Want to move out of the US? These are the best places to live abroad, expats say

(NEXSTAR) – Do you ever think about packing your bags and moving to another country to start a new life abroad? If so, you’re not alone.

TikTok is flooded with people documenting their expat lifestyles, with some even claiming that the “new American dream is to leave.”

While the U.S. still has more immigrants than any other nation, many citizens here, especially Gen Zers, are looking to emigrate for several reasons.

An October 2023 survey by language tutoring company Preply found that more than 37% of its respondents aged 18 to 26 want to live abroad indefinitely. As for why, 1 in 4 said they wanted access to better programs, like universal health care. Others cited new cultural experiences, the high cost of living in the U.S., and our current political climate.

If you’re serious about moving out of the country but unsure where to go, a recent report from InterNations ranking the places where expats are thriving might point you in the right direction. 

The top 10 best places to live abroad, according to expats

The country that tops the list is just south of the border: Mexico. The InterNations survey found that 90% of expats in the country are enjoying their life there.

Mexico is also the friendliest nation on the list, with 89% of expats saying that locals are kind to foreigners. That’s 24 percentage points above the global average of 65%, per the report.

Although finding a place to live can be challenging, housing is affordable and 71% of expats are happy with the cost of living. They’re also satisfied with the career opportunities and the work-life balance.

According to InterNations, Mexico has been in the top five of its annual ranking since 2014.

There are some cons, however, such as political instability. About 18% of expats said they don’t feel safe in the country either. The U.S. State Department noted in a travel advisory, last updated in August 2023, that violent crime is widespread in Mexico.

The department said emergency services are limited in certain areas and urged travelers not to visit the following states: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas.

Similar to Mexico, runner-up Spain received high marks for how easy it is for foreigners to settle in (80% of expats said they feel right at home). Many expats there also love Spain’s nightlife and sports scene, as well as the cost of living. Overall, 87% of expats are pleased with their life there.

On the negative side, 36% said they are unhappy with the job market while only 49% believe moving there improved their career prospects.

The U.S. State Department has also issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Spain, encouraging visitors to use increased caution due to “terrorism and civil unrest.” The advisory warned people to avoid demonstrations and to be on alert when visiting tourist attractions or crowded areas.

Portugal is the only other European country to make the top 10, while the others are in Asia and the Americas:

1. Mexico
2. Spain
3. Panama
4. Malaysia
5. Taiwan
6. Thailand
7. Costa Rica
8. Philippines
9. Bahrain
10. Portugal

For its survey, InterNations – which represents the world’s largest expat community – polled more than 12,000 people of varying nationalities living in 172 countries or territories.

Participants rated different aspects of expat life, from healthcare and safety to work culture, housing and more. Click here to see the full report.