of countries most people around the world want to relocate to, along with the reasons behind their appeal.
🥇 1. Canada — Most Desired Destination Worldwide
Canada holds the top spot by a substantial margin in global relocation interest. According to a global analysis of Google search trends, Canada received the highest number of relocation-related searches in 2025, significantly more than any other country. It also ranked as the most popular relocation choice in the greatest number of other countries globally. 1st Move International+1
Why Canada?
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High standard of living
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Widely regarded healthcare and education systems
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Safety and political stability
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Welcoming immigration policies (historically)Canada’s appeal is rooted in its multicultural society, strong social services, and ample opportunities for skilled workers and families.
🥈 2. Australia — Lifestyle and Opportunity
Australia is consistently one of the most searched destinations for relocation. It ranked second overall in global search interest for people looking to move abroad in 2026-27. 1st Move International+1
Why Australia?
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Beautiful beaches and favorable climate
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High quality of life and work-life balance
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Strong economy with robust job markets in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne
🥉 3. Switzerland — Economic Prosperity & Security
Switzerland has surged in relocation interest, functioning as a top choice for many countries according to global trend analyses. International Investment
Why Switzerland?
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Strong economy and high wages
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Exceptional safety and governance
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Natural environment (Alps, lakes)It appeals especially to professionals seeking security and high living standards.
4. Ireland — English-Speaking European Hub
Ireland consistently appears among the most desired relocation countries, particularly for people seeking a blend of European culture and English language ease. 1st Move International
Why Ireland?
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English-speaking environment
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Growing tech and finance sectors
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Cultural vibrancy and community feel
5. New Zealand — Nature & Quality of Life
With strong global search interest trends, New Zealand is a favorite for those looking for balance between career and lifestyle. 1st Move International
Why New Zealand?
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Stunning landscapes and outdoor lifestyle
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Lower population density
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Safety and education opportunities
6. Spain — Lifestyle & Climate
Spain remains a popular relocation choice due to its relaxed lifestyle, warm climate, and diverse culture. 1st Move International+1
Why Spain?
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Mediterranean climate
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Rich cultural heritage
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Increasing economic pull in sectors like tourism and technology
Spain also sees local acceptance of immigration as part of its demographic and economic strategies. Le Monde.fr
7. United States — Economic Magnet & Global Dream
Although search data sometimes differs by methodology, large-scale survey evidence still places the United States near the top of globally desired destinations for relocation. A Gallup World Poll suggests that around one-fifth of those wishing to emigrate globally name the U.S. as their top choice. Statista
Why the U.S.?
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Large and diverse economy
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Educational and career opportunities
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Cultural influence
8. Japan — Culture, Safety, and Innovation
Japan regularly appears in the top global lists of relocation interest. It ranked among the highest in terms of the number of countries that most desire to move there. 1st Move International+1
Why Japan?
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Very high safety levels
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Strong employment opportunities in tech and manufacturing
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Rich cultural heritage
9. Portugal — Cost of Living & Quality
Portugal’s appeal is increasingly recognized due to its balance of affordability and quality of life. It often appears within the top global searches for relocation. 1st Move International
Why Portugal?
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Relatively lower cost of living compared to much of Western Europe
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Pleasant climate
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Growing international community
10. Netherlands — Progressive and Prosperous
The Netherlands, known for strong civil liberties and robust infrastructure, often appears in global relocation interest lists. 1st Move International
Why the Netherlands?
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High English proficiency
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Strong social systems
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Innovative economy and multicultural cities
11. Costa Rica — Laid-Back and Welcoming
Costa Rica has become a standout relocation destination for people seeking a relaxed pace of life in a biodiverse environment. 1st Move International
Why Costa Rica?
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Tropical climate
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Known for friendliness and low stress living
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Attractive for retirees and remote workers
12. Thailand — Affordability & Culture
Thailand’s position among the top relocation interests reflects its unique appeal, especially for those seeking affordability and vibrant culture. 1st Move International
Why Thailand?
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Affordable cost of living
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Strong expat community
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Rich cultural experiences and natural beauty
✅ What Drives These Preferences?
People want to relocate for many reasons, and trends show that the most attractive countries usually share some common qualities:
⚠️ A Note on Data & Perspectives
There are different ways to measure “most desired relocation destinations”:
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Search volume analyses (like those by 1st Move International) track what people around the world are searching for online and reflect interest intensity. 1st Move International
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Survey-based data (like Gallup polls) show which countries the largest numbers of potential migrants name as their preferred destination. Statista
The lists overlap significantly, especially at the top, but methodologies can vary.
📌 In Summary — Global Relocation Wish List 2026-27
| Rank | Country |
|---|---|
| 1 | Canada |
| 2 | Australia |
| 3 | Switzerland |
| 4 | Ireland |
| 5 | New Zealand |
| 6 | Spain |
| 7 | United States |
| 8 | Japan |
| 9 | Portugal |
| 10 | Netherlands |
| 11 | Costa Rica |
| 12 | Thailand |
Many of these countries are popular due to quality of life, safety, economic prospects, and personal freedom—all factors people weigh heavily when contemplating a move abroad.