Best Countries for Americans to Move To

Look, I’ve been there.

Sitting at my kitchen table in New Jersey, scrolling through yet another news cycle that made my blood pressure spike, wondering if the grass really was greener somewhere else.

Back in 2019, I took the plunge and moved to Portugal for a year.

I thought I had it all figured out.

I didn’t.

My tax situation became a nightmare, I discovered my health insurance had gaps the size of the Grand Canyon, and don’t even get me started on the visa renewal process that nearly sent me packing.

That’s why I’m writing this guide.

Because moving abroad looks glamorous on Instagram, but nobody shows you the paperwork headaches, the insurance traps, or the cultural adjustments that hit you like a ton of bricks.

So if you’re an American thinking about packing your bags and starting fresh somewhere new, let me save you some heartache.

Why Americans Are Actually Moving Abroad in 2025

First, let’s talk about why you might be considering this major life change. Trust me, you’re not alone.

According to a recent Gallup poll, 16% of Americans have seriously considered moving abroad in the past year—that’s nearly double the percentage from 2018.

The reasons people share with me fall into a few categories:

• Economic pressure: Housing costs, healthcare expenses, and inflation are making financial security harder to achieve stateside.
• Remote work flexibility: The pandemic permanently changed how we work. If you can do your job from anywhere, why not pick somewhere with a better quality of life?
• Political climate: I’m not touching this one with a ten-foot pole, but let’s just say many Americans are looking for a change of scenery due to political tensions.
• Healthcare concerns: Medical costs in the US can bankrupt you. In many countries, quality healthcare costs a fraction of US prices.
• Retirement stretch: Making retirement savings last longer in countries with lower costs of living.

💡 Tip: Before you start fantasizing about a beachfront condo in Bali, be honest about why you want to move. Cultural curiosity is a more sustainable motivation than just running away from problems.

What Most People Get Wrong About Moving Abroad

When I first moved to Portugal, I assumed my American health insurance would cover me abroad.

Big mistake.

I ended up with a $3,000 bill for a minor emergency that wasn’t covered. I could have avoided this with the right international health coverage plan.

Here are the common pitfalls I see Americans fall into:

Visa Misconceptions

Many Americans think they can just move to another country and figure out the visa situation later.

That works for a vacation, not for relocating.

Each country has different visa requirements, and some are nearly impossible to qualify for unless you have specific skills, substantial savings, or family connections.

Tax Surprises

I learned this one the hard way.

The US is one of the few countries that taxes citizens on worldwide income, even when you live abroad.

Yes, there’s a Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (up to $120,000 in 2024), but it doesn’t apply to all income types. And you still need to file every year.

Many Americans move abroad and stop filing US taxes, creating a potential time bomb of back taxes and penalties.

💡 Tip: Before moving abroad, consult with a tax professional who specializes in expat taxation. It’s worth every penny to avoid costly mistakes.

Healthcare Gaps

Your US insurance typically won’t cover you abroad long-term, and Medicare doesn’t work outside the US at all.

I’ve seen retirees move abroad only to discover they need to pay out-of-pocket for all medical care, or rush back to the US for treatment.

If you’re planning an international move, you need proper global health coverage. You can compare international health insurance plans here.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your New Home

Before we dive into specific countries, let’s talk about what to consider beyond the “digital nomad” Instagram posts.

Cost of Living Reality Check

Sure, you can find places where $2,000/month lets you live like royalty. But there are hidden costs:

• Flights home to visit family
• Visa renewal fees and paperwork costs
• Potential tax consultants in two countries
• International banking fees
• Healthcare that might not be covered by local systems

I moved to Portugal partly for the lower cost of living, only to discover that certain imported goods (electronics, specific foods I missed from home) were actually more expensive than in the US.

Healthcare Systems Access

As an American, you may not automatically qualify for public healthcare in your new country. Researching healthcare access should be at the top of your checklist.

When I moved abroad, I wish someone had told me to:

1. Check if private insurance in your target country covers pre-existing conditions
2. Understand waiting periods for public healthcare eligibility
3. Research the quality of specialized care if you have specific health needs
4. Verify coverage for prescription medications you take regularly

💡 Tip: Get international health insurance that covers you in multiple countries, including during visits back to the US. Local insurance in your new country likely won’t cover you when you travel home.

Language and Cultural Adaptation

Be honest with yourself about whether you’re willing to learn a new language. Yes, many places have English-speaking communities, but your experience will be so much richer if you can communicate with locals.

When I moved to Portugal, I thought my high school Spanish would help me pick up Portuguese quickly.

It didn’t.

I felt isolated for months until I buckled down with language classes.

Safety Considerations

Crime statistics don’t tell the whole story. When researching safety, look at:

• Political stability
• Natural disaster risks
• Healthcare infrastructure
• LGBTQ+ rights (if applicable)
• Religious tolerance
• Gender equality
• Racial attitudes toward foreigners

Some countries that rank “safe” overall might have issues with specific types of crime or discrimination that could affect you personally.

