Updated: May 8, 2025

 

Wondering which are the best countries for Americans to move to? Millions of Americans are wondering the same thing. For many, the best countries to move to as an American may come down to new places to explore and be able to immerse themselves in different cultures.

For others, moving could be about retiring to a foreign country that offers a higher quality lifestyle to start a new life, enjoy more free time, and stretch their wealth further with cheaper living expenses. Not to mention how easy it is for remote workers to explore and travel freely from one country to the next every few months or years.

There are several reasons why Americans may look for another country to call home. Whatever the reason may be, moving abroad can be a relatively easy process.

In this article, we will delve into some of the best European countries for Americans to move to, as well as other options that are top choices for Americans living abroad.

We will also explore the important pros and cons of moving to another country, such as:

  • Quality of life
  • Cost of living
  • Getting a visa
  • Healthcare
  • Language barriers
  • Crime rates
  • Cultural differences, and
  • Expat communities

Are Americans Actually Moving?

More Americans are moving abroad than you might think.

AARO (Association of Americans Resident Overseas) estimates that around 5.5 million Americans are currently living abroad, with a variety of reasons for doing so.

Lately, though, politics have become a big motivator. Since the results of the 2024 elections, a recent survey by Talker Research indicated that 17 percent of Americans said they’d like to move abroad within the next five years, and 2 percent having already started the process.

Why Americans choose to move abroad

When it comes to moving to the countries on our list, the benefits are undeniable. Here are some of the main reasons US citizens are moving abroad to other top locations.

 

GC-ICON-69Work-life balance

In a survey about work-life balance conducted among North Americans, data showed that 68 percent of workers admitted to working on vacations, with 37 percent taking less time off from work, and 18 percent opting not to take any time off at all.

On average, Americans also work 400 more hours annually compared to other developed nations. This lack of work-life balance causes anxiety, stress, declined mental health, and burnout, and has Americans seeking a better work-life balance elsewhere.

GC-ICON-76Cost of living

The cost of living in America is quite expensive and significantly higher than in many countries around the world. When everything from food, clothing, housing, healthcare, and entertainment is cheaper, it means each hard-earned dollar can go further abroad.

Ease of remote working

One thing Americans and the rest of the world have learned in recent years is that work does not mean being chained to a desk. Computer programmers are coding from the Swiss mountains, project managers are increasing productivity while working next to the glistening beaches of Portugal, and English teachers are traveling across Asia while taking along their laptops to get work done along the way.

The workplace has become more flexible and remote and the best expat countries are the ones that make remote working easy.

What to Consider Before Moving Overseas as an American Expat

If you are among the many expats from the USA seriously considering a move, there are a few things to consider before choosing your next home.

Take these factors into consideration as you read about the best countries to move to on our list. 

  • Safety and security: Research crime rates and trusted safety rankings like the Global Peace Index.
  • Cost of living: Accurately compare the prices of food, clothing, healthcare, housing, schools, and recreational activities against what you’d pay for it in America.
  • Language and cultural adjustments: Choosing a country with a relaxed, welcoming culture and a population that speaks English widely will help you settle in more quickly. 
  • Healthcare access: Research the quality and cost of public and private healthcare.
  • Ease of immigration: Consider the visa options available and how easy the process is to obtain residency.

The Best Countries for Americans to Move to in Europe

One look at our list of the best places to live outside the US, and it’s clear to see that Europe is a firm favorite.

Where Americans are moving to within Europe will differ depending on what each expat is looking for, but it’s undeniable that the continent offers an exceptional lifestyle.

If you’re considering a move, the residency experts at Global Citizen Solutions will be happy to guide you along the pathway that best meets your goals.

Why Europe dominates the list of best places to live

Europe is a continent well known for providing an elevated quality of life. Strong infrastructure, great healthcare and education, attractive climates, and rich cultural experiences are all benefits that European countries can offer expats.

