A woman in Porto, Portugal (margouillat photo/Shutterstock)
With living costs skyrocketing and remote work now a reality, many Americans dream of living abroad. The allure? A better work-life balance, cheaper housing, and a taste of adventure. But before making your dream a reality, it’s essential to research and consider important factors like healthcare, safety, and the country’s economy. Some countries roll out the welcome mat for expats, while others present challenges like cultural adjustments and language barriers. Ready to pack your bags? We have curated a list of the best countries for Americans to move to if you are seeking a fresh start abroad based on expert insights across nine websites. A few places on the list may surprise you! If we’ve missed a country that tops your list, let us know in the comments below.
StudyFinds compiles lists of consensus picks featured on credible review sites. We aim to lay out top consumer research finds for you by bringing expert rankings to one place.
Top 7 Countries for Americans to Move to
1. Portugal
The coast of Porto, Portugal (proslgn/Shutterstock)
Portugal, highlighted by Travel + Leisure as a top expat destination, offers a low cost of living and a business-friendly environment. While Lisbon is a favorite, Porto boasts vibrant culture and scenic views. Explore Braga’s Baroque architecture or the sunny Algarve, and take advantage of Portugal’s digital nomad visas for a welcoming new home.
In addition to its affordability, Portugal’s warm climate and high safety ranking are a few more reasons why many Americans love living there. English is widely spoken, and international schools offer American curriculums, making it easy for families with children to settle in. Greenback Tax Services states these factors as key contributors to Portugal’s growing popularity.
Additionally, Portugal boasts top-notch higher education, with 14 universities ranked worldwide and degrees recognized globally. According to Immigrant Invest, expats also have the opportunity to apply for citizenship after just five years.
2. Spain
Park Güell and Barcelona city skyline (Arcady/Shutterstock)
Spain, which shares a border with Portugal, ranks second on our list since it’s a bit more expensive. Housing and groceries are still affordable, though. However, Americans are drawn to its “relaxed lifestyle, delectable cuisine, and vibrant culture,” so says Visitors Coverage. Jobs are also abundant in many different industries.
The Spanish government rolls out the red carpet for expats with its Golden Visa program, making it easy to invest in the country and eventually seek permanent residency or even citizenship. According to Greenback Tax Services, this program is a major draw for those looking to make Spain their new home, offering a streamlined path to living in one of Europe’s most vibrant countries.
One downside to living in Spain is the language barrier, as only about 12 percent of the population speaks English. However, the country makes up for it with top-notch education and healthcare options, both public and private. Additionally, Immigrant Invest says Spain offers a digital nomad visa valid for one year, making it attractive to remote workers from around the globe.
3. Canada
Waving Canada flag (sebastiaan stam on Unsplash)
Our neighbor to the north is also a haven for expats, who like cooler weather. Canada is known for its high quality of life, safety, and stable political landscape. Key benefits include impressive expat salaries averaging $111,000 and a world-famous universal healthcare system. However, William Russell notes the high cost of living in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, and some provinces have private healthcare restrictions.
Another plus for Canada? It’s easy to get to from the U.S. If you want a more affordable city, Travel + Leisure recommends Calgary with its trendy neighborhoods, or Montreal and Quebec City which offer a European flair.
If you move to Canada, you won’t feel like an outsider. According to Visitors Coverage, Canada welcomes immigrants and makes expats feel accepted and valued thanks to its strong sense of community.
4. Costa Rica
A couple walking on a beach in Costa Rica (Jakub Maculewicz /Shutterstock)
This Central American gem, nestled between the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, charms visitors beyond belief. Costa Rica boasts stunning volcanoes, cloud forests, and diverse wildlife, including sloths and toucans. Embracing the “Pura Vida” (Pure Life) lifestyle, Travel + Leisure says the country offers a straightforward residency program, affordable healthcare, and a stable democracy.
According to Worldpackers, this country offers affordable rentals as well. It also has a low crime rate. In addition, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to live and work whether you’re interested in permaculture projects, NGOs, eco-lodges, or retreats.
If you love warm weather, Costa Rica is ideal due to its proximity to the equator. Whether you’re drawn to the ocean, the mountains, or the rich culinary scene, the country has it all. Beyond the States says you’ll never tire of the national parks, offering endless outdoor adventures.
5. South Korea
Myeongdong shopping district in Seoul (Cait Ellis on Unsplash)
South Korea might be a surprise on our list, but it has plenty to offer and many networking opportunities. Seoul boasts amazing restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. But if you’re a beach lover, you’ll want to check out Busan. To move there, you’ll need a work visa, according to Travel + Leisure.
Despite the higher cost of housing, South Korea offers a low cost of living. While the country boasts some of the fastest internet speeds in the world, you may want to invest in a VPN due to online censorship. Overall, Greenback Tax Services believes South Korea is an excellent choice for younger, tech-savvy expats eager to enjoy the good life abroad.
With many people in South Korea speaking English, getting around is easy. The incredible food options, from hot buns to Korean BBQ, ensure you won’t go hungry. Plus, Beyond the States guarantees you’ll enjoy all the modern conveniences of home and have the chance to learn a new language.
6. Singapore
Singapore at night (Guo Xin Goh on Unsplash)
Another popular destination for expats in Asia is Singapore. While it is more expensive than other countries on the list, Singapore has a low crime rate and a clean city environment. However, American citizens will still need to pay U.S. taxes. According to William Russell, Singapore’s healthcare system is among the best in the world.
In Singapore, foreigners are a common sight, and English is widely spoken throughout the country. Gaining residency is easier here than in most other nations. Greenback Expat Tax Services says obtaining a residence permit is relatively straightforward.
Singapore is a food lover’s paradise, with everything from night markets and hawker centers to Michelin-starred restaurants. According to Travel + Leisure, it also has the best botanical gardens in Southeast Asia. Plus, Changi Airport’s “Rain Vortex” and its lush indoor gardens bring the “City in a Garden” vision to life, with Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali just a short flight away.
7. Mexico
Mexico City (Evan Wise on Unsplash)
The lower cost of living here is a big draw, with Investopedia estimating that a single person can live in Mexico City for under $1,000 a month, though families will need more. Guadalajara’s growing tech scene offers exciting job opportunities with companies like Oracle and IBM, and the locals are famously friendly. However, William Russell points out you’ll still need to pay U.S. taxes and get health insurance, and safety can vary by region.
With a wide range of climates and activities, you’ll never run out of things to do and see in Mexico. Plus, local food and transportation are very budget-friendly, so you can enjoy an affordable lifestyle. Worldpackers advises you can save even more by working in a hostel, teaching English, or volunteering at an animal sanctuary.
According to CNBC, 86 percent of people say it’s easy to move to Mexico and fit in, thanks to the friendly locals and welcoming communities. Expats often find it simple to adjust to the culture and make new friends quickly. However, navigating local bureaucracy, banking, healthcare, and transportation can be challenging.
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.
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Publish date : 2024-08-26 04:15:00
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