Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Escape the Grind: Why Life Abroad Feels Free
In an increasingly globalized world, the question “Should I move out of the country?” is becoming more common among U.S. citizens. Whether it’s for a new adventure, a better cost of living, or political dissatisfaction, more Americans are exploring if life abroad might be right for them.
If you’re pondering whether relocating to another country is the right decision for you, here are several common reasons that motivate people to make the move—along with factors to consider before taking the leap.
1. Lower Cost of Living
One of the most common reasons Americans consider moving abroad is the rising cost of living in the U.S. Countries like Portugal, Mexico, Thailand, and Albania offer a significantly lower cost of housing, food, and healthcare. For retirees, digital nomads, and remote workers, the ability to stretch their income further can be a game-changer.
Tip: If you do choose to move to a country to enjoy a lower cost of living, remember your potential impact on the local economy. Many countries have seen an influx of foreign residents willing to overpay for housing and services which has caused living costs to rise for locals. Be responsible! Do your research and don’t overpay (especially on rent!) just because you can afford to!
2. Affordable Healthcare
The U.S. healthcare system is notoriously expensive. Many countries offer universal healthcare or more affordable private options. Expats often find that even out-of-pocket costs abroad are far less than insurance premiums and medical bills in the States.
Tip: While many countries extend some level of public healthcare to visitors and non-citizen residents the rules from country to country can be very different and it can be a lot to keep track of if you’re constantly on the move. If you expect to be moving frequently between countries, consider purchasing a global insurance plan.
3. Work-Life Balance and Quality of Life
In the U.S., long hours, limited vacation time, and high stress are often part of the work culture. Many people are moving to countries that prioritize work-life balance, shorter work weeks, and more vacation time.
Popular choices: New Zealand, Ireland, Belgium, and Denmark top the 2024 remote.com work life balance index (For reference, U.S. ranks 59th!) .
4. Political Climate and Social Values
Regardless of which party occupies the White House, some people will always feel like their values no longer align with their government’s. Economic policy, social issues, and religious differences can leave some people feeling disconnected from the current direction of U.S. policies and culture. For those seeking a country that aligns more closely with their values, moving abroad can feel like a form of reclaiming peace or safety.
Tip: Before you decide on a new country, research current government policies that are important to you to make sure it will be a good fit. Your goal should be to find a home where you can feel comfortable and assimilate to local culture, NOT to try to change your new home to fit your beliefs.
5. Education Opportunities
Families and students often relocate for better access to international schools, lower tuition costs, or unique cultural experiences. Some countries offer tuition-free or low-cost university education, even for foreign students. Many countries are beginning to remove red tape and increase funding to attract researchers and higher education professors!
Did you know? Germany offers free tuition to international students at most public universities—even for advanced degrees.
6. Adventure and Cultural Exploration
Sometimes, the motivation is simple: a desire for change. Living abroad offers the opportunity to experience new cultures, learn a new language, and grow in ways that aren’t possible when staying in one’s comfort zone. Whether you plan to slow-travel or find a new home-base, living abroad can cut costs by eliminating expensive intercontinental travel and unlocking more opportunities to explore other cultures and ways of life.
Consider: Traveling is one thing—living in another country gives a deeper, more meaningful connection to the world.
7. Remote Work and Digital Nomad Lifestyle
With the rise of remote work, more Americans are discovering they no longer need to be tied to a specific location. Countries have responded by offering digital nomad visas, making it easier for professionals to live abroad legally while working online.
Popular destinations: Estonia, Portugal, and Barbados all offer remote work-friendly visa programs
Things to Consider Before Moving Abroad
Before acting on the question, “Should I move out of the country?,” it’s important to think practically:
- Legal Residency: What are the visa requirements?
- Income and Employment: Can you work remotely or find a local job?
- Language and Culture: Are you prepared to adapt?
- Family and Relationships: How will the move affect your loved ones?
- Long-Term Goals: Is this a short-term adventure or a permanent move?
These are all complicated, yet important considerations when making the decision to move across the globe. One of our main motivations in starting this blog was to share our experience answering these questions for ourselves in the hopes it would help others decide if it’s the right decision for them.
The decision to move out of the country is deeply personal. While the reasons for relocating are varied—from financial advantages and better healthcare to political disillusionment or a thirst for adventure—it’s crucial to research thoroughly and plan carefully.
If you find yourself asking, “Should I move out of the country?”, it might be time to explore your options and imagine what a life abroad could look like for you.
Are you ready to move abroad? Check out our moving abroad checklist to see.
