More and more women are asking me:

“Where can I live abroad and actually feel supported, safe, and able to breathe?”

And honestly? I get it. So many women in the U.S. are navigating burnout, rising costs, declining healthcare access, and the pressure to constantly push through.

One of the gifts of living abroad is realizing that in many countries, your well-being is built into the system, not something you have to fight for.

Below are seven countries where women consistently thrive — physically, emotionally, financially, and socially. These aren’t fantasy-living countries; these are real places where women report feeling safer, healthier, and more grounded.

And yes — Belgium and Germany had to make this list, because their healthcare and systems of support for women, from my personal experience, are unmatched

Let’s get into it. ✨🌍

1. Belgium – Exceptional Healthcare + Strong Protections for Women

Belgium is one of the most underrated places for women to build a full, supported life abroad.

Why Belgium works so well for women:

• Universal healthcare with excellent maternal + reproductive care

• Strong workplace protections for pregnancy and maternity leave

• Ranked among the safest countries in Europe for women

• Walkable cities + reliable transportation

• A multicultural community, especially in Antwerp and Brussels

Belgium quietly offers stability, healthcare that actually prioritizes you, and a lifestyle that doesn’t require you to grind yourself into the ground.

2. Germany – World-Class Healthcare + Gender Equity

Germany remains one of the strongest countries in the world for women—especially for healthcare, safety, and structural support.

Why women thrive in Germany:

• Universal healthcare ranked among the best worldwide

• Prenatal, postpartum, and midwife care are affordable and accessible

• Long maternity leave + shared parental leave options

• Strong protections against discrimination

• High safety + low violent crime rates

Germany is steady, safe, organized, and deeply invested in supporting women and families.

3. Portugal – Safe, Affordable, and Warm

Portugal has become a favorite for solo women travelers and women relocating abroad.

Why Portugal is a top choice:

• Consistently ranked one of the safest countries in the world

• Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe

• Accessible, affordable healthcare

• A slower pace of life that encourages connection

It’s warm, welcoming, and easy — perfect for women ready to soften the pace of their lives.

4. New Zealand – Safe, Scenic, and Socially Progressive

If safety is your biggest concern, New Zealand should be on your radar.

Why women love it:

• One of the highest rankings globally for women’s safety

• Progressive policies protecting women and families

• Excellent healthcare system

• Stunning natural environment

And the 2025 Global Peace Indixe placed New Zealand as among the world's safest 10 nations.

New Zealand is peaceful, intentional, and deeply invested in the well-being of its people.

5. Canada – Welcoming, Stable, and Human-Centered

Canada is a top pick for women who want structure, diversity, and excellent healthcare—but don’t want to travel too far.

Why women choose Canada:

• Universal healthcare

• High levels of safety and political stability

• Strong gender equality policies

• Diverse, multicultural population

Canada is structured, supportive, and familiar enough to feel accessible.

6. Costa Rica – Peaceful, Community-Oriented, and Nature-Forward

Costa Rica is a haven for women seeking peace, warmth, and community.

Why Costa Rica stands out:

• No military — national budget prioritizes healthcare + education

• Affordable healthcare

• A culture rooted in connection, kindness, and “Pura Vida” living

• Consistently high rankings for overall peacefulness and social stability

Costa Rica is calm, grounding, and ideal for women who want to reconnect with themselves.

7. Mexico – Safe Cities, Warm Culture, and Strong Healthcare Centers

This is the one many women don’t expect — but should.

Mexico is one of the top destinations for women moving abroad, and not just because of cost of living. Certain cities in Mexico are extraordinarily safe, community-oriented, and full of women living beautiful, balanced lives.

Why Mexico works for women:

• Excellent private healthcare that is affordable compared to the U.S.

• Lower cost of living that allows women to build more ease and freedom

• A culture that values community, family, and joy

• Large established expat communities that offer connection and support

Mérida is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the Americas, including Mexico and the United States.

The Common Thread: These Countries Choose Women Back

When you look across Portugal, Belgium, New Zealand, Germany, Canada, and Costa Rica, a pattern emerges:

Women are prioritizing safety, community, healthcare, and a life that feels humane.

These countries don’t promise perfection.But they offer:

• Better healthcare

• Safer environments

• More time for family

• Systems that support women’s well-being

• Work cultures with balance, not burnout

Women are realizing they don’t have to choose struggle as a lifestyle.

Ready to Start Your Own Move Abroad Journey?

If learning about these countries lit something up in you… listen to that. The first steps aren’t overwhelming — and you don’t need a move date or a plane ticket to begin.

Grab my FREE quick-start guide:

✨ The Do This Now: Checklist: Your roadmap to the simple actions you can take TODAY to make your future move smoother and easier.

📥 Download it here: https://www.yourbestlifeabroad.com/freechecklist