9 Best Countries for Americans to Move To for Work, Life & Adventure

Americans are moving abroad in record numbers, and some countries make the transition easier than others. The process starts with choosing where to go, from nearby Mexico and Canada to farther destinations like Germany, Australia, or Japan. Each offers its own mix of career options, affordability, and quality of life. The steps are simple: check visa requirements, plan finances, and prepare for a new lifestyle. For easy connectivity during and after your move, an international eSIM like Jetpac keeps you online instantly with 5G data wherever you settle.

More Americans than ever are looking beyond U.S. borders for better work-life balance, lower living costs, and new experiences. From Europe to Asia and Latin America, countries around the world are opening their doors to professionals, families, and remote workers. But with so many options, deciding where to start can feel overwhelming.

This guide breaks down the 9 best countries for Americans to move to, based on lifestyle, safety, career opportunities, visa options, and cost of living. Whether you’re planning a full relocation or testing life abroad as a digital nomad, these destinations make it easier than ever to work, live, and explore, without losing connection to home.

Why More Americans Are Moving Abroad

In the past decade, the number of Americans living overseas has grown steadily. Many are drawn by simpler lifestyles, lower healthcare costs, flexible work visas, and the rise of remote jobs that let them live anywhere with good Wi-Fi.

Common reasons Americans are choosing to move abroad include:

Lower cost of living: countries where $2,000 a month covers rent, food, and leisure.

Better work-life balance: shorter workweeks and generous vacation time.

Global career opportunities: expanding job markets in tech, education, and healthcare.

Safety and stability: low crime rates and excellent healthcare systems.

Adventure and travel: easy access to new cultures and destinations.

If you’re wondering how I can move to another country, the process often starts with exploring visa options, work, digital nomad, or residency, and researching daily expenses, healthcare, and connectivity. With tools like Jetpac international eSIM, you can even stay online while managing paperwork or job applications overseas.

The 9 Best Countries for Americans to Move To

According to the latest United Nations migration data, millions of Americans now live abroad, and most of them have chosen a few familiar, welcoming destinations. These are the nine countries where Americans are most likely to move, combining work opportunities, lifestyle upgrades, and that elusive balance between comfort and adventure.

Note: For most countries, an immigrant means "born in another country". Someone who has gained citizenship in the country they live in is still counted as an immigrant if they were born elsewhere. For some countries, place of birth information is not available; in this case, citizenship is used to define whether someone counts as an immigrant.

#1. Mexico

It’s close, it’s affordable, and it feels like home with more flavor. Mexico is the top choice for Americans looking to live well without leaving North America. The Temporary Resident Visa is easy to get, and you can comfortably live in cities like Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, or Mexico City for less than what you’d pay for rent in most U.S. cities.

The weather’s warm, the food’s fantastic, and your friends will visit, often.

#2. United Kingdom

A shared language, cultural familiarity, and a strong job market make the UK one of the best countries for Americans to move to. London attracts professionals, while Edinburgh and Manchester offer charm at lower costs. Whether you come for work or study, the transition feels natural. Just remember to look the other way when crossing the street.

#3. Germany

For stability, structure, and career growth, Germany stands out. Its strong economy and well-organized immigration system (like the EU Blue Card) make it appealing to skilled professionals. Add in free university education, safe cities, and weekend escapes across Europe, and it’s easy to see why so many Americans are putting down roots here.

#4. Australia

Sunshine, strong salaries, and a sense of balance, Australia feels like the U.S. with better beaches. The Skilled Migration Program makes it straightforward for qualified workers to move, and cities like Melbourne and Brisbane combine urban energy with outdoor living. Here, people work hard but clock out on time, often heading straight to the water.

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No matter which country you decide to call home, be it Mexico, Germany, or Australia, staying connected should never be complicated. An international eSIM makes it effortless to settle in, manage paperwork, and explore your new surroundings without worrying about roaming costs.

👉 Read our blog: How to Get an eSIM Online and Save on Roaming

#5. China

Fast-moving and full of opportunity, China attracts teachers, entrepreneurs, and tech professionals. Shanghai and Shenzhen offer global-level salaries and high energy, but everyday life also includes dumpling stalls and peaceful parks. It’s a different rhythm of life, dynamic, structured, and endlessly interesting.

#6. France

If you’ve ever dreamed of fresh baguettes and long lunches, France might be calling. The Talent Passport Visa and other long-stay options make it easier than before for Americans to relocate. Paris is iconic but pricey; smaller cities like Lyon and Montpellier offer just as much charm for less. Once you settle, you’ll wonder why you ever ate lunch at your desk.

#7. Brazil

Vibrant, welcoming, and full of color, Brazil offers a blend of big-city energy and relaxed coastal life. São Paulo is the country’s financial heart, while Florianópolis is an expat favorite for remote work and startups. Visas for investors and digital nomads are straightforward, and the culture makes newcomers feel part of the community fast.