So, where are Americans moving to in Europe? Before we look at the best countries for expats in the rest of the world, let’s first take a closer look at the best European countries for Americans to move to.

Portugal

best countries for americans to move to - Portugal

Portugal, Europe’s westernmost country and part of the European Union, is highly regarded by American citizens as one of the best countries for expats.

Portugal’s affordable cost of living, warmer climate and mild winters, large expat community, and growing selection of investment and business opportunities attract many expats to the country.

The Portuguese government has intensified efforts to attract young foreign professionals and remote workers to the country with growing employment opportunities, a tech scene, and burgeoning startups in the country.

Many Americans who relocate to Portugal opt for Lisbon as their first choice. The Portuguese capital is a vibrant city that has increasingly become famous as a key start-up and business hub, making it the perfect cosmopolitan destination for a digital nomad, the self-employed, and investors interested in living abroad.

Having said this, in recent years, many US citizens live in other smaller areas in Portugal, from the sunny Algarve in the south to the historic city of Porto in the north. An alternative to Porto is Braga, nicknamed the Rome of Portugal for its Baroque architecture.

According to the Global Peace Index 2024, Portugal is ranked as the seventh safest country in the world. It also has an extensive healthcare system, which is one of the most affordable systems in Europe.

One of the main reasons Portugal is one of the best places for Americans to live abroad is that the country has a low cost of living in comparison to many other European destinations and the USA, including lodging, food, and day-to-day expenses. As per Numbeo, the cost of living in Portugal is 33.6 percent lower than in the US.

Whether you are thinking of moving to Guarda, a charming, quiet city in the center, or a bustling hub like Lisbon, you’ll be spoilt for choice by the variety of places to relocate to.

Pros and cons of moving to Portugal

Portugal, like many of the other best countries for Americans on this list, is one of those destinations where the pros of moving to the country far outweigh the cons.

Take a look at the major advantages of moving to Portugal:

  • Warm, sunny weather almost year-round, with mild winters
  • Excellent healthcare system and health insurance, with treatments at a fraction of what you would pay in America
  • Affordable cost of living compared to the rest of Western Europe (about 33 percent lower than the USA)
  • Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world.
  • Friendly locals with a large portion of the population proficient in English (Portugal ranks sixth on the 2024 Global English Proficiency Index)
  • World-renowned gastronomy, with Lisbon crowned Europe’s Best Culinary City Destination in 2024 by the World Culinary Awards
  • A balanced, relaxed lifestyle with activities and sports to promote work-life balance
  • Modern coworking spaces and tech for digital nomads
  • Top-tier international schools
  • Rich history and culture seeped into every building and monument
  • Ample visa options, making relocation that much easier
  • Portugal is an attractive country for cypto investors, and it is possible to buy a property in Portugal with crypto.

As for the disadvantages, you’ll need to consider the following:

  • The older homes lack insulation, which could get chilly on winter nights.
  • The slower pace of life does not suit everyone.
  • There’s a need to carry cash as some stores do not accept Visa and Mastercard payments.
  • The language barrier is more noticeable outside of the major cities, so being able to speak the basics of the Portuguese language might be needed in these areas.

How can Americans move to Portugal?

Considering moving to Portugal? While US citizens can enter Portugal visa-free for 90 days within a 180-day period, the immigration process for getting a visa for a longer-term move is quite straightforward, making it one of the best countries to relocate to from the USA.

The country offers the Portugal Golden Visa for investors, the D7 Visa program for long-term residency expat retirees with a passive worldwide income, a Student Visa, and the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers, among other visa options to choose from.

Our article How to Get Residency in Portugal can give you more insight into living in Portugal.

Considering a move to Portugal? Here’s our ultimate guide on how to get Portuguese residency.

Learn More

Spain

best European countries - Spain

Much like Portugal, Spain has one of the lowest costs of living compared to other countries in Europe. From quality housing to fine-quality Rioja (Spanish wine), everything is available at an affordable price in Spain.