Top Countries for Americans to Move To in 2025

Now let’s get to the countries that offer the best combination of feasibility, quality of life, and welcomeness to Americans.

Portugal: The European Favorite

Why It Works:

• Golden Visa program (though investment requirements increased in 2022)
• D7 Visa for passive income earners (retirees, remote workers)
• Excellent healthcare system with affordable private options
• Mild climate and beautiful landscapes
• Generally welcoming attitude toward foreigners
• Large and growing expat community
• Lower cost of living than most Western European countries

Potential Downsides:

• Rising housing costs in popular areas like Lisbon and Porto
• Bureaucracy can be frustratingly slow
• Tax situation is complex (NHR program changed in 2020)
• Language barrier outside major cities
• Job market is challenging if you need local employment

Cost Range: $2,000-3,500/month for comfortable living in most areas

When I lived in Portugal, I found the quality of life exceptional, but the paperwork and bureaucracy nearly broke me. Budget extra for help with immigration lawyers if you go this route.

Mexico: Proximity and Familiarity

Why It Works:

• Close to the US for visits home
• Temporary and permanent residency visas with reasonable income requirements
• Established expat communities in multiple regions
• Excellent private healthcare at a fraction of US costs
• Warm climate options and diverse landscapes
• Rich culture and amazing food
• Cost of living can be 50-70% lower than the US

Potential Downsides:

• Safety concerns in certain regions (research carefully)
• Need for Spanish fluency outside tourist areas
• Healthcare quality varies significantly by region
• Potential political instability
• Environmental issues (water shortages in some areas)

Cost Range: $1,500-3,000/month depending on location and lifestyle

I spent three months in Mexico in 2021, and was amazed by the quality of healthcare I received for a minor surgery. I paid out of pocket ($2,000) for a procedure that would have cost $15,000+ in the US, even with insurance.

Costa Rica: Pura Vida Paradise

Why It Works:

• Stable democracy with no standing army
• Pensionado visa program for retirees
• Rentista program for passive income earners
• Universal healthcare system that foreigners can join
• Ecological paradise with incredible biodiversity
• Established expat communities
• Generally peaceful and happy culture

Potential Downsides:

• Higher cost of living than other Latin American countries
• Bureaucracy and paperwork can be challenging
• Infrastructure issues (roads, internet in rural areas)
• Rainy season can be intense
• Import taxes make cars and some goods expensive

Cost Range: $2,000-3,500/month for comfortable living

Costa Rica taught me the importance of actually visiting before moving. The pictures of beaches looked idyllic, but when I visited during rainy season, I discovered I would have needed a 4×4 vehicle to reach my dream beach house, and internet was spotty at best.

Canada: Familiar But Different

Why It Works:

• Cultural similarities make adaptation easier
• Excellent healthcare system
• Strong economy and job opportunities
• Clean, safe cities with good infrastructure
• Stable political environment
• Beautiful natural landscapes
• Diversity and multiculturalism

Potential Downsides:

• Not as easy to immigrate to as many think
• Cold winters in most regions
• High cost of living, especially in major cities
• Higher taxes than the US
• Housing crisis in Vancouver and Toronto

Cost Range: $3,000-5,000/month depending on location

💡 Tip: Canada’s Express Entry system favors younger applicants with college degrees, in-demand skills, and strong English/French language abilities. Check the Comprehensive Ranking System to see if you’d qualify before getting your hopes up.

Thailand: Southeast Asian Lifestyle

Why It Works:

• New long-term visa options including the 10-year LTR visa
• Very low cost of living
• Excellent, affordable healthcare
• Warm climate year-round
• Rich culture and amazing food
• Modern amenities in major cities
• Established expat communities

Potential Downsides:

• Cultural differences can be significant
• Political instability and strict lèse-majesté laws
• Language barrier outside tourist areas
• Visa rules change frequently
• Environmental issues (air quality problems seasonally)
• Distance from the US makes visits home expensive

Cost Range: $1,500-3,000/month for comfortable living

I spent six months in Thailand in 2022 and found the quality of healthcare remarkable. A check-up with blood work at a top international hospital cost me $120, compared to $800+ in the US with insurance.

How to Get Started With Your Move Abroad

So you’ve picked a country. Now what? Here’s my step-by-step guide to making it happen without the mistakes I made.

1. Research Visa Requirements Thoroughly

Each country has different visa categories. Typically, you’ll need:

• Proof of income or savings
• Clean criminal record
• Health insurance coverage
• Application fees
• Sometimes proof of housing

Don’t trust random blog posts (even this one). Go to the country’s official immigration website or consult with an immigration attorney who specializes in your target country.

2. Get Your Finances in Order

Before moving:

• Set up a banking strategy (international bank accounts, wise.com for transfers)
• Understand tax implications (consult a tax professional)
• Create a budget including “settling in” costs
• Plan for healthcare expenses
• Consider currency exchange fluctuations in your planning

When I moved abroad, I didn’t factor in the cost of furnishing an apartment. That added several thousand unexpected dollars to my moving costs.

