After spending a semester studying in Spain during my junior year of college, I became obsessed with the concept of moving abroad. Instead of spending their days rushing around from place to place, the Spaniards around me maintained a healthy work-life balance, moved at a slower pace and prioritized time spent with friends and family above all else. I fell in love.
Even after I returned to the U.S., I missed the life I lived while in Spain. Today, I find myself looking up the visa requirements for various countries at least once a month and fantasizing about starting over in a city full of culture, history and, of course, food. New data suggests I’m not the only American who feels this way.
A Gallup poll released last month noted that approximately 20% of Americans say they would like to move abroad permanently. According to the data, one of the most common reasons for wanting to make such a change is lower confidence in U.S. institutions. A 2024 report conducted by Expatsi, a company that helps people move abroad, found that one of the top contributors to U.S. citizens’ relocation dreams was a desire for increased adventure, enrichment and growth.
Women between the ages of 15 and 44 appear to be among the most eager to make a change. When surveyed by Gallup, 40% of them said they would relocate to another country permanently if the opportunity arose, a 300% increase from 2014.
Below, we break down the best countries for Americans to move to, plus the reasons these places are so attractive to expats.
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How were the best countries for expats determined?
Earlier this month, International Living released its Annual Global Retirement Index, a data-driven approach to determining the best places for expats to retire. Even though the list may be aimed at older Americans, many of the takeaways are applicable to younger generations.
International Living considered a number of key factors when compiling this year’s index: the cost of living, housing affordability, visa requirements, access to health care, climate patterns and the country’s development and government. The team then turned to readers and its network of experts to find out where they’d be willing to move. They crunched all that data to identify the top 10 countries for expats.
What are the best countries for expats?
With more than 100 countries in the world, it can be difficult to determine which locations offer the best lifestyle for expats. But regardless of whether you’re prioritizing quality health care, great weather or community-based living, you’ll find a place to call home among the top spots.
Read on for the 10 best countries, along with some of their key benefits.
10. Malaysia
Known for: A friendly, welcoming community
Average monthly rent: $900 (four-bedroom apartment)
While Malaysia may be thousands of miles from the continental U.S., the welcoming nature of the locals allows you to build a community with relative ease. Rather than rushing around, residents tend to take their time, making it the perfect place to land if you’re looking for a slower pace of life.
What’s more, Malaysia is incredibly affordable. According to the index, a high-quality local meal will cost you the equivalent of about $2. Interested in buying property? Expats can do that, and once you purchase a home, apartment or lot, property taxes are relatively low. All types of health care—from minor surgeries to clinic visits—are cheaper than the same services would be in the U.S.
9. Thailand
Known for: Diverse climates and affordable living
Average monthly rent: $1,000 (two-bedroom house)
If you’re searching for a location that prioritizes ease of living, Thailand may be the ideal location. You can complete most tasks—from getting a taxi to ordering groceries—through one app, Grab. Plus, whether you’re searching for a sunny beach or a rugged mountain, you’ll find it in Thailand, which is marked by topographical diversity.
Utilities, groceries and rent are all relatively cheap. With affordable, world-class hospitals, you’ll pay approximately one-third of what you would pay for the same medical expenses in the U.S. However, health care in Thailand goes beyond simply visiting the doctor once a year. The country has walking paths, sunrise yoga classes and numerous gyms, making it the perfect spot for wellness enthusiasts.
8. Spain
Known for: Affordable, high-quality health care
Average monthly rent: $1,350 (one-bedroom apartment)
Dreaming of slower mornings, high-quality health care and a welcoming community? If that’s the case, consider relocating to Spain. While some expenses, such as rent, have increased in recent years, other key costs, such as groceries, utilities and public transportation, remain relatively low.
The health-care system is one of the best in the world. After you’ve lived in the country for a year, public care is available for a monthly fee that’s less than $200. Additionally, the country offers a non-lucrative visa option for those who can show adequate savings or passive income. However, you can also apply for a digital nomad visa as a remote worker.
7. France
Known for: Prioritizing quality of life and wellness
Average monthly rent: $1,000 to $2,000 (two-bedroom apartment)
If you find yourself dreaming of spending your days sipping a cafe au lait at a French bistro, you’re not the only one. Luckily, there are a number of good reasons to relocate to the European country, including the health-care system, affordable rent and a straightforward path to permanent residency.