Spain also has excellent public healthcare, bilingual international schools that offer the American curriculum, and the country has its own Digital Nomad Visa that will appeal to entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers.

Spain, a European country bordering the Mediterranean Sea and a neighbor of Portugal, also has a very favorable climate. It is a versatile country, with buzzing cities, such as Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and Bilbao, and also laid-back, relaxed holiday destinations along the Balearic and Canary Islands.

If you love architecture, you will find Andalusia exciting, with its Moorish history and architecture. Also, you will find that there are many American expats around Andalusia.

Málaga, the birthplace of Picasso, has more than 30 museums, causing the city to be famously branded as the “City of Museums”. Spain has a very inclusive culture, and Málaga, in particular, is very welcoming toward the LGBTQI+ community.

Pros and cons of moving to Spain

Here is a rundown of the main advantages of moving to Spain:

  • High quality of life due to the great weather, beautiful landscapes, and a laid-back lifestyle
  • Lower cost of living compared to the USA (about 31 percent lower) 
  • Excellent and affordable healthcare options
  • A country renowned for its cultural richness and vibrant cities
  • Excellent food
  • Growing expat communities
  • Natural beauty
  • Multiple visa options for residency

The main disadvantages of moving to Spain are: 

  • Slow waiting times for official matters like processing visas
  • Like Portugal, English is widely spoken in cities with large expat populations, but there will be a language barrier in smaller towns.
  • Lower salaries compared to the USA and competitive job market in some industries
  • Navigating Spanish taxes alongside US tax obligations can be complex
  • Long flights and time zone differences can make staying connected with family and friends in the USA difficult.

How can Americans move to Spain?

In January 2023, Spain launched their Digital Nomad Visa, attracting remote workers, expat communities, and entrepreneurs. Other visa options include the Non-Lucrative Visa, the Work Visa, and the Student Visa.

If you want guidance on whether to buy property in Spain or Portugal, you can check out our article on whether to buy property in Spain or Portugal to make an informed choice.

Austria

best countries for americans to move to - Austria

Austria is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, with some of the highest living standards, which makes it very popular among American expats.

The cost of living in Austria is more expensive compared to some other European countries, calling for a higher level of personal finance. Austria is a landlocked country in Central Europe bordered by eight countries (Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Liechtenstein, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, and Slovenia) making it easy to explore the rest of Europe.

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is famous for its low crime rates and high quality of life. If you are seeking a quality life in a new country with high-standard international schools and a very good healthcare system, Vienna is the perfect place for you to move to.

Austria is home to the Alps, where you’ll be able to ski in winter and hike in summer. The country is also one of the biggest cultural hubs in the world. Take the impressive Opera House in Vienna, for example, or the vast array of art galleries and museums.

Vienna also has delicious food with a great wine scene, often organic and local. For a nightlife experience, visit Graz, the youthful city with abundant parks and Renaissance and Baroque architecture.

Austria has a free public school system, and nine years of education (ages six to fourteen) is mandatory throughout the country. Most of the international schools are based in Vienna.

Pros and cons of moving to Austria

The main advantages of moving to Austria are:

  • High quality of life, ranking 13th in the world on the 2024 Quality of Life Index
  • Excellent healthcare system
  • A rich cultural scene with world-class museums and music 
  • Gorgeous natural beauty
  • One of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a stable political environment (ranking third on the 2024 Global Peace Index)
  • Easy access to other European countries
  • Efficient and well-connected public transportation systems, especially in cities like Vienna

The disadvantages to consider before moving to Austria are:

  • English is spoken widely in Vienna, but you will need to learn some German to integrate into Austrian society.
  • Austria’s bureaucratic processes for visas, residency, and permits can be slow and complicated.
  • Higher cost of living, especially in cities like Vienna and Salzburg 
  • Gaining long-term residency or a work visa can be challenging without a job offer, and Austria has strict immigration policies.
  • Long, cold winters, especially in the alpine regions

How can Americans move to Austria?

