The Best Countries for Americans to Move To

When it comes choosing the best country for Americans to move to, the reality is that can be quite subjective. The answer may differ for everyone depending on if you speak a particular second language, have family ties abroad, work in a specific industry, and so on. There are a few countries however that are broadly attractive destinations for American expats due to ease of integration, attractive visa opportunities, and international job markets. Here are ten of our top picks for the best countries for Americans to move to and why you might want to look into them if you're considering a move abroad temporarily or permanently. If you are, why not try them out with a local HomeExchange?

1. Canada

Canadians are known for their friendly demeanor and multicultural mindset, making integration into the Canadian society relatively smooth for expatriates. For Americans in particular, we can't ignore that its close proximity to the United States is also practical for returning to the homeland to visit friends and family. While Canada definitely has cultural highlights unique to the country and its history, it also shares a lot in common with American culture, the most obvious being the English language. For Americans in particularly accustomed to paying high prices for quality healthcare, the national healthcare system is Canada can be a big draw making care affordable if not entirely free for most residents. With two beautiful coasts, breathtaking nature, and bustling cities, Canada is likely to have something any American will enjoy.

2. Mexico

Like Canada, a huge draw of Mexico for Americans is its geographical proximity to the United States. Many Americans also have a certain familiarity with Mexican culture thanks to Mexican history in the United States, the fact that Spanish is taught in many U.S. schools, and that there are many Mexican Americans. Many U.S. citizens may find Mexico one of the best countries for Americans to move to due to their increased purchasing power as well. For example, many U.S. retirees are drawn to settle down here as their pensions and savings go further in the Mexican economy with a strong dollar. At any age though Mexico can be a great place to reside, with incredible history, beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and even great economic opportunities to do business in many sectors.

3. England

If you're dreaming of Europe but not sure you're ready to take on a second language, then England is that place for you. Its proximity to Europe also opens up a gateway for travel and exploration, allowing individuals to easily experience different cultures and landscapes while conducting daily life in the English language. From the buzzing streets of London to the quaint countryside villages, England caters to a wide range of preferences, offering a high standard of living and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it an enticing choice for Americans looking to broaden their horizons and experience life in a captivating new setting. The English have a great familiarity with American culture as well. The downside however is that England can be quite difficult to move to permanently, as they have strict financial standards for visas. That being said, shorter term visas for a year per say are easier to come by.

4. Ireland

The Emerald Isle's friendly locals, known for spirited conversation and a welcoming nature, create an inviting atmosphere for expats looking to integrate seamlessly into a new life abroad. Ireland's strong sense of community, vibrant arts scene, and music traditions offer a blend of modernity and tradition that appeals to a diverse range of interests. The country's booming tech industry, coupled with a favorable tax environment for entrepreneurs, provides ample opportunities for career growth and innovation as well. Its stunning countryside, rugged coastlines, and charming villages make a picturesque backdrop for anyone seeking a slower pace of life or who loves the great outdoors. If you're yearning for a close-knit community, a scenic escape, and a rich cultural experience, Ireland is one of the best countries for Americans to move to.

5. Australia

Unlike some of the other destinations on this list, nothing about the geographical location of Australia way "down under" makes it a convenient choice for Americans. But what it lacks in practicality of placement (unless you're looking to get far far away!) it makes up for in many other categories. Its laid-back lifestyle, natural beauty, and diverse cultural tapestry, makes Australia alluring for expatriates seeking adventure and a high quality of life. The country's thriving economy, robust healthcare system, and excellent education options make it an attractive choice for individuals and families looking to settle in a stable and dynamic environment. The warm climate, pristine beaches, and vast outdoor recreational activities cater to those with a penchant for exploration and adventure, and its welcoming and multicultural society fosters a sense of inclusivity and belonging, making it easier for newcomers to integrate and thrive in their new surroundings.  

6. New Zealand

For those looking for new horizons, New Zealand is also a great choice as one of the best countries for Americans to move to. The country's emphasis on work-life balance, outdoor activities, and environmental sustainability creates an ideal setting for those craving a slower pace of life amidst stunning natural scenery. New Zealand's stable economy is also appealing for anyone looking to establish themselves for their business in a secure and progressive environment. The Kiwi spirit of innovation and creativity permeates the culture, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth. Exploration is the order of the day here with so many incredible landscapes to take in, which is why New Zealand is also a top destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking to reconnect with nature. For a peaceful and prosperous life abroad, take a look at New Zealand.

