15 Best Countries to Move to From the US (2026)

Something shifted in America. Maybe it was the fifth time you opened a medical bill that made your stomach drop. Maybe it was the realization that your rent now eats half your paycheck while your European friends pay a fraction of that and still get six weeks of vacation. Or maybe you just looked around and thought: there has to be a better way to live.

You are not alone. According to the State Department, over 9 million Americans now live abroad, and that number is climbing fast. Google searches for "best countries to move to from the US" have surged over 300% since 2020. This is not a fringe movement anymore. Doctors, engineers, teachers, remote workers, retirees, and young families are all doing the math and arriving at the same conclusion: the American Dream might play out better on foreign soil.

But here is the thing most "best countries" lists get wrong: they are based on vibes. Someone spent a week in Lisbon, ate some pasteis de nata, and declared Portugal the promised land. That is not how you make a life-altering decision.

At WhereNext, we do it differently. We score every country across seven data-driven dimensions using institutional sources like the World Bank, WHO, and Global Peace Index. No gut feelings. No sponsored content. Just the numbers. You can explore our full methodology here. Or jump straight to the interactive rankings by persona: digital nomads, retirees, or families.

Complete guide: See our full Leaving the US Guide for step-by-step planning, visa pathways, financial logistics, and interactive country comparisons.

So here it is: the 10 best countries for Americans to move to in 2026, backed by data.

The Top 10 Countries for Americans Moving Abroad

Before we dive into each country, here is the complete ranking. Every score is a composite of cost of living, safety, healthcare quality, infrastructure, visa accessibility, lifestyle, and economic stability. You can see the full global rankings on our rankings page.

Now let's break down why each of these countries made the list and what you actually need to know before booking that one-way ticket.

1. Portugal: The Gold Standard for American Expats

There is a reason Portugal tops nearly every "best countries to move to" list, and it is not just the weather (though averaging 300 days of sunshine per year certainly helps). Portugal combines first-world European infrastructure with a cost of living that is roughly 40-50% lower than major US cities.

The numbers tell the story. Portugal scores 92/100 on healthcare quality thanks to its dual public-private system, which ranked 12th globally by the WHO. Safety sits at a 90/100, making it the 7th safest country in the world by the Global Peace Index. And the cost index? 71/100— meaning your dollar stretches dramatically further than it does stateside.

The D7 Passive Income Visa is the golden ticket for Americans. If you can prove roughly $800/month in passive income, you are eligible. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency or even Portuguese (and by extension, EU) citizenship. Portugal also launched a revamped Digital Nomad Visa that allows remote workers earning at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage to reside legally while working for foreign employers.

In practical terms, expect to spend roughly $1,500-2,200 per month for a comfortable single-person lifestyle in Lisbon, including rent for a one-bedroom apartment, groceries, dining out several times a week, and transportation. Porto runs about 15-20% cheaper, and smaller cities likeBraga, Aveiro, or the Algarve region can bring costs down even further. Groceries and dining are where Portugal really shines: a full dinner with wine at a local restaurant typically costs $15-25 per person, which would barely cover appetizers in most American cities.

Healthcare access is straightforward once you are a legal resident. You register with your local health center and receive a Portuguese health number. The public system covers everything from routine checkups to emergency surgery with minimal copays. Many expats also carry private insurance, which runs about $50-150 per month depending on age and coverage, granting faster access to specialists and private hospitals. Prescription medication costs are heavily subsidized by the government, and common medications that cost hundreds of dollars in the US often cost under $10 in Portugal.

The expat community in Portugal is massive and well-established. Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve each have thriving communities of Americans, Brits, and Northern Europeans. Facebook groups, co-working spaces, and regular meetups make it easy to build a social circle even if you arrive knowing nobody. Portuguese people are generally warm and welcoming toward foreigners, and younger Portuguese speak excellent English, though learning at least basic Portuguese will significantly improve your daily experience and show respect for your host country.

Explore the full Portugal country profile for detailed cost breakdowns, visa requirements, and city comparisons.

2. Spain: Where Lifestyle Meets Infrastructure

Spain is Portugal's louder, more vibrant neighbor, and for good reason. It holds the highest lifestyle score in our entire database at 94/100, driven by its world-renowned food culture, social infrastructure, and the kind of work-life balance Americans can only dream about.

Healthcare is excellent (ranked 7th globally by the WHO), the infrastructure score lands at 87/100, and Spain launched a Digital Nomad Visa in 2023 that lets remote workers stay for up to three years. Cost of living runs about 30-40% lower than the US average, though Madrid and Barcelona are pricier than smaller cities like Valencia, Malaga, or Alicante.

Spain offers several visa pathways for Americans. The Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for retirees and those living on savings or passive income, requiring proof of roughly $2,800/month in income or equivalent savings. The Autonomo (self-employed) Visa works for freelancers and entrepreneurs. And the Digital Nomad Visa, formally known as the International Teleworking Visa, requires demonstrating an employment relationship or freelance contracts with companies outside Spain, along with a minimum income threshold.