While gaining a visa to live in Austria can be a bit more challenging than in Portugal and Spain, Americans can move to Austria by applying for the appropriate visa or residence permit. Some of the visa options include the work visa (Red-White-Red Card), freelancer visa, student residence permit, and the non-EU long-term Visa (D-Visa).

Sweden

where are americans moving to - Sweden

Many American expats look to settle down in Sweden for its breathtaking scenery, fresh air, good public transport system, and low population density. The Land of the Vikings has a lot to offer for history lovers. You can just take a walk in the capital city Stockholm, and find world-class museums, historical centers, and cool cafes.

Gothenburg is the most affordable and sustainable city in Sweden. You can visit ethical fashion shops and zero-waste restaurants, where the food is organically certified.

Both summer and winter have exciting activities to offer in Sweden. In summer, you can enjoy the midsummer festivals, kayaking, and swimming. In winter, you can see the breathtaking northern lights above the Arctic, enjoy dog sledding, and visit the reindeer.

Sweden maintains a good work-life balance by offering employees a five-week period of paid vacation and months-long paid maternity and paternity leave for new parents.

Healthcare in Sweden is of high standards. It is free for mothers and children and offers free access to toys and books.

Sweden also has one of the best education systems in the world. Education is mandatory until nine years in school, and there are many state department universities that are funded by the government and accessible to their citizens.

Pros and cons of moving to Sweden

The advantages of moving to Sweden include:

  • Excellent quality of life with a focus on work-life balance, outdoor activities, and social welfare benefits
  • Highly rated, affordable healthcare system available to all residents
  • Free, high-quality education, including access to universities
  • A very safe country with low crime rates and a stable political environment
  • Known for its equality, strong labor laws, and progressive attitudes toward gender and diversity
  • Strong focus of sustainable living
  • Ease of travel
  • Pristine forests, lakes, and opportunities for outdoor activities, with easy access to nature even in urban areas

The disadvantages of moving to Sweden include:

  • High taxes if you are a tax resident
  • Long, harsh winters, particularly in the north
  • While many Swedes speak excellent English, learning Swedish is important for integration and accessing certain jobs
  • High cost of living, particularly for housing, food, and transportation
  • A slow and sometimes complicated bureaucratic system, especially when applying for visas or navigating residency
  • Housing shortages in popular cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg

How can Americans move to Sweden?

Like Austria, it may be more challenging to move to Sweden for a long-term stay than to countries like Portugal and Spain, but Americans can move to the country through a structured process that depends on their purpose for relocation, such as work, study, retirement, or joining a family member.

A work permit is the best course of action if you have a job offer in Sweden, while the EU Blue Card is also an option for highly skilled professionals. There’s also the family reunification visa, study permit, and freelancer visa available to those who qualify.

The Best Countries for Americans to Move to Outside of Europe

Whether you are in search of permanent residency in a new country or affordable countries to move to that will offer you a high-quality of life, there are many places outside of the European Union, too. Let’s take a look at the best countries for American expats around the rest of the world.

 Costa Rica

best countries to move to - Costa Rica

The rich and diverse flora and fauna of Costa Rica have attracted Americans to the country for decades. Be it the relaxed lifestyle, the friendly locals, or the abundance of wildlife and magnificent volcanoes, a large number of Americans travel and are moving overseas to the coastal country of Latin America with a lower cost of living every year.

Costa Rica has well-made highways, reliable airports, and well-connected cities, which makes it very easy to travel around the country. You can enjoy exceptional food and incredible art, and enjoy the stunning beaches with your fellow expats in the capital city, San Jose.

Costa Rica has above-par public health insurance schemes and a quality healthcare system. The literacy rate of the country is one of the world’s highest.

Most employees in a full-time job will be given an extra month’s salary for Christmas (Aguinaldo). Costa Rica is the perfect place if you are seeking a laid-back lifestyle surrounded by evergreen natural beauty.