Buying property is also relatively simple in France. Unlike other countries, the process typically wraps up within three months of issuing the initial agreement. Purchasing a house outside of the major cities, such as Paris and Toulouse, is also about 30% cheaper than it would be in the U.S., according to the index.
6. Italy
Known for: Vibrant expat communities
Average monthly rent: $400 to $925 (one-bedroom apartment)
Beyond the cuisine, atmosphere and history, Italy offers many positives for those seeking a fresh start in a new country. Head to the Dolomites for some of the world’s best skiing and cooler days—or migrate to Sicily for palm trees and warmer temperatures. Even though the European country may be only the size of California, it features a range of climates.
If you’d rather not rely on a car, Italy offers fast and affordable public transportation. As you move from place to place, you’ll likely encounter a number of friendly locals. The country is well-known for its vibrant expat communities, as well as its general hospitality. Whether you’re trying to find the grocery store or simply the best place for an aperitivo, Italians will be eager to assist you.
5. Mexico
Known for: Affordable living
Average monthly rent: $500 (one-bedroom apartment)
Mexico is a stunning country, and its prices make it a perfect spot for expats. Whether you’re booking a flight or buying groceries, you’ll notice that costs are significantly lower than they would be in the U.S. Plus, temporary and permanent residents get a number of discounts, including free entry to museums and $4 movie tickets. And instead of waiting months for a doctor’s appointment, most medical professionals are able to see you within 24 hours, ensuring that you receive high-quality care when you need it.
4. Portugal
Known for: Good quality of life
Average monthly rent: $1,760 (one-bedroom apartment)
With gorgeous beach towns, vibrant communities and markets overflowing with fresh fruits and veggies, it’s no surprise that Portugal is one of the best places for Americans to move to outside the U.S. The landscape is stunning, the people are warm and welcoming, and the universal health-care system ensures you won’t have to stress about medical bills.
The D7—passive income visa—is a great option if your finances allow for it. However, that’s not the only way you can legally reside in the country. The D8 visa, which is aimed at digital nomads looking to work remotely, is another path you can take.
3. Costa Rica
Known for: Low property taxes
Average monthly rent: $600 (for a studio or a two-bedroom house, depending on the area)
If you’re curious about living in Costa Rica but don’t want to commit to obtaining a visa, you’re in luck. The country permits U.S. and Canadian visitors to stay for up to 180 days—no visa required. However, if you do choose to move, the process for obtaining residency is relatively easy and straightforward.
Those searching for year-round warmth will fall in love with this Central American country. With tropical beaches and lush jungles, Costa Rica allows you to spend your weeks exploring the great outdoors.
2. Panama
Known for: Quality benefits
Average monthly rent: $550 to 1,000 (one-bedroom apartment)
Just like Costa Rica, Panama allows Americans to spend an extended period living in the country—up to six months—without having to obtain a visa. Its usage of the U.S. dollar makes transitioning to the country easy for expats. Retired residents in Panama get access to an array of high-quality government benefits, including discounts on utility bills, movie tickets and medical visits.
If you’re searching for a metropolitan area that feels like a tropical oasis, check out Panama. With luxury apartments, beach access and a plethora of golf courses, it’s the perfect spot for those who want a laid-back way of life that still includes all the amenities of an urban center.
1. Greece
Known for: Year-round sunshine
Average monthly rent: $820 (two-bedroom house)
Offering community-centric living, diverse climates and more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Greece is the ideal place to relocate to. From thousands of miles of coastline and bustling cities to the scenic mountains and renowned vineyards, this European country has something for everyone.
But this isn’t just a sightseeing adventure. Aside from the beautiful surroundings, you’ll get plenty of perks: You can cut down on health-care costs, save money on rent and enjoy fresh local produce on a regular basis. Instead of navigating the grueling world of medical scheduling, you can land an appointment when you need one. Plus, many of the doctors speak English, ensuring that you won’t have to stress about a language barrier during a time of crisis.
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Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing, and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Sources:
- International Living: “Best Places to Retire in 2026: The Annual Global Retirement Index”
- Gallup: “Record Numbers of Younger Women Want to Leave the U.S.”
- Expatsi: “Results from the 2024 Expatsi Report”
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