This article will focus on the safest countries for women to live in. If you want to pursue your dreams of moving abroad as a woman but want to ensure that you’re moving to a country that is safe for women, start with this article.
I will provide several options with brief summaries about why these countries are welcoming and safe for women.
If you need additional information, why not join my ‘How to Move Abroad’ Master Class? It’s an intensive 5-week program that provides end-to-end country-specific support and information for Americans interested in living abroad.
If you have a different passport, don’t worry, I also have a globally relevant course!
Safest Countries For Women to Move Abroad To
Searching for the safest countries for women is difficult. There are so many competing opinions and experiences because no one country is 100% for women at all times.
Nevertheless, that shouldn’t stop you from exploring. There is an entire world out there waiting for you so why not take a leap of faith, pack your bags, and let the adventure begin!
Moving abroad is an experience that will test and challenge you, but there will also be a new life, new friends, and new memories.
Moving to another country will open new doors and present new opportunities, and you will definitely learn more about the world and yourself than you could ever imagine.
For the last decade, I’ve been moving back and forth across the world figuring out what makes me happy.
I have lived in 4 different countries and traveled to over 50 countries, and along the way, I met my incredible German husband, adopted my Italian cat and I learned that you should never take safety for granted.
Things to Consider Before Moving Abroad
While living abroad as an American (and non-American) is not easy, it’s not impossible!
There are a few things to consider before you make your move and I put together a list of resources that may answer some of the questions you have regarding preparation, visas, finding a job abroad, etc.
- How to Move and Live Abroad
- How to Move and Live Abroad (YouTube video)
- How to Find a Job Abroad
- US Expat Tax Deadlines & Common Mistakes
Being Abroad Might be Safer than Home
Many expats will tell you that they feel safer abroad than they did back home. Growing up in America, I have experienced some pretty scary stuff. I was held up at gunpoint in Los Angeles and robbed in New York City.
The world is a beautiful place, but it’s also a crazy one. I have had a lot of luck when it comes to safety while traveling solo as a female but I know it’s not something I should take for granted.
I hope that one day, women won’t have to look for recommendations of safe places to move or travel to abroad.
While this still isn’t the reality today, I believe that some countries are safer for women than others and I decided to make a list of the 5 safest countries for women to move abroad to.
Does that mean that those countries are 100% safe at all times? No.
There isn’t a single place like this anywhere in the world!
However, in my experience and through my research, certain countries are much safer for women than others and I’ll explain why.
I‘ve lived abroad for many years and love helping others find work abroad and figure out their “Move Abroad Plan.” Check out my class below to get you started ASAP!
The 5 Safest Countries for Women to Live in
1. United Kingdom
I lived in London for 6 years and I have traveled around the UK more than some locals. While no country is perfect, I do think that the United Kingdom is one of the safest countries for women to move abroad to.
The United Kingdom has one of the best transport networks in the world, with frequent night buses in major cities and countless train lines, which means that you can get from point A to point B without having to walk for an hour alone at night.
The United Kingdom is very multicultural and generally respectful of people of different colors, races, or religions. There are many excellent universities and career opportunities here, making it a great country for female expats.
Like most countries, the capitals (London, Edinburgh, Cardiff) tend to be less safe than the countryside or smaller cities.
You’ll live a much more peaceful and affordable life if you settle outside of the capitals in the tier 2 cities, such as Manchester, Aberdeen, Brighton, etc.
2. Singapore
Over the last few decades, Singapore has become a global business hub with a thriving expat culture. This thriving city-state is one of the smallest countries in the world and one that you can get to know in no time.
Transportation is fast, easy, and relatively safe. The crime rate in Singapore is very low but always use your common sense, especially as a woman.
There are many taxi apps that you can use to get home fast and safely, and you will surely meet many expats or solo female travelers living or visiting Singapore.
The locals are also known to be very welcoming and helpful, making Singapore one of the safest countries for women to move abroad to, whether alone or with family.
3. Canada
Let’s be honest, Canada is gorgeous! While it’s not a tropical paradise that many dream of, it’s surely one of the safest countries for women in the world and has a legacy of welcoming diversity.
Canada may be the second-largest country in the world, but it has a relatively small population.
Overall, Canadians are known to be very welcoming and respectful, which is why many female expats choose Canada as their new home.
Canada’s education system is one of the best in the world, most people enjoy a high quality of life, free healthcare, and great job opportunities.
4. Norway
Norway ranked as the best place to live quite a few times and there is a valid reason for this.
Serious crime and murder rates in Norway are among the lowest in the world, making it one of the safest countries for women to move abroad to.
The education system is excellent, gender equality is improving, salaries are high to balance out the high cost of living, the Norwegian healthcare system is fantastic and environmental pollution is very low.
On top of that, Norway has a lively social scene in the major cities, with amazing food halls, a thriving music scene, and tons of cultural experiences.
If you’re a nature lover, there are literally thousands of hiking trails and fjords to explore, just don’t forget to bring a proper coat!
5. Germany
This is where I currently live and I can confirm it’s one of the safest countries for women in the world!
While there are many mixed opinions about living in Germany, I recommend this country for any female expat looking to move abroad.
Germany ranks high for security and is relatively safe to move around. The German economy is one of the most stable in Europe and there are many career options for professionals working in different sectors.
Yes, you need to work on your German language skills if you plan to live here, but learning a new language is very rewarding and will bring you closer to the local people and culture.
There are many financial and family benefits to moving to Germany. While taxes may appear high at first glance, I’m currently paying roughly the same amount of tax in Germany as I would in California.
Furthermore, I don’t have to worry about saving for healthcare emergencies as my insurance takes care of nearly everything imaginable (even some cosmetic surgeries!).
When it comes to family planning, maternity leave can be up to 2 years in Germany, and parents are even given ‘kindergeld’ for each child; i.e. a monthly allowance of €199 or more.
There’s nearly nowhere better to start a family in the world than Germany.
Everyone Should Live Abroad At Least Once
Moving abroad is one of the best things that ever happened to me and I strongly encourage every woman out there to dare and do the same.
Follow your dreams and passions to the corners of the earth, but it does help to prioritize countries that are safer for women.
The 5 safest countries for women to move abroad to, as mentioned above, are really worth considering.
They offer opportunities, safety, and stability and they will surely provide you with unforgettable memories and experiences!
If you have any questions or need advice, feel free to get in touch! If you’d like to share your own experience of living abroad, leave a comment below.
Read More About Living Abroad:
- Online Therapy for Expats: Betterhelp
- Should You Use Transferwise or Revolut?
- How to Move to Canada
- 8 Important Things to Know Before Moving to London
- Can You Travel While Working Full-time?
Vanessa Wachtmeister is a travel tech professional and the creator of the wealth & wanderlust platform, Wander Onwards. Vanessa is originally from Los Angeles, California, she is a proud Chicana, and she has been living abroad for the last 9 years. Today, she helps people pursue financial and location independence through her ‘Move Abroad’ Master Class, financial literacy digital products, and career workshops.