Top 10 Most Peaceful Countries According to Global Peace Index

International conflict and domestic tensions are prompting some Americans to consider relocating abroad. The 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) ranks the United States as the 128th most peaceful country in the world, placing it behind nations such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, and India.

Recent military operations in Venezuela, which resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, have caused airspace restrictions in the Caribbean, leaving thousands of travelers stranded. These events, combined with concerns regarding crime rates and cost of living, have increased the desire for relocation. A Gallup poll released in October 2024 showed that 21% of polled Americans expressed a desire to move abroad, up from 17% in 2023.

The GPI evaluates countries based on three domains: societal safety and security, ongoing conflict, and militarization. Iceland ranks first across all three domains, maintaining its status as the world's safest country despite high living costs. Other nations in the top 10 include Ireland, New Zealand, Austria, and Switzerland.

Global peace has gained new importance for travelers and potential expatriates. The 2025 Global Peace Index places the United States at rank 128, a position that reflects ongoing domestic and international tensions. The index evaluates nations based on societal safety and security, ongoing conflicts, and militarization. While safety is subjective, the data indicates the US falls behind nations like South Africa, Zimbabwe, and India.

Factors driving the desire to relocate include:

• Rising crime rates
• Work-life balance concerns
• Cost of living
• Parenting values

Despite the growing interest in leaving, the United States remains the most desired destination for citizens of other countries looking to move, according to Gallup data.

Recent events have underscored the volatility of international travel. Following a US military operation in Venezuela that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, airspace restrictions were implemented. This left thousands of travelers stuck in the Caribbean, highlighting the risks associated with geopolitical instability.

The 2025 GPI identifies several nations as havens of stability. These countries consistently rank high in the index's domains, offering residents and expatriates a secure environment.

1. Iceland

Iceland retains the title of the world's safest country. It ranked first across all three GPI domains. Despite being one of the most expensive nations, it offers the highest level of safety based on global peace metrics.

2. Ireland

Ireland ranks second overall. It placed within the top five countries in the militarization domain. Known for its cultural heritage and landscapes, it is a common destination for Americans seeking to move.

3. New Zealand

New Zealand is the most peaceful country in the Asia-Pacific region. It received the top ranking in the ongoing conflicts domain. Expatriates cite family-friendly towns and natural beauty as key attractions.

4. Austria

Austria has maintained a top position in the GPI since the index began in 2008. Its capital, Vienna, has been ranked as the world's most livable city and a premier destination for expats.

5. Switzerland

Switzerland ranks in the top 10 for both ongoing conflicts and societal safety. Geneva, often called the global "Peace Capital," is a major draw for expats driven by quality of life.

Several other nations offer high levels of peace and stability, attracting travelers and those looking to relocate.

• Singapore: Ranked as the second-safest country in the Asia-Pacific region. It is a popular destination for American expats, particularly those interested in entrepreneur economies. It ranked in the top five for societal safety and ongoing conflicts.
• Portugal: A recent favorite for Americans looking to move abroad. A survey by Expatsi identified Portugal as the most requested destination for US citizens in 2024. It ranks second in the world based on the GPI militarization domain.
• Denmark: Ranked as the world's sixth most peaceful country based on societal safety. However, it saw a relative deterioration in its militarization ranking due to increased military spending.
• Slovenia: The home country of first lady Melania Trump, Slovenia ranked sixth based on the militarization domain. It is often described as a hidden gem in Europe due to its landscapes.
• Finland: Ranked third on the societal safety and security domain. Finland is also consistently ranked as the happiest country in the world, attracting expats looking for a higher quality of life.

The 2025 Global Peace Index highlights a shifting landscape of international stability. With the United States ranking 128th, many citizens are evaluating their options for relocation. Countries like Iceland, Ireland, and New Zealand offer a stark contrast, providing high levels of safety and quality of life. As geopolitical tensions continue to evolve, the demand for peaceful living environments remains a significant factor in global migration patterns.