When choosing a new country to live, study, or invest in, safety is often the first question on people’s minds. A stable and secure environment allows families to thrive, businesses to grow, and individuals to enjoy daily life with peace of mind.
For expats and investors, safety isn’t only about low crime rates – it also covers political stability, healthcare access, rule of law, and trust in institutions. In short, safety is the foundation that shapes both lifestyle quality and long-term investment decisions.
Europe’s reputation as the world’s safest region
Europe stands out globally as a hub of peace and stability. The continent is home to the majority of the world’s safest countries, according to international peace and crime indices.
From the Nordic nations, where violent crime is almost non-existent, to Southern Europe’s stable and welcoming societies, Europe has built a reputation as the safest continent on Earth.
This makes it especially attractive for expats, digital nomads, and investors looking for reliable, secure destinations.
Iceland
Denmark
Ireland
Austria
| Country | Global Peace Index (GPI) — year |
|---|---|
|
Iceland
|
1.112 (2024) |
|
Ireland
|
1.303 (2024) |
|
Austria
|
1.313 (2024) |
Switzerland
|
1.350 (2024) |
Portugal
|
1.372 (2024) |
|
Denmark
|
1.382 (2024) |
Slovenia
|
1.395 (2024) |
Czech Republic
|
1.459 (2024) |
Finland
|
1.474 (2024) |
Hungary
|
1.502 (2024) |
Croatia
|
1.504 (2024) |
Belgium
|
1.510 (2024) |
Netherlands
|
1.527 (2024) |
Germany
|
1.542 (2024) |
Spain
|
1.597 (2024) |
Estonia
|
1.615 (2024) |
Bulgaria
|
1.629 (2024) |
Slovakia
|
1.634 (2024) |
Norway
|
1.638 (2024) |
Latvia
|
1.661 (2024) |
Lithuania
|
1.672 (2024) |
Poland
|
1.678 (2024) |
Italy
|
1.692 (2024) |
United Kingdom
|
1.703 (2024) |
Montenegro
|
1.746 (2024) |
Romania
|
1.755 (2024) |
North Macedonia
|
1.764 (2024) |
Sweden
|
1.782 (2024) |
Greece
|
1.793 (2024) |
Albania
|
1.809 (2024) |
Serbia
|
1.930 (2024) |
Kosovo
|
1.945 (2024) |
Bosnia & Herzegovina
|
1.961 (2024) |
Moldova
|
1.976 (2024) |
France
|
2.088 (2024) |
Cyprus
|
2.101 (2024) |
Georgia
|
2.195 (2024) |
Azerbaijan
|
2.248 (2024) |
Belarus
|
2.291 (2024) |
Turkey
|
2.780 (2024) |
Russia
|
3.249 (2024) |
Ukraine
|
3.280 (2024) |
Top 10 Safest Countries in Europe
Iceland
Iceland is consistently ranked as the safest country in the world, topping the Global Peace Index since 2008. With virtually no violent crime, a politically neutral stance, and a close-knit society, Iceland provides residents and visitors with an exceptional sense of everyday security.
- Iceland maintains the world’s lowest homicide rate, at just 0.89 per 100,000 people, reflecting its exceptionally peaceful environment.
- The country has no standing army, emphasising a culture built on diplomacy and stability rather than militarisation.
- A strong rule of law and independent judiciary ensure fairness, transparency, and trust in institutions.
- Universal healthcare access provides reliable services to residents, contributing to a sense of security in daily life.
Safety for Expats and Investors
For expats, Iceland’s stability translates into a society where public spaces are secure day and night, and families feel at ease in both cities and rural areas.
Investors benefit from transparent governance and minimal corruption, while newcomers appreciate the welcoming community, high living standards, and reliable healthcare system that underpin the country’s safety.
Denmark
Denmark consistently ranks among the top three most peaceful countries worldwide, earning recognition in the Global Peace Index for its strong social cohesion and exceptionally low crime.
It is also known for being one of the world’s happiest countries, where stability, equality, and trust in institutions directly contribute to everyday safety.
- Denmark reports very low levels of violent crime, supported by a robust police system and high public trust in law enforcement.
- The country scores at the top of the Women, Peace & Security Index, reflecting outstanding safety and equality for women in daily life.
- Political institutions are highly stable, with Denmark ranking near the top on rule of law and anti-corruption measures.
