As American workers grapple with rising childcare costs, a stagnant white-collar job market, and the elusive quest for work-life balance, countries like New Zealand offer a compelling alternative. With over 30 days of paid leave, six months of fully paid maternity leave, and a rising minimum wage, New Zealand is setting a global standard for prioritizing life over work. For those weary of refreshing Outlook before a child’s milestone or having PTO requests denied, relocating to New Zealand could be the key to escaping corporate burnout and reclaiming quality of life.
New Zealand Tops the Global Life-Work Balance Index
For the third consecutive year, New Zealand has been named the best country for life-work balance in the Global Life-Work Balance Index, compiled by global HR platform Remote. The index evaluated the 60 largest economies worldwide, scoring them out of 100 based on factors such as paid leave, sick pay, maternity policies, minimum wage, healthcare, happiness, average working hours, LGBTQ+ inclusivity, and overall safety. New Zealand achieved an impressive score of 86.87, boosted by a slight increase in its minimum wage to $16.42 per hour, 32 days of paid annual leave, and six months of fully paid maternity leave. In contrast, the U.S. federal minimum wage remains at $7.25 per hour, unchanged since 2009, with no federal mandate for paid parental leave.
The study warns that the U.S. risks a “burnout epidemic” due to its culture of long working hours and limited paid leave. “Countries like New Zealand and many in Europe prioritize employee-first policies, enabling workers to live and work well,” the report states. “In contrast, nations like the United States struggle to balance life and work.”
Top Performers in Life-Work Balance
Following New Zealand, Ireland and Belgium secured the second and third spots. Ireland scored 81.17, driven by a high minimum wage and generous maternity leave policies. Belgium, with a score of 75.91, benefits from robust sick pay, high maternity payments, and one of Europe’s highest happiness rates, complemented by a shorter average workweek of 34.1 hours. Germany (74.65) and Norway (74.20) rounded out the top five, showcasing strong labor policies and high quality-of-life metrics.
The U.S., however, ranked 59th out of 60, only ahead of Nigeria (26.67). The country’s lack of paid parental leave, reliance on private healthcare, and declining scores in public safety and LGBTQ+ inclusivity contributed to its near-bottom ranking, a drop from 55th in 2024 and 53rd in 2023.
Redefining Balance: Life First, Work Second
The study deliberately uses “life-work balance” instead of the traditional “work-life balance” to emphasize that living well should take precedence over work. This shift resonates with American workers, particularly younger generations. A recent survey found that work-life balance is the top priority for Gen Z when considering full-time jobs, even surpassing salary. Millennials also value quality of life, with over half willing to accept a 20% pay cut for a lifestyle that prioritizes personal well-being, according to a Ford survey. Additionally, 77% of respondents favored a balanced personal life over career achievements or growth.
The American Hustle and the Expat Dream
Americans are increasingly aware of being trapped in a cycle of hustle culture. An expat survey revealed that while 70% view the U.S. as the most lucrative country for work, 68% feel they are merely surviving rather than thriving. For those considering a move abroad, English-speaking countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia top the list, followed by France and Italy. New Zealand, ranking 10th as a desirable destination, offers a promising alternative for those seeking a better balance.
As burnout becomes a growing concern in the U.S., countries like New Zealand demonstrate that prioritizing employee well-being can lead to happier, more fulfilling lives. With generous leave policies, high minimum wages, and a focus on life first, New Zealand beckons as a haven for those looking to escape the relentless demands of corporate America.