10 Best Countries To Move to from the USA
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: Canada, the UK, and Ireland are among the top countries to move to from the USA, thanks in large part to fewer cultural and language barriers. All three also have streamlined visa and citizenship processes.
But the world is a big place with lots of great places to call home. We’ve compiled some of the best countries to move to based on quality of life, job opportunities, and other key factors. If a locale in our list really speaks to you, check out our picks for the top international movers who can help get you there.
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10 best countries for Americans to move to
1. Canada
- Why it’s great: Easy transition from the US, flexible immigration policies, lower crime rate
- Job opportunities: Tech, health care, education
- Major employers: Shopify, RBC, Amazon Canada
By sharing a border with the United States, Canada is one of the few international moves that won’t require sending your belongings via ship or air. With English as one of its official languages (spoken by 86.2% of the country) and a culture that is fairly similar to the USA, most expats have an easy time adapting to Canada.
Family sponsorship programs and express entry immigration for skilled workers can make it relatively easy to obtain citizenship. The average monthly cost of living in Canada for a family of four (not including rent) is $3,589.90.
2. The United Kingdom
- Why it’s great: Familiar culture, high standard of living, positive work-life balance
- Job opportunities: Health care, finance, retail
- Major employers: Compass Group, HSBC, Tesco
More than 10% of US citizens have British ancestry, and as such, the United Kingdom has many cultural similarities that can make it an attractive destination for expats.
While English is the official language of the UK, it has become increasingly diverse, with large immigrant populations from around the world making the country a true melting pot. Visa options like the skilled worker visa and UK ancestry visa can also make it easier to move to the UK. Without rent, the average monthly cost of living for a family of four in the UK is $3,387.20.
3. Ireland
- Why it’s great: Quick paths to citizenship, friendly people, low crime
- Job opportunities: Pharmaceuticals, tech, retail
- Major employers: Pfizer, Harvey Norman, eBay
Moving to Ireland is an attractive option for many expats thanks to its beautiful scenery, widespread use of English (spoken by 95% of the population), and its excellent quality of life. Ireland ranks highly in education, health care, and security, among other important areas.
Pathways to citizenship are relatively easy for those with Irish ancestry through the Irish Citizenship by Descent program, while skilled workers without Irish descent can still obtain citizenship after just a few years. The cost of living for a family of four (without rent) averages $3,590.70 per month.
4. Australia
- Why it’s great: Warm weather year-round, highly ranked education system, laid-back lifestyle
- Job opportunities: Health care, professional services, tech
- Major employers: Woolworths Group, Wesfarmers, Coles Group
Want to go Down Under? Australia is one of the most geographically distant countries from the US, but with warm weather year-round and great natural scenery, it’s a popular destination for those who love surfing, swimming, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Australia has a strong economy and quality of life, and English is the de facto official language.
You can gain citizenship quickly if you are of Australian descent, while permanent residency visas can be gained through employment or investments. The average cost of living for a family of four without rent is $3,539.20 per month.
5. Ecuador
- Why it’s great: Low cost of living, friendly culture, stunning natural beauty
- Job opportunities: Tourism, logistics, tech
- Major employers: Corporacion Favorita, Conecel, Stack Builders
Located in South America, Ecuador has a large expat community because it offers the chance to live amongst gorgeous natural surroundings — like beaches, rainforests, and mountains — for relatively cheap. Ecuador notably uses the American dollar as its currency, which makes transitioning to the local economy easy for expats.
More than 90% of the population speaks Spanish, but English is widely spoken in more touristy areas (where signs will often be written in both English and Spanish). After living in the country for just three years, you can apply for citizenship or permanent residency. The average monthly cost of living for a family of four (without rent) is just $1,900.70 per month.
6. Panama
- Why it’s great: Mild climate, favorable taxes, modern infrastructure
- Job opportunities: Tourism, banking, logistics
- Major employers: Procter & Gamble, Nestle, Dell Technologies
Panama’s affordability, beautiful scenery, and pleasant temperatures make it a popular destination for retirees. The country is also known for quality health care and a modern infrastructure. And, like Ecuador, Panama uses the U.S. dollar as its main currency. Spanish is the country’s official language, though English is also spoken in the larger cities.
You can apply for Panamanian citizenship after living in the country for five years as a permanent resident. The average monthly cost of living for a family of four (without rent) is $2,875.90.
7. Malta
- Why it’s great: Mild climate, one of the cheapest European countries,, English is an official language
- Job opportunities: Tech, financial services, tourism
- Major employers: Premier Capital, Trident Trust, GPC
Located in the Mediterranean Sea, the island country of Malta has a growing expat community thanks to its good weather, unique historical sites, and wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities, including beaches.
