Seventeen percent of Americans express a desire to relocate outside the United States within the next five years, marking a significant shift in attitudes toward international living. The allure of global destinations is driven by various factors, including healthcare, culture, and economic opportunities. Canada tops the list as the preferred destination for 19% of those seeking a new home abroad, followed closely by Italy at 11% and England at 10%.
A closer examination reveals that millennials are leading this trend, with 25% expressing a wish to move abroad soon. This generational inclination reflects broader concerns about domestic issues such as the high cost of living, a widening wealth gap, and dissatisfaction with the American work/life balance. A substantial 54% of Americans find living in the U.S. unaffordable, while 55% feel limited by the wealth gap, and 57% critique the work/life balance as substandard.
The primary attraction to Canada lies in its high-quality healthcare system, cited by 41% of respondents, alongside its picturesque landscapes and practical work/life balance approach. Italy's irresistible draw is its renowned cuisine, admired by 68%, along with its rich culture and welcoming people, appealing to 66%. Additionally, the enchanting scenery and terrain capture the interest of 40% of those considering Italy.
England stands as the third most popular choice, with its own unique charms drawing interest from prospective expats. Beyond individual preferences, broader systemic issues within the United States contribute significantly to this growing trend. A striking 65% of respondents criticize the American healthcare system as broken, while an equal percentage feels that society has become toxic. Moreover, 66% believe the education system fails to meet their expectations.
“Younger generations, in particular, are driving this trend. Raised in the shadow of the 2008 recession and pandemic-era instability, they’ve inherited skepticism toward traditional pathways to stability. Social media amplifies this by showcasing alternatives — countries with robust safety nets, affordable education, or mandated vacation time.” – Clint Kreider
The sentiment that the "American Dream" may no longer be viable resonates strongly across demographics. Many professionals, especially younger generations, are questioning its attainability.
“Many professionals, especially younger generations, are questioning whether the traditional ‘American Dream’ is still attainable,” – Max Shak
This growing skepticism is further compounded by personal experiences with systemic challenges. Clint Kreider notes a phenomenon he calls "invisible attrition," where individuals feel their efforts are undermined by systemic barriers such as soaring healthcare costs and stagnant wages.
“In my therapy practice, I’ve witnessed clients grappling with what I call ‘invisible attrition’: a sense that no matter how hard they work, systemic barriers (skyrocketing healthcare costs, stagnant wages, and unrelenting hustle culture) erode their ability to thrive.” – Clint Kreider
For 69% of respondents, concerns about the direction in which the U.S. is heading are paramount. This apprehension fuels their interest in exploring life beyond American borders. Moreover, 44% have always harbored a desire to experience expatriate life, indicating that this interest is not solely reactionary but also aspirational.
Leave a Reply