- Citizens enjoy access to one of the world’s most comprehensive healthcare systems, ensuring both physical well-being and confidence in public safety.
Safety for Expats and Investors
For expats, Denmark offers a reassuringly safe environment where walking alone at any time of day is common and accepted.
Families benefit from safe neighbourhoods and world-class healthcare, while investors are drawn to its transparent governance and low corruption.
Combined with high English proficiency and a welcoming culture, Denmark is an ideal destination for those seeking both safety and opportunity in Europe.
Ireland
Ireland consistently ranks near the top of the Global Peace Index, reflecting low levels of violent crime, political stability, and strong community cohesion.
Across its cities and towns, daily life feels predictably safe, and serious incidents are rare.
- Ireland ranks among the world’s most peaceful countries, with very low ongoing conflict.
- The homicide rate remains well below the European average.
- Strong rule of law ensures fair and effective institutions.
- Transparency International places Ireland among the least corrupt states globally.
- Reliable healthcare access supports personal and public security.
Safety for Expats and Investors
For expats, Ireland’s safety translates into secure neighbourhoods, orderly public spaces, and an English-speaking environment that eases integration.
Families and students enjoy a broadly safe society, while investors value transparent governance and low corruption.
This combination makes Ireland one of Europe’s most reassuring relocation choices.
Austria
Austria has a long-standing reputation for security and stability, reflected in its consistently high placement on international peace and safety rankings.
Violent crime is rare, cities are orderly, and the country’s neutrality in global politics helps maintain a calm domestic environment.
Both urban centres like Vienna and alpine towns provide residents with a strong sense of everyday safety.
- One of Europe’s lowest homicide rates, well below the EU average.
- Effective governance ensures transparent institutions and dependable law enforcement.
- Political neutrality reduces the likelihood of unrest or external security risks.
- A strong healthcare system provides reliable access to quality care.
Safety for Expats and Investors
Expats often highlight Austria’s balance between safety and quality of life, from efficient public services to clean and well-kept neighbourhoods.
Families value the predictable routines of everyday living, while investors are reassured by legal certainty and a transparent market environment.
With Vienna frequently rated as one of the world’s most liveable cities, Austria offers both peace of mind and long-term opportunity.
Portugal
Portugal has steadily built a reputation as one of Europe’s safest and most welcoming countries.
Crime levels are low compared with the EU average, political life is stable, and communities are known for their openness.
Both Lisbon and Porto maintain high safety standards despite their size, while smaller towns and coastal villages offer an even calmer environment.
- Portugal consistently ranks among the top performers in the Global Peace Index, with strong scores for societal safety.
- Violent crime is rare, and the homicide rate remains among the lowest in Southern Europe.
- Public services, particularly healthcare and education, are reliable and widely accessible.
- Petty theft in tourist-heavy areas is the most common issue, but serious incidents are uncommon.
Safety for Expats and Investors
For expats, Portugal’s safety adds to its appeal as a relocation hotspot, alongside lifestyle advantages and clear residency options such as the Golden Visa and D7 visa.
Families enjoy secure neighbourhoods and access to affordable healthcare, while retirees appreciate the country’s slower pace and sense of community.
For investors, Portugal’s political stability and transparent systems provide confidence that their commitments are protected.
Slovenia
Slovenia stands out as the safest country in Central and Eastern Europe, with a reputation for order, stability, and green living.
Its cities are clean and secure, violent crime is rare, and its political environment has remained steady since independence.
From Ljubljana’s vibrant streets to alpine villages, safety is part of daily life.
- Slovenia regularly places high on the Global Peace Index, particularly for societal security.
- The homicide rate is among the lowest in the EU.
- Low corruption levels and strong governance underpin public trust in institutions.
- Road and environmental safety standards are well enforced.
Safety for Expats and Investors
Expats benefit from a welcoming culture, safe public transport, and family-friendly communities. Families appreciate secure schools and neighbourhoods, while retirees enjoy the country’s slower pace and pristine environment.
For investors, Slovenia’s position as a calm, EU-based market provides confidence, making it attractive for those who want both lifestyle benefits and long-term stability.
Switzerland
Switzerland enjoys a global reputation for security, order, and neutrality. Its cities are exceptionally clean and well-organised, violent crime is rare, and residents benefit from highly efficient public services.
