27 countries around the world where expats have the best job security, safety, and social life - and how much it costs to live there

Shutterstock / Andrey Armyagov

Norway topped the list.

• HSBC's Expat Explorer allows you to find the best countries for expats using any combination of criteria.
• Job security, wage growth, safety, and a good quality of life are important factors when choosing a country to settle in.
• Norway, Singapore, and Switzerland are the best countries for expats based on those factors.

Living in a foreign country can be a scary experience, but it can be easier if you live somewhere with strong job security, a safe environment, and a fun social life.

According to HSBC's Expat Explorer Survey, the average expat has an income of $99,900, a 25% increase from their salary in their home country, and many expats report a better quality of life and better work/life balances than they had in their home country.

Wage growth is a vital economic factor for many people as they look to become expats. The countries where expats see the highest income increase are Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, and United Arab Emirates. Expats' income grows by at least 50% when they move to one of these three countries. Switzerland also has the highest annual income for expats at $193,006.

But it's not all about the money. HSBC's global report also found that safety and quality of life are important indicators for people looking to live abroad. Cost of living also matters for people living in a new country.

Business Insider looked at the best countries for expats that have high marks in five categories: job security, wage growth, safety, quality of life, and social life.

Along with each country, we listed the monthly rent for a two-bedroom house, subway fare, the price of a cappuccino, the price of a McDonald's Big Mac meal, and the cost for one month of internet service. For the few countries where subway data was not available, bus fare was used instead.

Below, check out 27 of the best countries for expats.