14 Best Countries To Raise A Family In 2026

Raising a child is one of life's greatest responsibilities, and the country you choose to call home can shape their future in profound ways. Today, parents are looking beyond salaries and job opportunities - they're prioritising safety, education, healthcare and overall quality of life. From generous parental leave to world-class schools and universal healthcare, some nations offer an environment where families can truly thrive. The Global Citizen Solutions report for 2026 highlights destinations that tick all these boxes. Whether you seek Nordic simplicity, European culture, or New Zealand's outdoor lifestyle, these countries offer more than a home - they provide a strong foundation for your child's growth.

Also Read: Norway Launches World's First Panoramic Night Train To See The Northern Lights

Here Are The 14 Best Places To Raise Children According To Global Rankings:

1. Finland

Finland has bagged the top spot as a country to bring up a child. It ranks among the world's top 10 safest nations as per the Global Peace Index 2025. Students on average perform above the OECD average in science, while healthcare is universal and publicly funded. Parents enjoy 160 days of paid leave, giving them ample time to bond with their child. The cities of Helsinki and Tampere remain popular among families.

2. Denmark

Second on the list is Denmark, driven by its people-first policies. Besides academic performance, the country equally focuses on student well-being. Parents have up to 52 weeks of leave, and healthcare is tax-funded. Denmark has also secured the second spot on the global happiness index, just after Finland.

3. Sweden

Sweden's education system performs above the OECD average in maths, reading and science. The healthcare system adheres to a Nordic model, offering universal, tax-funded coverage. Parents have the privilege of enjoying 480 days of parental leave per child. Stockholm and Gothenburg are two of the most popular cities that families usually choose.

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4. Netherlands

Strong public systems and clear migration pathways put the Netherlands in the fourth position. Students, on average, excel in maths with decent scores in science. Healthcare falls under the Zvw system, ensuring broad access to care with 26 weeks of parental leave granted. On the visa front, the Highly Skilled Migrant programme and the EU Blue Card allow couples and children to relocate, with access to permanent residency and citizenship.

5. Norway

Norway champions an outdoors-led childhood backed by generous state support. Parents benefit from some of the longest paid leave policies, while children grow up with nature woven into daily life. From Oslo's museums to forest hikes and fjord explorations, balance comes naturally. Universal healthcare and clear Skilled Worker pathways make family relocation seamless.

6. Canada

Canada offers a calm, community-driven environment for families. Safe neighbourhoods, strong public schools, and access to top universities like Toronto and McGill shape long-term security. Outdoor living is second nature, from city parks to national reserves. Express Entry and Start-Up Visa routes allow families to move together with permanent residency in sight.

7. New Zealand

A slower pace and strong community values define childhood in New Zealand. Schools focus on holistic learning, while nature becomes an everyday classroom - from beaches to national parks. Public healthcare keeps costs low for children, and transport networks make city life manageable. Skilled Migrant visas allow families to apply together under one plan.

8. Switzerland

Switzerland pairs pristine cities with world-class education choices. Children can follow academic, bilingual, or vocational tracks that lead to strong career outcomes. Efficient rail travel makes daily life and weekend trips easy, even without a car. Healthcare is mandatory and top-tier, with family reunification well structured for non-EU residents.

9. Germany

Germany's strength lies in its structure and affordability for families. Expanding daycare access, strong public schooling, and the respected dual education system give children multiple paths to success. Excellent public transport supports daily routines, while healthcare fully covers children. Skilled migration and EU Blue Card routes make family settlement straightforward.

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10. Portugal

Portugal stands out for its relaxed lifestyle and family-friendly costs. Growing international schools and improving public education attract relocating parents. Beaches, gardens and national parks shape everyday leisure, supported by easy metro and train access. D7, D8 and Golden Visa options all support smooth family reunification.

11. Italy

Italy blends rich culture with everyday family life. Children grow up surrounded by art, history and accessible outdoor escapes - from mountains to coastlines. Public healthcare is universal, and childcare options are expanding, especially in northern cities. Multiple visa routes, including Digital Nomad and Investor visas, support family relocation.

Also Read: Why You Should Always Keep A Photo Of Your Passport Barcode

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12. Iceland

Iceland offers one of the safest and most close-knit environments for raising children. Small schools ensure personal attention, while outdoor learning is a way of life. Reykjavik keeps commutes short, with museums and geothermal pools enriching daily routines. Parental leave is generous, and healthcare access is clear once settled.

13. Ireland

Ireland appeals to families seeking familiarity and community spirit. Schools are approachable, sports culture is strong and green spaces like Phoenix Park anchor city life. Public transport connects urban and coastal living with ease. The Critical Skills Employment Permit simplifies relocation for families in key professions.

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14. Austria

Austria, especially Vienna, consistently ranks high for family liveability. Clean parks, reliable public transport and strong schools make everyday life smooth. Culture is accessible, with museums and nature trips built into the weekly rhythm. Structured work permits like the Red-White-Red Card ensure easy family integration.

Taken together, these countries prove that raising a child today is about more than opportunity - it's about creating a safe, balanced and enriching environment where families can truly flourish.