If you are visiting as a tourist, you can get by with English. But, if you are relocating, it is a good idea to learn some Spanish, especially if you are going to live in a rural area.

Pros and cons of moving to Costa Rica

The advantages of moving to Costa Rica include:

  • Lower cost of living, especially in terms of housing, healthcare, and groceries (about 24 percent lower than in the US)
  • Excellent healthcare system with both public (CAJA) and private options
  • A large, welcoming expat population
  • Politically stable with a strong democracy
  • Renowned for its diverse ecosystems, stunning beaches, rainforests, volcanoes, and abundant wildlife
  • Relatively close to the USA, with direct flights from major cities, making it easy to travel back and forth
  • Tropical climate with warm weather year-round

The disadvantages of moving to Costa Rica include:

  • Expat-heavy and tourist areas like San José, Tamarindo, and the Central Valley can have higher living costs
  • Outside major tourist zones it may be difficult to find people who speak the same language as you.
  • Finding local employment can be difficult, as the job market is competitive
  • Wages are lower than in the US
  • Rural areas can have inconsistent access to utilities like internet, roads, and public services
  • Prone to natural events like earthquakes, floods, and landslides
  • Imported goods, especially electronics, cars, and some food items, are expensive due to high import taxes

How can Americans move to Costa Rica?

The residence program in the country is quite straightforward, making it one of the easiest countries to move to from the USA and obtain a residence permit. There are options like the pensionado, inversionista, and rentista visa programs for expats, as well as a digital nomad visa.

South Korea

South Korea - best places to live outside the us

South Korea is a modern and advanced country and a leading manufacturer of technical goods, such as mobile phones, computers, and televisions.

It is a very good place to live and work for young professionals, and tech-savvy expats seeking a good life abroad will have much to smile about.

South Korea is famous for many things, the major attractions being the K-Pop culture and delicious food, making it an increasingly popular destination. Seoul, the happening city in South Korea and the third largest economy in Asia greets you with great restaurants, night markets, shopping, and entertainment.

Professionals here work hard, and there are many informal networking events. It also has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world, although there is online censorship.

South Korea is a safe place to live and has a low crime rate. Busan is a good place to consider if you are moving overseas to enjoy beaches and authentic Korean seafood. What’s more, you can visit Japan from there on a ferry.

Pros and cons of moving to South Korea

The advantages of moving to South Korea include:

  • Vibrant culture and modern lifestyle
  • One of the best public transportation systems in the world
  • The healthcare system is excellent, with affordable, high-quality medical services and advanced technology.
  • Very safe, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community security
  • Thriving job market for English teachers, offering competitive salaries, free housing, and other benefits
  • Tech-savvy country with some of the fastest internet speeds in the world
  • Diverse and unique culinary scene

The disadvantages of moving to South Korea include:

  • Many people may not speak English, especially outside of the tourist areas.
  • Work culture can be intense, with long working hours and high expectations.
  • Periodic air pollution which can impact health and outdoor activities.
  • Housing can be expensive, especially in desirable neighborhoods, and the deposit system (jeonse) can require large upfront payments.
  • Adjusting to societal norms, hierarchical structures, and cultural expectations may be challenging for Americans.
  • While teaching English is a common career for expats, finding jobs in other sectors can be more difficult.
  • Long-term visas can be harder to obtain if you’re not teaching, studying, or employed by a South Korean company.

How can Americans move to South Korea?

A work visa (E-Visa), student visa (D2 Visa), and spousal visa (F6 Visa) are the main residency programs available for moving to South Korea. The permanent residency visa (F5 Visa) is also available to individuals with strong ties to Korea (through family or investments).

Canada

best countries to move to as an american - Canada

The wonderful cultural diversity, stable economy, and affordable education, along with sharing its border with the United States, make Canada a top contender for US expats looking to obtain a residence permit abroad close to their home country.

