European migration trends 2025 show that international migration trends are shifting, and certain destinations in Europe are attracting more newcomers than ever, reinforcing position as one of the best places to live in Europe. According to Eurostat, in 2023, the European Union saw 4.3 million people immigrate from non-EU countries, plus another 1.5 million moving between EU states. While this was a slight decrease from the extraordinary 2022 peak, a handful of countries still led the pack. Germany and Spain each recorded roughly 1.25 million new immigrants in 2023, far more than any others. They were followed by Italy (about 439,700), France (~417,600), and the Netherlands(~332,863) as top destinations. These figures highlight the most popular countries in Europe for relocation and confirm their status as top expat destinations in Europe. These figures refer to 2023, but the trend continues in 2025, with these five countries remaining the most popular choices for expats and migrants. Below, we explore why people are moving to these countries, offering insight for those considering relocation to Europe or moving to Europe as an expat - with a focus on migration levels, cost of living in Europe, average salary in Europe, and taxes for expats in Europe.
Overview: Top 5 Destination Countries in Europe by Migration Trends
<table> <tbody> <tr class="blue-row" > <td><strong>Country</strong></td> <td><strong>Immigrants (2023)</strong></td> <td><strong>Average Gross Salary, 2025</strong></td> <td><strong>Cost of Living</strong></td> <td><strong>Top Income Tax Rate</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Germany</td> <td>1,271,200</td> <td>€4 600/month</td> <td>Around EU average</td> <td>45%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Spain</td> <td>1,251,000</td> <td>€2 400/month</td> <td>Below EU average</td> <td>47%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Italy</td> <td>439,700</td> <td>€2,900/month</td> <td>Below EU average</td> <td>43%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>France</td> <td>417,600</td> <td>€3 650/month</td> <td>Above EU average</td> <td>45%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Netherlands</td> <td>332,863</td> <td>€3 900/month</td> <td>Above EU average</td> <td>49.5%</td> </tr> </tbody> </table>Source: Eurostat, MonoEstate
1. Germany - One of the Best Countries to Move to in Europe in 2025
Germany continues to be the number-one destination for expats moving to Europe in 2025, a status underpinned by its strong economy and job market. In 2023, Germany recorded about 1.27 million incoming immigrants, the largest absolute number in the EU. This massive inflow (largely composed of both non-EU nationals and EU movers) reflects Germany’s demand for skilled workers and its relative political stability. Even as overall EU immigration dipped in 2023, Germany still saw more people arriving than leaving, maintaining a positive net migration. Within broader European relocation trends, Germany consistently ranks among the best countries for expats in Europe and one of the best European countries to move to for career-driven professionals. Throughout 2024 and 2025, Germany continued to record high migration inflows, although at a more stable and moderate pace compared to the exceptional peak of 2022.
Despite its prosperity, Germany’s cost of living is generally in line with the EU average. Living expenses (like groceries and services) are moderate - lower than in neighboring high-cost countries like Switzerland, Denmark, France, or the Netherlands, but higher than in Southern Europe. Housing in big cities (Berlin, Munich, etc.) can be pricey, yet many expats find it more affordable than London or Paris. This places Germany among European countries with high living costs, although high wages often offset these expenses. Meanwhile, salaries in Germany are among the highest in Europe, averaging around €4,600 per month (gross) in 2025. This is the top figure among the EU’s large economies, which means skilled professionals in Germany can earn well above the European average. Taxation in Germany is progressive, with income tax rates rising to a 45% top bracket for the highest earners. (There’s also a solidarity surcharge ~5.5% on top for top earners, and optional church tax.) After taxes, take-home pay remains competitive given the high gross salaries. In short, expats in Germany benefit from a balance of excellent earnings and reasonable living costs, making it a prime destination for career-focused migrants.
