Wondering which are the best countries to move to from the USA, but unsure where to start? We have your back! Relocating to another country can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you’re motivated by a desire for better healthcare, a slower pace of life, or more favourable tax conditions, several nations now actively welcome foreign investors, retirees, and digital nomads.
Below, you’ll find detailed information on some of the top contenders for Americans looking to settle or invest abroad, focusing on what makes each country appealing—from cost of living to safety to citizenship options.
Why Move Abroad in the First Place?
1. Quality of Life
Many Americans feel that living standards and work-life balance can be significantly improved abroad. Numerous countries offer a more relaxed daily rhythm, shorter working hours, and a community-centric environment.
2. Economic and Political Stability
Some expats seek out places with lower living expenses or more predictable political landscapes. Others look for global access via a second passport, allowing them to expand their personal or professional opportunities.
3. Healthcare Advantages
Healthcare costs in the US are among the highest in the world. Countries like Mexico, Canada, or several European and Caribbean nations often have high-quality yet more affordable healthcare systems that can be life-changing for retirees or families.
4. Climate and Lifestyle
Tropical beaches, mild Mediterranean shores, or cooler mountain retreats—where you decide to live can revolve around the lifestyle you want. Many destinations discussed here boast warm temperatures, vibrant cultural scenes, or easy access to nature.
5. Simple Residency and Citizenship Pathways
Today, acquiring residency or even citizenship is increasingly streamlined in many countries. Through investment, retirement, or work visas, you can establish legal status abroad—sometimes in a matter of months.
Key Routes to Residency or Citizenship
- Citizenship by Investment: Countries in the Caribbean, and even places like Turkey or Malta, provide direct citizenship for those making qualifying investments in real estate or government funds.
- Golden Visas: Residency schemes where property purchases or financial commitments secure you a residence permit. Examples include certain European “golden visa” offers.
- Retirement Visas: Ideal if you’re over a certain age with steady pension or Social Security income. Mexico, Ecuador, and Panama each cater to retirees through low-barrier permanent or near-permanent residency permits.
- Work or Skill-Based Visas: If you have specific professional qualifications, many countries (e.g., Canada, Germany, Australia) welcome skilled workers.
- Family or Ancestral Ties: Some countries allow you to gain residency or citizenship if you have a parent or grandparent from there.
Best Countries For Americans To Move To From the USA
Below, we spotlight a variety of countries open to American expats. Some stand out for offering direct or fast citizenship-by-investment, while others excel in combining moderate living costs with welcoming cultural environments.
1. Antigua and Barbuda
Why Antigua and Barbuda?
- Programme: A straightforward citizenship-by-investment option. Donations start at around $100,000 to the National Development Fund, or you can invest in local real estate from around $200,000.
- Lifestyle: Perfect if you yearn for white-sand beaches, turquoise seas, and an English-speaking population.
- Cost of Living: Caribbean islands tend to have slightly higher grocery and utility expenses, but personal services, fresh produce, and local fish can be fairly priced if you shop as locals do.
- Healthcare: Though not as extensive as in large countries, private clinics and hospitals meet international standards. Many expats hold insurance covering medical flights if top-tier care is needed off-island.
- Safety: Generally safe, with petty crime occasionally reported in tourist areas.
Who Should Consider It?
Those seeking a relaxed island lifestyle and a second passport—one that grants decent visa-free travel privileges. Antigua also allows dual citizenship.
2. Dominica
Why Dominica?
- Investment Routes: Contribute at least $100,000 to the Economic Diversification Fund or purchase real estate from $200,000 in approved projects.
- Nature-Focused Lifestyle: Dominica’s nickname, the “Nature Island,” highlights its lush terrain, waterfalls, and hot springs—spectacular for hiking and eco-tourism.
- Cost of Living: Many items are imported, meaning groceries can be pricey. However, local produce is affordable, and property costs remain lower than on some larger Caribbean islands.
- Healthcare: Basic but improving, with the government emphasising new healthcare facilities. Expats often prefer private clinics.
- Safety: One of the region’s safest islands. Violent crime is rare, though, like anywhere, precaution is advised.
Who Should Consider It?
Those dreaming of a quiet, eco-friendly haven, plus a quick route to obtaining a Caribbean passport.
3. Grenada
Why Grenada?
- Unique Perk: Grenadian citizens can apply for an E-2 Investor Visa to the United States, granting residency and work rights in the US under certain conditions.
- Citizenship by Investment: Options include donations of $150,000+ or real estate from $220,000.
- Cost of Living: Similar to other Caribbean islands, with fresh local produce and fish but higher import prices on many goods.
- Healthcare: Good private clinics are available, especially in St. George’s. Some expats use health insurance that covers treatment in nearby countries if specialised care is needed.
- Safety: Known for its welcoming and close-knit community. Crime is generally low.
Who Should Consider It?
Anyone keen on a scenic Caribbean base and the possibility of bridging back to the US via the E-2 Visa.
4. Malta
Why Malta?
- Citizenship by Investment: A multi-step process involving donations, real estate, and government bonds (usually totalling over $600,000). You can apply for citizenship after one to three years of residency.