Canada has something for everyone. If you want an affordable city, you can settle in Calgary. It has cool neighborhoods, pleasant eateries, and the best trails in the Canadian Rockies. It is also close to the Banff National Park, just an hour’s drive away.

If you are looking to live in a thriving, buzzing city, then there is Toronto, the key business hub, where you’ll find fine dining and many shopping districts.

Vancouver is the best place for Americans to move if you are a nature lover, as you’ll be close to impressive mountains and the ocean. Do not miss an opportunity to take a trip to Tofino, the surf town, or Whistler to ski. If you are longing for a piece of Europe but do not want to take the long flights, you can pay the French infused cities of Montreal and Quebec a visit.

Take note, the major cities can be quite expensive, calling for a high average monthly salary to live comfortably. Canada also has very good education and a stable health care system making it one of the best countries to move to from the USA.

Pros and cons of moving to Canada

The advantages of moving to Canada include:

  • Consistently ranks highly in terms of quality of life, offering clean cities and beautiful nature
  • Universal healthcare, with most medical services free of charge 
  • Immigrant-friendly policies and several visa programs for skilled workers, students, and families
  • Known for its multiculturalism
  • One of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a peaceful society (ranking 11th on the 2024 Global Peace Index)
  • Proximity to the US makes it easy for Americans to travel back and forth
  • Vast array of outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing in the mountains to visiting its pristine national parks and lakes

The disadvantages of moving to Canada include:

  • Higher taxes
  • Long, cold winters with heavy snowfall
  • The job market can be competitive.
  • Cities like Toronto and Vancouver have a high cost of living.
  • The immigration process can be lengthy and involve a lot of paperwork.

How can Americans move to Canada?

Popular immigration options for moving to Canada are the Skilled Worker Immigration Program and Provincial Nominee Programs for skilled professionals and tradespeople. You could also qualify for a work permit if you have received a job offer in Canada or a study permit if you have been accepted to study at a Canadian university or college. Canada also offers a Start-up Program for entrepreneurs.

Mexico

Mexico - best country for americans to move toJust a short flight from many major US cities, Mexico in Central America remains one of the most popular destinations for Americans living abroad for retirees, younger remote workers, entrepreneurs, and families looking for a vibrant lifestyle with a lower price tag.

You can live by the beach in Puerto Vallarta or Playa del Carmen, embrace highland culture in San Miguel de Allende or Oaxaca, or dive into city life in Mexico City, one of the most dynamic capitals in the Americas.

While Mexico has its challenges, it delivers an appealing combination of culture, affordability, and proximity.

The country’s healthcare system offers both private and public options, with private healthcare being very affordable and widely used by expats.

The cost of living, especially outside the most tourist-heavy zones, is significantly lower than in the US, allowing Americans to maintain a comfortable lifestyle on a modest budget.

Pros and cons of moving to Mexico

The advantages of moving to Mexico include:

  • Extremely affordable cost of living, including housing, food, and healthcare
  • Proximity to the US, making travel and maintaining relationships easier
  • Large expat communities throughout the country
  • Rich traditions, diverse regional cultures, and a strong sense of community
  • Warm climate 
  • Straightforward visa options and a welcoming attitude toward foreign residents

Disadvantages of moving to Mexico include:

  • Safety can vary widely depending on location, so research is essential.
  • Bureaucracy can be inefficient, especially when dealing with paperwork.
  • Infrastructure in some areas may be underdeveloped.
  • While English is spoken in expat-heavy regions, Spanish is necessary for daily life in most places.
  • Air pollution and traffic can be significant in major cities like Mexico City.

How can Americans move to Mexico?

Mexico offers a Temporary Resident Visa for those with financial solvency or a remote income, allowing you to live in the country for up to four years. After four years, you can apply for Permanent Residency.

Singapore

best country to move to as an American- Singapore

Singapore is often considered the best country for expats to live and work full-time, mainly because of how easy it is to acquire a work visa and permanent residence.