Monthly costs for a single person in Valencia or Malaga run roughly $1,600-2,200, making them some of the best-value cities in Western Europe. Madrid and Barcelona cost more, typically $2,200-3,000 per month, but still well below comparable American cities like San Francisco or New York. Spain's public healthcare system is free for legal residents and consistently ranks among the top 10 in the world. Wait times for specialists can be longer than in the US, but the quality of care is excellent, and private insurance is available for about $80-200 per month as a supplement.

What sets Spain apart from other European options is the lifestyle. The Spanish concept of sobremesa— the long, lingering conversation after a meal — embodies a culture that prioritizes human connection over productivity. Shops close for siesta, dinner does not start until 9 PM, and weekends are genuinely sacred. For Americans burned out by the grind culture, Spain offers a fundamentally different relationship with time. The expat community is large and diverse, with particularly strong American populations in Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and along the Costa del Sol.

Curious how Spain stacks up directly against Portugal? We built an interactive comparison for exactly that question.

Portugal edges ahead on cost, safety, and the faster path to EU citizenship. Spain wins on lifestyle and infrastructure. Both are exceptional choices, and the "right" one depends on your priorities. For a deeper dive, read our full Portugal vs Spain comparison or explore the full Spain profile.

3. Mexico: The Proximity Play

Mexico is the most popular destination for American expats, and geography is the obvious reason — but it goes way deeper than that. With a cost of living index of 82/100 (meaning extremely affordable), your US income or savings goes roughly 2-3x further in cities like Merida, Oaxaca, and San Miguel de Allende.

Mexico offers one of the easiest visa situations for Americans. The Temporary Resident Visa requires roughly $2,500/month in income, and the tourist visa already gives you 180 days. The timezone alignment with the US means you can work remotely for a US company without setting your alarm for 3 AM, unlike Southeast Asia. That single factor makes Mexico unbeatable for remote workers who need to attend meetings on Eastern or Central time.

Safety is the question everyone asks, and it is a fair one. Mexico scores a 62/100 on safety nationally, but that number varies wildly by region. Merida, for example, is statistically safer than many mid-sized American cities. The Yucatan Peninsula, Lake Chapala, San Miguel de Allende, and parts of Baja California all have strong safety records and well-established expat communities. Our Mexico country profile breaks down safety by region so you can make an informed call.

Healthcare in Mexico is a pleasant surprise for most Americans. Private healthcare is widely available and remarkably affordable. A doctor's visit typically costs $30-50, and comprehensive private health insurance runs about $100-250 per month depending on age and coverage level. Mexico has become a major destination for medical tourism, with modern hospitals in Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterreyoffering procedures at 50-70% less than US prices. Dental work is a particular draw — many Americans living near the border already cross for dental care, and full-time expats benefit from ongoing access to affordable, high-quality dental services.

The expat community in Mexico is the largest of any country on this list. Lake Chapala and Ajijic alone are home to an estimated 30,000+ American and Canadian retirees. Mexico City has a booming scene of younger digital nomads and remote workers. Merida, Puerto Vallarta, San Miguel de Allende, and Playa del Carmen each have their own distinct expat cultures. And because Mexico shares a border with the US, visiting family back home is cheaper and easier than from any other destination on this list — a major consideration for Americans with aging parents or school-age children who split time between countries. For the full breakdown, see our Complete Guide to Moving to Mexico.

4. Costa Rica: The Nature-First Lifestyle

Costa Rica has been quietly attracting American retirees and families for decades, and the data explains why. It is the only country on this list that abolished its military (in 1948) and redirected that spending toward healthcare and education. The result? A healthcare score of 82/100 and a safety score of 78/100— punching well above its GDP weight class.

The Pensionado Visa requires just $1,000/month in pension or retirement income. The Rentista Visa is available to non-retirees who can demonstrate $2,500/month in income for at least two years. Cost of living sits at 74/100 on our affordability index, making it pricier than Mexico or Southeast Asia but still substantially cheaper than the US. The tradeoff? You are living in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, with universal healthcare included.

In practical terms, a comfortable lifestyle in the Central Valley (San Jose, Escazu, or Atenas) costs roughly $1,800-2,500 per month for a single person. Beach towns like Tamarindo, Nosara, or Manuel Antonio tend to run higher, often $2,200-3,000 per month, reflecting their popularity with tourists and expats. Groceries for imported goods can be expensive, but local produce, tropical fruits, and Costa Rican staples are very affordable. The country runs on the Pura Vidaphilosophy — a genuine cultural emphasis on simplicity, gratitude, and enjoying life — which resonates deeply with Americans escaping burnout culture.

Costa Rica's healthcare system, known as the Caja, provides universal coverage to all legal residents for a monthly fee based on income (typically 7-11% of declared income). The quality is solid for routine care, though wait times for specialists can be lengthy. Many expats supplement with private insurance or pay out of pocket for private care, which remains far cheaper than US prices. A specialist visit typically runs $50-100, and private hospital stays cost a fraction of their American equivalents.

