Free of the land: Has leaving the US become the new American dream?

Many Americans are choosing to build new lives overseas, driven by various factors such as health care costs, gun violence, politics, and a desire for a new experience. According to Census Bureau data, emigration from the US increased significantly in 2025, a trend expected to continue in 2026. Despite the small percentage compared to the US population of 340 million, the departure of people has contributed to a drop in net migration.

Mike Hogan, a former congressional staff member and government relations consultant, retired to southern Spain after falling in love with the town of Estepona. The Hogans found private health care in Spain for about $100 a month, with no deductible or co-payment, compared to their previous $2,500 a month US insurance plan. The number of Americans leaving the US is difficult to measure, but at least 180,000 moved to 15 countries in 2025, likely a higher figure.

President Donald Trump's return to the White House did not significantly influence Hogan's decision, but it made leaving easier to explain. Many Americans are attracted to the prospect of a calmer pace of life, better quality of life, and lower cost of living in Europe. A Gallup poll found that 21% of Americans would like to permanently move to another country if they could, with the percentage rising among women aged 15 to 44.

Cynthia Aceituno, a freelance digital marketer from New York, moved to Barcelona after considering El Salvador, citing safety concerns, cost of living, and a more relaxed lifestyle. Meredith Thomas, a travel blogger, left the US two years ago due to the high cost of living. For Christopher Mannino, concerns over his children's safety prompted their move to Malta, where they could work remotely and provide their children with a quality education.