In this article, we will look at the countries with best work-life balance in the world. We have also discussed current burnout levels at workplaces in another article. If you are interested in reading about that along with a more extensive list, head straight to the 30 Countries with Best Work-Life Balance in the World.
10. Brazil
Index Score: 67.73
In Brazil, work-life balance is a priority as only about 6% of employees work very long hours. Moroever, full-time workers in Brazil dedicate a similar portion of their day to personal care and leisure.
9. Canada
Index Score: 67.91
In 2022, approximately 65% of Canadians reported achieving a better work-life balance, according to a poll conducted by Ipsos. The survey revealed that two-thirds of working Canadians felt they had successfully struck a more desirable work-life balance. The data also indicated that 70% of those working remotely did not want to return to the office regularly in 2023.
8. United Kingdom
Index Score: 69.07
A recent survey conducted by Accenture has revealed that almost 50% of UK workers are integrating generative AI into their work routines to improve their work life balance. Even though this technology has only been widely accessible for less than a year, it is already yielding positive results, with employees leveraging it to offload repetitive and time-consuming tasks to chatbots, ultimately boosting productivity. The survey was taken by 2,002 UK employees in both office-based and remote roles, 30% of which showed their desire to use the time saved by AI to enhance their work-life balance.
7. Netherlands
Index Score: 69.14
The Netherlands has an excellent work-life balance in the OECD, with a mere 0.3% of employees working very long hours in paid employment. Dutch full-time workers allocate 64% of their day, equivalent to 15.4 hours, to personal care and leisure activities.
6. Norway
Index Score: 73.05
Norway has a great work-life balance with only 1% of employees working very long hours in paid work. The full-time workers dedicate 65% of their day, around 15.7 hours, to personal care and leisure. Norway is also one of the countries with the best education.
5. Denmark
Index Score: 73.67
Denmark, particularly Copenhagen, was ranked as the world’s best city for work-life balance and competitive salary in a report by MoneyNerd. Copenhagen stands out with an average salary of $44,474 and a work-life balance rating of 8.6 out of 10, making it the top choice for those seeking a balance work-life environment.
4. Australia
Index Score: 73.71
Australia has a high quality of life with a population of approximately 26 million people. Life expectancy is 81 years for men and 85 years for women.
3. France
Index Score: 75.34
France, particularly Paris, has a strong work-life balance, ranking third globally with a score of 75.34 out of 100. The country has universal public insurance, a happiness index of 6.69, and an average workweek of 25.6 hours, with LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
2. Spain
Index Score: 75.55
Spain has recently introduced major measures to promote work-life balance and improve worker protection. These changes include extending paid leave from 2 to 5 days for situations like serious illnesses or accidents affecting workers, their cohabiting family members, civil partners, or relatives of civil partners.
1. New Zealand
Index Score: 79.35
New Zealand achieved the highest score of 79.35, with generous annual leave of 32 days, a government-funded universal healthcare system, and a strong economy. New Zealand is the country with the best work-life balance.
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