Malta is also known for excellent health care and education. English is one of the country’s official languages, and citizenship by naturalization is available after a three-year residence in the country, though the process is more expensive and involved than in other countries. Though rent can be costly, the average cost of living for a family of four aside from rent is $2,848.60 per month.
8. Spain
- Why it’s great: Friendly people, renowned cuisine, free health care
- Job opportunities: Health care, tech, professional services
- Major employers: Telefónica, Santander, Amazon
Moving to Spain has become an increasingly popular option for expats. With beaches, mountains, breathtaking cathedrals and other historic architecture, and even volcanic islands, there is no shortage of spots to explore. Spain is one of the top-ranked countries in the world for safety, health care, and transportation.
It is also a highly entrepreneurial country, so it rewards immigrants who have saved up and just want to spend their money there. The non-lucrative visa allows you to keep living in Spain as long as you have enough money to support your needs without working or doing business in the country. The average monthly cost of living for a family of four (not including rent) is $2,574.40.
9. Costa Rica
- Why it’s great: “Pura Vida” lifestyle, tropical climate, low crime rate
- Job opportunities: Tourism, tech, corporate services
- Major employers: Intel, Dole, IBM
Costa Rica is a popular country to move from the USA, with large, supportive expat communities located throughout the country. Costa Rica is known for its pleasant year-round weather, which allows for plenty of outdoor activities. The “Pura Vida” lifestyle offers a slower, laidback pace that encourages a good work-life balance.
However, government limitations on activities like buying a home can be challenging. Spanish is the official language but English is often spoken in metropolitan areas. After three to five years of temporary residency, you can apply to become a permanent resident. Digital nomad visas are also available that allow you to turn a 90-day visit into a year-long stay. The average cost of living for a family of four (without rent) is $3,223.10 per month.
10. Germany
- Why it’s great: Strong economy and job market, proximity to other countries, relatively affordable
- Job opportunities: Automotive, healthcare, engineering
- Major employers: Porsche, BMW, Adidas
Moving to Germany isn’t as daunting as one might expect. English is widely taught in schools and used in business, so many native Germans are fluent. Germany is a highly developed country with a great standard of living, due partly to stellar medical care and public education and a focus on providing a healthy work-life balance, which is why Germany also made our list of best countries to raise a family.
These features make Germany one of the best places for American expat families. Entrepreneurs and highly skilled workers have the easiest path to obtaining a visa, though obtaining a permanent settlement permit requires at least five years in the country, proof of employment, and adequate German language skills. The average monthly cost of living (without rent) is $3,457.30 for a family of four.
Comparing the best countries to move to from USA
Here’s a quick look at visa requirements and citizen opportunities to consider.
| Country | Long-Term Visa Requirements | Citizenship Opportunities |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Meet requirements of Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), have enough money to sustain yourself, and do not have a criminal record | After becoming a permanent resident and living at least 3 of the last 5 years in Canada |
| The UK | Skilled Worker visas must be sponsored by a UK employer | Can typically apply for citizenship after 3-5 years in the UK or if other circumstances apply (like having a British parent) |
| Ireland | Be financially independent, make an investment in Ireland, or have an employer sponsor your visa | After living in Ireland for 5 years, by descent, or if you are married to an Irish citizen |
| Australia | Evidence of financial support for non-working visas or be invited/sponsored by a company or the government | After living in Australia for at least 4 years or if you had a parent with Australian citizenship |
| Ecuador | Meet retirement or employment income requirements or make an investment in Ecuador | Apply after living in Ecuador for 3 years |
| Panama | Meet income requirements for different visa programs or make a significant investment in Panama | Apply for citizenship after 5 years as a permanent resident or 3 years if you have a Panamanian spouse or children |
| Malta | Proof of health insurance, accommodations, and financial support (may also need to show an employment contract with a Malta-based company) | Apply after having legal residence in Malta for 3 years, as well as meeting requirements for real estate ownership/leasing, economic contributions, and charitable contributions within Malta |
| Spain | Proof of health insurance and financial means, a medical certificate,clean criminal record, proof of employment or investment/entrepreneurial plans | Apply for citizenship after 10 years of residency with no criminal record |
| Costa Rica | Proof of monthly income or make a large investment in Costa Rica | Apply after 7 years of legal residence (must have a clean criminal record, knowledge of Spanish, and financial stability) |
| Germany | Meet points-based criteria for skilled workers, actively seek employment in Germany, have a job with a German employer, or meet Family Reunion visa requirements | After living in Germany for at least 5 years, with sufficient knowledge of German language and society, a clean criminal record, and financial stability |
Comparing by cost
When you move from the US to another country, it’s important to know the differences in cost of living. Here are some key expenses to consider before your move.
