Jul 12, 2026
As ever more wealthy Americans move abroad, new research has unpacked the top 10 countries that offer them a luxurious lifestyle they seek — for a whole lot less than they’d pay in the U.S.
A new study by digital entertainment company Casino.com, shared with Moneywise, looked into which countries have the most boast-worthy abodes, powerful passports to travel freely and attractive tax incentives. Plus, of course, wellness spaces, nightlife, five-star hotels, yacht marinas and more.
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The research examined 30 hot spots among high-income families, and also measured factors including safety ratings, luxury real estate listings and average tax rate. The ratings combine into a single score out of 100, suggesting what daily life might look like for someone with the money to spend.
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The best countries to live if you’re a millionaire
Malta is considered — by a long shot — the best country for luxury living, according to Casino.com’s report. In fact, it’s the only country on the list that scored a perfect 100. While it did have the lowest safety index, at 63.76, expats in Malta can enjoy tens of five-star hotels and yacht marinas along the coastline.
The Mediterranean island boasts 12 yacht marinas, 117 spa and wellness facilities and 162 nightlife venues, while offering an average tax rate of 17.5%.
The country also has more than 200 luxury property listings available per 100 square kilometers, making it easier for affluent buyers to find high-end homes. Its passport provides visa-free access to 132 destinations, adding another draw for internationally mobile residents.
Malta’s appeal extends well beyond wealthy expats. The Mediterranean island has become one of Europe’s fastest-growing tourism destinations, attracting a record 4.02 million international visitors in 2025—a 12.9% increase from the previous year.
Malta reported a 16.4% increase in arrivals between January and May 2026, and 10% more overnight stays, according to the Times of Malta. U.S. arrivals to Malta, for example, jumped by nearly 46% while overnight stays increased by almost 37%, making it one of Europe’s biggest increases in American visitors, second only to Luxembourg.
Travelers generated €3.9 billion in tourism spending, with average visitor spending rising to €971 per person, underscoring the country’s shift toward attracting higher-value travelers rather than simply increasing visitor numbers.
The island’s popularity is easy to understand. With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, the UNESCO-listed old town of Valletta, crystal-clear swimming coves and a thriving restaurant scene, Malta offers a beautiful blend of European history and upscale Mediterranean living.
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English is also an official language, making relocation and long-term stays easier for Americans and other English-speaking visitors.
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Singapore and Monaco follow closely behind
Singapore earned second place with a final score of 96, driven by its exceptional safety rating of 77.72 out of 100 — the highest among the top three countries. It also stood out for its extensive wellness offerings, with 733 spas and wellness facilities, and its passport grants visa-free access to 137 destinations.
Monaco finished third with a score of 93. The tiny principality remains a favorite among the ultra-wealthy thanks to its zero personal income tax, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings. Despite its small size, Monaco offers nearly 400 luxury real estate listings and is home to six yacht marinas, along with the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino.
The remainder of the top 10 includes Hong Kong, the Netherlands, Andorra, Croatia, Portugal and Luxembourg, according to the study’s findings.
While tax-friendly destinations dominated the rankings, the report concluded that the countries offering a balance of personal safety, political stability, luxury amenities, global connectivity and overall quality of life are the most attractive options for high-net-worth Americans.
“Tax rate gets a lot of attention, but it’s rarely the only reason someone picks where to live,” a spokesperson for Casino.com said. “That’s why we included additional factors to find the best spots for those planning to relocate.”
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AnnaMarie is a weekend editor for Moneywise.