From Zurich’s bustling business hub to peaceful alpine towns, the country balances stability with quality of life. Political neutrality also adds to the sense of security, making Switzerland a dependable choice for both families and investors.
- Ranked among the safest nations on the Global Peace Index.
- Very low violent crime rates supported by strong policing and civic trust.
- High-quality healthcare and infrastructure contribute to resilience and everyday safety.
- Neutral stance in global affairs reinforces long-term stability.
Safety for Expats and Investors
For expats, Switzerland’s safety is visible in the reliability of its transport, the orderliness of its cities, and the confidence that institutions function smoothly.
Families appreciate secure neighbourhoods and outstanding healthcare, while investors value the legal certainty and financial stability that underpin the Swiss system.
This blend of trust, order, and quality makes Switzerland one of Europe’s most reassuring places to settle.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic offers a calm, predictable environment with notably low violent crime and orderly cities. Prague is one of Europe’s safest large capitals, and regional towns feel equally secure.
Political life is steady, public services function well, and everyday norms, clean streets, reliable transport, respectful civic behaviour, support a strong sense of personal safety.
- Low violent crime and rare serious incidents in urban centres.
- Consistently strong rule of law and dependable institutions.
- Good healthcare access and efficient emergency services nationwide.
- Minimal terrorism risk and limited civil unrest in recent years.
Safety for Expats and Investors
Relocators value how easy day-to-day life feels: safe neighbourhoods, walkable historic districts, and a large international community that helps newcomers settle quickly.
Families appreciate stable schooling and parks; professionals benefit from a central European base with smooth travel links. Investors see legal predictability and a well-regulated market as additional layers of security.
Finland
Finland is often cited as one of the most peaceful and predictable countries in Europe.
Its cities, including Helsinki, are calm, orderly, and family-friendly, while the countryside offers safe and close-knit communities.
Transparency in governance and low corruption reinforce a sense of trust that shapes everyday life.
- Among the highest-scoring nations on the Global Peace Index.
- Violent crime rates are low and continue to trend downward.
- Strong public trust in institutions and effective law enforcement.
- A robust healthcare system ensures reliable access to care.
Safety for Expats and Investors
For expats, Finland’s appeal lies in its blend of safety, education, and natural surroundings.
Families enjoy excellent schools and public amenities, while professionals value efficient systems and fair governance.
Investors benefit from transparent markets and political stability, making Finland a secure base for both living and long-term planning.
Norway
Norway is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in Europe, combining low crime levels with a high standard of living.
Its cities are modern and well-managed, while smaller towns and rural regions are known for community trust and natural tranquillity.
Political stability further reinforces everyday security for residents.
- High placement on the Global Peace Index thanks to strong societal safety.
- Low homicide and violent crime rates compared with the EU average.
- Effective public institutions and low corruption maintain public trust.
- Reliable healthcare and emergency services add resilience.
Safety for Expats and Investors
For expats, Norway offers both safety and quality of life, secure urban living, strong schools, and accessible healthcare.
Investors appreciate transparent governance, stable markets, and predictable legal protections. With its mix of prosperity, political stability, and natural beauty, Norway is a safe and appealing choice for relocation.
European Safety Index: How Safety is Measured
Our analysis covers 44 European countries and microstates, including all EU, EEA, and Schengen members, the UK, and smaller states such as Monaco, Andorra, and Liechtenstein.
Where complete official data was unavailable (particularly for microstates), regional averages were used and flagged with lower confidence.
To avoid relying on a single score, like the Global Peace Index 2025 (Institute for Economics & Peace, PDF), we drew on a broader evidence base.
Our assessment combines trusted data from:
- Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) – global safety rankings and conflict indicators
- Eurostat & UNODC – European and international crime and justice statistics
- OECD & WHO – healthcare access and quality
- Transparency International – corruption perception data
- ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map – LGBTQ+ rights and protections
- Numbeo & perception surveys – public safety perceptions and expat-reported experiences
This multi-source approach ensures that our rankings reflect the real concerns of families, solo residents, and investors, not just one angle.
The 9 Benefits of Living in Europe’s Safest Countries
Choosing to relocate to one of Europe’s safest countries means more than peace of mind, it creates a foundation for stability, growth, and quality of life.
From family well-being to investor confidence, safety translates directly into everyday advantages.
- Peace of mind: Low crime and political stability make daily life predictable and secure.
- Family security: Safe neighbourhoods, strong schooling, and reliable healthcare support long-term family life.
