A recent study by Alorix ranked the 27 European Union countries based on key factors affecting young adults, including rental costs, salary purchasing power, crime rates, education quality, unemployment levels, and overall happiness.

Germany ranks among the best countries, offering extensive job opportunities. Estonia provides a secure social environment, while the Netherlands attracts students seeking higher education. Sweden and Denmark also rank high due to stable economies and low crime rates.

Conversely, Greece is among the worst-ranked countries due to high unemployment. Bulgaria faces challenges with low wages and limited job prospects. Italy’s economic situation affects youth employment, while Croatia and Slovakia rank low in affordability and opportunities.

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Eurostat data shows 63,529 students moved to the Netherlands for higher education in 2022. A separate study by Alorix found a 200% increase in “student loans to study abroad,” reflecting a growing trend of young adults seeking opportunities outside their home countries.

Here are the top 5 best European countries for young adults

1. Netherlands

  • Rental Index: 54.42%
  • Big Mac (BM) per Salary: 533
  • Crime Index: 26.9
  • Education Index: 54.5
  • Unemployment Rate: 3.64%
  • Happiness Index: 7.32

The Netherlands tops the list as the best country for young adults. With a relatively low crime rate, high education standards, and a strong happiness index, it offers a balanced lifestyle. The rental costs are moderate, and the unemployment rate is one of the lowest in Europe.

2. Austria

  • Rental Index: 27.79%
  • BM per Salary: 446
  • Crime Index: 29.5
  • Education Index: 43.5
  • Unemployment Rate: 5.12%
  • Happiness Index: 6.91

Austria is a close second, offering affordable rental costs and a low crime rate. The country’s education system is robust, and young adults benefit from a stable job market and a high happiness score.

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3. Poland

  • Rental Index: 45.28%
  • BM per Salary: 437
  • Crime Index: 29.0
  • Education Index: 46.3
  • Unemployment Rate: 2.94%
  • Happiness Index: 6.44

Poland stands out for its low unemployment rate and affordable living costs. The crime rate is moderate, and the education system is well-regarded, making it an attractive option for young adults.

4. Cyprus

  • Rental Index: 34.97%
  • BM per Salary: 393
  • Crime Index: 33.1
  • Education Index: 61.6
  • Unemployment Rate: 4.91%
  • Happiness Index: 6.07

Cyprus offers a high education index and moderate living costs. While the crime rate is slightly higher, the overall quality of life remains appealing for young adults.

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5. Luxembourg

  • Rental Index: 65.99%
  • BM per Salary: 480
  • Crime Index: 34.2
  • Education Index: 60.2
  • Unemployment Rate: 5.99%
  • Happiness Index: 7.12

Despite high rental costs, Luxembourg provides excellent education and a high happiness index. The job market is stable, and the country is known for its safety and quality of life.

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Here are the top 5 worst European countries for young adults

1. Italy

  • Rental Index: 38.39%
  • BM per Salary: 294
  • Crime Index: 46.9
  • Education Index: 30.6
  • Unemployment Rate: 6.66%
  • Happiness Index: 6.32

Italy ranks as the worst country for young adults due to its high crime rate, low education index, and the challenging job market. The happiness index is also below average.

2. Portugal

  • Rental Index: 71.67%
  • BM per Salary: 289
  • Crime Index: 32.1
  • Education Index: 41.5
  • Unemployment Rate: 6.44%
  • Happiness Index: 6.03

Portugal’s high rental costs and low salary affordability make it difficult for young adults. The unemployment rate is also a concern.

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3. Greece

  • Rental Index: 33.55%
  • BM per Salary: 298
  • Crime Index: 46.4
  • Education Index: 44.5
  • Unemployment Rate: 10.20%
  • Happiness Index: 5.93

Greece struggles with a high unemployment rate and crime index. Despite moderate rental costs, the overall quality of life is low.

4. Slovakia

  • Rental Index: 52.59%
  • BM per Salary: 253
  • Crime Index: 31.0
  • Education Index: 39.8
  • Unemployment Rate: 5.41%
  • Happiness Index: 6.26

Slovakia’s low salary affordability and moderate crime rate make it a challenging environment for young adults.

Read also: Top 5 cheapest countries to study in Europe 2024

5. France

  • Rental Index: 45.06%
  • BM per Salary: 316
  • Crime Index: 55.4
  • Education Index: 51.9
  • Unemployment Rate: 7.48%
  • Happiness Index: 6.61

France’s high crime rate and unemployment rate overshadow its strong education system.

Chisom Michael is a data analyst (audience engagement) and writer at BusinessDay, with diverse experience in the media industry. He holds a BSc in Industrial Physics from Imo State University and an MEng in Computer Science and Technology from Liaoning Univerisity of Technology China. He specialises in listicle writing, profiles and leveraging his skills in audience engagement analysis and data-driven insights to create compelling content that resonates with readers.

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