A recent survey reveals that a significant portion of Americans, particularly younger generations, are finding life in the U.S. less enjoyable and are considering moving abroad. Economic pressures, social tensions, and concerns about essential systems like healthcare and education are driving this sentiment, with Canada, Italy, and England emerging as top desired destinations.
The Shifting American Dream
According to a survey by Talker Research, 40% of Americans believe living in the U.S. is no longer enjoyable or preferable to other nations. This sentiment is particularly strong among millennials, with a quarter of them expressing a desire to relocate internationally. This trend is attributed to various factors, including economic downturns, rising student debt, and increasingly unaffordable housing.
Key Takeaways
- 17% of American adults want to move internationally within the next five years.
- 5% plan to take actual steps toward living abroad soon.
- 2% have already started the process of moving to another country.
- Millennials are the most eager to move internationally (25%).
- Midwesterners show slightly more interest in moving abroad (18%) compared to other regions.
- 44% of respondents have always wanted to experience life in another country.
Why Americans Are Looking Abroad
The survey highlights several key reasons for Americans’ desire to move abroad:
- Direction of the U.S.: 69% are worried about the country’s direction.
- Societal Toxicity: 65% describe American society as having become “toxic.”
- Affordability: 54% say living in the U.S. is no longer affordable.
- Opportunity Gap: 55% believe the gap between rich and poor limits their opportunities.
- Financial Improvement: 39% think improving their finances and quality of life would be easier elsewhere.
- Work-Life Balance: 57% find America’s approach to work-life balance inadequate.
- Broken Systems: 65% believe the healthcare system is broken, and 66% feel the same about the education system.
Top Destinations for American Expatriates
Americans considering moving abroad have a diverse range of preferred destinations:
- Canada (19%): Cited for high-quality healthcare, diverse landscape, and work-life balance.
- Italy (11%): Appealing for its cuisine, rich culture, and warm people.
- England (10%): Desired for its culture, historical heritage, and quality healthcare.
- Australia (10%)
- Ireland (8%)
- France (6%)
- Switzerland (5%)
- Costa Rica (5%)
- Scotland (4%)
- Germany (4%)
Expert Insights
Experts suggest that younger generations are driving this trend due to economic instability and a skepticism toward traditional pathways to stability. Clint Kreider, a licensed marriage and family therapist, notes that clients feel “invisible attrition” from systemic barriers like skyrocketing healthcare costs and stagnant wages. Max Shak, CEO of Zapiy, adds that many are questioning the traditional “American Dream” and prioritizing quality of life over traditional career paths, seeking environments that better align with their personal and financial well-being.
Potential Impact of Migration
If these survey findings translate into actual migration, the implications could be significant. The movement of even a small percentage of the U.S. population could affect domestic labor markets, particularly if specific professions or skill sets are disproportionately represented. It could also influence political dynamics and strengthen cultural and economic ties between the U.S. and destination countries. While practical challenges exist, the survey indicates a notable shift in how Americans envision their future, with a growing willingness to seek happiness and fulfillment beyond national borders.