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As remote work continues to gain traction, a growing number of young Brits are venturing abroad, embracing the lifestyle of ‘digital nomads’ or seeking more promising opportunities in foreign lands. This trend is especially pronounced among British nationals aged 16 to 24. In 2025 alone, an estimated 87,000 individuals from this age group reportedly left the UK, with many citing the rising cost of living as a significant motivator for their departure.
While a considerable number of these young expats have chosen the luxurious allure of places like Dubai and Sydney, there is an increasing interest in more budget-conscious destinations. As these adventurous spirits search for new horizons, they are also considering factors like affordability, safety, healthcare quality, environmental conditions, equality, and connectivity.
In response to this growing trend, a list of the most cost-effective countries for Gen Z expats has emerged, highlighting destinations that offer a balance of these crucial factors. These locations provide the essentials for a sustainable and fulfilling life abroad without breaking the bank, making them appealing to the new generation of global citizens.
While a large number of British expats have headed for the sunny shores of luxurious destinations such as Dubai and Sydney, there are many budget-friendly options becoming popular.
The cheapest countries for Gen Z expats have now been revealed, based on wage affordability, safety, healthcare quality, environmental factors, equality and connectivity.
The top spot? Luxembourg, a small European country surrounded by Belgium, France and Germany.
Luxembourg was found to be the most affordable country for Gen Z expats, with living expenses accounting for just 15.5 per cent of average wages.Â
That’s a notably lower share than in Mexico (40.2 per cent) or Greece (33.5 per cent), which are the least affordable.Â
Beyond affordability, Luxembourg also scores highly for quality of life, offering strong digital infrastructure, excellent healthcare standards, and a solid Global Peace Index.
Luxembourg city is known for its great quality of life, perfect for young workers
Surprisingly, the United States comes in second place. Here, living costs account for 17 per cent of average wages, supported by high earning potential and access to one of the world’s most developed job markets.Â
The US also leads in digital connectivity, boasting some of the fastest broadband speeds, making it particularly appealing for remote workers.
Belgium ranks third, with living costs 17.3 per cent of average wages, combining stable incomes with affordable living costs.Â
Its central location in Europe, reliable public transport, and relatively strong LGBT equality score make it especially attractive to young expats seeking affordability.
In fourth and fifth place are Australia and Canada, both popular expat destinations.
Spain ranks in sixth place, with living expenses accounting for just 18 per cent of average wages.
In seventh and eight place are Slovenia and the Netherlands.
Rounding out the top 10 are New Zealand and Lithuania.
The digital connectivity and work opportunities in the US bring it into second place
The study was carried out by international health insurance specialists William Russelll.Â
It comes after it was recently revealed more and more young people are seeking ‘micro-retirement’ and a chance to travel without having to wait for the traditional retirement age.Â
Workers aged 18 to 24 were the most likely to take time off as a result of stress (35 per cent), compared to just 10 per cent of workers aged 55 and over.
Bangkok in Thailaind was found to be one of the most popular cities for micro-retirements.Â