What happens when the American dream starts to feel more like a fading memory than a promise?

Across the United States, increasing numbers of young adults are daring to imagine a life beyond America’s borders. They’re not just daydreaming about picturesque vistas, they’re taking real steps to find them.

A telling report by the Post-Journal shines a light on this trend: a growing share of young Americans say they’re seriously considering relocating abroad. Driving this shift are deep frustrations with high living costs, political polarization, and limited career mobility-factors many see as less of an issue in countries with more affordable healthcare, lower housing costs, and stronger social support.

This surge isn’t built on sentiment alone. It’s rooted in a quest for real improvements in day-to-day life-greater flexibility, less financial strain, and the opportunity to thrive in places that feel more aligned with today’s global realities. For a generation asking “Where can I live smarter, not just farther?”, the only real question is when, not if.

The decision to leave one’s home country is rarely simple, yet a growing number of Americans are weighing it with increasing seriousness. Economic frustrations, political disillusionment, and the search for a more balanced lifestyle have created a wave of interest in relocation that spans across age groups, but is especially pronounced among the young.

Nearly half of those considering a move abroad say the driving force is financial relief. With 49% citing lower living costs as a top motivator, it’s clear that affordability has become a key factor in the expat equation. Homeownership in particular feels out of reach for many: 68% believe buying a home in the U.S. is no longer realistic for the average American. In contrast, destinations in Europe, Latin America, and Asia offer more accessible housing markets and the chance to build wealth without shouldering overwhelming debt.

Another major catalyst is dissatisfaction with governance at home. Nearly half of Americans surveyed 48% say political leadership is one of their main reasons for exploring life abroad. For many, this is tied to broader frustrations with polarization, social unrest, and a growing sense that the system no longer reflects their values. Marginalized groups, in particular, are concerned about erosion of rights and protections, and view relocation as a way to secure stability and personal freedom.

Beyond economics and politics lies something more fundamental: quality of life. 43% of Americans believe life abroad offers greater stability, safety, and superior public services. Access to affordable healthcare, well-regarded education systems, and safer communities often tip the scales for those on the fence. For young families and professionals, the promise of raising children in environments that prioritize well-being and opportunity is especially attractive.

While the desire to relocate spans generations, the momentum is strongest among younger Americans. 63% of Gen Z and 52% of Millennials say they’ve considered moving abroad, with nearly one in five seriously contemplating the leap - from Michigan to Mexico City, or Boston to Barcelona. By contrast, the numbers fall sharply among older groups: only 35% of Gen X and 26% of Boomers have considered the same.

This generational divide reflects deeper shifts in values. Gen X and Boomers, who tend to have higher average wealth and stronger ties to traditional notions of stability, are less likely to take the risk of uprooting. Meanwhile, younger generations facing rising costs, stagnant wages, and fewer pathways to replicate their parents’ financial success are prioritizing international mobility and access to global opportunities. For many, moving abroad isn’t just about chasing adventure; it’s about reclaiming the promise of a secure, fulfilling life that feels increasingly out of reach at home.

So, where exactly are Americans setting their sights? The answer is as diverse as the people moving, but a few key regions and countries consistently appear at the top of the list.

For many, Europe offers a tantalizing combination of rich history, robust public services, and an enviable work-life balance. Several nations here stand out as particular magnets for American expats:

• Portugal: Frequently hailed as the top choice, Portugal offers a mild climate, a lower cost of living, and attractive visa options for retirees and digital nomads.
• Spain: With its sunny weather, delicious food, and relaxed pace, Spain is a popular destination. Remote workers are flocking there, thanks in part to its specialized Digital Nomad Visa.
• France: Beyond the allure of Parisian life, France offers a high quality of life, world-class healthcare, and a culture that prioritizes leisure and family time.
• Italy and Greece: These Mediterranean gems are consistently favored for their cultural heritage, beautiful scenery, and more affordable living costs. Italy is especially popular with retirees, while Greece offers a path to residency through property investment.

For those who want to stay a bit closer to home, Latin America and Canada provide compelling options with diverse cultures and climates, often just a short flight away.

• Mexico: Already home to a massive American expat community, Mexico is a perennial favorite for its affordability, vibrant culture, and proximity to the U.S..
• Canada: Sharing a border and many cultural touchstones, Canada is a logical choice. It offers universal healthcare, a high quality of life, and straightforward immigration pathways for skilled workers.
• Costa Rica and Panama: Retirees and nature lovers are drawn to the political stability and natural beauty of these Central American nations. Panama's use of the U.S. dollar is a particular perk for many Americans.

For the more adventurous, Asian countries offer a dramatically different cultural experience and a very low cost of living.

Thailand and Vietnam: As digital nomad culture grows, these countries have become hot spots for remote workers seeking an exotic lifestyle on a budget. Both are praised for their affordability and rich cultures.

For many, the decision to leave isn't just about a desire for adventure. It's a pragmatic choice driven by several key factors:

• Affordability: The high cost of living in many U.S. cities makes the prospect of a more affordable lifestyle abroad incredibly attractive.
• Healthcare: Access to affordable, high-quality healthcare is a major motivator, especially for retirees and families.
• Work-Life Balance: Many Americans seek to escape the demanding "hustle culture" for countries that offer more vacation time and a more relaxed pace.
• Stability: Growing concerns over social issues and political polarization prompt some to seek a safer, more stable environment for their families.