The American expat community in Costa Rica is well-organized and welcoming. The Association of Residents of Costa Rica (ARCR) offers relocation assistance, legal help, and social events. English is widely spoken in expat-heavy areas, though learning Spanish will dramatically enrich your experience and open up more affordable areas where fewer foreigners have settled.

See the full breakdown in the Costa Rica country profile, or read our Complete Guide to Moving to Costa Rica.

5. Thailand: Maximum Value, Minimum Spend

If your primary goal is stretching every dollar as far as it can go, Thailand is almost impossible to beat. It holds the highest affordability score on our list at 91/100. A comfortable lifestyle in Chiang Mai or Hua Hin runs $1,200-1,800 per month, including rent, food, transportation, and even regular massages.

Healthcare is the sleeper stat here. Thailand is a global leader in medical tourism, with hospitals like Bumrungrad in Bangkok ranking among the best in the world. Our healthcare score for Thailand sits at 79/100. The infrastructure score of 76/100 reflects excellent domestic travel networks, fast internet, and modern cities.

The visa situation is evolving. Thailand launched a Long-Term Resident Visa in 2022 for remote workers and retirees, offering up to 10 years with tax benefits. The traditional retirement visa requires proof of roughly $24,000 in savings or $2,000/month in income. And the new Destination Thailand Visa (launched 2024) offers a simpler 180-day stay for digital workers and freelancers.

The cost breakdown in Thailand is what makes it so compelling for budget-conscious Americans. A modern one-bedroom apartment in Chiang Mai rents for $300-500 per month. A full meal at a local restaurant costs $2-4. A one-hour Thai massage runs about $8-12. Private health insurance for comprehensive coverage costs $100-200 per month depending on age. Even in Bangkok, which is significantly more expensive than the rest of the country, you can live comfortably on $1,800-2,500 per month — a fraction of what a comparable lifestyle would cost in any American metro area.

The expat community in Thailand is one of the largest and most established in Asia. Chiang Mai is particularly popular with digital nomads and has a thriving co-working scene, with dozens of co-working spaces, regular networking events, and an active online community. Bangkok attracts a more diverse crowd including corporate expats, entrepreneurs, and teachers. The islands (Koh Samui, Phuket, Koh Phangan) appeal to those who want a beach lifestyle. English is widely spoken in tourist and expat areas, though less so in rural regions. Thai language is tonal and challenging for English speakers, but most expats manage daily life with basic Thai phrases combined with English.

Dive into the Thailand country profile for city-level cost comparisons and visa details. If you are debating between Southeast Asian destinations, our cheapest countries guide covers the full region. For career-focused relocation, see best Asian countries for career relocation.

Top 5 Countries by Affordability

Cost of living is consistently the number-one factor Americans cite when considering a move abroad. If stretching your savings or maximizing your remote income is the priority, here is how our top 10 countries rank on affordability alone.

6. Germany: The Powerhouse for Career-Driven Expats

Germany is not the cheapest option on this list. But if you are looking for economic stability, career opportunities, and world-class public services, it is hard to beat. Germany scores 93/100 on economic stability and 91/100 on infrastructure— both among the highest in the world.

Here is a stat that blows most Americans away: German public universities charge zero tuition, even for international students. If you have kids approaching college age, that alone could save you $100,000+. Healthcare is universal and scores 88/100 on our index. And the EU Blue Card makes skilled immigration relatively straightforward, particularly for workers in tech, engineering, and healthcare.

Germany offers multiple visa pathways. The EU Blue Card requires a job offer with a minimum salary threshold (lower for shortage occupations like IT and engineering). The Freelance Visais popular with American consultants, designers, writers, and other self-employed professionals — it requires demonstrating that your work benefits the German economy and that you have sufficient clients or contracts. The Job Seeker Visa gives you six months to find employment in Germany, which is unusual and generous by European standards.

Monthly costs vary significantly by city. Berlin remains relatively affordable by Western European standards at roughly $1,800-2,500 per month for a single person, though finding apartments has become competitive. Munichis Germany's most expensive city at $2,400-3,200 per month. Smaller cities like Leipzig, Dresden, or Nuremberg offer excellent quality of life at $1,400-1,800 per month. German healthcare is mandatory for all residents, funded through either the public insurance system (about 14-15% of gross income, split with your employer) or private insurance for higher earners. The system is thorough and efficient, covering everything from routine dental care to complex surgeries with minimal wait times.

The catch? German bureaucracy is legendary, the language barrier is real (though English is widely spoken in tech and business), and winters can be gray. But the data does not lie: for overall quality of life and long-term economic security, Germany is a titan. The American expat community is concentrated in Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg, with Berlin in particular having a large English-speaking international community. Check the full data in the Germany country profile.