2. Italy - An Affordable European Country for Relocation
Italy might surprise some with its inclusion among the top destinations, but it has consistently drawn significant numbers of newcomers. According to Eurostat, in 2023, Italy received about 439,700 immigrants - placing it third in the EU by absolute inflow. This figure reflects various groups: returning Italian nationals, EU citizens (often retirees or remote workers attracted by Italy’s climate), and non-EU migrants (including some refugees and labor migrants). While lower than Germany or Spain’s figures, Italy’s inflow was still substantial, and the trend in 2025 remains positive. As part of European relocation trends, Italy is often listed among affordable European countries and the best countries to relocate to in Europe for lifestyle-focused expats. The country’s government has been courting foreign professionals and investors with programs like the digital nomad visa and tax incentives, hoping to counteract its aging population. As a result, expats moving to Italy in 2025 will find active international communities in cities like Milan, Rome, and Florence, as well as in regional areas revitalized by foreign remote workers.
One big draw of Italy is its relatively affordable cost of living. Overall consumer prices in Italy are slightly below the EU average, especially outside tourist centers. Housing and day-to-day expenses can be quite reasonable, particularly in the south or smaller cities, making Italy attractive for those seeking a high quality of life on a budget. Wages, however, are more modest. The average gross salary in Italy is about €2,900 per month, which is lower than the EU average and roughly half of Germany’s level. This combination makes Italy one of the best places to live in Europe for expats prioritizing quality of life over income maximization. Italy’s income tax system is progressive, with an IRPEF top rate of 43%. There are also special tax regimes to reduce the burden for new residents and expatriates. Combined with Italy’s lower living costs, these factors mean that while pay in Italy is lower, so are expenses - a trade-off that continues to attract those who prioritize lifestyle, climate, and culture.
3. Spain - One of the Most Popular Countries in Europe to Live
Spain remains one of the most popular countries for expats and migrants, a trend very much alive in 2025. In 2023, Spain welcomed roughly 1.25 million immigrants, virtually on par with Germany’s inflow. Spain’s position among the best countries for expats in Europe is reinforced by its high immigration levels and strong appeal to international residents. The arrivals include not only EU free movers (e.g. other Europeans retiring on the Spanish coasts or remote workers in Barcelona) but also large numbers from Latin America and beyond. Spain historically has strong links to Latin American countries and often sees substantial immigration from that region. Even after the peak of pandemic-related and Ukrainian crisis movements subsided, Spain’s immigration level remained high - all 27 EU countries had more people arriving than leaving in 2023, and Spain was no exception. Going into 2024-2025, Spain continues to draw foreigners with its warm climate, vibrant cities, and welcoming culture, keeping it firmly in the top-tier of expat destinations.
A major advantage for moving to Spain is the cost of living, which is lower than in most Western European countries. Day-to-day expenses like food and transportation are affordable, and outside of Madrid and Barcelona, housing costs are quite reasonable. As a result, Spain is frequently ranked among affordable European countries and the best places to live in Europe for retirees and remote workers. On the income side, salaries in Spain are moderate - the average full-time gross salary is about €2,400 per month, similar to Italy’s and below the European average. While wages for local jobs aren’t as high as in Northern Europe, many expats bring foreign income or work in high-skill sectors (tech, finance) that pay above the Spanish average. Importantly, the lower living costs can offset the lower salaries to some extent. Spain’s tax system is region-dependent but generally progressive: at the state level the top income tax rate is 47% on earnings above €300,000, and some autonomous communities levy additional regional taxes (in the highest-tax regions, very high earners can face marginal rates around ~50%+). However, Spain also offers tax incentives for newcomers (e.g. the Beckham Law for certain expats). Overall, Spain offers an attractive mix of affordable living, pleasant lifestyle, and solid infrastructure, which, coupled with its high immigration numbers, underscores why it remains a top choice in 2025.
4. Netherlands - High Salaries and High Living Costs in Europe
The Netherlands consistently ranks as a top destination for international talent and expats, and recent migration data reinforces this status. According to Netherlands government, in 2023, the Netherlands saw about 332,863 people arriving (while many also left, it still resulted in net growth). Within European migration trends 2025, the Netherlands stands out as one of the top expat destinations in Europe for skilled professionals. The vast majority of migrants come to the Netherlands for work, study, or family reasons, with relatively few being asylum seekers. This highlights the country’s pull as an education and employment hub - home to global companies, English-taught university programs, and a high standard of living. For expats, the Netherlands offers a cosmopolitan environment (especially in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague) and a high quality of life, albeit one that comes with a higher price tag.
