Why More Americans Are Leaving the U.S. — And What They're Finding Abroad

Something is shifting.

From social media feeds to dinner table conversations, more people — from all walks of life — are asking, “Is it time to leave the U.S.?”

And they’re not just asking. They're packing up, buying one-way tickets, and building lives elsewhere.

The reasons are personal, yes — but also deeply structural. According to data from the U.S. State Department and global relocation agencies, interest in international living has increased significantly in recent years, particularly since 2020. People are no longer waiting for systems to change; they’re changing their environments instead.

What’s Driving the Move Abroad?

Here are a few research-backed reasons people are choosing to live outside the United States:

• Cost of living: In many countries, healthcare, childcare, and education are significantly more affordable — and often higher in quality.

• Work-life balance: Some countries across Europe, Latin America, and Asia offer longer parental leave, shorter workweeks, and a cultural commitment to rest.

• Public safety: Many families are looking for places where school safety isn’t tied to active shooter drills and children can play without constant surveillance.

• Food quality: There’s growing concern around processed foods, additives, and health impacts in the U.S. — and a growing appreciation for places where food is made from recognizable ingredients.

• Community orientation: In many societies, there’s a deeper sense of communal care — where neighbors look out for one another and policies reflect collective well-being, not just individual gain.

• Mental health: Slower living, walkable neighborhoods, and less grind culture contribute to more sustainable mental health — not just for adults, but for kids too.

Why I’m Choosing to Leave

For me, the decision isn’t about escape — it’s about alignment.

I want my children to grow up in a society that values connection over competition, where they don’t have to rehearse for mass shootings, and where time with family isn’t squeezed between the pick up and drop off. I want to feed them food made with real ingredients. I want to walk slower — and not be the only one doing it.

I want a life where the memorable moments aren’t crammed into weekends or vacations, but woven into our everyday.

Is Living Abroad Right for You?

This isn’t a trend to follow blindly. It’s a major life shift that requires planning, flexibility, and a deep understanding of what you really want.

If you’re considering leaving the U.S., ask yourself:

• Do I crave a different pace or quality of life?

• Am I curious about other cultures — not just for vacation, but for real living?

• Am I ready to unlearn and relearn?

• Do I want my children to grow up global?

If even a few of these resonate, you’re not alone.

Whether you’re curious about schools in Portugal, visas in Costa Rica, or just figuring out your next step, there’s a path forward.

This isn’t about leaving something behind. It’s about choosing a life where you feel more whole — and maybe, even more at home.

Thinking about living abroad but not sure where to start?

The Do This Now: Checklist is your first step toward clarity. Whether you’re still dreaming or already researching destinations, this free resource walks you through the key actions to take right now — from getting your documents in order to building your community.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to take the first step.

📥 Click here to download your free checklist and start mapping out your Best Life Abroad — with intention, confidence, and support.