7. Singapore

Singapore is the ultimate beacon of modernity in Asia. While small, it packs a punch with a list of reasons that make it one of the best countries for Americans to move to. One of the biggest draws to the country is its culinary scene, with is a thriving intersection of asian flavors, tradition, and innovation. Meanwhile, the city-state has excellent public transportation, warm weather year round, and a thriving economy, particularly in sectors like finance, tech, healthcare, and logistics. It's a true metropolis against the backdrop of beautiful green spaces with a reputation as one of the cleanliest cities in the world as well as for safety, which is also why it happens to be ranked as one of the best places to live in the world. Singapore is a truly international community making incredibly diverse and English a widely spoken language here, so for expats it easy to make friends and branch out in a new place here.

8. Denmark

Also ranked as one of the best places to live in the world, Denmark also makes it into our list of the best countries for Americans to move to. It's esteemed for its high quality of living and general "happiness" ranking, with its emphasis on social welfare, healthcare, and education contributing to a sense of well-being among residents. The country's commitment to sustainability and cleanliness is evident in its green spaces, efficient public transport, and eco-friendly initiatives. They even find a way to make the most of long and dark winters with hygge, the cozy lifestyle concept. It's become a capital of cuisine as well so there is always something new to try. With its progressive values, clean environment, and high standard of living, Denmark presents an inviting and enriching prospect for Americans looking to make a fulfilling and seamless move to a country known for its contented residents and progressive outlook. If you're an American in search of a better work-life balance, this could be the place for you! An added bonus is that Danes tend to speak excellent English like much of Scandinavia.

9. Poland

Poland offers a unique and rewarding experience for Americans looking to immerse themselves in a dynamic European setting that is rich in history and opportunity. In recent years, many multinational companies have established a presence in the country contributing to an influx of people from all over the world. Compared to many European countries, it offers a relatively affordable cost of living, including housing. This can be attractive to Americans looking to stretch their earnings further like digital nomads or retirees, while living in Poland offers Americans easy access to various European countries, enabling them to explore diverse cultures and landscapes. You won't be disappointed though by Poland itself, as its beautiful natural landscapes, rich history, creative arts scene, and economic activity leave little left to be desired!

10. Italy

We've added Italy to round out our list of the best countries for a Americans to move to. While it doesn't tick off all of the traditional boxes like a bustling economy and widely spoken English, it's simply just hard to beat Italy when it comes to living la dolce vita. Living in Italy offers the clichéd anti-thesis to the American rat race. For long savored meals, ample leisure time, and an emphasis on the finer things in life like good food, wine, and conversation, Italy has it all. You never need to travel far in the boot to hit the slopes or the beach. While a popular European destination, the cost of living is much lower than in neigh-boring France. Italy has also gotten a lot of press for practically giving away real estate in recent years to Italians and expats a like willing to renovate historic properties, and it isn't a scam. It's the real deal and worth looking into if you're courageous enough to tackle a renovation in a foreign country! It's also one of the few countries that allows you to obtain citizenship via a grandparent, which can open a lot of doors for Italian-Americans looking to return to their ancestral origins.

Use HomeExchange to Stay in the Best Countries for Americans to Move To

If this list has your wanderlust going wild and you reaching for your passport, you're not alone. Living abroad for a few months, a year, or forever is one of the most exciting things one can do in their life. If you're looking for a change then here at HomeExchange is a great place to start. When moving abroad, accommodations can be one of the trickiest and most pricy aspects, but HomeExchange offers a great solution. Many individuals and families are keen to do extended exchanges, so you can get a taste for a new place with the comforts of home as well. Plus, your host also serves as a great "guide" giving you insider recommendations to help you fit in in a foreign land. You can unlock unlimited exchanges, reciprocal or with GuestPoints, for less than the average price two nights in a hotel here in North America. Get started with HomeExchange for free today and start exploring what life could be like in one of the best countries for Americans to move to!