Switzerland has been ranked the best place in the world to live and work, stealing the crown from Singapore which was at the top for five consecutive years.

High living standards and competitive salaries have seen the Swiss nation become a regular fixture among the world's most livable cities. But at a time of growing global uncertainty, Switzerland's famed political and economic stability helped it climb the ranks of HSBC Expat's annual survey to score the top spot for the first time.

Switzerland jumped up the rankings from 8th place last year after the vast majority of people who had relocated there from overseas said they were happy with its economic (80%) and political (86%) climate.

About 82% of people who moved to Switzerland for work also said they enjoyed an improved standard of living compared to their home country.