Regardless of the destination, the new American exodus is a trend that appears to be growing. Fueled by remote work and the search for a better quality of life, it represents a profound reevaluation of what it means to live a good life in the 21st century.

Curious which destinations fit your budget and lifestyle? Contact Immigration Diligence to discover the best relocation pathways for Americans like you.

While push factors like cost of living and politics play a major role, the allure of life abroad also comes from what other countries uniquely offer. Many young Americans are drawn to the idea of living in societies where work-life balance, community, and cultural enrichment are prioritized over nonstop hustle.

Prioritizing Well-Being and Leisure

In many countries, policies and cultural norms place a stronger focus on health, recreation, and time for family and community. Whether it’s long summer holidays in Southern Europe, thriving outdoor lifestyles in places like Portugal and Greece, or the wellness-driven culture of cities such as Copenhagen, younger Americans see the potential to enjoy life in ways that go beyond work.

Access to Rich Cultural Experiences

From the historical streets of Lisbon to the thriving art scenes in Berlin or the culinary culture of Mexico City, many expats highlight cultural immersion as one of the most rewarding aspects of relocating. For younger Americans, travel and exposure to global communities are not luxuries but essential parts of their identity and worldview.

A Broader Sense of Belonging

Living abroad also offers the chance to be part of more diverse, internationally-minded communities. Many Americans find that moving overseas fosters a sense of belonging and connection that feels harder to achieve amid rising polarization at home.

This cultural and lifestyle pull underscores an important truth: for many, relocation is not just about escaping challenges in the U.S., it’s about embracing a future that feels more fulfilling, connected, and globally engaged.

What once seemed like a fringe lifestyle choice is rapidly evolving into a mainstream movement. Digital nomadism and expat living are no longer novelty lifestyles but a mainstream reality, especially for the younger generation.

Global digital nomadism has exploded, with an estimated 45 million people worldwide living as digital nomads in 2024, and projections expect that number to surpass 60 million by 2030. Of these, a staggering 18.1 million are Americans

This rising trend is enabled by expanding opportunities and support: over 66 countries now offer digital nomad or remote-worker visas, up from just 40 a year ago, offering legal pathways for global mobility. These programs not only accommodate remote work but increasingly aim to retain international talent by offering longer-term residency or business advantages.

Growth isn't just about escape, it's strategic. Americans today are motivated by access to better healthcare, affordable living, cultural diversity, and flexibility in lifestyle, benefits often lacking domestically.

As the world adapts to remote work and countries compete for international professionals, the expat dream is transforming into a forward-thinking one. It's becoming less about leaving behind challenges, and more about expanding horizons, redefining the “American Dream” to include life with fewer borders.

For many Americans, the idea of a “Plan B” is no longer just a luxury, it’s becoming a necessity. One of the most striking findings in recent studies is the rise of interest in dual citizenship, particularly among younger generations. Nearly two-thirds (66%) of Millennials and Gen Z are actively exploring second passport options as a way to increase their travel freedom, access better financial opportunities, and build an international safety net.

In an era marked by political polarization, economic instability, and global uncertainty, a second passport offers tangible advantages. Dual citizens often enjoy:

• Expanded Mobility: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to countries across Europe, Asia, and beyond, reducing reliance on complex U.S. visa arrangements.
• Economic Opportunity: Access to international banking, property markets, and investment channels that may not be open to U.S.-only citizens.

Social Security & Stability: Options to benefit from public healthcare systems, affordable education, and even retirement abroad in countries with lower living costs and better social services.

The surge in demand is fueling interest in multiple routes to a second passport:

• Citizenship by Descent: Many Americans with European or Latin American ancestry are uncovering eligibility through their family history. This path can be more cost-effective than investment programs.
• Residency & Citizenship by Investment: Programs in countries like Portugal, Greece, and the Caribbean offer residency or citizenship in exchange for real estate investment or financial contributions.
• Naturalization Abroad: For those willing to relocate long-term, establishing residency and pursuing naturalization remains an option in countries with favorable timelines.

What’s driving this surge is not just the allure of new opportunities, but also the reassurance that comes with having alternatives. For Americans, especially younger ones, a second passport represents freedom of choice: the ability to live, work, and build a future outside the constraints of one country’s economic or political landscape.

Increasingly, investment migration programs are seen not just as tools of the wealthy, but as strategic solutions for middle-class families seeking resilience and global access. In uncertain times, this global safety net is becoming one of the most valuable assets a person can hold.

At Immigration Diligence, we understand that pursuing life beyond U.S. borders is more than just a move, it’s a life-changing decision. Our mission is to provide clarity, strategy, and trusted guidance for individuals and families ready to embrace the opportunities of global mobility.

Whether you’re exploring second citizenship for greater freedom, seeking residency in tax-friendly countries to ease financial burdens, or planning a new beginning abroad, our team brings years of expertise to simplify what can often feel like a complex process. From initial eligibility assessments to document preparation and strategic planning, we walk with you at every stage to ensure your journey is smooth and successful.

We don’t just help you apply, we help you design a roadmap for the future you envision. With our deep knowledge of Golden Visa programs, citizenship by investment, and citizenship by descent, we tailor solutions that fit your goals, lifestyle, and family needs.

As the definition of the American Dream evolves, more people are discovering the freedom and resilience of the Expat Dream—a future built on security, choice, and global opportunity. The question is: are you ready to take the first step?

Contact us today to explore your options and secure your future beyond borders.