Have you been thinking it might be time to leave the U.S.? Whether it’s the rising cost of living, a desire for better work-life balance, the dream of experiencing life in another culture, or just you’re just no longer feeling satisfied in the States, many Americans are asking themselves if moving abroad is the right choice.
But how do you know if an international move is a good fit for you? This quiz is designed to help you reflect on your lifestyle, priorities, and goals. By answering a few quick questions and reviewing your score, you’ll discover if the U.S. or relocating overseas might be the right next step for your future.
How to Take the Quiz:
Read each question carefully and choose the answer that feels most true to you. At the end, add up your points to see your score and find out where you stand on the “Should I leave the U.S.?” scale.
If you’re considering this move with a partner, family member, or close friend, it’s best for each of you to take the quiz separately and then compare results. You may be surprised at how your perspectives line up (or don’t)!
If you’re taking it solo, take some time to reflect on your answers and imagine how you would have answered 6 months ago and how you may answer 6 months in the future. This is a big decision that deserves plenty of consideration, not a knee-jerk reaction.
Remember: this quiz is not a final verdict on such a big life decision. Instead, think of it as a fun, thought-provoking way to spark reflection and conversations about whether moving abroad could be the right path for you.
Anyway, onto the questions:
1. Lifestyle Fit
To what degree do you feel anxious or unsatisfied with current life in the US?
- A. Very satisfied here, no major issues (0 points)
- B. Some frustrations, but manageable (1 point)
- C. Regular anxiety or strong desire for change or new opportunities (2 points)
- D. I feel I need a different lifestyle (3 points)
2. Financial Readiness
How stable is your financial situation for living abroad?
- A. I don’t have steady income or savings yet (0 points)
- B. Some savings, but income uncertain (1 point)
- C. I have remote/flexible income or access to sufficient retirement funds (2 points)
- D. I have both savings and steady income (3 points)
3. Legal & Practical Logistics
How comfortable are you handling visas, international taxes, and residency requirements?
- A. Not comfortable at all (0 points)
- B. I could manage with lots of help (1 point)
- C. Willing to learn and deal with bureaucracy (2 points)
- D. I actually enjoy tackling systems like this (3 points)
4. Family & Relationships
How would distance from family/friends impact you?
- A. I can’t imagine being far away (0 points)
- B. I’d miss them a lot but could adjust (1 point)
- C. Technology makes it easier, I’d manage fine (2 points)
- D. I’m independent and excited to form new connections (3 points)
5. Healthcare Needs
What best describes your healthcare situation?
- A. I need constant access to specific doctors or services available only in the U.S. (0 points)
- B. I need some regular care, but could manage abroad (1 point)
- C. I’m relatively healthy and flexible (2 points)
- D. I’ve researched foreign healthcare and feel confident (3 points)
6. Cultural Adaptability
How do you feel about learning new languages/customs?
- A. It would overwhelm me (0 points)
- B. I’d try, but it might be hard (1 point)
- C. I find it exciting (2 points)
- D. I thrive in multicultural environments (3 points)
7. Career & Work
What’s your work situation?
- A. My job requires me to be in the U.S. and cannot change jobs (0 points)
- B. I could maybe shift careers abroad (1 point)
- C. My work is flexible/remote (2 points)
- D. I’m financially independent or retired (3 points)
8.Problem-Solving Abroad
How comfortable are you with handling unexpected challenges in another country (bureaucracy, banking, housing)?
- A. I’d feel completely overwhelmed (0 points)
- B. I could cope with help (1 point)
- C. I’d figure it out with some patience (2 points)
- D. I’m resourceful and see challenges as part of the adventure (3 points)
9. Risk Tolerance
How do you handle uncertainty, sudden change, and challenges?
- A. I avoid risk as much as possible (0 points)
- B. I get nervous but can handle change with time and planning (1 point)
- C. I can adapt to surprises (2 points)
- D. I thrive on change and adventure (3 points)
10. Travel Mindset
How do you usually feel when traveling abroad for vacation?
- A. Stressed and uncomfortable outside the US (0 points)
- B. Excited at first, but I quickly miss home (1 point)
- C. I feel energized and inspired (2 points)
- D. I feel like I belong abroad more than at home (3 points)
🌟 Scoring
- 0–10 points → Moving abroad might not be the right fit right now. Focus on building financial stability and clarifying your goals.
- 11–19 points → You’re curious but still preparing. You’d benefit from short test trips or extended stays abroad. Look at ways to make the finances work such as location independent remote jobs or research work authorization and visa rules for your country of choice if you plan to work after your move.
- 20–26 points → You’re in a strong position to move abroad, but should research countries carefully to match your needs. Become familiar entry and stay requirements for your destination country (For Europe, the Schengen Shuffle can help extend your stay visa-free)
- 27–30 points → You’re ready! You have the mindset, adaptability, and resources to thrive overseas. Now’s time to hammer out the details and start your new adventure!
✨ Ready to Take the Next Step?
So, how did you score? Whether your results suggest you’re already primed for expat life or still weighing the possibilities, remember: moving abroad is a journey that starts with good planning.
If this quiz sparked your curiosity, the next step is to get practical. We’ve created a free Move Abroad Checklist to help you think through everything from mental readiness and finances to destination qualities and exit planning if you find yourself homesick. It’s a simple, step-by-step guide designed to make the transition smoother and less overwhelming.
Your adventure doesn’t have to stay a daydream—take the first step today! 🌍✈️