On the economic front, the Netherlands stands out for its high salaries and high cost of living. The country boasts one of the highest average salaries in the EU - around €3,900 per month (gross). Skilled professionals (in fields like tech, finance, engineering) are well-compensated, which is a key attraction for those moving to the Netherlands. At the same time, living costs are among the highest in Europe. By comparison of price levels, the Netherlands is more expensive than Germany and most EU countries. Housing, in particular, is a challenge - rent in Amsterdam or Utrecht can absorb a large chunk of one’s income due to limited supply and high demand. Groceries, dining out, and services also cost more than the EU average. Thus, while you earn more in the Netherlands, you’ll also spend more on daily life. The tax regime features a top income tax rate of 49.5% on high earners. The Netherlands does offer tax breaks for some expats, like the 30% ruling which can exempt a portion of income from tax for highly skilled foreign employees. All considered, the Netherlands remains highly attractive in 2025 for those seeking career advancement and excellent public services - if they can manage the elevated living costs that come with the territory.
5. France - A Top European Destination Despite High Living Costs
France has long been a pillar of European immigration and continues to hold its place in the top five destination countries. According to Eurostat, in 2023, France recorded approximately 417,600 immigrants arriving. This number, while a bit lower than Italy’s, underscores France’s ongoing draw for migrants – ranging from professionals moving to Paris, to students in French universities, and people from France’s former colonies seeking opportunity. Notably, France, like all EU countries, had more immigration than emigration in 2023, contributing to a growing and diverse population. As of 2024, about 12.1 million foreign-born individuals lived in France (the highest after Germany in Europe). In 2025, expats continued to move to France due to its robust economy (the second-largest in Europe), rich cultural heritage, and strong public services, despite unemployment remaining higher than in some neighboring countries. France consistently appears on lists of top expat destinations in Europe and best European countries to move to for professionals and families alike. Paris remains a global city attracting talent in tech, finance, and the arts, while other regions of France appeal for their quality of life and industry (for example, Toulouse for aerospace, Lyon for pharmaceuticals, the Riviera for tourism).
The cost of living in France is on the higher side, especially in major cities. Despite being one of the European countries with high living costs, France remains attractive due to strong public services and long-term stability. Consumer prices in France tend to be about 10-15% above the EU average (with Paris being particularly expensive). Housing in Paris or along the Côte d’Azur commands a premium, and everyday costs like food, fuel, and services are relatively steep. Average salaries in France are decent, roughly €3,650 per month (gross) on average, which is above the EU average but below countries like Germany. Skilled professionals in France (especially in Paris) can earn well, though not typically as high as in London or Amsterdam for comparable roles. France’s tax system is progressive and complex: the top income tax rate is 45%, and there is an additional surtax on very high incomes (3% over €250k for singles, 4% over €500k), which effectively raises the tax burden on the ultra-wealthy (hence France’s combined top rate can exceed 50% when including social contributions). Despite the taxes and costs, France remains consistently alluring. The combination of economic opportunity, lifestyle, and geographic diversity (Parisian urban life vs. tranquil Provence) ensured that France remained one of the top choices for expats in 2025.
Conclusion: Best Countries for Expats and Relocation in Europe in 2026
In summary, Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, and France remain the best countries for expats in Europe and the most popular countries in Europe for international relocation. These countries each offer a unique mix of opportunities and living conditions: Germany and the Netherlands pair high salaries with strong economies (but also higher living costs), whereas Spain and Italy attract many with their lower cost of living and lifestyle advantages (albeit with more modest wages). France strikes a middle ground - offering extensive public benefits and cultural appeal, at the price of higher taxes and expenses. Notably, Germany and Spain led in sheer volume of newcomers in 2023, reflecting their broad pull factors, while Italy, France, and the Netherlands also sustained significant inflows. All five nations benefit from migration as a driver for demographic and economic vitality, welcoming hundreds of thousands of expats, labor migrants, students, and refugees each year.
For those evaluating where to move in Europe in 2026, these countries also rank among the best countries to relocate to in Europe, combining economic opportunity, quality of life, and established expat communities. Of course, one should weigh factors like housing affordability, job market fit, and tax implications in each locale. However, the data shows that these five countries remained Europe’s primary relocation hotspots from 2023 through 2025, reflecting a stable, long-running trend.