Top Destinations for Families Looking to Relocate Long-Term

Relocating your family is equal parts exciting and terrifying. It really is more than just finding a new place to live, isn’t it? It’s choosing the backdrop of your kids’ childhoods, your morning routines, and everything in between. 

Whether you’re moving for better work opportunities, education, safety, or just the chance to build something new as a family, picking the right destination can make or break the whole experience. 

So, if you’re staring at a world map and wondering where to start, I’ve pulled together some of the top destinations for families looking to relocate long-term. These places score high across the things that matter most, like quality of life, education, healthcare, cultural diversity, and long-term livability. 

1. Canada – The Family-Friendly Powerhouse 

If you’re craving clean air, polite neighbors, and an education system that actually works, Canada is hard to beat. Cities like Vancouver, Ottawa, and Toronto often land in the top ranks for global livability, but they all have their own flavor. 

What stood out to me (and most families I know who’ve made the move) is the country’s focus on work-life balance and its social safety net. The healthcare is public and reliable, the schools are top-notch, and there’s plenty to do outdoors, so “healthy” is a way of life. 

The Canadian immigration process can be relatively smooth for families, especially if one or both parents have in-demand skills or higher education. Plus, multiculturalism is woven into the fabric of Canadian identity, so it’s easier to feel like you belong, even as a newcomer. 

2. Germany – Structured, Safe, and Kid-Friendly 

Germany may not scream “fun” to you, but hear me out. It’s one of the most organized, efficient places to raise a family. Excellent public transportation, universal healthcare, and free or low-cost education, even at the university level. 

Berlin offers the artsy, multicultural big-city vibe; Munich brings Bavarian charm and mountain access; and places like Freiburg and Heidelberg are smaller gems with outstanding schools and green living. 

The work culture here respects family time (try finding someone who responds to emails after 5 p.m.), and the government offers generous parental leave and child benefits. If you’re planning to stay long-term, Germany’s legal pathways to residency and citizenship are well-defined. 

3. Australia – Beach Living with Urban Perks 

When I say “family relocation,” most people don’t immediately picture their kids playing on Bondi Beach or hiking in the Blue Mountains, but maybe they should. 

Australia combines a laid-back lifestyle with strong infrastructure and public services. Sydney and Melbourne are the big hitters, offering robust healthcare, diverse communities, and excellent schools, while Brisbane and Perth punch above their weight in terms of livability and cost of living. 

And, don’t believe the stereotypes; there are plenty of normal, non-venomous places to live there. Most Australians will tell you that they’ve never felt threatened by the wildlife unless they lived in the Outback. 

One caveat: immigration to Australia can be tricky depending on your profession or financial situation. It’s absolutely doable, but this is where working with a family immigration law firm can save you months of confusion and anxiety.  

If you’re planning to move from the U.S. or elsewhere, having someone to walk you through visa options, documentation, and residency requirements is borderline essential. 

4. Portugal – Europe’s Chillest Option 

If you want sunshine, affordability, and a slower pace of life without giving up European infrastructure, Portugal is a dream. 

Lisbon has become a hotspot for digital nomads and families alike. It’s safe, affordable (compared to much of Western Europe), and incredibly welcoming to expats. And yes, English is widely spoken, especially among younger generations and in urban areas. 

The public healthcare system is solid, and international schools are widely available. You can even get residency through programs like the D7 visa or the Golden Visa (though that one’s changing a bit), making it a viable long-term option. 

5. New Zealand – Nature and Nurture in Equal Measure 

I know this sounds cliché, but if you’ve ever fantasized about raising your kids in the kind of place where they run barefoot through forests, New Zealand might be it. 

With jaw-dropping scenery, low crime rates, and a strong public education system, it’s a magnet for families wanting to trade chaos for calm. Auckland and Wellington are the urban hubs, but places like Christchurch and Queenstown offer more affordable living and immediate access to adventure. 

Immigration-wise, New Zealand has streamlined pathways for skilled migrants and offers multiple family reunification options. It’s not the easiest country to get into, but once you’re in, most people don’t want to leave. 

6. Costa Rica – Pura Vida and Practical Living 

Maybe you’re looking for something a bit more tropical, without giving up the structure and safety families need. Costa Rica checks those boxes and then some. The country offers universal healthcare, a stable democracy, and a strong focus on education. Plus, it’s one of the most environmentally conscious countries on the planet. 

While cities like San José might not have the charm of Paris or Sydney, coastal towns like Tamarindo or Manuel Antonio offer natural beauty and a strong expat community. There are also plenty of private and bilingual schools. 

Immigration is relatively flexible here, especially if you’re willing to go the “rentista” or “pensionado” route. It’s not quite as polished as Europe or Canada, but if you’re looking for balance, adventure, and a lower cost of living, Costa Rica might just surprise you. 

Final Thoughts 

Relocating long-term as a family is a massive decision, but also an opportunity. You get to rethink the way you live, the values you pass on to your kids, and even the rhythm of your everyday life.  

The “best” place ultimately comes down to what your family needs now, and what you hope it grows into later. Just don’t let fear or immigration paperwork be the reason you stay stuck. The world’s bigger and more welcoming than you think.