Moving overseas advice

Friendliest countries in the world

Key takeaways

The friendliest countries in the world are Costa Rica, Indonesia, Brazil, the Philippines, and Vietnam, according to InterNations's 2024 expat survey.
The friendliest US cities are Chattanooga (Tennessee), Lexington (Kentucky), Santa Fe (New Mexico) and Greenville (South Carolina), according to Condé Nast Traveler magazine.
The friendliest countries in Europe are Portugal, Spain, Ireland, Greece, and the Netherlands, according to a 2024 study by Insider Monkey.

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What is the friendliest country in the world? | Friendliest cities in the US | Friendliest European countries

What is the friendliest country in the world?

The friendliest country in the world is Costa Rica, according to InterNations's 2024 expat survey, The Ease of Settling In Index. The index comprises three subcategories: Finding Friends, Culture & Welcome and Local Friendliness, two of which Costa Rica topped.

For 'Local Friendliness', the InterNations's 2024 top 10 countries are as follows:

Costa Rica
Indonesia
Brazil
Philippines
Vietnam
Mexico
Colombia
Oman
Thailand
Egypt

According to the survey, expats feel 25% more welcome and 25% more at home in Costa Rica than the global average. Plus, when asked to rate the Central American nation's general friendliness towards foreigners, a whopping 90% responded favourably.

Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948 and redirected resources toward education and social services, fostering a peaceful and cooperative society that focuses on well-being and equality. Today, this blue zone country is famous for the phrase 'pura vida', aka 'pure life,' which sums up its philosophy of happiness, positivity, and simplicity. Pura vida extends to locals, newcomers, and visitors alike, fostering an immediate sense of community.

People icon pin

What country has the nicest people?

The country with the nicest people is South Africa, according to a 2024 survey by US-based online payments service Remitly. Remitly's study used the "agreeableness" trait of the globally recognised Big 5 Personality Test, which reflects a person's tendency to be empathetic, friendly, generous, and helpful.

Remitly asked over three thousand worldwide respondents to rate themselves based on the following:

Their concern for other people,
If they go out of their way to help others,
If they make people feel at ease.

Nations that score high for social cohesion are, therefore, more likely to be friendly and open towards locals, visitors and expats. South Africans, known for their laid-back nature and warm humour, topped the list with an impressive 34.63 out of 40 — below are the survey's top 10 countries:

Country	Continent	Average 'friendliness' score
South Africa	Africa	34.63
Greece	Europe	33.71
Croatia	Europe	33.50
Mexico	North America	33.47
Sweden	Europe	33.30
Australia	Oceania	33.13
Canada	North America	32.84
Germany	Europe	32.66
Estonia	Europe	32.58
Belgium	Europe	32.50

Are Australians friendly?

Australians are friendly, with their laid-back attitude and democratic values create a welcoming environment for all. As naturally curious people (evidenced by their 'walkabout' desire to explore the world), Aussies know how to make visitors feel at home, which is why so many expats choose to move to Australia. Whether it's an easygoing 'G'day, mate', their self-deprecating sense of humour or making small talk with taxi drivers, Aussies love to foster a strong sense of community.

Aboriginal Australians, aka First Nations, are also renowned for their warmth and friendliness, with high value placed on hospitality. Storytelling and sharing cultural practices are central to Aboriginal communities and are often open to outsiders. Many non-Aboriginals describe these experiences as profoundly enriching, fostering a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture.

Group of young people holding an American flag on a beach

Friendliest cities in the US

The friendliest cities in the US are Chattanooga (Tennessee), Lexington (Kentucky), Santa Fe (New Mexico) and Greenville (South Carolina), according to Condé Nast Traveler magazine readers. Condé Nast Traveler asked participants of the 37th annual Readers' Choice Awards a range of queries focusing on the welcoming attitude of locals. Questions included "Did someone go out of their way to give you directions?" and "Did you get good vibes from the people around you?".

one

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Population: 181,099 | Foreign-born population: 7.33% | Mayor: Tim Kelly (Independent)

Chattanooga is a scenic city nestled between the Appalachian Mountains and the Tennessee River, known for its arts scene and historic sites like the Chattanooga Choo Choo. Residents describe the city as friendly and welcoming, with a strong sense of community. Expect your neighbours to introduce themselves and plenty of family-friendly activities.

two

Lexington, Kentucky

Population: 322,570 | Foreign-born population: 10.1% | Mayor: Linda Gordon (Republican)

Lexington's mix of urban and rural charm is infectious. Enjoy rolling green hills, iconic horse farms, and plentiful hiking spots. The city's famous Southern charm and strong sense of local pride create a tight-knit environment. Residents are known for their approachability, frequently extending a helping hand to visitors.

three

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Population: 87,505 | Foreign-born population: 14.7% | Mayor: Alan Webber (Democrat)

The oldest US state capital features a unique blend of Native American, Spanish and Anglo cultures, reflected in its distinctive architecture and lively arts scene. The city boasts historic landmarks like the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis and Canyon Road's art galleries. Thanks to its diverse cultural history, locals embrace newcomers with warmth.

four

Greenville, South Carolina

Population: 70,720 | Foreign-born population: 7.22% | Mayor: Knox H. White (Republican)

Greenville is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers a desirable mix of outdoor beauty and urban sophistication. Expect stunning waterfalls, a thriving culinary scene, and access to the scenic Swamp Rabbit Trail. Residents are considered approachable, eager to help, and happy to converse.

Sources: api.census.gov, datausa.io

Man sliding down a stair rail in Portugal

Friendliest European countries

The friendliest European countries are Portugal, Spain, Ireland, Greece, and the Netherlands, according to a 2024 study by Insider Monkey based on first-hand accounts of travellers.

Portugal welcomes over 30 million visitors annually thanks to its sunny climate, gorgeous sites and gregarious residents. With a strong emphasis on family, engaging conversation and a relaxed lifestyle, it's no wonder the Iberian nation tops the list with a score of 10/10. In second place are Portugal's neighbours, Spain, with a score of 9/10. Spaniards are famously sociable, whether meeting friends in bustling cafés or eagerly engaging with tourists and expats.

Known for their witty craic and hearty pub singalongs, Ireland takes third place with an impressive 8 out of 10 score. Locals quickly make visitors feel at home, from cheerful greetings on the street to invitations to community events and gatherings.

Greece and the Netherlands scored 7 out of 10 for the fourth and fifth spots, respectively. Greece's warm climate mirrors the kindness of its people, who are proud of their nation's culture and eager to share it with others. The Dutch, known for their warm hospitality, enjoy engaging in passionate discussions and embracing a vibrant nightlife.