Top 3 European countries Americans are rushing to. But, why are so many Americans moving abroad?
Credit: Jorge Fernández Salas, Unsplash.
According to a massive survey by relocation platform Expatsi, more than 116,000 Americans seriously explored the idea of packing up and moving abroad in 2024—and Portugal topped the list as their preferred destination, followed by Spain and the UK! But, why?
What’s driving the exodus?
Let’s rewind for a second. The trend of Americans upping sticks isn’t brand new. But after the COVID-19 pandemic turned working from home into a mainstream option, many Americans began wondering: If I can work from anywhere, why not do it from somewhere… nicer?
Expatsi’s survey uncovered a few common reasons behind wanting to move:
- Adventure and growth. It’s not just about beaches and cheap wine (though those help). Most respondents said they wanted more from life—more cultural richness, more self-development, more something.
- Political disillusionment. Over half (56%) of those surveyed said the U.S. had become too conservative, and 53% cited the country’s deep political divisions. It seems many are looking for a quieter, more stable backdrop for their lives.
- Flexibility at work. The rise of remote work has made the idea of living abroad not just possible but practical.
Portugal: The unlikely frontrunner
So why Portugal? It’s not the first country that comes to mind for many Americans—but maybe it should be.
With its low cost of living, stunning Atlantic coastline, welcoming locals, and a climate that feels like a Mediterranean spa day most of the year, Portugal quietly ticks a lot of boxes.
It also doesn’t hurt that the country offers one of the most attractive digital nomad visas in Europe, not to mention a tax regime that’s a little more forgiving than the IRS.
And the food? Let’s just say there’s a reason pastel de nata (a gloriously flaky custard tart) is becoming a minor obsession among expats.
Who else made the top three?
Trailing behind Portugal in the popularity contest were Spain and then the United Kingdom. Spain’s place on the podium isn’t exactly shocking—it shares Portugal’s weather, affordability, and a famously laid-back lifestyle.
As for the UK? Maybe it’s the shared language, maybe it’s the pull of British telly, or maybe it’s the romantic notion of having a pint in a 300-year-old pub. Despite the weather, the UK is still a firm favourite for Americans seeking culture, history, and—dare we say it—a bit of dry wit.
Final thoughts: Is the grass greener?
Of course, moving abroad isn’t all wine and sunsets. Anyone considering a move should be aware of visa requirements, healthcare systems, cost of living adjustments, and cultural differences.
But if Expatsi’s data is anything to go by, the idea of a slower, sunnier life—especially one with a solid Wi-Fi signal—is becoming more than just a fantasy for thousands of Americans.
As the world shrinks and remote work expands, the American Dream may just come with a new postcode… and maybe a Portuguese lesson or two.
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