Barbara Queiróz Updated: December 7, 2025
Thinking about leaving the US and starting a new chapter abroad? You are far from alone. In recent years, a growing number of Americans have been looking overseas for a safer pace of life, better work–life balance, more affordable living, and the chance to experience a new culture day to day rather than just on vacation.
For some, that means swapping long commutes and high housing costs for a walkable city, great healthcare, and a slower, sunnier lifestyle. Others are drawn by the freedom of remote work, the appeal of a tax-friendly base, or the opportunity to retire in comfort in a country where their savings go further.
The good news is that, with the right destination, relocating abroad is more achievable than many people think. Several countries actively welcome American expats, offering clear residency routes, English-friendly cities, and well-established international communities.
In this article, we break down the top 10 best nations for Americans to move to, looking at quality of life, cost of living, residency options such as permanent residency, and what day-to-day life is really like in each place.
Why are Americans moving abroad?
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.
Many Americans are drawn to European countries where housing, everyday expenses, and even leisure are significantly cheaper, allowing their income or retirement savings to stretch much further. Lower taxes or clearer tax regimes for foreigners are another pull, especially for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and retirees thinking strategically about long‑term finances.
Here are some of the main reasons US citizens are moving abroad to other top locations:
Work, remote freedom, and careers
The rise of remote work has made it far easier to live abroad while keeping a US or job in Portugal for Americans, especially in countries offering digital nomad or remote‑work visas. Some also relocate for on‑the‑ground career opportunities, better work–life balance, and more generous vacation and parental leave policies than they experience in the US.
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.
Cost of living and money
Many Americans are drawn to destinations where housing, everyday expenses, and even leisure are significantly cheaper, allowing their income or retirement savings to stretch much further. Lower taxes or clearer tax regimes for foreigners are another pull, especially for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and retirees thinking strategically about long‑term finances.
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.
Healthcare, safety, and retirement
High US healthcare costs push many people to countries with universal or inexpensive healthcare systems and predictable out‑of‑pocket expenses. Safer cities, lower crime rates, and a calmer social environment also play a major role, particularly for families and retirees seeking stability and peace of mind.
Retirees are increasingly choosing countries where they can afford a comfortable lifestyle, access good healthcare, and often buy or rent property at lower prices than back home. Families and students are also motivated by cheaper or even free higher education, seeing a move abroad as a way to reduce long‑term education costs.
What to Consider Before Moving Overseas as an American Expat
American expats should think carefully about visas, money, lifestyle fit, and long‑term obligations before committing to a move overseas.
Legal status and visas: Clarify your purpose for moving first (work, retirement, study, or remote work), as this will determine which visa routes are realistic for you. Research residency rules, income thresholds, health insurance requirements, and how easy it is to renew or transition to permanent residency or citizenship in your chosen country.
Cost of living and finances: Compare housing, utilities, food, and transport costs with your current US expenses, and factor in currency fluctuations and one‑off relocation costs like shipping and deposits.
Taxes and healthcare: US citizens must still file annual US tax returns on worldwide income, so it is important to understand tools like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion and foreign tax credits and consider professional advice
Family, lifestyle, and culture: Families need to evaluate schooling options, language of instruction, childcare availability, and how safe and kid‑friendly a city feels day to day. Beyond that, consider language barriers, work–life balance, climate, and whether there is an existing expat community that can make integration smoother.
Practical logistics and timing: Create a realistic timeline to secure documents, apply for visas, give notice at work, end leases, and arrange housing in your new country. Think through details like moving pets, driving licences, long‑term storage vs. shipping belongings, and initial temporary accommodation when you first arrive.
With that in mind, some of the best countries for US citizens to move to vary based on priorities, but popular choices include Canada, which offers a high quality of life and straightforward immigration options like the Express Entry system; Portugal, known for being welcoming to expats with affordable costs and easy-to-obtain visas, including retirement and digital nomad options; and Mexico, which is frequently chosen for its proximity, low cost of living, and established American expat communities.
Best Countries for Americans to Move to in Europe
One look at our list of the best places for American expats, 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.