7. Colombia: The Comeback Story

Colombia is the most improved country on our watchlist. Safety scores have climbed steadily since the 2016 peace agreement, and the country now scores 64/100 on safety— still below the European average but trending sharply upward and comparable to Mexico. Cities like Medellin and Bogota have transformed into thriving hubs for remote workers and entrepreneurs.

The cost of living story is compelling: Colombia scores 87/100 on affordability. A comfortable lifestyle in Medellin runs roughly $1,500-2,000/month. The Digital Nomad Visa launched in 2022 requires just $3,000/month in income and grants a two-year stay. The lifestyle score of 79/100reflects the country's incredible biodiversity, warm culture, and rapidly improving infrastructure.

Colombia also offers a Retirement Visa(Pensionado) that requires a pension income of roughly $750/month — one of the lowest thresholds in the Americas. The Independent Worker Visa is available for freelancers and business owners with Colombian clients or contracts. Healthcare in Colombia is surprisingly strong: the system was ranked 22nd globally by the WHO, ahead of the United States and Canada. Private health insurance costs roughly $80-150 per month and provides access to modern hospitals in major cities. Medellin in particular has become a medical tourism destination, with world-class clinics offering procedures at a fraction of US prices.

Medellin's spring-like climate (averaging 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round thanks to its elevation) has earned it the nickname "City of Eternal Spring." The digital nomad scene is booming, with co-working spaces, entrepreneur meetups, and a growing community of Americans in the El Poblado and Laureles neighborhoods. Bogota offers a more cosmopolitan, career-oriented environment. Cartagena appeals to those wanting a Caribbean coastal lifestyle. And smaller cities like Santa Marta and Bucaramanga are gaining popularity for their lower costs and authentic Colombian culture. Spanish is essential for daily life outside expat enclaves, but Colombia is widely regarded as having one of the clearest and most learnable varieties of Spanish in Latin America.

Learn more in the Colombia country profile, or see how it stacks up against Mexico in our Mexico vs Colombia comparison.

8. Malaysia: Southeast Asia's Best-Kept Secret

Malaysia flies under the radar compared to Thailand and Bali, but the data suggests it should not. It scores 84/100 on affordability, 80/100 on infrastructure, and here is the kicker: English is widely spoken thanks to the British colonial legacy and a multilingual education system. For Americans worried about the language barrier in Asia, Malaysia largely eliminates that concern.

Kuala Lumpur is a genuinely modern city with fast internet, world-class hospitals, and international schools. The MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) visa has been a popular option for retirees, though requirements tightened in recent years. Healthcare scores 77/100, with private hospitals offering first-world quality at a fraction of US costs — a knee replacement that might cost $40,000 in the US runs about $4,000-6,000 in Malaysia.

The MM2H visa now requires a fixed deposit of approximately $65,000-130,000 (depending on the applicant's age) and proof of offshore income of at least $10,000 per month. While the financial requirements have increased, the program still offers a renewable 5-year social visit pass with multiple entry. For those who do not meet the MM2H thresholds, Malaysia also offers the DE Rantau program for digital professionals, which has lower requirements and is specifically designed for remote workers in the tech sector.

Monthly costs in Kuala Lumpur average $1,100-1,600 for a comfortable lifestyle, including rent for a modern condo with a pool and gym. Penang, Malaysia's food capital, runs even cheaper at $900-1,300 per month. The food scene across Malaysia is genuinely world-class — the country's multicultural heritage (Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous influences) produces one of the most diverse and affordable food cultures anywhere. A hawker center meal costs $2-4, and even upscale dining is a fraction of US prices.

Malaysia's strategic location also makes it an excellent base for exploring Southeast Asia. Budget airlines connect Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok, Singapore, Bali, Ho Chi Minh City, and dozens of other destinations for as little as $30-80 per flight. The expat community is diverse and growing, with Americans, Europeans, and fellow Asians all drawn by the combination of affordability, English accessibility, modern infrastructure, and tropical climate.

See the full data breakdown in the Malaysia country profile.

9. New Zealand: The Safety-First Choice

If personal safety is your non-negotiable priority, New Zealand deserves serious consideration. It holds a safety score of 93/100— one of the highest in the world — and consistently ranks in the top 5 of the Global Peace Index. English is the primary language, so there is no language barrier, and the culture is surprisingly welcoming to newcomers.

The tradeoffs are real, though. New Zealand scores only 52/100 on affordability (it is expensive, especially housing in Auckland and Wellington). It is also geographically isolated, which means flights back to the US are long and pricey. But the healthcare score of 85/100, the clean environment, and the outdoor lifestyle make it a top choice for families and retirees who prioritize quality of life over cost.

The Skilled Migrant Category Visa is points-based and favors professionals in shortage occupations. New Zealand maintains an extensive list of skill shortages spanning healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and education. If your occupation appears on the list, the immigration pathway becomes considerably more straightforward. The Investor Visa categories offer an alternative for those with significant capital, requiring investments of NZD 5-15 million depending on the tier. For retirees without a skills-based pathway, the Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa allows a two-year stay with proof of NZD 750,000 in investment funds.

