Top 10 Countries Americans Are Moving To

Portugal's surge in American expatriates isn't just about the affordable cost of living – it's about embracing a profoundly different way of life. In cities like Lisbon and Porto, a couple can live comfortably on $2,500-3,000 per month, including rent for a two-bedroom apartment in desirable neighborhoods ($800-1,200). The country's healthcare system ranks 12th globally according to WHO, with private insurance costing as little as $50-100 per month. The D7 visa program has become incredibly popular among remote workers and retirees, requiring proof of passive income around $1,200/month per person. Portuguese cities offer a perfect blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with high-speed internet (average 100 Mbps) available throughout urban areas. The coastal regions enjoy 300+ days of sunshine annually, while the local culture emphasizes work-life balance, with long lunches and evening strolls (passeios) being part of daily life. Expat communities are particularly strong in the Algarve region and Madeira, where English is widely spoken. Public transportation is excellent, with a monthly pass costing around $40, and the country's central location makes it perfect for exploring Europe. Recent infrastructure improvements and government initiatives to attract foreign residents have made Portugal even more appealing. The country offers a non-habitual resident tax program that can provide significant tax benefits for the first 10 years of residence. Technology hubs in Lisbon and Porto have created vibrant communities for digital professionals, while coastal areas offer a more relaxed, beach-oriented lifestyle.

Mexico's appeal to Americans extends far beyond its proximity to the US. In popular expat destinations like San Miguel de Allende, Merida, or Puerto Vallarta, a couple can enjoy a luxury lifestyle for $2,000-3,000 monthly. Housing costs vary significantly: a modern two-bedroom apartment in San Miguel de Allende might cost $800-1,200 monthly, while similar accommodations in Puerto Vallarta's Zona Romantica could reach $1,500. Private healthcare is a major draw, with top-tier facilities like Hospital ABC offering world-class care at a fraction of US costs – a comprehensive insurance plan typically runs $200-300 monthly for a couple in their 60s. The country's temporary resident visa requires proving income of about $2,100 monthly or savings of $36,000+ for an individual. Beyond the financial benefits, Mexico offers diverse climates and landscapes, from colonial highland cities to tropical beaches. The large expat communities provide built-in social networks, while local markets and modern supermarkets offer a mix of familiar and shopping options. Many expats praise Mexico's household help affordability ($15-20 per day for cleaning) and the warm, family-oriented culture. Recent infrastructure improvements in major expat hubs have enhanced the quality of life. Fiber optic internet is widely available, and many areas now offer excellent public transportation options. The government has also strengthened programs to assist foreign residents with healthcare and banking services. Popular expat destinations have seen the emergence of modern coworking spaces, international schools, and multicultural communities.

Spain captivates Americans with its sophisticated blend of modern European living and traditional Mediterranean charm. Major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia offer distinct experiences, with monthly living costs ranging from $2,800-3,500 for a couple. Housing in prime areas of Barcelona might cost $1,200-1,800 for a well-appointed two-bedroom apartment, while similar properties in Valencia average $800-1,200. The Spanish healthcare system ranks among the world's best, with private insurance costing $100-200 monthly for comprehensive coverage. The non-lucrative visa requires proving monthly income of about $2,400 for individuals or $3,000 for couples, while the new digital nomad visa offers tax advantages for remote workers. Spain's public transportation network is extensive and efficient – a monthly pass in Madrid costs about $60. The country's famous food scene goes beyond restaurants; local markets offer fresh, affordable produce, with a couple's monthly grocery budget averaging $400-600. Cultural integration is aided by abundant language schools and social clubs, though learning basic Spanish is essential outside tourist areas. The Spanish lifestyle, with its late dinners and afternoon siestas, requires some adjustment for Americans, but most expatriates find the rhythm suits them perfectly after a few months. The country's diverse regions offer everything from bustling urban centers to quiet coastal retreats, making it possible to find the perfect setting for any lifestyle preference.

