A recent survey of over 116,000 Americans has revealed that Portugal is the number one country where people are hoping to move abroad, followed closely by Spain and France.
The survey, conducted by Expatsi, a company that provides relocation tours and expat resources, found that visitors to its website are invited to complete a comprehensive assessment to determine which country might suit them best. The top requested countries include Portugal, Spain, UK, Canada, Italy, Ireland, France, Mexico, New Zealand, and Costa Rica.
Portugal also emerged as the number one most recommended country based on respondents’ preferences. According to the survey, the main reasons Americans want to move abroad are for adventure, enrichment, and growth, with many citing the need for more or different freedoms, as well as a desire to avoid gun violence and save money while living overseas.
Interestingly, two-thirds of Expatsi’s test-takers say they plan to leave the US by 2026, with some hoping to move within the next six months. Many are seeking a fresh start, driven by their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs in America.
The survey suggests that interest in expat destinations has surged since the 2024 presidential elections. Google search data analysis revealed a significant spike in users searching for terms related to “how to move to X country” beginning in June 2024. Site traffic to Expatsi also skyrocketed, with nearly 51,000 visitors in November, up from roughly 8,000 in October.
The business of moving abroad is booming, and companies like Expatsi are capitalizing on this trend. The company’s revenue has increased by a staggering 19,632% year-over-year, as more people seek guidance on navigating the complex process of relocation.
As Americans continue to explore opportunities abroad, it will be interesting to see which countries emerge as the most popular destinations and what factors drive individuals’ decisions to leave the US in search of a better life.
Source: CNBC