Monthly living costs in Auckland, the largest city, run $2,500-3,500 for a single person. Wellington is slightly cheaper at $2,200-3,000. Smaller cities and towns like Queenstown, Tauranga, or Nelson offer more affordable living at $1,800-2,400 per month, along with easier access to the stunning natural landscapes that draw people to New Zealand in the first place. The public healthcare system is funded through taxes and provides subsidized care to residents, with most GP visits costing NZD 20-50. The quality is high, though wait times for elective procedures can be lengthy. Many residents carry supplementary private insurance through providers like Southern Cross.

New Zealand's outdoor lifestyle is a major draw: hiking, skiing, surfing, sailing, and mountain biking are all part of daily life rather than occasional vacations. The culture is laid-back and egalitarian, with a strong Maori heritage that adds depth and richness. The American expat community is smaller than in European or Latin American destinations, but tight-knit and welcoming. Explore the New Zealand country profile for visa pathways and cost details.

10. Japan: Order, Safety, and Unmatched Culture

Japan rounds out the top 10 with a combination of metrics that no other country can match. The safety score is 91/100— you can leave your laptop in a Tokyo coffee shop and it will be there when you come back. Healthcare scores 92/100, reflecting one of the best universal healthcare systems on the planet. And the infrastructure score of 94/100 is simply best-in-class: bullet trains, spotless cities, and internet that actually works.

The affordability story has changed dramatically. With the yen at multi-decade lows against the dollar, Japan now scores 68/100 on affordability— surprisingly reasonable for a first-world nation. Cities outside Tokyo, likeFukuoka, Osaka, and Kyoto, offer excellent value. A comfortable lifestyle in Fukuoka runs roughly $1,800-2,400/month, including rent in a modern apartment.

The challenge is cultural integration. Japanese society values conformity, the language is genuinely difficult for English speakers, and the work culture is intense (though this matters less if you are working remotely for a US company). Japan's new Digital Nomad Visa (launched 2024) allows stays of up to six months for remote workers earning foreign income. The more permanent Highly Skilled Professional Visauses a points system based on academic background, work experience, and salary, and can lead to permanent residency in as little as one to three years — one of the fastest pathways in Asia.

Japan's healthcare system deserves special mention. National Health Insurance covers 70% of medical costs, with the patient paying the remaining 30%. But that 30% is based on Japanese prices, which are already far below American levels. A doctor's visit typically costs $10-30 out of pocket. An MRI that might run $2,000+ in the US costs roughly $100-150 in Japan. Prescription medications are similarly affordable. The quality of care, particularly in Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities, is world-class.

The expat community in Japan is smaller and more self-selected than in Thailand or Mexico, but it is growing. Tokyo has a vibrant international community, particularly in neighborhoods like Roppongi, Azabu, and Shibuya. Fukuoka has emerged as a startup hub with a welcoming attitude toward foreign entrepreneurs. Osaka is known for its friendlier, more outgoing local culture compared to Tokyo. While the language barrier is real — daily life requires at least basic Japanese — the rewards of living in Japan are unique: unparalleled food culture, absolute safety, and a society that functions with extraordinary precision and consideration.

Explore the Japan country profile for the full picture.

Top 5 Countries by Safety

For Americans who list personal safety as their top priority — particularly families, solo female travelers, and retirees — here is how the safest countries on our list stack up. For the full global safety ranking covering all countries, see our dedicated safest countries page.

Best Countries by Category

Not every country is the right fit for every person. Your ideal destination depends heavily on your life stage, priorities, and circumstances. Here is how our top 10 countries break down across the most common expat profiles.

Best for Families

If you are moving with children, your priorities shift toward safety, education quality, healthcare reliability, and the availability of international schools. Portugal and Spain lead the pack for families, combining excellent public education systems, safe communities, and affordable international schools (roughly $5,000-15,000 per year, compared to $20,000-40,000+ in the US). Germany is the standout for education-focused families thanks to its free university system and strong public schools. New Zealand offers an English-speaking environment with outstanding safety and a child-friendly outdoor culture. Costa Rica rounds out the top family picks with its peaceful society and growing network of bilingual schools. See our full guide for best countries for families.

Best for Retirees

Retirees prioritize healthcare access, affordability on a fixed income, safety, and quality of life. Portugal stands out with its D7 visa (specifically designed for passive income recipients), world-class healthcare, and low cost of living. Costa Rica is excellent for retirees thanks to the low-threshold Pensionado Visa and universal healthcare system. Mexico offers proximity to the US (crucial for retirees who want to visit grandchildren or maintain US medical relationships), enormous expat communities built around retiree needs, and unbeatable affordability. Malaysia appeals to adventurous retirees willing to explore Asia, with affordable private healthcare and a warm climate year-round. Thailand offers the most purchasing power for retirees on tighter budgets, with excellent healthcare and established retiree communities in Chiang Mai and Hua Hin. Explore our detailed best countries for retirement rankings.