Costa Rica's "Pura Vida" lifestyle has transformed from a vacation mantra into a viable American retirement reality. A couple can live well in popular areas like the Central Valley or Pacific Coast for $2,000-2,800 monthly. In the expat-friendly town of Atenas, a three-bedroom home with mountain views might rent for $800-1,200, while similar properties in beachfront areas like Tamarindo can reach $1,500-2,000. The country's healthcare system operates on two tracks: the universal public system (CAJA), mandatory for residents and costing about 7-11% of declared income, and a private system with world-class facilities like CIMA Hospital in San José. The pensionado visa requires only $1,000 monthly income, making it one of the most accessible retirement visas globally. Internet connectivity has improved dramatically, with fiber optic service (50-100 Mbps) available in most expat areas for $50-70 monthly. The country's commitment to environmental preservation means expats enjoy pristine beaches, rainforests, and mountains, though they should prepare for seasonal rains and high humidity. Transportation often requires a private vehicle outside urban areas, and many expats budget $500-700 monthly for a car payment and insurance. The growing expat community has sparked an increase in international restaurants and amenities, though local sodas (family restaurants) remain the best value for authentic cuisine.

Croatia's emergence as a digital nomad haven has expanded into broader American expatriation. A couple can live comfortably in Split or Zagreb for $1,800-2,500 monthly, while Dubrovnik might require $2,500-3,000. In Split's desirable neighborhoods, a sea-view apartment might cost $800-1,200 monthly, while Zagreb offers similar properties for $700-1,000. The national healthcare system is supplemented by private options, with insurance costing $100-150 monthly per person. The digital nomad visa requires proving monthly income of €2,300, while other residency paths often involve business investment or property purchase. Internet infrastructure is excellent, with gigabit fiber available in urban areas for €30-40 monthly. The Mediterranean climate offers mild winters and warm summers, though some coastal properties might lack central heating. Public transportation is efficient in cities, with monthly passes costing €40-50. The food scene blends Mediterranean and Central European influences, with a couple's monthly grocery budget averaging €400-500. The growing tech scene has created vibrant coworking communities, particularly in Zagreb and Split. While tourism peaks in summer months, off-season living reveals authentic Croatian culture and significantly lower costs.

Italy continues to captivate Americans with its unmatched combination of history, culture, and lifestyle. Living costs vary dramatically by region – while a couple might need $4,000-5,000 monthly in Rome or Milan, the same quality of life in smaller cities or southern regions could cost $2,500-3,500. In Bologna, a two-bedroom apartment in a historic building might cost $1,000-1,500, while similar properties in charming Puglia towns could be found for $600-900. The national healthcare system (SSN) is highly regarded, with private insurance costing $200-300 monthly for comprehensive coverage. The elective residency visa requires substantial passive income, typically around $3,000 monthly for individuals or $4,000 for couples. Italy's train network makes car ownership optional in most areas, with a monthly rail pass costing $50-100. Language acquisition is essential, as English proficiency varies widely outside tourist centers. The food culture extends beyond restaurants – local markets, specialty shops, and weekly food festivals make cooking at home a culinary adventure. Utility costs can be significant, especially in historic properties, with monthly bills averaging $150-250. The bureaucratic process of settling in Italy requires patience, but most expats find the lifestyle rewards – from morning espresso rituals to evening passeggiatas – well worth the effort. Recent legislation has introduced tax incentives for remote workers and retirees, particularly in southern regions, making Italy more accessible to American expatriates.

Greece offers Americans a unique blend of ancient history and modern Mediterranean living at surprisingly affordable prices. A couple can live comfortably in Athens or Thessaloniki for $2,000-2,800 monthly, while island living on Crete or Rhodes might cost $2,500-3,500. Housing costs in Athens' desirable neighborhoods like Kolonaki average $700-1,000 for a two-bedroom apartment, while similar properties on popular islands might range from $800-1,200. The national healthcare system is supplemented by an efficient private sector, with comprehensive insurance averaging $150-200 monthly per couple. The Greek Golden Visa program, requiring a €250,000 real estate investment, has attracted many Americans, while the new digital nomad visa offers an alternative path with income requirements of €3,500 monthly. Internet connectivity has improved significantly, with 100 Mbps fiber available in urban areas for €30-40 monthly. The country's famous cuisine is actually affordable – a couple can enjoy excellent taverna meals for €30-40, while monthly grocery costs average €350-450. The growing expat community has spurred the development of international schools and English-speaking services, particularly in Athens and on larger islands. The Mediterranean climate means mild winters and hot summers, with many islands enjoying over 300 days of sunshine annually. Recent government initiatives have made Greece particularly attractive to digital nomads and retirees, with new tax incentives and improved infrastructure in many areas.