- EU Benefits: With a Maltese passport, you can live or work anywhere in the European Union.
- Cost of Living: Higher than some Southern European countries, but cheaper than places like London or Paris. Expect to spend $1,200+ monthly for a one-bedroom flat in central areas like Sliema or St. Julian’s.
- Healthcare: Renowned as some of the best in the region. Malta’s public healthcare is well-organised, and many physicians speak fluent English.
- Safety: Exceptionally safe, with low crime rates across the islands.
Who Should Consider It?
Those wanting an English-speaking Mediterranean location and the freedom to relocate throughout the EU.
5. Montenegro
Why Montenegro?
- Residency and Citizenship: Montenegro’s previous citizenship-by-investment scheme has closed or paused, but watch for new initiatives. Residency via property purchase is possible if you plan to live there full-time.
- Lifestyle: Stunning Adriatic coastline, mountain scenery, and an emerging tourism scene.
- Cost of Living: Significantly lower than most Western European destinations, with very affordable food, transport, and housing outside tourist hotspots.
- Healthcare: Sufficient for routine care, with private clinics in main cities. Some advanced medical services may require travel to bigger EU hubs.
- Safety: Generally safe, especially in tourist areas.
Who Should Consider It?
If you’re drawn to a Balkan gem that’s growing fast yet still boasts authentic local culture and landscapes.
6. Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Pioneering Programme: The world’s first citizenship-by-investment scheme, established in 1984.
- Investment Thresholds: Contribution to a government fund begins at around $125,000, while real estate purchases start at about $200,000.
- Lifestyle: Small, tranquil islands with an emphasis on high-end tourism. Great for those who love quiet beach life and a friendly expat scene.
- Cost of Living: Import-dependent, so certain everyday goods may be costly. Nonetheless, local markets offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish at reasonable prices.
- Safety: Crime is low, especially outside busy tourist spots.
Who Should Consider It?
Anyone wanting fast and well-established citizenship procedures in a peaceful Caribbean setting.
7. Saint Lucia
Why Saint Lucia?
- Easy Process: Citizenship often granted within four months after a $100,000+ donation or $200,000+ real estate purchase.
- Landscape: Famous for its volcanic peaks (the Pitons) and lush tropical environment—perfect for hiking and water sports.
- Cost of Living: On par with similar Caribbean nations. Locally grown goods are affordable; imported items can add up.
- Healthcare: Improving but best for routine care. Expats sometimes travel to Martinique or the US for specialised procedures.
- Safety: Warm, hospitable communities, with typical advice to remain alert in tourist-heavy zones.
Who Should Consider It?
Nature lovers seeking a mix of mountains, beaches, and a straightforward second passport.
8. Turkey
Why Turkey?
- Investment Path: Real estate worth at least $400,000 or a $500,000 deposit in a Turkish bank can secure citizenship in just a few months.
- Cost of Living: Much lower than in most Western countries. In Istanbul, a central one-bedroom can be found from around $500–$700 monthly, and everyday expenses (transport, groceries) are affordable.
- Healthcare: Modern hospitals in Istanbul and Ankara offer high-quality care at competitive prices.
- Safety: Generally stable, though certain regions near borders face occasional security issues. Main tourist and residential areas are well-policed.
- Lifestyle: A fusion of European and Asian influences, with vibrant city life, coastal resorts, and historic cultural sites.
Who Should Consider It?
Those intrigued by a dynamic crossroads between East and West, seeking an affordable lifestyle and a passport with decent global access.
9. Vanuatu
Why Vanuatu?
- Ultra-Fast Processing: Citizenship can be secured in as little as one to two months through a $130,000+ donation to the Development Support Programme.
- South Pacific Paradise: World-class diving, tranquil beaches, and a relaxed pace of life.
- Cost of Living: Imported goods can be pricey, but local produce and fish markets are budget-friendly if you adapt to local eating habits.
- Healthcare: Basic, so many expats maintain international health insurance for major procedures abroad.
- Safety: Remarkably safe, with a low crime rate.
Who Should Consider It?
Adventurous types wanting a small, secluded island country and a second passport almost immediately.
10. Mexico
Why Mexico?
- Residency Made Simple: The Temporary Resident Visa can be renewed for up to four years. It typically requires proof of about $2,000–$2,500 monthly income, or property ownership over a certain threshold (around $260,000, depending on the consulate). After four years, you may qualify for permanent residency. Citizenship is possible after five years of residency, and Mexico allows dual nationality.
- Cost of Living: One of the most budget-friendly options close to home. Rents in popular expat hubs like Mérida or Guadalajara can start around $500 for a comfortable one-bedroom, while day-to-day expenses—fresh produce, dining out, local transport—are significantly cheaper than in the US.
- Healthcare: Robust private healthcare (especially in major cities) at a fraction of US costs. Public systems (IMSS or INSABI) are available to residents, though many expats prefer private insurance due to shorter wait times.
- Safety: Safety levels vary by region. Popular expat towns like San Miguel de Allende, Lake Chapala, or parts of the Yucatán Peninsula are known for low crime rates. Using common sense and researching local conditions is key.
