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Moving Abroad from United States
Record numbers of Americans are moving abroad — here's where they're going and why
Last updated March 2026
9M+
Americans Abroad
42%
Considered Leaving
Mexico
Top Destination
Portugal (+3x)
Fastest Growing
The U.S. saw net negative migration of 150,000 people last year, and the trend is accelerating in 2026. Nearly 42% of Americans have considered leaving in the next two years, driven by high living costs, healthcare expenses, and political uncertainty. More than 1.5 million U.S. citizens already live in Mexico alone. Whether you're seeking lower costs, better healthcare, or a fresh start — here are the top destinations Americans are choosing.
Top 8 Destinations for United States Expats
Where United States citizens are actually moving — with honest reasons why.
🇲🇽Mexico
1.5M+ Americans already there. No visa needed for 180 days, affordable healthcare ($40 doctor visits), and familiar culture. Mexico City, Mérida, and Puerto Vallarta top the list.
🇵🇹Portugal
US relocations tripled since 2024. D7 passive income visa (€870/month), excellent healthcare, 300 sunny days, and EU residency path. Lisbon and Porto are the expat hubs.
🇪🇸Spain
Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers, world-class healthcare, and Mediterranean lifestyle at 40% below US costs. Valencia and Málaga are rising fast.
🇨🇷Costa Rica
Pensionado visa for retirees ($1,000/month income), universal healthcare, and 'pura vida' lifestyle. 2-hour flight from Miami.
🇨🇦Canada
Express Entry for skilled workers, universal healthcare, and cultural familiarity. Toronto and Vancouver have large American communities.
🇵🇦Panama
Friendly Nations Visa for Americans, territorial tax system (foreign income untaxed), and USD-based economy eliminates currency risk.
🇬🇷Greece
Golden Visa from €250K, 7% flat tax on foreign pensions, and living costs 50% below the US. Athens and island living at budget prices.
🇨🇴Colombia
Digital Nomad Visa, Medellín's eternal spring weather, and $1,200/month comfortable living. Growing tech and startup scene.
Why People Leave United States
- 1Healthcare costs: average American spends $13,493/year on health insurance — many countries offer universal coverage or private plans under $200/month
- 2Housing crisis: US median home price hit $420,000 in 2026 — you can buy a 2-BR apartment in Lisbon for less
- 3Political polarization: 62% of Americans cite 'political climate' as a factor in considering relocation
- 4Student loan burden: $1.77 trillion in student debt — some countries offer tax advantages for foreign-earned income (FEIE $126,500 exclusion)
- 5Work-life balance: Americans work an average of 1,811 hours/year vs. 1,349 in Germany — many expats report dramatic quality-of-life improvements
- 6Gun violence concerns: 45,000+ annual gun deaths drive families to consider safer countries
Important Considerations Before Leaving
- US citizens must file taxes worldwide — the FEIE excludes the first $126,500 of foreign-earned income, but you're never fully free of the IRS
- FATCA reporting: foreign bank accounts over $10,000 require FBAR filing — some overseas banks refuse American clients
- Social Security: you can receive benefits in most countries, but Medicare doesn't cover you abroad
- Renouncing citizenship costs $2,350 and triggers exit tax on unrealized gains — a serious decision
- Healthcare abroad is often better AND cheaper, but research country-specific coverage for pre-existing conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
How many United States citizens live abroad?
An estimated 9M+ United States citizens currently live abroad. The top destination is Mexico.
What are the best countries to move to from United States?
The most popular destinations for United States expats are Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Costa Rica. Each offers different advantages from career growth to lifestyle and cost savings.
What should I consider before leaving United States?
US citizens must file taxes worldwide — the FEIE excludes the first $126,500 of foreign-earned income, but you're never fully free of the IRS FATCA reporting: foreign bank accounts over $10,000 require FBAR filing — some overseas banks refuse American clients
Not sure where to move from United States?
Take our free AI quiz — answer 7 questions and get personalized country matches based on your budget, lifestyle, and priorities.
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