Thailand attracts Americans with its exotic culture and extremely favorable cost of living. In popular expat destinations like Chiang Mai, a couple can live luxuriously for $1,500-2,500 monthly, while Bangkok might require $2,500-3,500 for a similar lifestyle. Modern condos in prime areas of Bangkok rent for $800-1,200 monthly, while comparable properties in Chiang Mai average $400-700. Private healthcare is a major draw – world-class hospitals like Bumrungrad International offer treatment at 50-70% less than US prices, with comprehensive insurance costing $100-200 monthly per person. The retirement visa requires showing monthly income of 65,000 baht ($1,800) or an 800,000 baht ($22,000) bank deposit. Public transportation in Bangkok is modern and affordable, with monthly passes costing $30-40, though other cities may require private transportation. High-speed internet (100-200 Mbps) is widely available for $25-35 monthly. The food scene is extraordinary and affordable – street food meals cost $1-3, while weekly grocery bills average $200-300 for a couple. The tropical climate requires adjustment, with most expats budgeting $100-150 monthly for air conditioning. Cultural integration opportunities abound through temples, cooking classes, and language schools. The recent introduction of new visa options, including a 10-year long-term resident visa, has made Thailand even more attractive to American retirees and digital professionals.

Panama's dollarized economy and retiree benefits make it particularly attractive to Americans. A couple can live well in Panama City for $2,500-3,500 monthly, or in popular mountain towns like Boquete for $2,000-2,500. Modern apartments in Panama City's desirable areas like Costa del Este cost $1,000-1,500 monthly, while Boquete properties might range from $700-1,000. The Pensionado visa requires only $1,000 monthly income and offers extensive discounts – 20% off medical services, 50% off entertainment, and 25% off airline tickets. Healthcare is a strong point, with Johns Hopkins-affiliated Hospital Punta Pacífica offering US-standard care at lower costs. Private insurance averages $150-200 monthly per person. Internet service is robust, with fiber optic (200 Mbps) available in urban areas for $50-70 monthly. The country's position as a global hub means excellent flight connections to the US, typically 3-5 hours to major cities. While Spanish is the primary language, many businesses in Panama City operate bilingually. The growing expat community has sparked an increase in international restaurants and amenities, though local markets remain the best value for fresh produce. The tropical climate means year-round air conditioning in most areas, adding $100-150 to monthly utility bills. Recent infrastructure improvements include a new metro line in Panama City and expanded highway systems, making transportation more convenient than ever.

Malaysia offers Americans a unique blend of modern infrastructure and multicultural Asian living. A couple can live luxuriously in Kuala Lumpur for $1,500-2,500 monthly, while Penang might require $2,000-2,500. Modern condos in KL's expat-favored areas like Mont Kiara rent for $700-1,000 monthly, offering amenities like pools and gyms. The MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) visa program has been revamped, now requiring higher financial guarantees but offering long-term stability. Healthcare is a major attraction – world-class private hospitals like Gleneagles and Prince Court offer treatment at 40-60% of US costs, with comprehensive insurance averaging $100-150 monthly per person. Internet service is fast and affordable, with 500 Mbps fiber available for $40-50 monthly. Public transportation in KL is modern and extensive, while other cities might require private transport. The food scene is legendary and affordable – a couple can enjoy excellent local cuisine for $500-600 monthly. The tropical climate necessitates air conditioning, typically adding $100-150 to monthly bills. English is widely spoken in business and daily life, making Malaysia one of Asia's easiest countries for American integration. The expat community is well-established, particularly in KL and Penang, with abundant international schools and amenities. Recent government initiatives have focused on attracting digital professionals and retirees, with new visa categories and improved infrastructure. The country's strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring Southeast Asia, while maintaining modern amenities and a comfortable lifestyle at a fraction of US costs.