An increasing number of Americans are choosing to leave the United States, driven by factors such as rising living costs, political polarization, and the pursuit of a better quality of life. This trend has been accelerating in recent years, with various destinations emerging as popular choices for expatriation.
The decision to move abroad is deeply personal and influenced by various factors, including economic considerations, political climate, and lifestyle preferences. As global connectivity increases and remote work becomes more prevalent, the trend of Americans seeking new beginnings overseas is likely to continue.
For those contemplating such a move, it’s essential to research potential destinations thoroughly, understand visa requirements, and consider the cultural adjustments involved. With careful planning, relocating abroad can lead to a fulfilling and enriching life experience.
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Tips for Making the Move Abroad
Visit First: Never commit without spending time there. Try a 1–3 month stay to test the waters.
Budget Honestly: Don’t underestimate expenses—especially in the beginning.
Learn the Language: Even basic local phrases can help immensely.
Rent Before Buying: Understand the real estate market and your preferences before purchasing property.
Get Expat Insurance: It bridges gaps in local coverage and offers peace of mind.
Join Local Groups: Facebook, Reddit, and MeetUp groups can provide advice and friendship.
Understand the Culture: Research local customs, holidays, and etiquette.
One controversial aspect of this trend is that many Americans moving abroad do so to escape systemic issues in the U.S., such as high healthcare costs, income inequality, or gun violence. Critics argue that leaving the country instead of working to change it internally is a privilege not accessible to all, potentially avoiding rather than addressing root problems.
Another debate is the effect of American expats on local communities. While they bring money into the economy, rising numbers of digital nomads and retirees can raise housing costs and gentrify neighbourhoods, displacing local residents and altering the cultural fabric of cities, as seen in parts of Mexico, Portugal, and Thailand.
Finally, some argue that the image of living abroad is overly romanticised. While social media often shows idyllic beach views and low living costs, the reality includes bureaucratic hurdles, cultural adaptation, and occasional loneliness far from family and lifelong friends.
Why Are More Americans Leaving the U.S.?
Rising Cost of Living
The escalating expenses associated with housing, healthcare, and education in the U.S. have made it challenging for many to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Countries like Mexico and Portugal offer a significantly lower cost of living, allowing Americans to stretch their dollars further.
Political and Social Climate
Political polarization and social tensions have led some Americans to seek more stable environments abroad. The desire for a less divisive atmosphere is prompting relocations to countries perceived as more politically stable.
Work-Life Balance and Remote Work Opportunities
The rise of remote work has enabled professionals to live abroad while maintaining their U.S.-based jobs. Countries offering a better work-life balance and a slower pace of life are attracting those looking to escape the hustle culture prevalent in the U.S.
The remote work revolution has made it easier for people to live wherever they want—as long as there’s Wi-Fi.
Life abroad: Cities like Lisbon, Medellín, and Bali are becoming digital nomad hubs with co-working spaces, good infrastructure, and welcoming expat communities.
Affordable Healthcare
The high cost of healthcare in the U.S. is a significant concern. Many are relocating to countries with universal healthcare systems or more affordable medical services, such as Spain and Costa Rica.
Desire for Adventure and Cultural Experiences
Some Americans are motivated by the opportunity to immerse themselves in new cultures, learn new languages, and experience different ways of life. This sense of adventure is leading them to explore life in various parts of the world.
What Life Abroad Really Looks Like
While Instagram may show a highlight reel of sunsets and beachside cafés, living abroad also comes with challenges. Here’s a balanced look:
The Positives
More relaxed daily pace
Access to diverse cultures
Lower stress lifestyle
Strong expat support networks
Better health outcomes for many
The Challenges
Language barriers
Culture shock and homesickness
Bureaucracy (visa renewals, legal residency, taxes)
Navigating foreign healthcare systems
Building social circles from scratch
Where Are Americans Moving To?
Mexico
Mexico remains a top destination for American expatriates, with approximately 1.2 million U.S. citizens residing there. The country’s proximity, affordable cost of living, and vibrant culture make it an attractive option.
Why Americans Are Moving There
Proximity to the U.S. makes moving and visiting home easy
Lower cost of living, especially in smaller cities and towns
Warm weather, welcoming culture, and delicious food
Americans can stay up to 180 days visa-free
Highlights for Visitors
Mexico City’s museums, cafes, and historic neighborhoods
Oaxaca’s food, culture, and Day of the Dead celebrations
Coastal gems like Tulum, Puerto Escondido, and Sayulita
Colonial cities like San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato
Disadvantages or Challenges
Safety can vary drastically by region (do your research)
Bureaucracy can be slow for residency or visas
Healthcare is affordable, but quality depends on the region
Some areas are becoming more expensive due to expat demand
Spain
Spain offers a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and a relaxed lifestyle. Cities like Madrid and Valencia are popular among Americans seeking a European experience.