Best for Digital Nomads and Remote Workers

Remote workers need fast, reliable internet, a favorable timezone for their clients, affordable co-working spaces, and a visa that actually permits remote work. Mexico is the top pick for Americans working US hours thanks to timezone alignment and low costs. Portugal and Spain both offer dedicated Digital Nomad Visas and have thriving remote work scenes in Lisbon, Porto, Barcelona, and Valencia. Colombia has emerged as a digital nomad hotspot, particularly Medellin, with its combination of low costs, fast internet, and a Digital Nomad Visa with a relatively low income requirement. Thailand offers the lowest costs for nomads willing to work unusual hours (the timezone gap with the US is significant). Check our best countries for digital nomads rankings for the full breakdown.

Best for Budget-Conscious Movers

If maximizing purchasing power is your primary objective, Thailand, Colombia, and Malaysia are the clear winners. All three allow a comfortable lifestyle on $1,200-1,800 per month, which is less than many Americans pay for rent alone. Mexico also delivers exceptional value, especially in cities outside the major tourist zones. Even within the European options, Portugal and Spain offer significantly lower costs than the US in smaller cities and rural areas. For a comprehensive look at the most affordable destinations worldwide, see our affordability rankings.

2026 Trends: What Has Changed for American Expats

The expat landscape is evolving rapidly. Several significant trends in 2025 and early 2026 are reshaping where Americans choose to move and how they get there.

The Digital Nomad Visa Boom Continues

Over 50 countries now offer some form of digital nomad or remote worker visa, up from fewer than 10 before the pandemic. The competition for remote workers has driven increasingly generous terms: longer stays, lower income requirements, and streamlined application processes. Spain, Portugal, Japan, Thailand, and Colombia all have active programs, and several other countries on our broader watchlist have launched or announced new programs. This trend is particularly beneficial for American remote workers, who now have more legitimate long-term visa options than at any point in history.

Currency Dynamics Favoring the Dollar

The US dollar has remained strong against many currencies, making destinations like Japan, Thailand, Colombia, and Mexico even more affordable for Americans earning in dollars. Japan is the most dramatic example: the yen's decline against the dollar has made Japan roughly 30-40% cheaper for dollar earners compared to just a few years ago. This currency advantage can swing, but in the near term it significantly benefits Americans considering moves to Asia and Latin America.

Rising Remote Work Acceptance

The post-pandemic normalization of remote work continues to expand the pool of Americans who can realistically consider moving abroad. Many companies have shifted to permanent remote or hybrid policies, and the freelance economy continues to grow. This means that relocation is no longer limited to retirees and the independently wealthy — working-age Americans with remote jobs now represent the fastest-growing segment of new expats.

Political Factors Driving Interest

American interest in moving abroad tends to spike during politically turbulent periods, and search trends reflect this clearly. Regardless of one's political alignment, concerns about healthcare policy, cost of living, social stability, and quality of life continue to push Americans to explore alternatives. Immigration lawyers and relocation services report sustained high demand from Americans across the political spectrum. Our state-by-state guide to where Americans are moving breaks down the specific destinations drawing residents from each US state.

Tightening Regulations in Popular Destinations

Not all trends favor expats. Some countries are tightening rules in response to the influx of foreign remote workers driving up local housing costs. Portugal ended its Golden Visa program for real estate investment. Mexico City has seen growing tension around gentrification in neighborhoods popular with foreign digital nomads. Thailand periodically adjusts its visa rules. These changes are worth monitoring, and they underscore the importance of using current, accurate data when evaluating destinations rather than relying on information that may be a year or two out of date.

Countries to Watch: Up-and-Coming Destinations

Beyond the top 10, several countries are rapidly gaining popularity among American expats and could break into the top tier in coming years.

Uruguay

Often called the "Switzerland of South America," Uruguay offers strong rule of law, a stable democracy, and a high quality of life by regional standards. It scores well on safety and governance metrics, and its tax regime is favorable for foreign residents. Montevideo is a cosmopolitan capital with a growing international community. The cost of living is higher than neighboring Argentina but still well below US levels.

Croatia

Since joining the EU and adopting the euro, Croatia has become more accessible to long-term residents. It launched a Digital Nomad Visa in 2021, and cities like Split and Zagreb offer a Mediterranean lifestyle at lower costs than Western Europe. The Adriatic coast is stunning, the food scene is excellent, and English proficiency is high among younger Croatians.

Taiwan

Taiwan combines first-world infrastructure with a remarkably low cost of living. Its National Health Insurance system is consistently ranked among the best in the world, and the safety level is comparable to Japan. Taipei has a growing international community, excellent public transportation, and some of the best street food on the planet. The Gold Card program offers a fast-track visa for professionals in certain fields. Read our complete Taiwan guide.