1. Portugal
Portugal offers a coastal, laid‑back lifestyle, mild climate, and English‑friendly cities like Lisbon and Porto, with strong communities of American expats, making it the best country in the world to move to. Daily life tends to be slower-paced than in the US, with a strong café culture, walkable historic centres, and good public healthcare.
Overall costs are substantially lower than in the US: estimates suggest total living costs are roughly 35–45 percent cheaper, with rents often more than 50 percent lower outside prime Lisbon. A couple can often live comfortably on about 2,500–3,000 USD per month outside the most expensive areas.
Portugal taxes residents on worldwide income but offers specific incentives for qualifying foreign professionals and researchers under its newer tax regime that replaced the old NHR programme.
US citizens typically look at the D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa), the Portugal D8 Digital Nomad Visa, or the Portugal Golden Visa for investors.
Advantages of Portugal include:
- 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
2. Spain
Spain combines Mediterranean weather, vibrant cities like Madrid and Barcelona, and relaxed coastal living with good public transport and healthcare. Culturally, long lunches, late dinners, and a strong social scene are a contrast to many parts of the US.
For many Americans, Spain’s cost of living can be 30–40 percent cheaper than major US cities, especially for rent, groceries, and dining out, though top neighbourhoods in big cities are pricier. Smaller inland or coastal towns can be significantly more affordable than New York, San Francisco, or similar markets.
Spain taxes residents on worldwide income, with progressive rates and regional variations, and many expats work with local tax advisers to coordinate US and Spanish obligations.
Key visa routes for Americans include the non‑lucrative visa (for passive income/retirees), digital nomad visa, and work or entrepreneur visas, most of which can lead to long‑term residency and eventually citizenship after sufficient legal residence and integration.
Advantages of Spain include:
- 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
3. Austria
Austria is known for a high quality of life, excellent public transport, and safe, elegant cities like Vienna, alongside easy access to the Alps and central Europe. Everyday life is orderly, with strong public services, efficient bureaucracy, and a clear emphasis on social welfare.
When compared with the US, total living costs, including rent, are lower overall, with some analyses suggesting US costs (with rent) can be over 70 percent higher than in Austria, largely due to housing and healthcare.
Salaries are often lower than US equivalents, but more affordable services and protections offset the gap.
Austria operates a comprehensive social tax and social-security system that funds healthcare, pensions, and benefits for its residents.
For Americans, typical entry routes include employer-sponsored work permits, the Red‑White‑Red Card (for skilled workers), and certain self-employed or researcher categories, usually leading to permanent residence after several years.
Advantages of Austria include:
- 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
4. Sweden
Sweden offers a highly organised, egalitarian society with strong social support, excellent infrastructure, and a work culture that values balance and family time. English is widely spoken, and cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg blend nature access with urban convenience.
Overall costs can feel comparable to or somewhat higher than the US for some items, but healthcare, childcare, and education are heavily subsidised for residents, changing the long‑term calculation for families.
Housing in central Stockholm can be tight and expensive, while smaller cities and towns become more affordable.
Taxation is relatively high, funding the generous welfare state, and long‑term residents pay income tax on global earnings.
Americans usually enter via employer‑sponsored work permits, EU Blue Card roles, or highly skilled and researcher categories, with permanent residence available after several years of continuous, qualifying residence.
Advantages of 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
Best Countries that Americans Can 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.
5. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is popular for its tropical climate, “pura vida” lifestyle, and focus on nature, with beaches, rainforests, and active expat communities, especially in the Central Valley and coastal areas. Daily life tends to be slower and more relaxed than most US cities.
Living costs are generally lower than in the US, particularly for fresh food and local services, though imported goods and international‑school fees can raise expenses for families. Many Americans find they can live comfortably on a moderate budget, especially outside the most touristy zones.
Costa Rica offers several residency categories attractive to US citizens, such as pensionado (for those with guaranteed retirement income), rentista (for those with stable passive income), and investor visas.
Residents are taxed mainly on Costa Rican‑sourced income rather than worldwide income, which can be advantageous when coordinated correctly with US tax rules.
