Are you thinking of moving? Where are women living the best lives right now in Europe?

The numbers have been released for women who are wondering where the grass is really greener in Europe, especially in terms of work, money and the chance to live a decent life. Yes, you should invest in a pair of good woolly socks. Northern Europe is slaying it.

Why Denmark Finland and Sweden continue to be at the top

If you want to know the truth, Denmark, Finland, and Sweden are all places where women do not have to fight for basic things like fair pay and decent maternity leaves. It’s almost unfair to see how far they have advanced.

Let’s start with Denmark. Women in Denmark get an incredible year-and-a-half of maternity leave. They also have some of the lowest gender gaps amongst managers. There’s a sense that equality isn’t just a buzzword—it’s baked into daily life, from boardrooms to baby groups.

Finland isn’t too far behind. The women in Finland are running their own businesses, breaking glass ceilings and doing all this while the gender pay gap barely warrants a mention. It’s a difference of just 1.5 percent, which is almost unheard of anywhere else.

Sweden is another option. Swedes offer a year’s leave for new mothers, and their wage gap between men and women is minimal. Sure, there are still more men than women running things at the very top, but when it comes to the basics-fair pay, good childcare, the freedom to choose—life’s good.

A spokesperson from the firm behind the latest ranking stated it best, “These countries are setting the gold standard in what real support looks and feels like.” Look north if you’re looking for a blueprint to change.

Why is southern Europe lagging behind when it comes to women by 2025

Unfortunately, it’s not always sunshine and roses in the south. You can expect to have a tougher time in Italy and Greece. Both countries are at the bottom of a list of working women by 2025, according to the study.

Italy stands out for all the wrong reasons—more women are left out of the workforce here than anywhere else in Western Europe. Greece’s situation is not much better. The old-school attitude and the lack of policies geared towards women make it harder for women to advance.

If you think that the UK and France are good bets for your investment, then don’t relax. Britain is shockingly lacking in women who are starting businesses. And France, as progressive and modern as it may be, still has one of the biggest pay gaps among the top ranked countries. It’s clear that there is still work to be done.

The secret sauce for better women’s lives

What is the secret to success in the north? The magic formula is: generous parental leave; clear rules on equal pay; real support for women entrepreneurs and a culture that cares about women’s lives outside of the office.

Anyone who has struggled to pay for nursery fees or negotiate a contract that is not fair will tell how difficult it can be. The difference is that countries like Denmark, Finland and Sweden aren’t just talking about it—they’re making it happen. It’s because of this that the gap between Denmark, Finland and Sweden is so big.

If you’re considering your next move, or daydreaming of a place where life would be more fair, then keep an eye out for the north. The north is not only cool in the winter.

The worst and best European countries for women by 2025

• Best Bets for Women in 2025 Denmark, Finland, and Sweden.
• Italy and Greece lag behind.
• The most important factors are: equal pay, family-friendly policies and the chance to start or lead your own business.
• What is the lesson for everyone else? If you want to see real change, then put your money where your mouth (and your policies).

Have you packed your bags and are ready to head for Stockholm or Copenhagen? Do you prefer the southern sun to a few fights for equality? Either way, let’s keep the conversation going—because every woman deserves a fair shot, no matter where she calls home.

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