Albania

Albania is one of Europe's fastest-rising destinations among digital nomads and budget-conscious expats. The cost of living in Tirana is a fraction of Western European cities, the Adriatic and Ionian coastline is gorgeous, and the country offers a one-year Digital Nomad program. Infrastructure is improving rapidly, though it still lags behind EU member states. For Americans willing to be early adopters, Albania offers exceptional value. Read the full Albania guide.

How We Ranked These Countries

Every score in this article comes from WhereNext's country evaluation system. Unlike most "best countries" lists that rely on the author's personal experience or anecdotal evidence, our rankings are built on a systematic, data-driven methodology that evaluates each country across seven equally weighted dimensions. We aggregate data from institutional sources including:

• Cost of Living: World Bank purchasing power data
• Safety: Global Peace Index, UN crime statistics
• Healthcare: WHO rankings, HAQ Index, healthcare expenditure data
• Infrastructure: World Bank logistics index, internet speed data, transport networks
• Visa Accessibility: Immigration policy databases, visa requirement analysis
• Lifestyle: Climate data, cultural offerings, expat satisfaction surveys
• Economic Stability: GDP growth, inflation rates, employment data

Each dimension is scored on a 0-100 scale using normalized data, ensuring that countries are compared on a consistent basis regardless of region or income level. The composite score is a weighted average of all seven dimensions. By default, all dimensions are weighted equally, but our personalized quiz allows you to customize the weights to match your own priorities. Care more about safety than cost? The quiz adjusts the ranking accordingly.

Our data is refreshed regularly to account for changing economic conditions, new visa programs, and shifts in safety or healthcare quality. We believe that transparency about methodology is what separates genuine analysis from opinion dressed up as expertise. Read the full details in our methodology page.

How to Decide Which Country Is Right for You

With 10 strong options on this list (and dozens more in our full rankings), the paradox of choice is real. Here is a decision framework to help you narrow the field.

Start With Your Non-Negotiables

Before comparing countries, identify the one or two factors you absolutely will not compromise on. For some people, it is safety. For others, it is affordability, healthcare access, English proficiency, or proximity to the US. Once you know your non-negotiables, you can immediately eliminate countries that do not meet those criteria and focus your energy on the remaining options.

Consider Your Income Source and Timezone

If you work remotely for a US-based company, timezone compatibility matters enormously. Mexico and Costa Rica are in US timezones. Portugal and Spain are 5-8 hours ahead of the US, which is manageable for many remote workers. Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan are 12-14 hours ahead, which usually means working evening or night hours to overlap with US business time. If you are retired or self-employed with no timezone constraints, this factor becomes irrelevant — but for remote employees, it should be one of your first filters.

Evaluate Your Budget Honestly

Calculate what you can realistically afford on a monthly basis, including rent, food, healthcare, insurance, travel back to the US at least once a year, and an emergency fund. Then compare that number against the actual cost of living in your target countries. If you are on a fixed retirement income of $2,000 per month, Thailand, Colombia, or Mexico will provide a comfortable life, while New Zealand or Germany would be a financial stretch. Be honest about your numbers — moving abroad to save money only works if you pick a destination that genuinely aligns with your budget.

Think About Healthcare Needs

Your age and health status should heavily influence your choice. If you have chronic conditions or anticipate needing significant medical care, prioritize countries with strong healthcare systems and easy access to specialists: Portugal, Spain, Japan, and Germany all excel here. If you are young and healthy, healthcare might be less of a deciding factor, freeing you to prioritize cost or lifestyle instead. Remember that Medicare does not cover you overseas, so you will need either local insurance, international health insurance, or sufficient savings to cover out-of-pocket costs.

Do a Trial Run

We strongly recommend spending at least two to four weeks in any country before committing to a long-term move. Visit during the "worst" season (rainy season in Thailand, winter in Germany, summer heat in Spain) to see if you can handle the climate year-round. Try to live like a resident, not a tourist: shop at local grocery stores, use public transportation, visit a local clinic, and explore neighborhoods where you might actually live rather than just the tourist areas. A trial run will reveal things that no amount of online research can: how you feel walking the streets, whether the pace of life suits you, and whether you can picture building a life there.

Use Data to Validate Your Instincts

After visiting, come back to the data. Use our country comparison tool to put your top two or three choices side by side. Take the WhereNext quiz to see how your priorities map to our rankings. You can also explore our 2026 Global Relocation Index for a data-driven ranking of 95 countries across cost, safety, healthcare, and four other dimensions. The goal is to combine your personal experience with objective data — neither one alone is sufficient for a decision this important.

Key Factors Americans Should Consider Before Moving Abroad

The "best" country depends entirely on your situation. Before you pack your bags, think carefully about these factors:

Visa and Legal Pathway

Not every country makes it easy for Americans to stay long-term. Some offer digital nomad visas (Portugal, Spain, Colombia, Thailand, Japan), while others require employer sponsorship or significant investment. The visa landscape is changing fast — over 50 countries have launched new remote worker visa programs since 2020. Our visa accessibility guide breaks down which countries actually welcome American immigrants versus which just tolerate tourists.