Advantages of 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
6. South Korea
South Korea blends high‑tech urban life in cities like Seoul and Busan with a strong café, food, and cultural scene, plus excellent public transport. The pace of life can be fast, and work hours in some sectors are longer than typical US standards, though this is gradually shifting.
Everyday costs can be comparable to mid‑to‑high‑cost US urban areas, with modestly priced public transport and eating out at local places, but premium housing and imported goods can be expensive.
Healthcare is modern and relatively affordable by US standards, especially once enrolled in the national system.
Taxation applies to residents’ income, with different rules based on length of stay and whether income is Korean‑sourced or worldwide.
Americans commonly use E‑2 teaching visas, corporate‑sponsored work visas, or, increasingly, digital‑sector roles; permanent residence is possible over time through long‑term work, investment, or family routes.
Advantages of 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
7. Canada
Canada appeals with cultural familiarity, English as a primary language (outside Francophone regions), strong public healthcare, and cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
The social atmosphere is often described as friendly and more politically moderate, with an emphasis on public services and safety.
Costs vary by city, but large Canadian metros can be similar to or slightly cheaper than expensive US cities for housing, while smaller cities are generally more affordable.
Everyday goods and services are broadly comparable to US price levels, with healthcare financed through taxes rather than high out‑of‑pocket bills.
Canada taxes residents on worldwide income with a progressive system, so cross‑border tax planning is important for Americans.
Common visas and pathways include Express Entry for skilled workers, provincial nominee programmes, study permits leading to work permits, and family sponsorship, many of which are structured to lead to permanent residence and citizenship for long‑term settlers.
Advantages of 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
8. Mexico
Mexico offers warm weather, diverse regions, and large, established American expat communities in cities such as Mexico City, Mérida, and coastal towns. Lifestyle options range from big‑city culture to quiet colonial towns and beach communities.
The cost of living is typically much lower than in the US, especially for rent, local food, and services, which makes Mexico a popular destination for retirees and remote workers. Imported products and high‑end neighbourhoods can narrow the gap, but most US expats report noticeably lower monthly outgoings.
Mexico taxes residents on worldwide income, though the details depend on tax residence status and treaty provisions. Americans most often use temporary resident visas based on income or savings, which can be renewed and eventually converted into permanent residency, with separate options for work permits and investment‑based paths.
Advantages of 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
9. Singapore
Singapore is a highly developed, compact city‑state known for safety, cleanliness, and efficient public administration, with English as an official language and a strong international business scene. The lifestyle is urban and fast paced, yet green spaces and regional travel options add balance.
Living costs, particularly housing and cars, are high by global standards and can exceed those in many US cities, though public transport and hawker‑centre food remain relatively affordable.
High quality healthcare and education are strong draws for families, with a wide choice of international schools.
Singapore’s tax system features comparatively low personal income tax rates on income sourced in or remitted to Singapore, with no tax on most foreign‑sourced income kept offshore.
Americans typically arrive on employer‑sponsored Employment Passes, S Passes, entrepreneur passes, or, at higher wealth levels, investor schemes; permanent residence is selective and usually follows several years of stable work and residence.
Advantages of 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
10. New Zealand
New Zealand offers dramatic landscapes, outdoor‑oriented living, and a relaxed social atmosphere, with English as the main language. Cities like Auckland and Wellington are relatively small compared with US metros, and daily life moves at a gentler pace.
Costs can feel similar to or somewhat higher than mid‑range US cities, particularly for housing in Auckland and for imported goods, due to geographic isolation.
Healthcare is partially publicly funded and more affordable than in the US, though many residents carry private insurance for faster access to some services.
New Zealand taxes tax‑resident individuals on worldwide income, with specific rules for new migrants that can offer temporary relief on certain foreign income.
US citizens usually pursue skilled migrant pathways, employer‑assisted work visas, or specific sector visas (for example, healthcare, trades), with options to move from temporary to resident visas and then to citizenship after sustained residence.
Advantages of 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
Other popular destinations
If you’d like some more options of the easiest countries to move to from USA, 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
Visa and Residency Options for Americans
Securing the right visa is the foundation of any successful move abroad as an American. This is what determines not only how long you can stay, but whether you can work, bring family members, access public services, and eventually apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
Here is an overview of the main residency pathways in each country, from retiree and passive‑income visas to digital nomad, work, and investment options. It will give you a clear, side‑by‑side view of which routes are realistic for different profiles and how they can evolve over time into long‑term residence or a second passport.