- Lifestyle: Large and geographically diverse—coastal escapes, mountainous retreats, cosmopolitan cities—so you can choose a climate and setting to suit your taste.
Who Should Consider It?
Americans seeking an easier cultural transition, relatively close proximity to the US, and a significantly lower cost of living.
11. Ecuador
Why Ecuador?
- Retirement and Income Visas: Known for low-barrier “pensioner” visas if you earn at least $800 per month from a pension or social security. Also offers investor visas and newly introduced digital nomad visas.
- Cost of Living: Extremely affordable. In cities like Cuenca, a one-bedroom could be as low as $400–$500 monthly. Utilities, public transport, and fresh produce are also cheap.
- Healthcare: Public and private options, with facilities in major cities such as Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. Private care is considered good and remains far cheaper than the US.
- Safety: Better than some of its neighbours, but pickpocketing can happen in busy urban areas. Areas like Cuenca and the Andean highlands are generally calm.
- Lifestyle: A lovely blend of colonial architecture, mountain scenery, and a welcoming local culture. Ecuador also uses the US dollar as its currency, simplifying finances for Americans.
Who Should Consider It?
Budget-conscious retirees or remote workers looking for temperate climates (particularly in the Andean regions) and straightforward, low-cost residency options.
12. Canada
Why Canada?
- Familiar Culture: Geographically close to the US, with cultural similarities, making it a comfortable transition.
- Skilled Immigration Pathways: Canada’s Express Entry system awards points based on age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. If you score high enough, you could be invited to apply for permanent residency.
- Cost of Living: Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver are pricey (rents often $1,700+ for a one-bedroom), but smaller cities and rural areas can be more affordable—still, overall costs can be lower than in equivalent large US cities.
- Healthcare: Universal healthcare is free or very low cost to citizens and permanent residents, though wait times may apply for some procedures. Quality is generally high, rated among the top in the world.
- Safety: Canada consistently ranks near the top for safety and political stability.
- Lifestyle: Emphasis on nature, community, and multiculturalism. Winters can be harsh in many regions, but the scenic beauty and infrastructure often outweigh the cold.
Who Should Consider It?
If you’re keen on a high standard of living, robust public services, and an English- (or French-) speaking environment, Canada can be an excellent choice.
Helpful Tips for a Smooth Relocation
Visit Before You Commit
Spending several weeks or months on an exploratory trip can confirm whether a destination’s climate, culture, and living standards truly match your expectations.
Get Professional Advice
While some visas are simple enough to manage on your own, citizenship-by-investment or large property deals often warrant engaging a local lawyer or government-approved facilitator to avoid missteps.
Budget for Extra Fees
Expect government application fees, property transfer costs, professional fees (lawyers, notaries), and possible taxes—these can add up quickly.
Research Healthcare Thoroughly
Check whether you’ll need private health insurance. In many countries, joining the public system requires paying a set monthly fee, particularly for retirees or those on work visas.
Learn Basic Language Skills
Though English is widely spoken in several of the destinations above, investing time in language basics can help you integrate, understand local culture, and form deeper connections.
Choosing The Best Country To Move To As An American
Choosing where to move from the USA can be a life-altering decision, influenced by factors such as cost of living, political stability, ease of integration, or the allure of a sunnier and more relaxed lifestyle. Whether you envision yourself strolling the cobbled streets of Malta, lounging under palm trees in Mexico, or sailing into the turquoise waters of Antigua, there’s a programme that can help you establish long-term residency or even dual citizenship.
For those seeking the simplest and fastest routes, the Caribbean countries and Vanuatu stand out, offering citizenship within months. If you prefer a more familiar cultural backdrop, Canada’s immigration pathways or Mexico’s retirement-friendly visas are well worth exploring. Meanwhile, Turkey and Malta deliver strategic geographic locations, bridging different parts of the world and granting robust global mobility.
Wherever your journey leads, the key is thorough research, honest self-reflection, and professional support where needed. By planning carefully, you can find a new home that not only meets your practical needs but opens the door to a richer, more fulfilling life abroad. Safe travels—and best of luck in forging a future you’ve always dreamed about. And if you need any further information, contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to renounce my US citizenship if I gain a second nationality?
Most nations featured here (e.g., Caribbean countries, Mexico, Canada) allow dual citizenship. Always verify local rules, as a few places require renunciation when naturalising.
How long does it take to get citizenship?
Timelines vary widely. Direct citizenship programmes (Antigua, Saint Lucia, Vanuatu) can wrap up in months. Residency-based routes (like Mexico, Ecuador, or Canada) may require multiple years before you qualify for naturalisation.
Will my new passport give me better travel access?
Caribbean, Turkish, and Maltese passports often open up extensive visa-free travel. However, each is different in terms of global reach—be sure to check the specific list of visa-free countries.
How do taxes work if I live abroad?
The US taxes citizens on worldwide income, but you can often claim credits or exclusions to prevent double taxation. Your new country may tax you based on residency. Consult a tax specialist familiar with US and international regulations.
Can my family come with me on these programmes?
Yes, most countries allow spouses and dependent children to be included on residency or citizenship applications, though additional fees typically apply.
