Summary:
According to a February 27, 2025, article from BlueRidgeNow, a growing number of Americans are relocating abroad in 2025, with Mexico emerging as the top international destination for U.S. citizens. Motivations for this move range from financial and lifestyle considerations to broader political and social concern stemming from the recent election and the slew of recent policy enactments. The BlueRidgeNow article outlines the most popular countries for American emigrants and why these destinations are drawing attention:
Mexico leads the list, with nearly 800,000 U.S. citizens making the move in the year 2024 alone. Proximity to the United States, lower cost of living, and established expatriate communities make it a convenient and attractive choice. According to the International Citizens Group, U.S. citizens can stay in Mexico for up to 90 days without a visa or 180 days with a tourist visa, but those seeking longer-term residency typically begin by applying for a temporary residency visa — valid for up to four years — and may become eligible for Mexican citizenship after five years of continuous residence under a temporary or permanent visa, subject to certain exceptions. The article notes that, given the fact that Mexico is ranked 138 out of the 163 countries on the 2024 Global Peace Index, location matters, and Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Medina are popular and relatively safe options.
Other top countries Americans are moving to include:
- Canada, – due to cultural similarities, proximity to the U.S., healthcare access, and easier transition for English speakerssimilarities in language.
- United Kingdom, – particularly for those with ancestral or professional ties.
- Spain and Portugal, – favored for their quality of life, temperate climates, and visa options for retirees and digital nomads.
- Costa Rica, – known for its political stability, biodiversity, and appeal to retirees; and.
- Germany, France, and Italy, – for those with EU family connections, dual citizenship paths, or employment in academia or international organizations.
The article notes that overOver 9 million U.S. citizens live abroad, according to the U.S. State Department. While the exact annual outflow is difficult to track, the, and the recent uptick in Americans moving abroadtrend appears steady or growing, particularly among fueled by retirees, digital nomads, and professionals seeking greater affordability, healthcare access, and or lifestyle changes. Other motivations include risi
Motivations include:
Rising housing and healthcare costs in the U.S.
Rremote work flexibility, allowing relocation without job loss
Ppolitical polarization and concerns over safety and public services in the United States, and the desire for slower-paced living, cultural immersion, or reconnecting with family roots.
The article also highlights the importance of understanding visa requirements and long-term residency rules in the destination country. Many popular countries offer retirement visas or income-based residence permits that do not require employment locally.
Original Article Link: https://www.blueridgenow.com/story/news/local/2025/02/27/what-country-are-most-us-citizens-moving-to-where-to-go-to-get-out/80719429007/
Source: BlueRidgeNow / USA Today Network
Date: February 27, 2025