- Strong healthcare systems: Universal or near-universal healthcare access ensures medical needs are met promptly.
- Efficient infrastructure: Reliable transport, clean public spaces, and safe roads enhance daily living.
- Quality education: Many of Europe’s safest countries also provide excellent schools and universities.
- Economic confidence: Transparent governance and low corruption create investor-friendly environments.
- Welcoming communities: High trust societies make integration smoother for expats.
- Resilient environments: Strong disaster preparedness and environmental standards reduce long-term risks.
- Lifestyle enrichment: Safety frees people to enjoy cultural life, travel, and leisure without constant concerns.
Safety is more than an index score, it shapes how life feels day to day. Whether moving for family, career, or investment, Europe’s safest countries provide the reassurance of stability alongside the opportunities of modern, connected societies.
Measuring Safety: Indicators & Approach
Our index is built on a combination of official statistics and social indicators, designed to reflect both measurable safety and lived experience.
The result is a balanced overview of security across Europe, presented in a way that is useful for families, solo residents, and investors considering relocation.
Safety for High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs)
For high-net-worth individuals, safety means more than avoiding crime, it is about living in places where secure infrastructure, political stability, and a trusted rule of law protect both family and assets.
Across Europe, certain towns, neighbourhoods, and enclaves are well established as hubs for wealthy expats seeking peace of mind alongside lifestyle advantages.
Gated Communities & Exclusive Neighbourhoods
In Switzerland, Zurich’s Gold Coast (Küsnacht, Zollikon, Erlenbach) is a classic choice for secure lakeside living, while Monaco’s Monte Carlo offers controlled access residences with private security.
In Portugal, the Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo resorts in the Algarve combine luxury villas with 24/7 gated security.
Safe Financial Hubs
Cities with long traditions of financial discretion attract HNWIs for both security and stability.
Geneva and Luxembourg City are known for their strong governance and low crime, while Dublin’s coastal suburbs like Dalkey and Killiney attract wealthy residents seeking safety near a major financial hub.
Resort & Lifestyle Enclaves
Mediterranean enclaves remain popular for combining safety with lifestyle. Mallorca’s Son Vida, Ibiza’s private estates, and France’s Côte d’Azur (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Antibes) are renowned for discreet, high-security living within holiday-like surroundings.
Countryside & Alpine Retreats
Some HNWIs prefer secure privacy away from large cities. Austria’s Kitzbühel and Switzerland’s Gstaad are established alpine towns known for both safety and exclusivity.
Tuscany’s countryside estates in Italy also appeal to investors who value privacy alongside reliable local governance.
Safety and Relocation Strategy
Safety is more than a lifestyle preference, it directly shapes relocation decisions, from visa stability to investment choices.
For families, professionals, and high-net-worth individuals, safer countries offer predictable systems that make the process of moving smoother and more secure.
Visa Stability
Countries with strong governance ensure that residency pathways remain reliable over time.
For example, Portugal’s Golden Visa and similar programs in Greece and Spain are more secure when backed by stable institutions and low corruption.
Healthcare Access
Safety is reinforced by access to universal healthcare systems. Portugal’s SNS model, along with the Nordic public healthcare frameworks, provides expats with confidence that medical care will be available and effective when needed.
Investment Risk & Property Security
Stable, low-crime countries reduce risks for property investors. Buyers in Switzerland, Austria, or Portugal can expect both physical security for assets and legal safeguards that protect ownership rights.
Insurance Decisions
Living in a safe country influences the cost and scope of insurance. Reliable healthcare systems reduce private premiums, while secure property markets lower risks for home and travel coverage.
Expatriates in countries like Ireland can better predict costs and plan long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Europe stands out as the world’s safest continent, offering a rare balance of stability, quality of life, and opportunity. Across the rankings, countries such as Iceland, Denmark, Switzerland, and Portugal consistently combine personal safety with the infrastructure and governance that expats and investors need.
For relocators, this means more than just peace of mind, it creates an environment where families can thrive, careers can grow, and investments are protected. The top countries not only score highly on safety but also provide practical pathways for residence, strong healthcare systems, and transparent markets.
Work with Movingto.com lawyers to secure your move safely and confidently. Our team specialises in guiding families, professionals, and investors through every step of the relocation process, from choosing the right visa to establishing a secure future in Europe’s most stable destinations.
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