Healthcare Access

This is the number-one concern for most American expats, and understandably so. The US is the only developed nation without universal healthcare, and many Americans are shocked to discover that countries like Portugal, Spain, and Thailand offer comparable or superior medical care at a fraction of the cost. An emergency room visit that might generate a $5,000 bill in the US could cost $50-200 out of pocket in Portugal or Thailand. Our healthcare rankings cover this in depth.

Tax Implications

Americans are taxed on worldwide income regardless of where they live. That means you will file US taxes even from Chiang Mai. However, the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE)lets you exclude over $132,900 of foreign-earned income (2024 threshold), and many countries have tax treaties with the US to prevent double taxation. Portugal's Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) successor program and Thailand's LTR visa both offer significant tax advantages for qualifying expats. See our expat tax guide for the details.

Cost of Living vs Quality of Life

The cheapest country is not always the best country. A place can be ultra-affordable but score poorly on safety or infrastructure. That is why we recommend looking at the composite score rather than any single dimension. Use our country comparison tool to see how any two countries stack up side by side across all seven dimensions.

Language and Cultural Fit

Data can tell you that a country is affordable and safe, but it cannot tell you whether you will feel at home there. Language barriers, cultural norms, food, social expectations, and the size of the existing expat community all affect your daily experience. We recommend spending at least two to four weeks in any country before committing. English-friendly options on our list include New Zealand, Malaysia, and (to a lesser extent) Germany and the Netherlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Next Steps After Choosing Your Country

Once you have narrowed your list to one or two countries, the real planning begins. Here is a practical roadmap for turning your decision into action.

Research and Apply for Your Visa

Visa applications can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on the country and visa type. Start the process early. Gather the required documents: passport, proof of income or savings, health insurance, criminal background check, and any country-specific requirements. Many visa applications require apostilled or notarized documents, which adds processing time. Consider working with an immigration lawyer, especially for countries with complex bureaucracies like Germany, Portugal, or Japan. The cost of legal help ($500-2,000 in most countries) is almost always worth the peace of mind and time saved.

Plan Your Finances

Open a bank account with no foreign transaction fees (Charles Schwab and several online banks offer this). Research whether your destination country requires a local bank account for your visa application. Set up a plan for transferring money internationally — services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) offer far better exchange rates than traditional banks. Budget for startup costs: the first three months in a new country are typically more expensive than ongoing living costs due to security deposits, furniture purchases, and one-time setup fees.

Secure Healthcare Coverage

Research whether your target country provides public healthcare to legal residents or whether you need private insurance. International health insurance providers like Cigna Global, Allianz Care, and SafetyWing offer policies designed specifically for expats, typically covering you in your new country and during travel. If you are over 65, note that Medicare does not cover you abroad — you will need a dedicated international plan or local insurance.

Connect With the Expat Community

Before you arrive, join online communities for expats in your target country. Facebook groups, Reddit communities, and forums like ExpatExchange and InterNations can provide current, on-the-ground information that no guidebook can match. Ask about neighborhoods, landlords, healthcare providers, and the practical details of daily life. Many expat communities also organize in-person meetups, language exchanges, and social events that can help you build a social network quickly after arrival.

Use WhereNext to Finalize Your Decision

Reading about countries is step one. Actually narrowing down your options is where most people get stuck. Here is how to turn research into action:

• Take the WhereNext quiz — a 2-minute questionnaire that weighs your priorities (cost vs safety vs lifestyle) and generates a personalized country ranking tailored to your situation.
• Explore the full rankings — sort and filter every country by any dimension that matters to you, from affordability to visa accessibility.
• Compare your top picks — put two or three countries head-to-head on the metrics that matter most, just like the Portugal vs Spain comparison above.
• Dive into country profiles— every country page includes city-level data, visa requirements, cost breakdowns, and real expat insights. Start with Portugal, Spain, or Mexico.
• Use our moving abroad checklist — once you have chosen your destination, this covers every step from documents to finances to healthcare setup.

Moving abroad is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. It should also be one of the most informed. Skip the blog posts based on someone's two-week vacation and start with the data. The numbers do not have an agenda — they just tell you what is true.

Take the quiz and find your best country match in under 2 minutes.

Interactive Planning Tools

• Move Abroad Planner — step-by-step relocation timeline
• Cost of Living Calculator — US vs destination cost comparison
• Visa Checker — which visas you qualify for
• Tax Comparison — FEIE, FTC, and foreign tax obligations
• Relocation Readiness Quiz — assess your preparedness
• Safety Explorer — compare safety scores for 95+ countries
• Climate Finder — match weather to your preferences

Related Reading

• Where Americans Are Actually Moving in 2026 — the latest data on real destinations
• H-1B Alternatives: Where to Go in 2026 — best options for tech workers leaving the US

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