Americans are voting with their feet. According to the 2024 HireAHelper Customer Survey, 1 in 10 Americans thought about packing up and moving abroad this year. AARO estimates that approximately 5.4 million U.S. citizens live abroad as of their most recent data. The reasons driving this exodus are clear: Moves prompted by a “Change of Climate” were up 121% from last year, as more Americans sought better weather or environmental conditions. Combined with soaring living costs at home, this perfect storm is pushing more citizens to seek better opportunities overseas.
The most compelling destinations share two irresistible qualities: dramatically lower living expenses and year-round pleasant climates. While the median U.S. salary hovers around just over $62,000 before taxes, this income can suddenly transform into a comfortable lifestyle in countries where housing, healthcare, and daily expenses cost a fraction of American prices. So let’s dive into the five hottest destinations where Americans are rebuilding their lives for less.
Mexico: The Top Choice for Proximity and Affordability
Mexico, a top destination for Americans moving abroad, hosts approximately 1.5 million US citizens, according to the 2023 Association of Americans Resident Overseas data. The numbers don’t lie. Mexico leads the list, with nearly 800,000 U.S. citizens making the move in the year 2024 alone.
What makes Mexico irresistible isn’t just its proximity to the U.S. A report from International Living highlights that American retirees can live comfortably in Mexico on about $1,500 to $2,000 per month, covering housing, utilities, groceries, healthcare, and entertainment, compared to the U.S. average of over $4,000 monthly. For example, the Mexican peso fell ~14% against the U.S. dollar in 2024, meaning daily costs were effectively 14% cheaper for U.S. expats.
The weather across Mexico ranges from tropical coastal climates to temperate mountain regions, offering Americans an escape from harsh winters or scorching summers. Cities like Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, and San Miguel de Allende have become expat magnets with established American communities and infrastructure.
Portugal: Europe’s Golden Gateway
Portugal has become Europe’s breakout star for American relocations. Portugal saw the biggest rise in relocating families, with the number of U.S. residents moving there almost tripling compared to 2024. Portugal, one of the best places for American retirees abroad, has seen significant growth in American residents. With its sunny weather, low cost of living abroad for Americans, and sizable American community (upwards of 10-15,000), Portugal offers an appealing Mediterranean lifestyle.
The financial advantages are striking. A one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon city centre rents for about €1,300/month, versus around £2,500 in central London. UK groceries are roughly 34% pricier than Portugal’s. The country enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually in many regions, providing the warm, consistent climate Americans crave.
Portugal’s D7 visa offers a streamlined path for retirees and remote workers, while the Golden Visa program attracts investors. The healthcare system ranks among Europe’s best, with expats often paying just €50-150 monthly for comprehensive private coverage.
Costa Rica: The Pura Vida Paradise
Costa Rica rounded out the list of best places to move out of the US, with substantial growth in American expatriates. This tropical Central American nation is already home to more than 120,000 American expats who appreciate its laid-back lifestyle, natural beauty, and relative affordability.
The cost benefits are substantial. According to Numbeo, consumer prices in Costa Rica are about 40% lower than in the United States. On average, Costa Rica is about 23% cheaper than the US in terms of basic necessities and bills. On a country-to-country level, rent is less than half what it is in the US.
Costa Rica’s tropical climate eliminates the need for heating or heavy winter clothing, while the country’s commitment to environmental protection creates a clean, healthy living environment. The “pura vida” lifestyle emphasizes relaxation and life enjoyment, offering Americans a stark contrast to the high-stress American work culture.
The healthcare system allows expats access to quality public healthcare for just $60-250 monthly. The Pensionado visa program specifically caters to retirees with a minimum monthly income requirement of $1,000.
Spain: Mediterranean Excellence
Spain consistently ranks among the top destinations for American expatriates seeking European charm with affordability. Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Bilbao all boast large English-speaking expat communities, while the coastal city of Valencia is quickly gaining traction as a coveted spot, too.
The financial appeal is undeniable. In Madrid or Barcelona, a two-bedroom unit might rent for only €1,200–1,800. Staple items like rice, bread, vegetables, or meat often sell for 30–60% less in Thailand, Mexico, or Spain. Spain offers one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe.
Spain’s Mediterranean climate provides year-round mild temperatures, abundant sunshine, and minimal extreme weather. The country’s new digital nomad visa, effective March 2023, allows remote workers to live tax-free for their first year. Universal healthcare is available to residents at minimal cost, while private healthcare remains dramatically cheaper than U.S. alternatives.
Thailand: The Southeast Asian Gem
Thailand has emerged as a powerhouse destination for American expatriates seeking tropical living at rock-bottom prices. Thailand has seen the number of U.S. families moving there more than double. The country continues to draw families with its low cost of living, strong expat communities, and family-oriented lifestyle. Its tropical climate, outdoor culture, and emphasis on community align with survey findings showing that many U.S. families prioritize affordability, supportive networks, and a slower pace of life.
The cost advantages are remarkable. Thailand’s cost of living is incredibly low, allowing expats to live comfortably on a moderate budget. Housing, food, and entertainment are affordable, making Thailand a favorite among retirees and digital nomads. Bangkok street food meals cost around 100 THB (≈$3) compared to around $20 in New York.
Thailand’s tropical climate means consistent warmth year-round, eliminating heating costs and providing endless opportunities for outdoor activities. The country offers excellent healthcare services with modern hospitals and affordable care, particularly in major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Various visa options, including retirement and long-stay visas, make immigration relatively straightforward for Americans.
The combination of dramatically lower living costs, consistently pleasant weather, and established expatriate communities makes these five countries irresistible alternatives to expensive American living. Whether seeking European sophistication in Portugal and Spain, tropical paradise in Costa Rica and Thailand, or familiar proximity in Mexico, Americans are discovering that their dollar stretches much further while their quality of life improves dramatically. What’s your next destination going to be?