People consider many factors such as climate and quality of life when choosing where to live. Nearly everybody covets quality healthcare, low cost of living, affordable housing, good schools, and access to well-paying jobs. In its 2020 Best Countries ranking report, the U.S. News gathered data on global perceptions that define nations across the globe. Our focus will be on the best African countries to live in on the list.

The rating identifies a set of attributes or terms that define a country and influence the success of a nation. Furthermore, these attributes were grouped to form nine sub ranking metrics. This includes quality of life, power, entrepreneurship, open for business, heritage, citizenship, adventure, and cultural influence.

ALSO READ: 15 Of the Best Safari Experiences in Africa

Over 20,000 people from around the world ranked the different countries based on the attributes. The U.S. News 2020 Best Countries ranking report features 73 countries from around the world. Of the 73 countries, 6 of them are in Africa. If you have a dream of living in Africa, here are the best countries to live in.

Best African Countries To Live In

There is something really unique about these countries on the list. However, if you feel there is a country that deserves to be on this list, mention it in the comment section below.

#6. Tunisia

Tunisia is the northernmost country in Africa. It occupies position 69 in the 2020 US News best country ranking report. That makes Tunisia the sixth best country in Africa, according to the US News. It’s top 3 best participant rankings were in the following areas.

Heritage (49/73): As defined by US News, heritage means Tunisia was perceived by participants as being relatively more culturally accessible, having a rich history, having great food and many cultural attractions.
Open for business (50/73): As defined by US News, being open for business means Tunisia is relatively less bureaucratic, has cheap manufacturing costs, is less corrupt, is a favorable tax environment and has transparent government practices.
Adventure (52/73): As defined by US News, being adventurous means Tunisia is relatively friendly, fun, has a pleasant climate, scenic and ‘sexy’.

Tunisia borders Libya and Algeria, and the Mediterranean Sea. This Arab country gives you direct access to the world’s largest desert, Sahara.

Sahara - Tunisia — *Sahara Desert [Photo Credit: Pixabay]*

The landscape in the northwest is mountainous. The Atlas Mountains’ eastern extension lies in Tunisia. The central and southern regions of Tunisia are semi-arid. The northern part of the country has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry while winters are rainy. Also, spring and autumn offer an appealing climate. The majority of Tunisians are Arabs Muslims. The official language is Arabic, with English and Italian serving as lingua francas.

If you want to settle in North Africa, Tunisia is one of the best African countries to live in. The warm weather, cuisine, and conviviality of Tunisians are just a splinter of what you can enjoy in Tunisia.

ALSO READ: 👍🏾Tunisia Becomes Second African Country And First Arab Nation To Outlaw Racism. Here Is What Will Happen If You Break The Law

5. Ghana

*Mole National Park [Photo Credit: Pixabay]*

Ghana is one of the advanced and stable West African countries. Sandwiched between Togo and Ivory Coast, Ghana is the 67th best country in the world, according to the US News 2020 ranking. The country is among Africa’s fastest-growing economies. Over the years, Ghana has enjoyed stable democratic governance which has greatly enhanced investor confidence.

It’s top 3 best participant rankings were in the following areas.

Open for business (38/73): As defined by US News, being open for business means Ghana is relatively less bureaucratic, has cheap manufacturing costs, is less corrupt, is a favorable tax environment and has transparent government practices.
Power (55/73): As defined by US News, Power means Ghana was perceived by participants as a leader and seen as economically and politically influential, has strong international alliances, and a strong military.
Movers (58/73): As defined by US News, being a Mover means Ghana was perceived as one of the top countries that are different, distinctive, dynamic and unique.

The nation is well known for its diverse animal life, lush forests, and sandy beaches along the coast. Ghana has a tropical climate. The northern part of the country is dry and hot while the south west region is humid and hot. Likewise, the coastal region is warm and relatively dry.

ALSO READ: Want To Move To Ghana? Here Is All You Need To Know

The country has over 50 different ethnic groups, each with distinct language and customs. In spite of this cultural diversity, Ghana is peaceful and harmonious. Moreover, over half of the population practices Christianity. The official language is English, which is used in education, official documents, and business affairs.

Ghana is no doubt one of the countries where you can have a one-of-a-kind African experience. It is a perfect place for people seeking a fresh perspective. It is difficult to feel left out or lost because of the welcoming nature and friendliness of Ghanaians. Their culinary prowess can easily trap you especially the Ghana jollof.