The country has one of the world’s best public transport systems, which is well-connected and takes you all over the city in a very short time. It is also relatively easy to get a job offer or open a business in Singapore, so entrepreneurs could not choose a much better city.

In addition to the career opportunities, Singapore offers a great lifestyle. From hawkers and night markets to Michelin-star restaurants offering a wide range of delicacies, Singapore has got it all. You can find large shopping malls, impressive skyscrapers, and lush green botanical gardens, which transport you to a different world.

Most of the crimes here are white-collar, and it is safe for foreigners on the streets. Singapore is one of the most well-organized and cleanest countries in the world, with a top-notch education system.

Bear in mind that you need to be financially stable to live comfortably in Singapore, as the cost of living is quite high.

Pros and cons of moving to Singapore

The advantages of moving to Singapore include:

  • English is widely spoken
  • High quality of life with excellent education, infrastructure, and safety
  • World-class healthcare facilities 
  • Singapore is a major global financial center and a hub for industries like tech, finance, and biotechnology
  • American professionals will find a range of high-paying job opportunities
  • Relatively low personal income tax rates compared to the US
  • Multicultural environment 
  • Strategic location for travel in Southeast Asia 
  • Efficient public transportation

The disadvantages of moving to Singapore include:

  • An expensive country with a high cost of living
  • Housing, particularly in prime areas, is expensive and space is limited
  • Singapore is known for its strict laws (e.g., heavy fines for littering, strict drug laws, chewing gum ban), which may be a cultural adjustment 
  • Hot and humid temperatures year-round
  • Fast-paced work culture with longer working hours and less work-life balance

How can Americans move to Singapore

Americans can apply to live in Singapore through the Employment Pass, S Pass, Dependent Pass, Long-Term Visit Pass, Investor Pass, Entrepreneur Pass (EntrePass), or the Global Investor Programme.

New Zealand

best country for American expats - New Zealand

For a small country, New Zealand has a lot to offer. The country has world renowned scenery, ranging from beautiful beaches, snow-covered volcanoes, magnificent Southern Alps, rivers, fjords, and densely wooded forests. The sheer variety of the different landscapes in the country has long captivated expats.

New Zealand is often chosen as a movie shooting spot, such as for the Lord of the Rings films, because of its breathtaking landscapes.

New Zealand has a lot in common with the US. For starters, they share English as their most spoken language. The locals are friendly, relaxed, and easy to get along with. The climate is temperate, with warm and dry summers and mild and wet winters. You can enjoy a pleasant, warm, and outdoor lifestyle throughout the year.

New Zealand is famous for its unique culture with strong Māori and Polynesian influences. The Manaakitanga, which means hospitality, generosity, and kindness, is an important custom in Māori culture and is followed diligently. There are many peaceful spots in the country, with delicious fresh seafood and wine tasting.

Although healthcare in New Zealand is funded, an appointment with a dentist can be pricey. However, it is free for those under 18 years of age.

Pros and cons of moving to New Zealand

The advantages of moving to New Zealand include:

  • Stunning natural beauty, including dense rainforest and snow-capped mountains
  • An extremely safe place to live, ranking fourth on the Global Peace Index
  • Vibrant food scene
  • Free, high-quality healthcare and international health insurance
  • Relaxed, laidback way of life
  • Relocation and getting a visa is relatively straightforward

The disadvantages of moving to Zealand include:

  • Harsh sun in summer, and dark, cold, and snowy winters
  • More isolated from the rest of the world
  • Dental care is expensive
  • Higher cost of living (but still around seven percent lower than the cost of living in the USA)

How can Americans move to New Zealand?

There is a large variety of visas available to move to New Zealand hassle-free. Some of the visa options include the skilled migrant visa, the work visa, the parent retirement visa, the entrepreneur visa, and the talent visa for arts, culture, and sports.

If you’d like some more options for the best country for American expats, there are many more to consider. Here are some other top choices where Americans are finding a new home and loving it.

