As a US citizen, you might be thinking of moving to a less expensive or safer nation. “What is the best country to move to from the US?” is the next question that arises. Thankfully, there are alternatives to the US that offer a better quality of life. Additionally, they guarantee a cheaper cost of living than the US.
The greatest and simplest countries to immigrate to from the United States will be discussed in this post. We’ve also included details on the cost of living, language barriers, and helpful advice for each nation.
Why Do Americans Relocate Abroad? The Top 3 Factors:
Low Living Expenses as a Major Motivator: The desire to live a more frugal lifestyle is what drives many Americans. People seeking cheaper healthcare, housing, and daily expenses, as well as a standard of living comparable to the United States at a fraction of the cost, are drawn to nations like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.
Interest in Plan B Options Is Increased by Instability: Americans are looking for a second residency or citizenship as a security measure due to growing concerns about the social and economic stability of the United States. Relocating to Europe offers some people, especially those who are wealthy, a sense of security, long-term stability, and a higher standard of living that may not be available in the US.
The Interest of Americans in Getting a Second Passport: There is a spike in demand for second passports during periods of more social unrest. Many people are thinking about diversifying their assets abroad in order to safeguard their wealth due to economic concerns, rising inflation, and shocks to the financial industry. These changes suggest that dual citizenship is becoming more popular as a workable solution to these needs.
The Top Things to Think About Before Leaving the United States
Taxation: Throughout the world, Americans are shadowed by the US tax system. As of 2023, the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion is limited to $120,000, and managing tax treaties can be challenging. If you are considering dual citizenship or quitting your US citizenship, be careful to speak with a tax expert.
Family: Does your family accompany you? Find out how you can relocate with your spouse, kids, parents, or siblings. Depending on what you’re searching for, look at violent crime rates, public or private schools, and educational possibilities.
Living Expenses: It’s critical to comprehend living costs, such as housing and medical care. Documentation of steady income may be necessary for some visas or residency permits.
Environmental and Climate Considerations: How is the weather? What about the water and air quality? Examine average temperatures and trends of natural disasters to determine whether your prospective home country is environmentally suitable.
Permit to Work: You may not always be able to work with your residency permit. Examine employment and business prospects, including possibilities for citizenship or residency that grant permanent work privileges.
Culture & Language: To prevent culture shock, embrace the local language, customs, and cultural links. For citizenship or residency, some jurisdictions need language and history exams.
Practical Aspects of Living Abroad: Planning to start a new life somewhere else is a huge move, so make sure you have a plan and are aware of your unique needs, such as what medications you will need to bring or how to prioritize your security and safety concerns.
The top European country to relocate from the United States in 2025.
Portugal: The Portugal Golden Visa program and the D7 Visa scheme make relocation to the country simple. Additionally, Portugal’s tax-free cryptocurrency laws are increasing the country’s appeal to US cryptocurrency dealers.
Spain: Similar to Portugal, Spain had a Golden Visa program. Up to April 2025, a number of investment options were available for obtaining a Spain Golden Visa. As a result, you have the option of various residency visas, such as the Non-Lucrative or Spain Digital Nomad visas, which offer the chance to become a permanent resident.
Greece: International students can attend a number of American international schools in Greece, the majority of which are located in Athens. The Greece Golden Visa program is another reason for Americans to relocate to Greece if they want to become residents through investment.
Malta: Malta is a beautiful island with a stunning coastline, delicious food, historical and architectural sites, and much more. Malta is among the top destinations for American expatriates due to its effective healthcare system.
Italy: One of the top destinations for Americans to relocate abroad is Italy, situated on the Mediterranean coast. There are reportedly more than 15,000 Americans residing in Italy. You may be wondering what the true motivations were for moving to Italy at this time. There are a number of noteworthy causes.
Latvia’s natural beauty captivates you as well. It boasts a lengthy Baltic coastline, hundreds of lakes, and woodlands. As a result, it is a sanctuary for outdoor aficionados. Hiking, cycling, or just taking in the peace of nature are all options. You’ll discover that compared to many large US cities, the slower pace of life is less stressful.
Canada: Canada is a popular destination for American immigrants, aside from European nations. The nation provides a stable, excellent existence in a friendly, inclusive community. For foreigners thinking about relocating with their families, it is perfect because of its outstanding healthcare, education, and employment options.