Why Americans Are Moving There
High quality of life with excellent public healthcare
Gorgeous Mediterranean climate
A new Digital Nomad Visa makes legal long stays easier
Affordable cities like Valencia, Seville, and Granada
Highlights for Visitors
Barcelona’s Gaudí architecture and beachside living
Madrid’s museums, tapas culture, and nightlife
Andalusia’s Moorish palaces and flamenco traditions
The Camino de Santiago (pilgrimage or scenic hike)
Disadvantages or Challenges
Spanish bureaucracy is complex and slow-moving
Learning Spanish is helpful (many locals don’t speak English)
Some regions, like Barcelona, are expensive and crowded
Cultural adjustment to siesta schedules and late dining hours
Portugal
Portugal’s welcoming visa policies, affordable living costs, and scenic landscapes have made it a favorite among American retirees and remote workers.
Why Americans Are Moving There
Low cost of living (outside Lisbon) and stunning scenery
Safe, peaceful, and ranked highly for expat happiness
English is widely spoken in cities
The D7 Visa and Digital Nomad Visa are both accessible options
Highlights for Visitors
Lisbon’s hills, trams, and vibrant art scene
Porto’s riverside charm and famous port wine
Algarve’s beach cliffs and small fishing villages
Douro Valley wine country and UNESCO-listed towns
Disadvantages or Challenges
Real estate prices in Lisbon and Porto are rising fast
Bureaucracy (especially banking and immigration offices)
Slow public services and paperwork can frustrate newcomers
Job market is tough if you don’t work remotely or speak Portuguese
Costa Rica
Known for its “pura vida” lifestyle, Costa Rica attracts those looking for a peaceful environment, rich biodiversity, and a strong sense of community.
Why Americans Are Moving There
Peaceful, stable, and known for its “Pura Vida” lifestyle
Affordable healthcare and growing digital nomad community
New Remote Work Visa lets Americans stay for 1+ years
Incredible biodiversity and eco-conscious culture
Highlights for Visitors
Monteverde Cloud Forest and Arenal Volcano
Beach towns like Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, and Puerto Viejo
Wildlife spotting in national parks like Manuel Antonio
World-class surfing, yoga, and hiking
Disadvantages or Challenges
Infrastructure (especially roads and Wi-Fi) can be unreliable
Cost of living is not cheap in popular tourist towns
Language barrier in more rural areas
Residency process can be bureaucratic and slow
Albania
An emerging destination, Albania offers natural beauty, affordability, and a welcoming atmosphere. Some Americans are discovering its charm and choosing to settle there.
Why Americans Are Moving There
Extremely low cost of living and 1-year visa-free stay
Beautiful Adriatic coastline and dramatic mountains
A growing expat and nomad community in Tirana, Sarandë, and Vlora
One of Europe’s last truly budget-friendly countries
Highlights for Visitors
Riviera beaches like Ksamil and Himarë (clear turquoise water!)
Historic towns like Gjirokastër and Berat (UNESCO sites)
Outdoor adventures in the Albanian Alps
Lively café culture and traditional Balkan food
Disadvantages or Challenges
Healthcare is underdeveloped—many go to nearby countries for serious care
Internet is decent, but infrastructure still improving
Language barrier (Albanian is difficult and not widely spoken)
Still lacks some amenities and services common elsewhere in Europe
Thailand
Why It’s Popular: Low cost of living, tropical climate, and vibrant culture.
Popular Cities: Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Hua Hin
Cost of Living: ~$1,000–$1,500/month
Visa Options: Retirement Visa, Long-Term Resident Visa
Colombia
Why It’s Popular: Urban revival, low cost of living, and welcoming locals.
Popular Cities: Medellín, Bogotá, Pereira, Cartagena
Cost of Living: ~$1,000–$1,800/month
Visa Options: Retirement Visa, Migrant Visa
Vietnam
Why It’s Popular: Energetic cities, beautiful countryside, and extremely low costs.
Popular Cities: Da Nang, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City
Cost of Living: ~$800–$1,300/month
Visa Options: 90-day tourist visa (renewable), long-term business/residence visas evolving
Italy (Southern Regions)
Why It’s Popular: Historic charm, slow living, and affordable rural areas.
Popular Cities: Lecce, Palermo, Bari, Tropea
Cost of Living: ~$1,600–$2,200/month
Visa Options: Elective Residency Visa
Final Thoughts
Moving abroad can be life-changing, offering fresh perspectives, new opportunities, and a chance to redefine your lifestyle. It opens your world to different ways of thinking, living, and connecting with others, bringing a sense of freedom that many feel is missing in their home country.
However, it is not a decision to make lightly. Living abroad requires adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and thorough financial and legal planning. It is a journey that comes with both challenges and rewards, demanding an open mind and willingness to start over in an unfamiliar place.
Ultimately, choosing to leave the U.S. for life abroad is a deeply personal choice. Whether you’re seeking better healthcare, a lower cost of living, or new cultural experiences, make sure your reasons align with your long-term goals, and approach this change with humility, respect, and preparedness.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.