4. Kenya

Kenya is famous for its captivating wildlife, white sand beaches, and beautiful landscapes. It is the best place to live in East Africa. Kenya comes at position 53 in the US News list of best countries in 2020.

best African countries — *Kenya Wildlife [Photo credit: Magical Kenya]*

This East African nation straddles the equator. This means it doesn’t have seasonal climatic changes. The country has a tropical climate, with temperate inland, and humid and hot coast. Also, the northern part of Kenya is quite dry.

It’s top 3 best participant rankings were in the following areas.

Movers (34/73): As defined by US News, being a Mover means Kenya was perceived as one of the top countries that are different, distinctive, dynamic and unique.
Adventure (47/73): As defined by US News, being adventurous means Kenya is relatively friendly, fun, has a pleasant climate, scenic and ‘sexy’.
Open for business (51/73): As defined by US News, being open for business means Kenya is relatively less bureaucratic, has cheap manufacturing costs, is less corrupt, is a favorable tax environment and has transparent government practices.

Kenya is home to over 40 tribes spread across the country. English and Kiswahili are the official languages. The latter doubles as the national language. A majority of Kenyans professes Christianity. Also, the country has numerous wildlife reservations. The Nairobi National Park is the world’s only game reserve within a capital city.

If you want to live in a country with a vibrant culture, a fast-growing economy, and robust infrastructure, Kenya is ideal for you. Both the urban and rural settings offer many working and business opportunities. Kenya’s good road network facilitates easy travel to any part of the country.

3. Morocco

Few countries can match the diversity of landscape, architecture, and culture in Morocco. At an overall position of #40 in the US News ranking report, Morocco is the third-best country in Africa.

Marrakesh - Morocco — *Marrakesh City [Photo Credit: Pexels]*

Unlike in most Western countries, life in this North African country is relaxed and easygoing. So, if you do not have problems adjusting to a simpler and slower pace, then Morocco suits you perfectly. The country is mountainous with a Mediterranean climate in the north. The central mountain ranges and northern lush forests result in drier climatic conditions. But coastal regions have moderate temperatures.

It’s top 3 best participant rankings were in the following areas.

Movers (14/73): As defined by US News, being a Mover means Morocco was perceived as one of the top countries that are different, distinctive, dynamic and unique.
Heritage (17/73): As defined by US News, heritage means Morocco was perceived by participants as being relatively more culturally accessible, having a rich history, having great food and many cultural attractions.
Adventure (31/73): As defined by US News, being adventurous means Morocco is relatively friendly, fun, has a pleasant climate, scenic and ‘sexy’.

Nearly the entire population in this African country practices the Islamic religion. Arabic and Berber are the official languages in Morocco. French is used widely in business, media, and government offices. Nevertheless, all schools teach French as an obligatory language.

Over the years, different cultures including French, Spanish, Arab, and Berber have left a mark on Morocco. However, Islam influences many aspects of the Moroccan culture. Most cities have a culturally rich old town and a new town.

*Ouarzazate City [Photo Credit: Pexels]*

The Moroccan society is very religious and conservative. It is among the most peaceful countries in the region. Morocco is a gateway to Europe and the Middle East. Over the years, the country has undergone significant political, economic, and social reforms. These aspects make Morocco one of the best African countries to live in.

ALSO READ: The Best Rated Country Routes in South Africa

2. South Africa

South Africa - Cape Town — *Cape Town [Photo credit: Movehub]*

South Africa is the second-best African country at position 39, according to the US News ranking. The country is the largest economy in southern African. It has a multicultural population that is spread across nine provinces. The climate varies from one region to another and some regions have a semi-desert climate. In these areas, there is rainfall in summer while winters are cold and dry.

The climate at the Western Cape is typically the Mediterranean. Some places in the country are central and fast-paced. Others are coastal and very relaxed. So, the ideal place to live in is a matter of choice. Interestingly, the nation has lots of sprawling vineyards, trendy shops, and upscale safari lodges.

Most South Africans are Christians. About 80% of the population is black African. There are eleven official languages in South Africa including English. These languages are equally spoken and recognized countrywide. However, English is widely accepted and used for communication in restaurants, shops, businesses, and tourist attraction sites.

It’s top 3 best participant rankings were in the following areas.

Movers (17/73): As defined by US News, being a Mover means South Africa was perceived as one of the top countries that are different, distinctive, dynamic and unique.
Adventure (26/73): As defined by US News, being adventurous means South Africa is relatively friendly, fun, has a pleasant climate, scenic and ‘sexy’.
Heritage (26/73): As defined by US News, heritage means Morocco was perceived by participants as being relatively more culturally accessible, having a rich history, having great food and many cultural attractions.