Country | Popular residency options for US citizens | Leads to citizenship? |
Portugal | D7 passive income visa; digital nomad visa; work visa; student visa; family reunification; investment routes | Yes, around 5 years of legal residence before standard naturalization. |
Spain | Non-lucrative visa; digital nomad visa; work visa; student visa; entrepreneur/investor visas; family reunification | Yes, generally 10 years of legal residence for most Americans. |
Austria | Red-White-Red Card (skilled workers, shortage occupations, self-employed key workers); EU Blue Card; family reunification; student visas | Yes, typically 10 years of residence, including at least 5 years as a permanent resident. |
Sweden | Employer-sponsored work permits; EU Blue Card; researcher/PhD permits; family reunification; student visas | Yes, usually about 5 years of continuous residence plus integration requirements. |
Costa Rica | Pensionado (retiree) residence; Rentista (fixed income) residence; Investor residence; family reunification | Yes, permanent residence often after 3 years of temporary status; citizenship around 7 years total residence. |
South Korea | E-2 and other work/teaching visas; corporate work visas; investor and entrepreneur visas; F-series long-term residence visas; spouse/family visas | Yes, often 5+ years of residence (varies by category) before permanent residence and then naturalization. |
Canada | Express Entry (skilled worker, Canadian Experience Class); Provincial Nominee Programs; work permits leading to PR; family sponsorship; study permits leading to work | Yes, citizenship usually after 3 years (1,095 days) of physical presence as a permanent resident. |
Mexico | Temporary resident visa (income- or savings-based); permanent resident visa; work permits; investor visas | Yes, generally about 5 years of residence (temporary plus permanent) before naturalization. |
Singapore | Employment Pass and S Pass (work); Entrepreneur Pass; Tech.Pass; Global Investor Program; Dependant and Long-Term Visit passes | Yes, however, it is highly selective; typically several years of work then permanent residence, with no guaranteed timeframe before citizenship. |
New Zealand | Skilled migrant and accredited-employer work visas; sector-specific work visas; investor and entrepreneur visas; partner and family visas; student visas | Yes, commonly about 5 years of residence (with physical presence requirements) before citizenship eligibility. |
How to Choose the Right Destination Country
Choosing where to move is less about finding the “best” country on paper and more about finding the right fit for your life stage, income, and long-term goals.
Start by getting clear on your primary driver: Are you looking for lower living costs, a better work–life balance, stronger career prospects, or a place to retire comfortably?
Once you know your priorities, weigh each country against a few non‑negotiables: visa and residency pathways you can realistically qualify for, tax implications as a US citizen, access to healthcare, and the practicalities of language, safety, and schooling if you have children.
From there, compare at a very human level—time zones for staying close to family, flight connections back to the US, climate, culture, and whether you can picture yourself thriving in the local pace of life for more than just a honeymoon year.
