Global Survey Highlights the World’s Friendliest and Least Friendly Cities for Expats

A new international ranking has shed light on how welcoming cities around the world feel to newcomers, revealing significant differences in social openness, community integration, and everyday interactions.

The survey, conducted among expatriates living abroad, identified cities where foreign residents find it easiest to build friendships and feel at home, as well as destinations where social integration can be more challenging.

According to the findings, Mexico City emerged as the world’s most friendly city for expatriates. Respondents praised the city’s vibrant social culture, warm interactions, and strong sense of community. Many newcomers reported feeling welcomed shortly after arrival, making the Mexican capital a standout destination for those seeking both professional opportunities and a supportive social environment.

Spanish cities performed exceptionally well in the rankings. Málaga, Valencia, Alicante, and Madrid all secured positions among the top ten friendliest urban centers. The strong showing reflects Spain’s reputation for social engagement, outdoor lifestyles, and community-oriented culture. Expats frequently cited approachable residents, active public spaces, and opportunities to connect with local communities as key reasons for their positive experiences.

The Middle East also earned recognition, with Muscat in Oman and Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates appearing among the highest-ranked destinations. Survey participants highlighted hospitality, safety, and a welcoming atmosphere as important factors contributing to their satisfaction.

Bangkok, Nairobi, and Panama City rounded out the top ten, demonstrating that friendliness and social inclusion are not limited to a single region. These cities represent diverse cultures but share a common ability to help newcomers feel accepted and connected.

While some cities excelled in creating positive experiences for foreign residents, others ranked lower in perceived friendliness. Berlin was identified as the least friendly city in the survey, followed by Munich, Vienna, Prague, Frankfurt, and Hamburg. Several major European cities dominated the lower end of the rankings.

Experts caution that such results should not be interpreted as measures of overall quality of life. Many cities that ranked lower for friendliness continue to score highly in areas such as public services, transportation, economic opportunities, healthcare, and safety. Instead, the rankings primarily reflect expatriates’ perceptions of social openness and the ease of building personal relationships.

Paris, Zurich, Stockholm, and Oslo also appeared among the least friendly cities according to respondents. Expats in these locations often reported difficulties establishing close social networks or integrating into existing community circles. Cultural differences, language barriers, and social norms may contribute to these perceptions.

The results highlight an increasingly important factor in global mobility. As professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers relocate across borders, social integration has become a critical component of overall satisfaction. A welcoming environment can influence everything from mental well-being to career success and long-term residency decisions.

Urban development specialists note that friendliness is difficult to quantify because it depends heavily on personal experiences, cultural expectations, and individual circumstances. Nevertheless, rankings like these offer valuable insight into how international residents perceive life in different parts of the world.

As global migration continues to grow, cities that successfully foster inclusion, community engagement, and social connection may gain a competitive advantage in attracting international talent. The latest survey suggests that beyond infrastructure and economic opportunities, human connections remain one of the most important factors shaping the expatriate experience.

Ultimately, the study serves as a reminder that a city’s reputation is influenced not only by its skyline, economy, or attractions, but also by the everyday interactions that help newcomers transform an unfamiliar destination into a place they can call home.