The American Dream, once synonymous with opportunity, freedom, and upward mobility feels increasingly out of reach amid rising living costs, healthcare woes, political polarization, and burnout culture. According to a recent survey, 17% of Americans say they plan to move abroad within the next five years, with 5% actively planning relocation, and 2% having already begun the process. Meanwhile, a Harris Poll of over 6,300 U.S. adults found that “42% have considered or are planning to move abroad, including 63% of Gen Z and 52% of Millennials."

Middle‑class professionals, multi‑generational families, digital nomads, and retirees and many young Americans are now actively seeking refuge and opportunity abroad, especially in Europe, where healthcare is largely universal, social safety nets are robust, and slower-paced lifestyles are increasingly accessible. Platforms like Move Overseas Now report 30,000+ Americans taking concrete steps toward relocating in 2024 alone, with countries like Spain, Portugal, Italy, and the UK in high demand 

Adjusting to Life in Europe: Cultural Differences That Surprise Americans

One of the most enriching yet challenging aspects of relocating to Europe is adjusting to cultural norms that can feel worlds apart from life in the U.S. For many Americans, it’s not just the language that shifts , it’s the lifestyle, the pace, and even the unspoken rules of society. Here are some of the cultural surprises American expatriates commonly face in different parts of Europe:

Italy: La Dolce Vita Isn’t Always About Speed

In Italy, the relaxed pace of life can be refreshing or frustrating. Americans used to 24/7 convenience might find themselves bewildered when shops close for hours during riposo (afternoon siesta). According to IES Abroad, even bureaucratic processes take their time. On the upside, Italians deeply value quality time, communal meals, and face-to-face interaction-a shift many expats learn to love.

In Italy, Americans are often surprised by how fast and formal the coffee culture is: espresso is taken quickly at the counter, never in a to-go cup, and stepping out in casual loungewear is almost frowned upon. Cash is still king at many local spots, and style always matters.

France: Formality in Everyday Interaction

In France, social etiquette carries more weight than many Americans expect. A casual “Hey!” doesn’t go far; greetings like bonjour (hello) and au revoir (goodbye) are essential, even when entering a small shop. BuzzFeed highlights how this formality may come off as cold to Americans at first, but it reflects a deep-rooted respect for personal boundaries and public decorum.

Also, don’t expect to rush through a French meal. Dining is considered an experience, not a transaction. Asking for the check too early might even come across as rude. In France, the laid-back pace of service and the strict boundaries between work and personal life stand out. Shops are often closed on Sundays, and customer service doesn’t aim to please in the American sense , it’s professional, but never servile.

Germany: Rules, Punctuality & Privacy

Germany is often described by expats as the land of structure. Recycling systems are complex but strictly followed. And Germans tend to value privacy more than Americans do; small talk with strangers is rare, and personal questions can be perceived as invasive.

Yet, Americans often grow to appreciate the efficiency, public transportation, and overall organization of life in Germany.

Portugal: Easygoing and Affordable, But Slower Systems

Portugal offers a warm welcome to Americans, both literally and figuratively. The locals are known for being friendly and tolerant. But the pace of life and government systems can be unexpectedly slow. For example, scheduling appointments or setting up utilities may require patience. That said, the cost of living, mild climate, and growing international communities (especially in Lisbon and Porto) make it a rewarding adjustment.

Also, tipping culture is minimal. While it’s appreciated, it’s not obligatory. This often surprises Americans used to a 20% standard tip.. In Portugal, Americans often face confusion in public restrooms-used toilet paper usually goes into a bin, not the toilet, due to fragile plumbing. Tardiness is normal, and confrontation is avoided in favor of subtle, polite disagreement. 

Greece: Family-Centric Culture and Flexible Timing

Greece stands out for its deep-rooted hospitality and strong family values. It’s common to see three generations living under one roof or dining together regularly. Americans may find the lack of urgency in daily routines surprising, "Greek time" is flexible, and schedules are often adjusted on the fly.

According to cultural anecdotes from expats, public services and processes can be slow or feel disorganized, but locals often rely on personal networks to get things done. Life is centered more around people than systems, which is a shift for many American newcomers.

Pan-European Culture Shocks

Across all these countries, other common surprises include paid public restrooms, no free refills, smaller food portions, less ice in drinks, and minimal tipping , usually just rounding up the bill. Personal space norms also differ, with Southern Europeans being more physically affectionate in greetings, while Northern countries like Germany prefer distance. What Americans initially see as inconvenient often becomes part of the charm , a shift in pace, priorities, and everyday rituals that over time, start to feel surprisingly natural.

Raising a Family Abroad: How Education and Healthcare Shift Perspectives

Education and Family Life in Europe

In Europe, education is more accessible by design. In countries such as Germany or the Netherlands, public schooling is free or nearly so ,from primary through higher education, unlike in the U.S., where tuition, school fees, and extracurricular costs accumulate into heavy financial strain and debt.