Country | Cost of living vs US | Safety vs US | Amount of international schools | Ease of language for English speakers |
Portugal | ~30–40% cheaper than US on average | Generally safer than US; ranks among safer EU countries | 71, mostly concentrated in Lisbon, Porto, Algarve. | Portuguese is moderately challenging but many locals speak English in cities. |
Spain | ~25–35% cheaper than US on average | Generally safer than US, though big cities have typical urban petty crime | About 330, especially around Madrid, Barcelona, and larger expat hubs. | Spanish is one of the easier major languages for English speakers |
Austria | ~20–30% cheaper than US on average | Safer than US, high scores on European safety indexes | About 30, mainly in Vienna and other major cities. | German is medium‑difficulty; can be challenging but widely supported with English in cities |
Sweden | Roughly similar overall, with some items more expensive and services cheaper long‑term | Very safe; consistently ranks among the safest countries globally | 24, mainly in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. | Swedish is medium‑difficulty but grammar is relatively approachable and English is widely spoken |
Costa Rica | ~25–35% cheaper than US, depending on area and lifestyle | Safer than many regional peers but varies by region; some petty and opportunistic crime | Around 20, focused in San José and a handful of expat hubs. | Spanish is relatively easy for English speakers with regular practice |
South Korea | Roughly similar to slightly cheaper than US overall | Generally safe; low violent crime, busy urban environments | 66, especially in Seoul and Busan. | Korean is considered difficult for English speakers (different alphabet and structure) |
Canada | Roughly similar overall; some big cities slightly cheaper, smaller cities cheaper than US metros | Safer than US in most national‑level comparisons | About 30, but mainly concentrated around Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. | English and French are official; English is native‑level for most Americans |
Mexico | ~30–40% cheaper than US for most everyday costs | Safety varies widely by region; some areas comparable to US suburbs, others higher‑risk | Over 40, clustered in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. | Spanish is relatively easy for English speakers, widely used in daily life |
Singapore | Generally ~10–20% more expensive than US overall, driven by housing and cars | Very safe; among the safest urban environments worldwide | Around 80, with a large concentration of high‑quality international French and Chinese schools. | English is an official language and widely used; Mandarin and Malay also official but not required for daily life |
New Zealand | Roughly similar to slightly higher than US for some goods due to import costs | Safer than US, with lower crime rates and strong social stability | About 26, mainly in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. | English is the dominant language; very easy for Americans |
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.
Country | Overall pace of life | Work-life balance vs US | Family friendliness | Climate & outdoors | Notable lifestyle perks for Americans |
United States | Fast, productivity-focused | Often work-centred, limited leave | Good in suburbs, mixed in big cities | Very varied by region | High incomes, big consumer choice, strong cultural diversity |
Portugal | Relaxed, café and community-oriented | Generally better, slower pace | Family-oriented, children welcome in most settings | Mild climate, beaches, hiking, surfing | Lower costs, walkable cities, inclusive and LGBTQ+-friendly social climate |
Spain | Sociable, late-evening culture | Strong emphasis on leisure and social time | Very family-centric, kids integrated into social life | Mediterranean weather in many regions | Long meals, vibrant cities, strong expat hubs |
Austria | Orderly, calm urban life | Good; clear separation of work and home | Strong public services and schooling | Alps, lakes, easy access to nature | Clean cities, excellent public transport |
Sweden | Measured, egalitarian | Excellent; generous leave and flexible working norms | Very supportive policies for families | Four distinct seasons, nature close to cities | High safety, progressive social norms |
Costa Rica | Very laid-back, “pura vida” | Varies; many expats semi-retired or remote | Good, especially in established expat areas | Tropical beaches, rainforests, eco-tourism | Strong nature focus, slower daily rhythm |
South Korea | Fast, highly urban | Historically intense, gradually improving | Good schooling and structured environment | Four seasons, mountains and coasts | Dynamic cities, rich food and café culture |
Canada | Moderate pace, outdoorsy | Generally better than many US sectors | Very family-friendly and safe | Cold winters, strong outdoor culture | Cultural familiarity, public healthcare |
Mexico | Warm, community-focused | Flexible for remote workers and retirees | Family-oriented, multigenerational households common | Warm climate, beaches, mountains, colonial towns | Lower daily costs, vibrant food and festivals |
Singapore | Efficient, urban, very organised | Generally good but can be work-intense | Highly serviced, strong schooling options | Hot and humid, green yet city-based | Extremely safe, English-speaking, major Asian travel hub |
New Zealand | Relaxed, small-city feel | Strong emphasis on balance and time off | Very family-friendly and outdoorsy | Mild maritime climate, dramatic scenery | Laid-back culture, close-knit communities |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Countries for Americans to Move
What country is easiest for US citizens to move to?
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.
Which countries are the safest for Americans to move to?
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.
What country do most Americans want to move to?
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 (see our retiring in Malta vs Portugal comparison for why Malta and Portugal appeals to retirees), 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.
What is the best country for Americans to move to?
Portugal is one of the best US expat countries to move to – if not the best country for Americans to move to, with a range of Portugal residency visa options available.
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.
What country is most accepting of American immigrants?
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.
What is the cheapest American-friendly country to live 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.
