6 Top Reasons Why Americans Are Leaving the USA and Exploring Life Abroad
Leaving the USA?
The lure and adventure of living abroad has entertained Americans for a long while. It has almost been like a status symbol but lately, Americans are not doing it for status, but it has become a practical, well-thought-out plan of execution with the intent to live a better life. But is this realistic?
My interest peaked when I lived overseas in Africa for about 2 months and experienced a brief time in Amsterdam. I loved experiencing another culture and learning how others “do life” and had a natural curiosity to learn more.
As the Nomad Capitalist states, now may be a good time to search for a place “and go where you are treated best.”
How Many Americans Live Abroad?
According to an article, it has been estimated that 8.7 million Americans (excluding the military) are living abroad in over 160 countries. And it’s not just digital nomads and retirees.
What is Happening Here?
Is the American Dream a Lie?
Americans may have been programmed over the years to believe in the American Dream, with the desire to have a house with a white picket fence, a dog, a corporate job and to keep climbing the ladder. But has the American dream become a reality for most, or has the notion of it been bought with debt and distraction?
The following contains some of the top reasons why many are seriously considering not only departing from their state but their country.
The Cost of Living
Over the past couple of years, inflation has taken off like a rocket, and as of August 2022, it is reported to be 8.26%. This sudden rise has many working a second or third job just to stay afloat. Inflation is not only impacting the US but is global. If you are interested to see your specific country, check out this link here.
Popular Expat Cities
| Destination | Cost of Living | Quality of Life | Visa Requirements | Popular Expat Cities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portugal | Moderate | High | Residency Visa | Lisbon, Porto |
| Mexico | Low | Moderate | Temporary Resident Visa | Mexico City, Mérida |
| Thailand | Low | High | Non-Immigrant Visa | Bangkok, Chiang Mai |
| Spain | Moderate | High | Residency Visa | Barcelona, Madrid |
| New Zealand | High | Very High | Work Visa | Auckland, Wellington |
Healthcare in America
Healthcare in America is another heavily debated topic. Without going into the trenches too far, some of the complaints are unforeseen costs if a medical emergency were to happen. According to Gallup, 50% of Americans fear bankruptcy if a major health event were to happen.
The Food in America
The Standard American Diet (SAD) or the “western diet” is synonymous with high-processed, high fat, high dairy, red meat, and sugars while nutrient-dense vegetables are low on the totem pole. And while diet is a controversial topic, many believe the SAD diet contributes to health problems such as obesity, tooth decay, high blood pressure, type-2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and more and there are studies linking these together, although heavily debated.
Due to this diet and lifestyle, the U.S. is not ranked as one of the healthiest cultures but ranks 35th out of 169 countries.
Lack of Work-Life Balance
Employers have been pushing their boundaries on their employees over the years, and it has become almost a standard but unstated requirement to be on call, and or to check emails at home or on the weekend.
Employees have been taught they if they work hard, and be a team player, they could be promoted and thus be able to climb the corporate ladder. Too, many employees have been given more work responsibilities but without an increase in pay, but just a change in title to suffice.
Two-week vacations have become a standard in corporate America but many employees fail to take their entire two-week vacation which may be a contributing factor leading to burnout.
Employee Burnout
Workplace burnout has been reported to have increased whereas 77% of those surveyed have experienced burnout in their current job and with more than half stating it has occurred more than once. This has driven many to look for other ways life can be done, differently.
Many believe the possibilities are worth exploring to see other options, as the economy and the global workforce gradually shift to a global employee empire.
The good news is there has been a rise in remote and work from anywhere jobs, but there still seems to be a tug-of-war between employers and employees on this subject. Remote work is here to stay according to Forbes, and will likely increase in 2023.
Retire Early/Retire to Live Abroad
The attraction to living abroad, experiencing another culture and language, learning new skills, being in a different environment, and/or even retiring early, may be closer to reach than some might expect. One couple moved to Portugal at age 52, retired early, and was able to cut their expenses by 50%.
There are other reasons why Americans leave the USA, but what may help us to connect the dots is that many are searching for a better way to do life.
Have we been sold the American dream?
Have you lived or worked abroad? Are you considering it? What are your thoughts on why Americans may be choosing to live abroad? If you have considered it, drop a clap for every time you thought about it!
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You have hit the mark. In it something is and it is good idea. I support you.