European academic systems often emphasize well-rounded learning: critical thinking, creativity, and early vocational pathways, rather than early specialization or intense standardized testing. For example, Finland delays formal education to prioritize early literacy and numeracy skills; other nations offer apprenticeships or dual tracks so students can pursue practical skills alongside academics. This holistic approach contrasts sharply with American pressure-cooker environments, where children juggle tutoring, extracurriculars, and college prep from an early age. Many U.S. expat parents report that European schools offer fewer hidden fees and foster happier, more socially holistic students.

For more on children’s education abroad read our other article on why so Americans are moving abroad for their kid’s education and the residency options available.

Family Life: Supportive Policies & Natural Integration

European family support systems extend well beyond school. Generous parental leave, sometimes stretching the first year of life, is backed by subsidized childcare, child allowances (such as Germany’s Kindergeld), and family-oriented social programs. These government supports encourage both parents to balance home and work without sacrificing financial or emotional security.

Furthermore, European cities and neighborhoods tend to be family-centric. Children are welcome in cultural venues, parks and cafés even at late hours. Parents don’t need to shield them from public life; in fact, kids are routinely integrated, participating in adult-centered social routines in ways uncommon in the U.S.

Healthcare: Access, Affordability, and Peace of Mind

The U.S. ranks among the most expensive countries in the world for healthcare, yet its outcomes don’t always reflect that investment. In contrast, European nations deliver high-quality care that is often publicly funded, accessible, and  to the astonishment of many U.S. citizens- affordable, even without insurance.

Portugal, for example, was ranked as the best country in the world for quality healthcare by International Living’s 2024 Global Retirement Index, noted in a recent  article. Expats who become legal residents can access the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) ,the public healthcare system  which covers doctor visits, hospital care, maternity, and even emergency services. Costs are either nominal or fully covered, and prescriptions are heavily subsidized. What stands out for many is not just the affordability, but the humanity: appointments aren’t rushed, and preventive care is a priority.

In Italy, the healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale) also provides universal coverage and is highly rated for efficiency and accessibility. As one American expat shared in Live in Italy Mag, “We feel taken care of. We feel like the doctors and staff care about us as people, not just as billing codes.” While there are regional differences in wait times and service quality, especially between northern and southern Italy, the public system is widely trusted. Many expats opt to purchase low-cost private insurance (ranging from €100–€500/year) to supplement their care or access English-speaking doctors more quickly.

In Greece, the public healthcare system (ESY) provides basic coverage for citizens and residents, and many expats report that private care is both accessible and reasonably priced. A general practitioner visit at a private clinic may cost between €30–€50, and even major surgeries can cost thousands less than in the U.S. While rural hospitals may face shortages, urban centers like Athens offer modern facilities and international clinics.

Across the board, European healthcare systems emphasize accessibility, prevention, and affordability. Prescription drugs are price-controlled, medical procedures are clearly priced (no surprise bills), and ambulance rides don’t bankrupt families. According to OECD data, healthcare spending per capita in countries like Portugal, Greece, and Italy is less than half of the U.S., yet outcomes such as life expectancy and infant mortality are often better.

For many Americans, this shift is more than just practical , it’s emotional. It’s a relief to know you can walk into a hospital without calculating what you might owe. As more U.S. citizens move abroad, many report that the healthcare experience alone is enough to validate the move and even make them question why it took them so long.

The fact is many Americans are leveraging investment migration programs to escape rising medical costs in the U.S. In this article we discuss how investment migration unlocks affordable, world-class healthcare abroad, helping Americans escape rising medical costs while gaining global residency.

The Financial Side: Is Life in Europe More Affordable for Americans?

While costs vary across the continent, countries like Portugal, Greece, and even parts of Italy often offer a significantly lower cost of living compared to many U.S. cities. Housing, groceries, healthcare, and education tend to be more affordable, allowing families to save more or live comfortably on a single income. For example Portugal’s average cost of living is about 30% lower than the U.S., Greece’s is roughly 35% lower, and Italy’s is approximately 20% lower, though this can vary by region. Beyond daily expenses, the ability to pay down debts, avoid medical bankruptcies, and enjoy a slower pace of life motivates many Americans to make the move.

Housing is one of the most significant savings. In cities like Lisbon, Athens, or Prague, rent can be 30–50% cheaper than in U.S. metros like Los Angeles or New York. According to Investopedia, urban living in Europe often costs far less without requiring luxury compromises. The article states that living in Europe can be more affordable for Americans due to lower housing costs, cheaper public healthcare, and efficient public transport systems that reduce the need for owning a car. While taxes may be higher, they often fund services like healthcare and education, which helps offset everyday expenses and contributes to a better overall quality of life.

Healthcare, one of the biggest financial burdens for American families, is where the savings are most striking. Most European countries offer universal or heavily subsidized healthcare systems, which eliminate expensive monthly premiums, high deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs that are common in the U.S. As reported by Travel and Leisure, Portugal in particular ranks among the world’s top nations for high-quality and affordable healthcare, a benefit especially appealing to retirees or families with children.