  • France: Great food, rich culture, strong economy, and a slower pace of life
  • Australia: English-speaking population, laid-back lifestyle, and lots of sunshine
  • Ireland: Friendly people, stunning green landscapes, and strong US ties
  • UK: Easy transition culturally, no language barriers, and lots of job opportunities with a good work-life balance
  • Germany: Great healthcare, strong economy, reliable public transport, and beautiful cities
  • Scotland: Gorgeous scenery, rich history, and welcoming locals
  • Italy: Amazing food, charming towns, and a warm lifestyle
  • Greece: Affordable living, island beauty, and a relaxed way of life
  • Luxembourg: Safe, multilingual, and great for high earners
  • Belgium: Centrally located in Europe with top-notch public services
  • Norway: Stunning nature, social stability, and clean living
  • Netherlands: Biking culture, progressive values, and great quality of life
  • China: High level of safety, advanced education system, and a good base for travel around Asia

Finding the Best Countries Based on Lifestyle

So, given all the options, what country are Americans moving to based on different lifestyles?

For Americans considering a move abroad, Canada, Portugal, Spain, and Australia often appear on “best of” lists due to factors like ease of immigration, quality of life, and English-speaking environments. Other popular options include Germany, the UK, and New Zealand.

There’s no question that the best country to move to as an American will depend on each person’s lifestyle. However, there are a few gems that tick most boxes for many different lifestyles.

Take Portugal, for example. On a budget? You’ll find low living costs outside the big cities. Prefer luxury? There are world-class resorts and high-end coastal living.

Digital nomads love fast Wi-Fi, co-working spaces, and a laid-back lifestyle. Retirees have access to safety, healthcare, and a mild climate. And for LGBTQ+ individuals and families, Portugal is one of the most inclusive and progressive countries in Europe.

Interested in moving to Portugal? Moving to a foreign country can be daunting. Let Goldcrest help you find your dream home and guide you through the steps you need to take. Reach out to our experts to find out the best place to move to, based on your specific needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Countries for Americans to Move

Portugal is one of the easiest countries to immigrate to from the US because of its straightforward permanent residence programs and affordable cost of living. Most countries in the Caribbean are also very good alternatives to American expats moving abroad.

Some of the safest countries for Americans to move to are Austria, Singapore, New Zealand, and Portugal. All these countries rank within the top seven places on the 2024 Global Peace Index, with crime rates way lower than the global average.

For many Americans want to move abroad, and Canada is often the top choice. The UK, Portugal, and Australia are also popular thanks to their healthcare, strong economies, and English-speaking culture.

If you’re curious about what countries are Americans moving to other than the countries discussed in this article, a few of the popular destinations and best places to move to from the US include the Caribbean, Thailand, Vietnam, Greece, Malta, and Montenegro, although there are numerous countries that would make excellent places to live.

Choosing a highly regarded new country in Central America or South America would also be a great option, like Panama, Brazil, Mexico, or Argentina. In fact, Mexico City has become a major destination for American expats in recent years.

Portugal is one of the best US expat countries to move to – if not the best country for Americans to move to.

The welcoming warmer climate, friendly and inclusive Portuguese citizens, developed infrastructure, and stable economy paired with the country’s affordable cost of living make the country a top pick for American expats and beyond.

The process to obtain residency and potentially Portuguese citizenship is also a straightforward process, especially with the help of a professional.

Portugal is one of the top countries known for being friendly, safe, and easy to adapt to for Americans. The visa process is simple, and there’s a strong expat network. Other welcoming countries include Spain, Costa Rica, and Canada, all of which are easy for Americans to move and settle in.

Portugal stands out for its mix of affordability and quality of life, especially in smaller cities and towns. Mexico is another popular, budget-friendly choice, with low living costs and close proximity to the US. For digital nomads, countries like Colombia and parts of Southeast Asia (like Thailand or Vietnam) also offer low costs and a good lifestyle.