Americans Are Planning Their Exit - 2026 Is the Tipping Point Here's Why

"The numbers aren't abstract anymore: U.S. citizens are actively selling homes, applying for overseas residency, and enrolling kids in international schools. Motivations vary - from skyrocketing living costs to deep political fatigue to the appeal of cheaper, slower lifestyles abroad. What unites them is a simple fact: many believe their money, happiness, and safety will go further outside the United States than within it."

"Housing affordability has reached crisis levels in many U.S. cities. Rents in New York, San Francisco, and Miami rival London or Zurich - but without the same safety nets. Even families with decent incomes find themselves squeezed by healthcare costs, education expenses, and everyday bills. Compare that to countries like Portugal, Mexico, or Thailand where rent, food, and healthcare cost a fraction of U.S. equivalents - and you understand why retirees and remote workers in particular are packing bags."

"The U.S. isn't just politically divided; it's emotionally exhausting. Continuous election cycles, culture wars, and media-fueled conflict have left many Americans yearning for calmer societies. Living in a country where politics doesn't dominate daily life feels like a luxury - and it's a luxury some are buying with a one-way ticket. Even insured Americans often face crippling medical bills. Routine healthcare abroad, whether in Spain or Costa Rica, is dramatically cheaper and often praised as more patient-focused."

Many Americans are selling homes, applying for overseas residency, and enrolling children in international schools to live abroad. Rising housing and living costs squeeze families, with rents in New York, San Francisco, and Miami rivaling London or Zurich while safety nets lag. Countries like Portugal, Mexico, and Thailand offer substantially lower rent, food, and healthcare costs that attract retirees and remote workers. Political polarization and continuous election cycles drive emotional exhaustion and a desire for calmer societies. High U.S. healthcare bills push insured citizens to seek cheaper, patient-focused care abroad. Some emigrants seek slower lifestyles, safety, and greater financial security.

Read at Wander With Jo