Day-to-day expenses like public transport, groceries, childcare, and even entertainment tend to be more budget-friendly in many parts of Europe. According to Numbeo, the cost of groceries and restaurant dining in countries like Spain, Portugal, and Greece is often 30–50% lower than in the U.S. Plus, excellent public transit systems eliminate the need for car ownership, saving thousands annually on fuel, maintenance, and insurance.

While it's true that income taxes in Europe can be higher, they often replace out-of-pocket spending in the U.S. on essentials like medical care, education, or infrastructure. The “sticker shock” of higher taxes is often offset by the reduced need for private services. For Americans earning in dollars, especially those working remotely, currency exchange rates can add even more spending power when converting USD to euros—particularly in countries with lower average wage expectations.

That said, not all of Europe is cheap. Cities like Zurich, Oslo, and Paris can exceed U.S. prices. But for those open to living in smaller cities, provincial towns, or scenic coastal regions, Europe often delivers a higher quality of life at a lower financial strain. The result? A lifestyle where your money goes further, and your day-to-day life feels less pressured.

Safety, Stability, and the Desire for a Different Life

For many Americans, relocating to Europe is about more than chasing better weather or new scenery ,it’s about seeking a safer, more stable, and more balanced way of life.

Gun Violence & Public Safety

One of the most cited motivations is public safety. In the U.S., gun violence remains a major concern, especially for families and parents. In contrast, European countries have significantly lower rates of firearm-related deaths and violent crime. According to the Global Peace Index 2024, countries like Portugal, Slovenia, and Finland are among the safest in the world, offering residents a daily sense of calm that’s difficult to replicate in many U.S. cities.

Peace of Mind for Families

Parents often point to Europe's strong focus on child welfare, well-funded public schools, safe urban environments, and reliable healthcare as a key reason to relocate. Many European neighborhoods are walkable and community-oriented, making them ideal for raising children. A 2023 OECD report shows that European countries consistently outperform the U.S. in child well-being metrics, including safety, education, and access to healthcare.

 A Safer Choice for LGBTQ+ Individuals

LGBTQ+ Americans, especially in conservative U.S. states, are increasingly seeking refuge in progressive European countries where rights are protected and homophobia is less tolerated. Nations like the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany not only recognize same-sex marriage and adoption but also offer robust legal protections. The ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map 2024 ranks several European countries above the U.S. in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and safety. 

For more on why members of the LGBTQ+ community are seeking options to move out of the United States, read our deep dive into this phenomena here.

 Safety for Solo Women Travelers and Expats

For single women, the ability to walk home at night or use public transit without fear is life-changing. Countries like Austria, Iceland, and Switzerland consistently rank high for women’s safety. According to the U.S. News Best Countries for Women 2024, many European nations dominate the list, offering strong legal protections and social norms that prioritize gender equality and public safety.

 Stability in Uncertain Times

Europe's institutional stability, strong social safety nets, reliable healthcare, and less political volatility offers a sense of long-term security. Unlike the U.S., where healthcare access and civil rights can shift dramatically with each election, European governments tend to maintain a steadier policy course.

 A Different Kind of Life

Ultimately, the appeal of Europe lies in how life feels: more grounded, less hectic, and built around well-being. For many Americans, especially those burned out by high stress, constant news alerts, or divisive social climates, Europe represents a reset button: a place where safety isn’t just statistical, it’s felt.

Europe’s Accessible Visa Options for Americans

With growing interest in stability, healthcare, and quality of life, more Americans are exploring legal pathways to live in Europe. Thanks to flexible visa routes like Golden Visas and citizenship by descent, countries such as Portugal, Greece, and Italy have become highly accessible options.

Residency by Investment: The Golden Visa Route

For those seeking flexibility and long-term benefits, Golden Visa programs offer European residency through investment, often with minimal stay requirements and family inclusion.

• Portugal: From €250,000 via cultural or fund investments.
  
  
• Greece: €250,000 property purchase—one of Europe’s most affordable.
  
  
• Italy: Starting at €250,000 in startups or €500,000 in companies.

Citizenship by Descent: Reconnect with Your Roots

If you have Italian, Greek, or Portuguese ancestry, you may already qualify for EU citizenship, no investment required.

• Italy: No generational limit if documents are intact.
  
  
• Greece: Available via parent/grandparent.
  
  
• Portugal:Expanding access through recent reforms.
  
  
• Ireland:  Available via parent/grandparent with Foreign Births Register.
  
  
• Poland: No generational limit if citizenship chain is unbroken.
  
  

Whether you're investing in a second home or reclaiming your heritage through ancestry, Europe offers a path that fits your lifestyle and goals. Talk to our experts to explore your best route, Golden Visa or citizenship by descent, and take the first step toward living in Europe. 

Rethinking the American Dream

For many, moving to Europe isn’t just about escaping the problems of the U.S.; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes well-being, community, and financial security. Whether motivated by safety, better healthcare, affordable living, or simply the chance for a fresh start, Americans are finding that life abroad offers them a future they can believe in.

At Immigration Diligence, we specialize in helping Americans navigate the complexities of relocating to Europe , from visa applications to finding the right community.

Book a Consultation and take the first step toward your new life abroad.