Exit Strategies: Why More Americans Are Considering Life Abroad in 2025 Amid Political Unrest and Social Upheaval

In a scenario reminiscent of 2016, Donald Trump’s re-election has prompted many Americans to reconsider their options for leaving the country. According to immigration attorneys speaking with Fortune, affluent Americans have already been laying the groundwork for relocation, with many setting up a “Plan B” regardless of the election outcome.

Surveys reveal that a growing number of Americans across all income brackets are interested in leaving the U.S., citing political and social turmoil as a leading factor, along with concerns over rising living costs.

Over recent years, more Americans have been formally renouncing their citizenship.

Major reasons cited by immigration professionals include an increase in anti-immigrant, anti-Semitic, and anti-LGBTQ sentiment, as well as the ongoing erosion of women’s reproductive rights and gender discourse.

Here are some affordable and appealing destinations for Americans considering a move abroad, each offering a unique blend of cost-effective living, quality healthcare, and a welcoming culture:

1. Portugal

Why It’s Appealing: Known for its warm climate, vibrant cities, and beautiful coastlines, Portugal is one of the most affordable European countries for expats. It has a relatively low cost of living, especially outside Lisbon, and excellent healthcare.
Visa Options: Portugal offers the Golden Visa program for property investments and the popular D7 visa for those with passive income.
Cost of Living: Monthly living expenses can range between $1,500 and $2,000, depending on the location.

2. Mexico

Why It’s Appealing: With proximity to the U.S. and a variety of climates and communities, Mexico is popular among Americans. Cities like Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, and San Miguel de Allende offer affordable living with access to good healthcare.
Visa Options: The Temporary Resident Visa is popular among retirees and remote workers.
Cost of Living: Monthly living expenses average around $1,000 to $1,500 in many areas.

3. Costa Rica

Why It’s Appealing: Known for its laid-back lifestyle, natural beauty, and “Pura Vida” spirit, Costa Rica is a safe and eco-friendly country with affordable healthcare and a welcoming expat community.
Visa Options: The Pensionado visa is designed for retirees, but other residency options are available for those with independent incomes.
Cost of Living: Monthly expenses range between $1,500 and $2,500 depending on lifestyle and location.

4. Colombia

Why It’s Appealing: Colombia is known for its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and affordable cities, with Medellín often highlighted for its “eternal spring” climate.
Visa Options: The Retirement Visa and various long-stay visas are popular among expats.
Cost of Living: Monthly expenses are as low as $1,000 to $1,500, depending on the city and lifestyle.

5. Ecuador

Why It’s Appealing: With a low cost of living, Ecuador offers breathtaking landscapes and a mild climate, especially in cities like Cuenca and Quito. It has a significant expat community and affordable healthcare.
Visa Options: The Retirement Visa is available for those with passive income or Social Security benefits.
Cost of Living: Monthly expenses are around $1,200 to $1,800 for a comfortable lifestyle.

6. Vietnam

Why It’s Appealing: Vietnam has a low cost of living, warm climate, and unique culture. Cities like Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City are popular among digital nomads and retirees.
Visa Options: Long-term visas are available, and expats often renew tourist visas for extended stays.
Cost of Living: Monthly living expenses can be as low as $800 to $1,200.

7. Thailand

Why It’s Appealing: Thailand offers a blend of culture, beautiful beaches, and affordable healthcare. Cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok attract many digital nomads, retirees, and wellness seekers.
Visa Options: The Retirement Visa (for those over 50) and various long-stay visas are accessible to Americans.
Cost of Living: Monthly expenses range from $1,200 to $2,000, depending on lifestyle and city.

8. Malaysia

Why It’s Appealing: Malaysia has a low cost of living, excellent healthcare, and a strong expat community. Kuala Lumpur offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle at an affordable price, while Penang has a more laid-back pace.
Visa Options: The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program offers long-term residency for expats.
Cost of Living: Monthly living expenses are approximately $1,200 to $2,000.

9. Spain

Why It’s Appealing: Spain offers a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and a relaxed lifestyle. Cities like Valencia and Málaga are affordable compared to other European cities, and Spain’s Mediterranean climate is a big draw.
Visa Options: The Non-Lucrative Visa is popular for retirees and those with independent income.
Cost of Living: Monthly living expenses can range from $1,800 to $2,500.

10. Uruguay

Why It’s Appealing: Uruguay is known for its stability, high quality of life, and mild climate. Montevideo and coastal areas are popular with expats who enjoy a relaxed pace.
Visa Options: There is an easy pathway to residency for those with sufficient income or investments.
Cost of Living: Monthly living expenses range from $1,500 to $2,500.

Each of these destinations offers a unique culture, affordable lifestyle, and various visa pathways that can suit different types of American expats, from retirees and digital nomads to families seeking a fresh start abroad.

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If you’re considering moving abroad, the following resources offer valuable information and support to help you navigate the process:

International Citizens: Provides comprehensive guides on moving abroad, including country-specific information, visa requirements, and relocation checklists. International Citizens
Expat Exchange: Offers extensive advice for expatriates, including country forums, resources on international jobs, real estate, and culture shock. Expat Exchange
Transitions Abroad: Features articles and resources on living overseas, covering topics like working abroad, studying, and cultural immersion. Transitions Abroad
Go Overseas: Provides a guide on how to move abroad, including steps to live overseas as an expat, with insights on finding jobs and accommodations. Go Overseas
Wise: Offers a step-by-step guide on moving abroad from the U.S., covering topics like deciding where to move, visa applications, and financial considerations. Wise
Clements Worldwide: Provides a moving abroad checklist detailing essential tasks to complete before relocation, including vaccinations, financial planning, and legal considerations. Clements
Nomadic Fire: Features an ultimate moving abroad checklist and overseas relocation guide, breaking down steps to be completed 90, 60, and 30 days before your move date. Nomadic Fire
Expatolife: Offers a moving abroad checklist with 40 things to do, including researching culture, healthcare options, and packing tips. Expat O Life
AFAR: Provides expert tips on how to move abroad, including resources for finding accommodations and understanding local cultures. Afar
Wander Onwards: Features a 13-step international moving checklist, covering topics like visa applications, finding jobs abroad, and financial planning. Wander Onwards

These resources offer a wealth of information to assist you in planning and executing a successful move abroad if you so decide.

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Next read>>>20 Best and Safest Places for Women to Travel Solo Internationally

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This article has been archived by Slow Travel News for your research. The original version from MSN can be found here.

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