This is Where Health Insurance Will Cost You the Most—and Least—Around the World

Are you considering a relocation in the near future? As you explore destinations known for their pleasant climates, affordable housing, and vibrant cultures, it is essential to factor in a crucial aspect that may not seem as appealing: healthcare costs. Neglecting this element could result in expenses that surpass your rent.

On October 1, SIP Medical Family Office, a medical consulting firm based in Switzerland, released its second annual SIP Health Cost Index. This report analyzes the average private healthcare expenses across 60 countries favored by expats. For the study conducted in 2026, SIP employed three profiles (a 35-year-old British male, a 50-year-old American female, and a 24-year-old Indian female) and gathered healthcare premium data from seven international private medical insurers: Cigna Global, William Russell, Now Health International, AXA Global Healthcare, April International, International Medical Group, and Global Health. It is worth noting that the study does not take into account the quality or costs associated with public healthcare options in these nations, which may not be accessible to expats, particularly those who are temporary residents and do not contribute to local taxes.

If you are contemplating an overseas move and evaluating private healthcare alternatives, here is what you need to consider.

Do I need health insurance to move abroad?

Not all expats are required to obtain health insurance as a condition of moving to another country. Some nations, like Italy for its Elective Residence visa for retirees and Taiwan with its two-year digital nomad visa, mandate proof of medical coverage during the relocation application process. On the other hand, certain visas may include healthcare benefits. For example, Panama's Pensionado Visa provides a 15% discount on hospital services not covered by insurance. Countries such as Norway, Portugal, and Canada extend universal healthcare to permanent residents, and some short-term talent visas, including the UK's Global Talent visa, bundle healthcare as part of the offer.

"Healthcare is increasingly transitioning from being a secondary consideration to a key factor influencing where individuals and families opt to live, work, and retire," states Kevin Bürchler, CEO of SIP Medical Family Office, in conversation with Condé Nast Traveler. "Unexpected costs, challenges in accessing specialists, or variations in medical standards can rapidly escalate into significant concerns."

Which countries have the most expensive healthcare?

For the second consecutive year, the United States has been identified by SIP as the country with the highest private healthcare costs, averaging an annual premium of $23,987. Following the U.S., the next four countries remain consistent with the previous year, ranked as follows: Hong Kong at $19,353, Singapore at $17,613, China at $15,235, and the United Kingdom at $14,987. SIP attributes the costliness of these five locations to their advanced private healthcare systems, high treatment expenses, and a strong consumer demand for specialized care.

Medical inflation is apparent across all countries. The average annual cost for private healthcare rose by 18% compared to last year, driven by factors like industry advancements, aging populations, regulatory changes, and an increasing focus on preventative care. It is notable that countries with stricter healthcare cost regulations experienced smaller increases in premiums, while those without did not. In this regard, the U.S. and Saudi Arabia saw a significant premium increase of 33%, while Japan and Greece had more modest increases of 3% and 6%, respectively.

For expats and families contemplating relocation, this data could offer critical insights into potential cost factors that were previously overlooked. Wealthy families are increasingly mobile, and with that mobility comes a rising demand for sophisticated private healthcare services.

SIP emphasizes that the most attractive countries for affluent expats, such as the Bahamas, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates, also feature some of the highest private healthcare costs. This dynamic illustrates a cause-and-effect relationship: the arrival of wealthy residents tends to elevate the demand for top-tier hospitals and care, subsequently increasing investments and driving up costs for providers, thereby impacting insurance premiums.

Private healthcare trends for 2026

Overall, Asia ranks among the more expensive regions, while Africa offers some of the most affordable healthcare options. Although not all European countries witnessed a marked increase in private healthcare costs, both the Middle East and South America are seeing a rise in expenses.

Of all the regions evaluated, North America demonstrates the most pronounced cost disparity: while the United States dominates the top of the list, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Grenada are positioned in the mid-tier of the 60-country rankings.

"Comprehending the healthcare landscape before making a relocation—rather than waiting until medical attention is required—can significantly impact your experience," advises Bürchler.

The 10 most expensive countries

1. United States ($23,987)
2. Hong Kong ($19,353)
3. Singapore ($17,613)
4. China ($15,235)
5. United Kingdom ($14,987)
6. United Arab Emirates, Dubai ($12,142)
7. Mexico ($11,770)
8. Brazil ($11,739)
9. Bahamas ($11,399)
10. Thailand ($11,215)

The 10 least expensive countries

1. Nigeria ($8,022)
2. Egypt ($7,936)
3. Sweden ($7,863)
4. Mauritius ($7,745)
5. Kenya ($7,712)
6. Norway ($7,653)
7. Netherlands ($7,642)
8. Morocco ($7,609)
9. Malta ($7,591)
10. Romania ($7,519)