More Americans than ever are setting their sights beyond U.S. borders. Millions of U.S. citizens live abroad, with estimates varying by source, marking a dramatic shift in how Americans view their future. The reasons driving this exodus are as diverse as the destinations they choose, from political dissatisfaction to economic opportunities and lifestyle improvements.
Portugal: The Rising Star of American Expat Dreams
Portugal has emerged as the number one destination where Americans hope to move abroad, according to a survey of 116,363 Americans who looked into leaving the U.S. throughout 2024. This small European nation has captured American hearts with its combination of affordable living, temperate climate, and welcoming visa policies for retirees and digital nomads.
The American expat population in Portugal has grown significantly in recent years. The country’s appeal extends far beyond just dreaming about it. Americans have continued to express increased interest in moving to Portugal, especially after the 2024 U.S. presidential election, with relocation assistance companies reporting unprecedented demand for Portuguese visa applications.
Mexico: America’s Backyard Haven
Mexico remains one of the most popular destinations for American expats, with estimates suggesting it hosts well over a million US citizens.
What makes Mexico so attractive? The country’s appeal includes a warm climate, beautiful beaches, and a significantly lower cost of living than in the US. For example, living comfortably in Mexico City costs about $3,500 a month, whereas the same lifestyle demands around $11,500 in New York. Proximity to the United States, lower cost of living, and established expatriate communities make it a convenient and attractive choice.
Canada: The Familiar Northern Escape
Canada tops the list with 29% of prospective American emigrants listing it as their top choice, while the UK appeals to 19% of those thinking of moving. This preference for Canada makes perfect sense given the cultural similarities and geographic proximity. Canada is arguably the easiest country to move to from in the US. It is the ninth-largest economy in the world and a country that is very welcoming to immigrants, about 1 million of whom are American expats.
Canada attracts Americans due to cultural similarities, proximity to the U.S., healthcare access, and an easier transition for English speakers. The country’s publicly funded healthcare system and strong passport that allows visa-free travel to 167 countries including the European Union make it particularly appealing for Americans seeking stability and international mobility.
Spain: The European Lifestyle Magnet
Spain has become a major draw for Americans seeking the European lifestyle. As of 2023, the top three cities for expats to thrive in their new lives abroad are all in Spain: Malaga, Alicante and Valencia. The country offers an unbeatable combination of cultural richness, favourable climate, and relatively affordable living compared to other Western European nations.
Spain is favoured for its quality of life, temperate climates, and visa options for retirees and digital nomads. The appeal extends beyond just the mainland, with Spanish cities consistently ranking high in expat satisfaction surveys. Expats across Spain are highly satisfied with their personal, financial, social and work lives abroad, making it a destination that delivers on its promises.
United Kingdom: The English-Speaking Gateway to Europe
Despite Brexit complications, the UK remains a top choice for Americans abroad. Popular destinations include Canada, Spain, and the UK among the most requested countries by Americans researching international moves. The United Kingdom particularly appeals to those with ancestral or professional ties.
The shared language and cultural connections make the UK feel more accessible to Americans than many other international destinations. Professional opportunities in finance, technology, and creative industries continue to draw American talent, despite the additional visa requirements that came with Brexit. The country’s position as a gateway to Europe and its rich cultural heritage maintain its strong appeal.
Asian Destinations: The New Frontier for American Expats
Asia is experiencing remarkable growth in American expatriate populations. Asia-Pacific nations have seen rapid growth in their American populations. Japan is favoured both for its economic opportunities and high standard of living, drawing professionals and families alike. South Korea’s tech-driven cities and Australia’s laid-back coastal lifestyles attract young talents, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. Thailand stands out as a regional leader for retirees and long-term travellers.
Singapore stands out as Asia’s most Western-friendly destination, offering an ideal blend of Asian culture and Western comfort. English serves as the primary language, while the city-state’s exceptional infrastructure, safety, and cleanliness help Americans adjust seamlessly. The robust expat community provides instant social connections, while international schools deliver world-class education. Thailand and Malaysia offer more affordable alternatives while still providing excellent infrastructure and welcoming expat communities.
Costa Rica: Central America’s Peaceful Paradise
Costa Rica is known for its political stability, biodiversity, and appeal to retirees. This small Central American nation has built a reputation as one of the most stable and peaceful countries in the region, making it particularly attractive to Americans seeking a quieter lifestyle without completely abandoning familiar conveniences.
Retirees prefer warm and sunny destinations like Costa Rica, with Americans favouring Costa Rica, Mexico, Portugal, and Spain. The country’s commitment to environmental sustainability, combined with its “Pura Vida” lifestyle philosophy, appeals strongly to Americans looking for a more relaxed pace of life. Costa Rica’s well-established retirement visa programs and growing expat communities make the transition smoother for newcomers.
Germany, France, and Italy: Traditional European Powerhouses
Germany, France, and Italy appeal to those with EU family connections, dual citizenship paths, or employment in academia or international organisations. These traditional European destinations continue to attract Americans for various reasons, from professional opportunities to cultural experiences.
Many Americans prefer Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and the Netherlands, with retirees among this group finding some European countries such as Spain, Portugal, or Italy attractive for their affordable healthcare and lower housing costs. Each country offers distinct advantages: Germany’s robust economy and job market, France’s cultural prestige and artistic opportunities, and Italy’s rich history and lifestyle appeal. The European Union’s freedom of movement makes these destinations even more attractive for those who can establish legal residency.
The trend of Americans moving abroad shows no signs of slowing down, driven by a complex mix of economic, political, and lifestyle factors that continue to evolve. Whether seeking adventure, affordability, or simply a fresh start, Americans are discovering that the world offers numerous alternatives to call home. What strikes me most about this migration pattern is how it reflects changing priorities, with many choosing quality of life and personal fulfilment over traditional measures of success.
What do you think drives this unprecedented wave of American expatriation? Are you considering leaping yourself?