Amid rising housing costs, concerns over healthcare, and deepening social divisions, a notable number of Americans are thinking about leaving the U.S. According to a recent survey, 17% of American adults are considering relocating abroad within the next five years, suggesting a possible shift in the country’s demographic makeup.
The survey, conducted by Talker Research, found that 5% of Americans plan to actively pursue living abroad in the near future, while 2% have already started the process of moving to another country.
Millennials were identified as the group most eager to move internationally, with 25% expressing a desire to relocate – the highest percentage among all the generations surveyed. This trend likely stems from the challenges millennials have faced, including economic instability, rising student debt, and the increasing unaffordability of housing.
Regionally, those living in the Midwest (18%) showed slightly more interest in moving abroad compared to residents in the Southwest, West, Southeast, and Northeast, all of whom were at 16%.
For many Americans, the desire to move overseas is not just a reaction to current difficulties. The survey found that 44% of respondents have always harbored an interest in living in another country, indicating that for some, the idea of relocating has been a long-standing aspiration rather than a mere escape plan.
When asked about their preferred destinations, Canada was the top choice, with 19% of potential expatriates naming it as their number one option. The appeal of Canada seems multifaceted, with respondents citing its excellent healthcare system (41%), its vast and varied landscapes offering many opportunities for adventure (28%), and its work-life balance approach (21%) as key reasons for their interest.
Italy ranked second, attracting 11% of respondents. The country’s famous cuisine was the most compelling factor (68%), followed by its rich cultural heritage and friendly people (66%). Italy’s stunning scenery and diverse terrain also played a significant role in its appeal (40%).
England came in third, with 10% of survey participants favoring it as their destination. The culture and distinct way of life (66%), historical richness (49%), diverse landscapes (25%), and quality healthcare system (21%) were the top reasons for the interest.
Other countries that garnered notable interest included Australia (10%), Ireland (8%), France (6%), Switzerland (5%), Costa Rica (5%), Scotland (4%), and Germany (4%). This varied list highlights that Americans’ aspirations to live abroad span across different continents and cultural regions, showing that their desires are global in nature.
The survey also delved into the reasons behind Americans’ interest in moving abroad. Many respondents cited concerns about American society and the difficulty of achieving financial stability. Nearly 70% (69%) expressed worry about the direction the country is heading, and 65% described the American social climate as “toxic.”
Financial struggles were a significant motivator. More than half of respondents (54%) said that living in the U.S. had become unaffordable, and 55% felt that the growing wealth gap limited their opportunities. Nearly 40% (39%) thought that improving their finances and quality of life would be easier in another country.
Work-life balance was another major issue, with 57% of respondents feeling that America’s approach was insufficient. Furthermore, strong majorities agreed that the U.S. healthcare (65%) and education (66%) systems were broken.
These concerns have shifted many people’s views about life in America compared to other countries, with 40% stating that living in the U.S. is no longer enjoyable or preferable to life abroad.
Experts who commented on the survey highlighted the increasing willingness of younger generations to consider relocating. “Younger generations, in particular, are driving this trend,” said Clint Kreider, a licensed marriage and family therapist at Still Water Wellness Group. “Raised in the shadow of the 2008 recession and pandemic-era instability, they’ve inherited skepticism toward traditional pathways to stability. Social media amplifies this by showcasing alternatives — countries with robust safety nets, affordable education or mandated vacation time.”
Kreider went on to describe a common pattern he sees in his therapy practice: “In my therapy practice, I’ve witnessed clients grappling with what I call ‘invisible attrition’: a sense that no matter how hard they work, systemic barriers (skyrocketing healthcare costs, stagnant wages and unrelenting hustle culture) erode their ability to thrive.”
Max Shak, founder and CEO of Zapiy, linked these trends to shifting perceptions of success. “Many professionals, especially younger generations, are questioning whether the traditional ‘American Dream‘ is still attainable. Skyrocketing housing costs, student debt and healthcare expenses have made it harder for people to feel financially secure in the U.S.”
Shak continued: “In contrast, many countries offer more affordable living, universal healthcare and better work-life balance, making the idea of relocating incredibly appealing. Ultimately, this openness to moving abroad reflects a larger shift — people are prioritizing quality of life over traditional career paths and seeking environments that better align with their personal and financial well-being.”
For the 17% of Americans considering moving abroad, the decision involves weighing numerous factors such as career opportunities, healthcare availability, education systems, cultural offerings, and social environments. The specific destinations they are drawn to—such as Canada’s healthcare system or Italy’s culinary traditions—show that many of these individuals are making thoughtful, well-considered decisions rather than simply escaping from their current lives.
If the survey results are indicative of real migration trends, the impact could be profound. Even if only a small percentage of Americans leave, this could represent millions of people seeking new lives abroad.
This potential migration could have significant effects on domestic labor markets, especially if specific professions or skill sets are overrepresented in those choosing to relocate. It could also shift political dynamics by changing the composition of the electorate and creating transnational communities with connections to multiple countries.
From a global perspective, increased migration from the U.S. to countries like Canada, Italy, and England could strengthen ties between these nations and the U.S., fostering new international networks and cultural exchanges.
The survey also highlighted the practical difficulties of moving abroad, including visa requirements, employment factors, and the emotional challenge of leaving family and familiar surroundings behind. For many Americans, the idea of living abroad may remain a dream, but one that may not materialize anytime soon.
Nonetheless, the survey indicates a noticeable shift in how Americans view their future prospects. The openness to considering life outside of the U.S. reflects an expanded vision of where one can find happiness, security, and fulfillment, a vision particularly growing among younger Americans.
Top 10 Countries Americans Want to Move To:

1. Canada
2. Italy
3. England
4. Australia
5. Ireland
6. France
7. Switzerland
8. Costa Rica
9. Scotland
10. Germany

{Matzav.com}