Millions of Americans live abroad, including in Mexico and Canada. While it’s challenging to pinpoint the exact number of US citizens overseas and their reasons for moving, many cite the cost of living, healthcare, and safety concerns as key factors.
Reasons for Moving
Whether driven by wanderlust, retirement, cost of living, family ties, or other motivations, some Americans seek life abroad. They tend to favor certain regions, with Mexico and Canada being top choices due to proximity. Other popular destinations include the UK and Australia, where English is the primary language. Some countries on the list may surprise you.
Estimating the Numbers
Using census data, the Association of Americans Resident Overseas (AARO) estimated the countries with the highest number of US citizens. It’s a rough estimate since embassies don’t keep an official registry of Americans overseas, and the US census doesn’t track citizens abroad, according to Doris L. Speer, president of AARO.
Here are the top 10 countries where Americans are choosing to live, according to AARO:
10. Spain: Estimated 108,684 US Citizens
From the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the Mediterranean coast, Spain offers a diverse landscape with bustling cities and charming towns. Its relatively low cost of living, vibrant nightlife, sunny beaches, high-quality healthcare, and relaxed lifestyle attract many Americans. However, non-Spanish and non-Catalan speakers may face challenges navigating the country. Spain offers a yearlong digital nomad visa and a non-lucrative visa for retirees.
9. Japan: Estimated 111,021 US Citizens
Japan, with a population of over 124 million, has a small fraction of US citizens. The country’s safety, scenery, and quality of life are major incentives. However, challenges include a lack of size inclusivity in clothing, language difficulties, and the time it takes to travel to other countries. Japan offers a “digital nomad” residence for six months and various visas for longer stays.
8. France: Estimated 117,462 US Citizens
Americans have long been fascinated with France, from its food and fashion to its art and architecture. However, some find the visa process tricky and housing difficult to secure. Racism, language barriers, and bureaucratic frustrations are also reported. France offers residence cards and student visas for those looking to work or study.
7. South Korea: Estimated 129,499 US Citizens
South Korea attracts visitors with its K-pop culture, food, shopping, museums, and natural wonders. US citizens appreciate the universal healthcare, quality of life, and convenient public transportation. Challenges include language barriers, high housing prices, and distance from the US. South Korea requires a visa for most stays, with options for work, school, or family.
6. Australia: Estimated 218,216 US Citizens
Australia is known for its beautiful beaches and weather, as well as a solid economy, good healthcare, and perks like retirement assistance. Melbourne and Sydney are among the top 10 most livable cities. However, the distance from the US and the worsening climate crisis are potential downsides. Australia offers visas for those with education qualifications, professional experience, and English proficiency through the Global Talent Program.
5. Germany: Estimated 238,652 US Citizens
Germany has long been Europe’s economic powerhouse, attracting many Americans with job opportunities, reliable public healthcare, affordable childcare, and generous vacation time. The country’s central location in Europe allows for easy travel to neighboring countries like Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, and Switzerland.
Recently, Germany’s economic growth has slowed, and the government has announced tighter border controls. Some political analysts are concerned about the re-emergence of far-right politics in recent elections. Skilled workers can apply for visas and stay for 12 months while looking for a job. The country has also eased some rules around obtaining citizenship.
4. Israel: Estimated 281,137 US Citizens
Israel has attracted high-tech startups and wealthy individuals, fueling a luxury real estate boom in some cities. However, the ongoing conflict with Hamas and the invasion of Gaza have slowed the inflow of millionaires. Many US citizens live in cities far from the conflicts, while others reside in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The country’s Law of Return allows those with Jewish parents or grandparents to apply for citizenship.
3. United Kingdom: Estimated 325,321 US Citizens
The UK, with its native English-speaking population, offers an easier transition for Americans. Prescriptions, groceries, and rent are often cheaper than in the US, though gas and energy prices can be higher. Americans appreciate the National Health Service, proximity to Europe, and work-life balance. However, smaller homes, rainy weather, and pub culture may be challenging for some. The UK offers work and study visas, with information on settlement available on the government’s website.
2. Canada: Estimated 1,050,898 US Citizens
Canada’s scenic beauty, vibrant cities, large English-speaking population, and universal healthcare attract many Americans. However, affordable housing can be hard to find in cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Canada offers a feeling of safety, especially with the US’s high rates of gun violence. While the country provides paths to permanent residency or citizenship, these are often tied to work or family connections. Skilled workers and entrepreneurs can apply for visas, and relatives can sponsor family members.
1. Mexico: Estimated 1,182,346 US Citizens
Mexico attracts many Americans who want to stay close to friends and family while settling in a new country. The ability to use Medicare across the border is important for many retirees. Housing, groceries, and healthcare are typically less expensive than in the US, though rising rents and housing shortages are issues in some areas like Mexico City. Many US citizens obtain a temporary resident visa for up to four years, while retirees can apply for a permanent resident visa.
These countries highlight the diverse reasons and destinations Americans choose when living abroad.
Source: Yahoo News