ALSO READ: The 12th South African Official Language Is Not What You Expect

The private healthcare services in South Africa are similar to what is available in the West. Many people think of wild animals and safaris when they contemplate Africa. However, that is just the tip of the iceberg. South African cities are not different from other cities across the world. They have shopping malls, skyscrapers as well as cosmopolitan dining places and bars. The nation’s cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and stunning wildlife make it one of the best African countries to live in.

1. Egypt

Boasting thousand years of history, a rich culture, and miles of stunning coastline, Egypt is one of the world’s most fascinating countries. Ranked at #36 in the US News overall list, Egypt tops the list of Africa’s best countries. The country is a popular choice for anyone seeking an experience that is a little bit different from the West. Besides, Egypt is home to some of the globally recognized monuments such as the Great Sphinx and the Giza pyramids.

Egypt Giza Pyramids — *Giza Pyramids [Photo Credit: Pexels]*

The Nile River Valley passes right at the heart of this Arab nation. The eastern and western regions of the country feature vast swaths of desert. Egypt is a trading and cultural center. This is mainly because of its location at the northern corner of Africa, linking the continent to the Middle East. It borders the Mediterranean Sea that facilitates trading with other northern African countries as well as some European nations.

It’s top 3 best participant rankings were in the following areas.

Movers (4/73): As defined by US News, being a Mover means Egypt a was perceived as one of the top countries that are different, distinctive, dynamic and unique.
Heritage (13/73): As defined by US News, heritage means Egypt was perceived by participants as being relatively more culturally accessible, having a rich history, having great food and many cultural attractions.
Power (25/73): As defined by US News, Power means Egypt was perceived by participants as a leader and seen as economically and politically influential, has strong international alliances, and a strong military.

ALSO READ: The Best African Heads Of Government Of 2019

Egypt underwent a great political upheaval during the Arab Spring. But it has since recovered from the unrest. The country remains a vibrant and exciting place to work and live. There is a range of professional and social networks and clubs across the nation for the African diaspora to enjoy.

The official language in this country is Arabic. Most locals speak one of the dialects of Arabic. Egyptian schools use the Modern Standard Arabic. Almost the entire country has a dry, hot climate. Neveertheless, the northern Mediterranean coast receives rains in winter.

Best African Countries to Live in - Cairo Egypt — *Cairo, Egypt [Photo Credit: Pexels]*

Egypt is a prime location for starting a new business in Africa. It offers stunning scenery and exciting activities along the coastal region.

Which is the Safest Country in Africa?

Traveling to Africa can be somewhat daunting if you don’t have the right information. What many people don’t know is that Africa is one of the world’s most interesting places to visit and live in. Over the years, Africa has been described as a poor and insecure continent. However, this description is unfair because it bundles all the African countries as a single chaotic region. The truth is that there are safe places to live in Africa.

According to Gallup’s Law and Order Report, Egypt is the safest country in Africa. Gallup gauges people’s personal experiences with law enforcement and crime as well as their sense of personal security. To determine this, people are asked four questions namely;

The city or area where one lives in
Their level of confidence with the local police force
Whether they feel safe as they walk alone at night where they live
Whether they have been mugged or assaulted in the past year

Egypt attained the highest score (88%), thus, emerging as Africa’s safest country. The US News also assessed how safe a country is in its 2020 ranking of the best countries in the world. Egypt scored 5.7, which is the highest score compared to other African counties. These statistics affirm that Egypt is one of the best African countries to live in.

What is the Cheapest Country to Live in Africa?

Unknown to many, Africa is one of the places in the world with the cheapest cost of living. Africa may not offer the amenities and opportunities that the West offers. But African countries offer a low cost of living. In their list of the world’s cheapest countries, GoBankingRates ranks Tunisia as the cheapest country to live in Africa.

Also, Mercer’s 2020 Cost of Living Survey ranked Tunisia’s capital, Tunis, as the least expensive city in Africa and globally. Tenants in Tunisia pay 94% cheaper compared to their counterparts in New York City. Likewise, a meal in Tunisia costs about 17% of what you would pay to eat in American cities.

ALSO READ: Returnee Spotlight: Jemila Abdulai Compares Returning to Africa Versus Visiting

Conclusion

We have explored the best African countries to live in according to US News. Also, we have looked at the safest country and cheapest country in Africa. With this information at your fingertips, you should easily plan a vacation or take the bold step to live in Africa—because you know where to go. Have you been to any African country in the past 24 months? We would love to read your experience.