💡 Tip: Many countries require proof of health insurance for visa approval. Make sure your policy meets the specific requirements of your destination country. Compare international health insurance options here.

3. Healthcare Planning is Non-Negotiable

Your US health insurance almost certainly won’t cover you abroad long-term. Options include:

• International health insurance (most comprehensive but pricier)
• Local private insurance in your new country
• Joining the public healthcare system (if possible)
• Travel insurance for the initial period while you set up local coverage

I cannot stress this enough: do not move abroad without a solid healthcare plan. I’ve seen too many Americans forced to return to the US due to medical issues they couldn’t afford to treat abroad.

4. Make a Trial Run

If possible, live in your target country for at least a month before committing. Things to evaluate:

• Do you actually enjoy the day-to-day lifestyle?
• Can you handle the climate year-round?
• Is the food agreeable long-term?
• How’s the internet reliability for remote work?
• Can you adapt to the pace of life?
• Are you comfortable with the transportation options?

I’ve met dozens of expats who made permanent moves based on vacation experiences, only to realize daily life was very different from holiday mode.

5. Create a Support System

Moving abroad can be isolating. Plan for:

• Language learning (budgeting time and money)
• Joining expat groups (Facebook groups, Internations.org)
• Maintaining connections back home
• Building local friendships
• Professional networking in your new location

When I first moved abroad, I spent too much time in the expat bubble and missed out on authentic local experiences. Balance is key.

FAQ: What Americans Really Want to Know About Moving Abroad

Do I need to renounce my US citizenship to live abroad?

Absolutely not. You can remain a US citizen while living abroad indefinitely. However, you will still need to file US tax returns annually, regardless of where you live.

Can I receive Social Security benefits while living in another country?

Yes, in most countries. The US Social Security Administration can send payments to beneficiaries in most foreign countries, with some exceptions (Cuba, North Korea, etc.). However, Medicare does not cover healthcare outside the US.

Will my children be able to attend school abroad?

Yes, but the options vary by country. You might consider:

• Local public schools (usually requires language proficiency)
• International schools (taught in English but expensive)
• American-curriculum schools (where available)
• Homeschooling (legal status varies by country)

Can I buy property as a foreigner?

It depends on the country. Some countries have no restrictions, others limit foreign ownership to certain areas, and some require special permits or business structures. Always consult with a local real estate attorney before purchasing.

What happens if there’s a political crisis in my new country?

US citizens abroad can register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and help the US Embassy contact you in emergencies. However, evacuation assistance may be limited, so maintaining valid passports and emergency funds is essential.

The Cold Hard Truth About Moving Abroad

After helping dozens of friends navigate international moves, here’s what I wish someone had told me:

Moving abroad won’t solve your problems.

If you’re unhappy in the US, changing your geography might help with specific issues like healthcare costs or work-life balance, but it won’t magically fix everything.

The first six months are the hardest.

You’ll question your decision repeatedly.

Culture shock is real, and it comes in waves.

But if you push through, the rewards can be incredible. Living abroad has expanded my worldview, introduced me to amazing people, and yes, saved me a small fortune in living costs and healthcare.

💡 Tip: Keep your expectations realistic. Moving abroad is not an extended vacation. You’ll still have bad days, bureaucratic frustrations, and moments of homesickness. That’s normal.

Your Moving Abroad Checklist

Here’s a simplified checklist to get you started:

1. ✅ Research visa requirements for your target country
2. ✅ Consult with an expat tax specialist
3. ✅ Research healthcare options and secure coverage
4. ✅ Visit your destination for at least 2-4 weeks if possible
5. ✅ Join online expat communities for your target location
6. ✅ Create a realistic budget including settling-in costs
7. ✅ Develop a banking/financial strategy for international living
8. ✅ Make plans for your US assets (property, investments, etc.)
9. ✅ Secure important documents (birth certificates, marriage licenses, etc.)
10. ✅ Research pet relocation if applicable (a huge process on its own)

Final Thoughts: Is Moving Abroad Right for You?

If there’s one thing I’ve learned through my own international moves and helping others with theirs, it’s that successful expats share certain qualities:

• Adaptability and patience
• Comfort with uncertainty
• Willingness to learn new languages and customs
• Respect for cultural differences
• Sense of adventure balanced with realism

Moving abroad has been the most challenging and rewarding experience of my life.

It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay.

But if you’ve read this far and still feel the pull of international living, you might just have what it takes.

Remember, you can always come back if it doesn’t work out. Most successful expats I know tried several countries before finding their perfect fit.

And whatever you do, please get proper international health coverage before you go. I’ve seen too many dreams derailed by unexpected medical bills. You can compare international health insurance options here.

Safe travels, and maybe I’ll see you out there somewhere.

Have you moved abroad or are you planning to? Share your experiences in the comments below. I respond to every comment and love hearing your stories.