| Country | Visa & Legal Fees | Permanent Residency | Average Cost of Living* | Annual Health Care Costs** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $108 | $1,063 | $3,590 | $12,346 |
| The UK | $682–$1,759 | $3,573 | $3,387 | $2,452 |
| Ireland | $105 | $523 | $3,591 | $2,150 |
| Australia | $739–$3,012 | $2,172 | $3,539 | $3,978–$4,799 |
| Ecuador | $450 | $275–$550 | $1,901 | $1,140–$2,400 |
| Panama | $400–$800 | $5,000 | $2,876 | $2,400–$5,700 |
| Malta | $105–$293 | $41,830+ | $2,849 | $1,673 |
| Spain | $84–$706 | $84 | $2,574 | $1,256–$2,511 |
| Costa Rica | $480 | $480 | $3,223 | $2,880-$12,000 |
| Germany | $78 | $118–$154 | $3,457 | $5,021–$10,043 |
Costs are based on the USD exchange rate as of January 2025 and rounded to the nearest dollar
*Costs per month
**Based on a family of four
More international moving guides
Tips for moving abroad
No matter where you decide to move, there are a few things that will help your transition go smoothly.
Here are a few best practices for moving abroad:
- Research visa and citizenship requirements. Make sure you understand visa and citizenship requirements so you can begin the application process as early as possible. This way, administrative delays won’t disrupt your moving timeline.
- Connect with online expat communities. You’ll likely find answers to your questions about housing, culture, finances, or anything else by connecting with expat communities online. Their insights can help you find essential resources or learn more about daily life in the country you plan to move to. You may even find new friends this way.
- Research housing options. Requirements to buy or rent can vary in different countries. Make sure you understand what is needed and start your research early so you can understand your options.
- Downsize. Packing for an international move can be tricky… and expensive, especially if you take a lot of stuff with you. Quite often, you’re better off drastically downsizing ahead of your move by selling most of your belongings and purchasing new items once you settle into your new home. Carefully consider which items you absolutely need to take with you. If you plan to return to the USA in the future, you could also leave furniture and other bulky items in storage.
- Hire professional movers. International moves are complex, but professional movers can help simplify the process. Not only do they handle the logistics of loading your belongings on a truck (or ship or plane), but they will also manage customs and other logistical aspects of the move.
Keep reading: Best Overseas Jobs for Americans
Top international movers
Not all movers are able to handle international moves, and even with those that are, it’s important to confirm they actually service the country you’re moving to. Of course, the best international moving companies offer transparent pricing, clear shipment timelines, and a variety of shipping options to help your belongings reach their overseas destination.
Based on these and other criteria, the following are our top recommendations for international movers.
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International car shippers
If you’re planning on bringing your car as part of your international move, you’ll also need to arrange for car shipping. Two of the top international movers — International Van Lines and JK Moving — can coordinate auto transport for you, but if you use another moving company, you’ll need to figure this out yourself.
Take a look at these top-rated car shipping companies that provide widespread availability, easy scheduling, and multiple shipping options.
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FAQ
What is the easiest country for an American to move to?
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Our rating methodology
At moveBuddha, we understand that all international moving companies aren’t created equal. We undertake a rigorous review process to rate and review companies to ensure we provide accurate recommendations.
Here’s a breakdown of the methodology we use to rate international movers:
- Customer satisfaction: In addition to looking at reviews with the BBB, Google, and other third-party sites, we rely heavily on interviews with Better Moves Project participants to understand the pros and cons of each company.
- Standard services: We look at what services are included as part of a moving company’s standard offerings, and which ones you can only get for an additional fee.
- Reputation: We evaluate a company’s industry ratings, including aspects like carrying sufficient insurance coverage and compliance with applicable regulations.
- Add-on services: We look at any add-on services that can simplify a move, such as packing and custom-built crates, as well as services that aren’t offered by all moving companies.
- Availability: The US states a company serves is another important consideration, as is a company’s global reach. Widespread availability is most useful.
- Payment: Ease of making a payment (including submitting a deposit) with multiple options (credit card, check, cash, etc.) can also make moving easier.
- Scheduling: How easy is it to book a move? What kind of lead time is needed? Readily available booking services and streamlined scheduling will help get your move underway.
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