A new global study has revealed the top destinations for seasonal work, with Niseko, a ski resort in Japan, taking the number one spot. The study, conducted by cross border money transfer provider Remitly, ranks 88 destinations across 21 countries based on five factors that matter most to seasonal workers: cost of living, rent affordability, things to do, job demand, and safety.
Japan’s Niseko scored an impressive 79.0 out of 100, thanks to its high safety score (92.9 out of 100) and affordable everyday living costs. The resort attracts an international crowd, making it an accessible first season for hospitality, ski-school, and lift work.
Italy’s Cortina d’Ampezzo came in second with a score of 73.1, boasting the highest safety score in the study (94.1). While the city may have higher everyday costs, many seasonal roles include or subsidize accommodation.
Central Otago in New Zealand completed the top three with a score of 68.0, making it the top destination for seasonal fruit-picking work. Other top destinations in New Zealand include Queenstown (4th), Wanaka (6th), and Dunedin (5th) for hospitality and nightlife.
Overall, New Zealand was the strongest-performing country, taking eight of the top 20 spots across all three categories of work. The country’s horticulture and viticulture harvests bring in up to 20,750 overseas workers each season, with a further 32,490 working-holiday visa holders in the country as of early 2025.
Other top destinations for seasonal work include Europe’s ski resorts and summer party towns, with Austria’s St Anton (8th), France’s Val d’Isère (10th), and Greece’s Corfu (Kavos) (9th) making the list. Canada’s Whistler (19th) is the only North American destination in the top 20.
Kym Whitford, General Manager & Director of Remitly Asia Pacific, stated that New Zealand is a popular destination for seasonal workers due to its globally competitive opportunities and high safety levels. However, she also noted that there is no single best destination for seasonal work and the right choice depends on the type of work and lifestyle someone is looking for.
For more information about the study and to see the full list of destinations, please visit Remitly’s website.
About Remitly
Remitly Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: RELY) is a trusted provider of digital financial services that transcend borders. With a global footprint spanning more than 175 countries, Remitly’s digitally native, cross-border payments app offers customers a fast, reliable, and transparent money movement experience. The company is continuously expanding its suite of products to further its vision and transform lives around the world.
