10 Countries Experiencing a Rise in American Expats, According to New Federal Data

More Americans packed up and left the United States than have in decades. Federal data revealed a 28.3% jump in Americans heading abroad during the first three quarters of 2024, already outpacing all of 2023. The Association of Americans Resident Overseas estimated that approximately 5.5 million U.S. citizens were living abroad as of October 2024.

What’s pushing this wave? It’s complicated. The top reason people give for wanting to move out of the U.S. is for adventure, enrichment and growth, though some 56% of respondents say the U.S. is too conservative, while 53% feel the country is too divided. Others cite rising costs of living, healthcare concerns, and political polarization. Let’s be real, the idea of starting fresh somewhere new has never been more tempting for everyday Americans. The question now is, where exactly are they going?

1. Mexico

Mexico leads the list, with nearly 800,000 U.S. citizens residing there by the end of 2024. Twice as many U.S. nationals migrated into Mexico during the first four months of 2024 as they did over the same period the year before. According to data provided by the Mexican government. Think about it for a second. Mexico’s proximity makes it incredibly convenient for Americans to visit, and the cost of living is a fraction of what you’d pay in the United States. Living comfortably in Mexico City costs about $3,500 a month, whereas the same lifestyle demands around $11,500 in New York.

2. Portugal

Portugal has absolutely exploded as a destination for American expats. Since 2017, the number of Americans residing in Portugal has skyrocketed by 239%, reaching nearly 14,000 in 2024. Here’s the thing about Portugal though: it’s not just cheap and safe. In the 2024 Global Peace Index, it was ranked the 7th safest country globally, thanks to low crime rates and a peaceful environment. The Mediterranean climate brings nearly 300 days of sunshine each year, and the country’s high global English proficiency ranking makes daily life more manageable for newcomers. The combination of affordability, weather, and that laid-back European vibe? It’s hard to beat, honestly.

3. Spain

Spain has shown impressive growth, reflecting new visa incentives and lifestyle appeal. The Spanish cities of Valencia, Alicante and Málaga ranked highly in InterNations’ most recent list of best cities for expats. The country’s universal healthcare system is phenomenal, and you can actually afford to live there without draining your savings. Spain offers several visa options, including the popular Non-Lucrative Visa, which is perfect for retirees and remote workers who do not plan to work locally, and the healthcare system in Spain is excellent, offering high-quality medical care to residents and expats. Plus, the Spanish culture around food, family, and social life creates a slower pace that many Americans crave after years of hustle culture.

4. Canada

Canada remains a top choice, and it makes complete sense when you think about it. It is the ninth-largest economy in the world and a country that is very welcoming to immigrants, about 1 million of which are American expats. The cultural similarities and shared language make the transition smoother than most international moves. Canada’s reputation for safety and peaceful living makes it a top choice for families, ranked 11th globally on the Global Peace Index with a score of 1.449, with its stable political system and low crime rates further enhancing its appeal. Healthcare access is another massive draw, though getting permanent residency requires navigating a competitive points-based system.

5. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom recorded moderate increases in American expat populations according to recent data. Approximately 11% of emigrating U.S. citizens to OECD countries in 2022 migrated to Spain, 10% to Canada and 9% to the United Kingdom. The shared language obviously helps, as do deep cultural and historical ties between the two nations. Despite Brexit complications and the high cost of living in places like London, the UK continues to attract Americans with professional ties or ancestral connections. The ease of integrating into British society without major language barriers keeps the UK firmly on the list of preferred destinations.

6. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its political stability, biodiversity, and appeal to retirees. The country has built a reputation around that “pura vida” lifestyle, and Americans are buying into it. Retirees enjoy beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and a relaxed pace of life, with the country providing a pensionado visa program for retirees with a steady income. Healthcare is affordable and high quality, especially compared to U.S. standards. I think what really sets Costa Rica apart is how welcoming the local culture is toward foreign residents. The government actively encourages retirees and remote workers to settle there, making visa processes relatively straightforward.

7. Germany

Germany attracts Americans with EU family connections, dual citizenship paths, or employment in academia or international organizations. Germany offers strong job prospects, particularly in cities like Munich and Berlin. It’s especially popular among younger professionals looking for career advancement in tech, engineering, or finance. The German work-life balance is notably better than the American grind, with generous vacation policies and strong labor protections. Yes, the language can be a barrier initially, though many international companies operate in English.

8. France

France draws those with EU family connections, dual citizenship paths, or employment in academia or international organizations. For retirees, France is another great option, because of its favorable tax jurisdiction. The allure of French culture, cuisine, and history remains powerful for Americans seeking a European experience. Paris obviously attracts the most attention, though smaller cities and rural areas are seeing increased American interest as remote work becomes more normalized. The French healthcare system consistently ranks among the best in the world, which appeals to expats of all ages.

9. Italy

Italy attracts those with EU family connections, dual citizenship paths, or employment in academia or international organizations. Many Americans with Italian ancestry obtain dual citizenship and move to Italy for retirement, while the hospitality and fashion industries offer opportunities for entrepreneurs and creatives, with Rome, Florence, and Milan hosting the largest American expatriate communities. The Italian lifestyle centered around food, family, and leisure resonates deeply with Americans tired of the fast-paced grind. Property prices in certain regions remain relatively affordable, especially outside major tourist centers.

10. Japan

Japan has shown impressive growth, reflecting new visa incentives and lifestyle appeal. The country has worked to attract more foreign talent through updated visa programs targeting remote workers and skilled professionals. Japan offers an intriguing blend of ultra-modern cities and deeply preserved traditions. The safety level is exceptional, public transportation is world-class, and healthcare is both affordable and efficient. The cultural adjustment is admittedly steeper than European destinations, though many Americans find the experience rewarding once they settle in.

The shift we’re seeing isn’t just about numbers on a spreadsheet. It represents a fundamental rethinking of where and how Americans want to live. Economic pressures, political divisions, and the normalization of remote work have opened doors that previous generations never had. Whether seeking adventure, affordability, safety, or simply a change of scenery, more Americans are choosing to call somewhere else home. The data tells us this trend shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.