#8. India

Dynamic, diverse, and affordable, India is becoming one of the best countries to move to from the USA for professionals and entrepreneurs. Cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad lead Asia’s tech boom, while smaller towns offer balance and charm. The cost of living is low, and every day feels like a new story.

#9. South Africa

From wine country to wildlife, South Africa offers more than postcard views. Cape Town attracts digital nomads and creative professionals, while Johannesburg buzzes with business. The Critical Skills Visa and Business Visa make relocation manageable, and the quality of life is high if you plan wisely. Few places combine ocean, mountains, and city life this seamlessly.

Each of these countries offers something different: a slower pace, a new challenge, or just a better cost of living. The best one for you depends on what you’re chasing: opportunity, safety, community, or a bit of all three.

The Easiest Countries for Americans to Move To

If your priority is simplicity, fewer forms, faster visas, and smoother cultural adjustment, a few destinations stand out.

Mexico tops the list for convenience and proximity. The Temporary Resident Visa is simple, and thousands of Americans already live there full-time.

• Apart from the countries listed above, Canada, Portugal, and Costa Rica also deserve special mention. Each offers a welcoming environment, streamlined visa options, and a high quality of life, whether you’re drawn to Canada’s professional stability, Portugal’s relaxed European charm, or Costa Rica’s tropical balance of nature and community.

Each of these countries offers something rare: a realistic, accessible way to start a new chapter abroad without endless paperwork or cultural barriers.

Staying Connected Abroad Made Easy with Jetpac eSIM

Moving abroad means adjusting to new systems, currencies, and sometimes new languages, but staying connected shouldn’t be one of the challenges. Whether you’re relocating to Mexico, Germany, or Australia, having reliable mobile data makes everyday life easier, from setting up banking apps to finding your new neighborhood café.

That’s where Jetpac eSIM comes in. It’s the simplest way to stay connected across borders, without waiting in line for local SIM cards or worrying about roaming fees.

Why Jetpac eSIM is ideal for Americans moving abroad:

Works in 200+ destinations worldwide, including all major expat hubs.

Instant activation via QR code, ready before you even land.

Prepaid data plans that cost up to 70% less than roaming.

5G coverage with automatic network switching for the strongest signal.

Unlimited hotspot sharing for laptops or travel companions.

Voice calls available in 50+ countries from USD 1.99 for 5 minutes.

24/7 support via WhatsApp and email.

Whether you’re exploring new countries or settling into a long-term move, Jetpac International eSIM keeps you connected from the moment you arrive, no contracts, no setup delays, just fast, reliable data wherever life takes you next.

FAQs

What is the easiest country to move to as a U.S. citizen?

Mexico and Portugal are among the easiest countries for Americans to move to, thanks to simple visa options, affordable living, and established expat communities.

What is the safest country for an American to live in?

Countries like Japan, New Zealand, and Canada consistently rank high for safety, healthcare, and political stability, making them ideal for families and solo expats.

Which country is better to live and work in?

If career growth matters most, Germany and Australia offer strong job markets and fair wages. For remote workers, Spain and Portugal balance good infrastructure with a relaxed pace of life.

Where in the world can I live comfortably on $2,000 a month?

You can live comfortably in Mexico, Portugal, India, and Costa Rica on around $2,000 a month. These countries offer lower rent, affordable healthcare, and a high quality of life.

How can I move to another country from the U.S.?

Start by researching visa options that match your goals, work, study, or retirement. Apply through your chosen country’s consulate, gather necessary documents, and plan finances for at least six months of expenses. Once approved, an international eSIM like Jetpac ensures instant connectivity when you arrive.

Do I need to speak another language to move abroad?

Not always. Many expats thrive in English-friendly destinations like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Portugal, and the Netherlands. Learning a few basics of the local language, though, helps you integrate faster.

What should I arrange before moving overseas?

Sort out essentials like visa documents, housing, banking, healthcare coverage, and mobile connectivity. Using a Jetpac eSIM before departure lets you manage everything online, from airport navigation to setting up your new home abroad.

What is the easiest country to immigrate to from the US?

The easiest country to immigrate to from the US is generally Mexico, followed closely by Portugal and Canada. These countries have straightforward visa processes, affordable living costs, and strong expat communities. If you’re looking for stability and straightforward residency options, Mexico remains one of the easiest countries to immigrate to from the US for long-term stays.

What is the best country to move to from the USA?

While Americans are increasingly moving to places such as Mexico, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, France, Brazil, India, and South Africa, the best country to move to from the USA ultimately depends on lifestyle priorities. For affordability and proximity, Mexico leads the way; for career growth, Germany and Australia stand out; and for cultural experience, France and Japan top the list. Each of these destinations offers something unique, which is why they remain among the best countries to move to from the USA today.

Disclaimer:

The information in this article is intended for general guidance only and may change based on each country’s immigration laws and visa policies. Readers should verify all requirements and procedures with official government sources or licensed immigration professionals before making any relocation decisions. The author and publisher are not responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions, or changes in regulations that may affect individual circumstances.