Americans Who Made the Move Overseas Reveal If It Was Worth It — I'm Considering Becoming an Expatriate

If you're based in the US and have pondered what life might be like if you relocated overseas, you've landed at the perfect spot.

In one Reddit thread , Americans who have relocated to another country permanently are sharing their reflections on these life-changing choices, and I’ve gathered some of the most enlightening tales for you here (I must admit, I’m browsing through Google Flights daily as well).

Below you will find 18 genuine accounts from 16 distinct nations:

1. In 2017, we moved from the US to Germany. There’s no intention of returning. The equilibrium between work and life here is outstanding. We get to travel frequently, spend ample time with our child, enjoy comprehensive public health care, access free daycares, and tuition-free education for our son. Plus, the city offers efficient public transport systems and excellent cycling infrastructure at every turn. Interestingly, despite having fewer expenses, our overall standard of living has significantly improved.

2. In 2017, we relocated to Stockholm, Sweden. If given the chance, I would make the move again without hesitation. Life here is remarkably high-quality. It feels wonderful being less reliant on cars. This city, constructed across numerous interconnected islands, boasts stunning views. Waterways, green spaces, and natural beauty abound. They have excellent cycling paths and walkways. You’ll find plenty of fantastic pubs, eateries, and coffee shops. Museums, musical performances, theatrical shows, and sports events are easily accessible. How could one not adore living here?

– elevenblade

3. I've lived in Japan for 15 years now. If I had to encapsulate my feelings into one statement, it would be this: whenever anyone inquires, I tell them there are just two things I miss—my friends and family as well as Mexican cuisine. In all other aspects, life here surpasses what I left behind.

4. I've lived overseas for eight years and spent half of that time in Spain. The improvement in my overall well-being here can’t be overstated. Healthcare costs are low, groceries are affordable, and housing doesn't break the bank either. Safety and relaxation permeate daily life; napping is common practice around these parts. Plus, the dining scene is exceptional, and folks are incredibly friendly.

Walking distance everywhere (I only got my first car recently). There are plenty of holidays too. Each day, I feel incredibly thankful to live here and strive to become an integral part of the community as a way of expressing gratitude for their warmth. Downsides include missing out on using a clothes dryer since I'm renting; buying one isn't feasible. Additionally, occasionally feeling frustrated with my limited Spanish skills can be challenging, particularly during hospital visits or when dealing with governmental matters. The visa process is tough, making relocation difficult for many individuals. However, alternatives such as the digital nomad visa or work visas do offer some flexibility. Ultimately, after being away from the U.S. for quite a while now, it doesn’t seem likely to change anytime soon.

– goodytwotoes

5. Traveling from the US to Portugal is undoubtedly worthwhile and strongly recommended. Advantages include a laid-back environment, amiable locals, affordable cost of living, excellent work-life equilibrium, top-notch healthcare, and superb wines! Disadvantages involve cumbersome administrative processes, with tasks often easier for those who have connections. Nonetheless, I genuinely adore my life here!

– krd3nt

6. Moving to Australia turned out to be the wisest choice I've ever made. There's absolutely no chance of me returning to America... nowhere near as many school shootings, leaders who adhere strictly to legal protocols instead of disregarding them, and significantly less tension among compatriots due to differing political views. Of course, occasional anomalies occur, yet this is precisely how society ought to function.

7. Moving from the US to Argentina, I communicate fluently in Spanish and reside inland. After adapting to the distinctive traits of Argentine society—both economic and societal—it comes highly recommended. Although I once missed my homeland, those feelings have diminished over time and vanished entirely in recent months.

– vevohve

8. The move from the US to the UK has been the finest choice we've ever made. At the time, we were financially strained with no promising prospects ahead of us, and our children—aged eight, seven, and two—were quite young. Utilizing our tax refund, we took this bold step forward. Since my husband’s parents reside in the UK, they visited as tourists, completed his naturalization process, and just like magic, everything fell into place. There isn’t even one bit of desire within me to go back to living in America. Our kids have become far more culturally aware; we manage to explore places often, plus now I am able to pursue employment once again. Owning a house here allows us all to enjoy a less hectic lifestyle filled with peace and quiet.

– LickRust78

9. From the US to the Netherlands. Indeed, it’s an improvement. Consider doing this once you're older and have managed to save up some funds in the US—wages tend to be lower in Europe, however, the work-life equilibrium is more favorable, not to mention they offer universal healthcare.

– bktoelsewhere

10. In 2017, I relocated to Denmark. There’s absolutely no chance of me returning to the U.S., as its societal issues seem insurmountable at this point. In contrast, here we enjoy top-notch healthcare and education systems that come without costs. My children, aged eight and ten, regularly travel independently to school or visit friends’ homes either by bicycle or walking. Work-life equilibrium has become attainable for me too. Additionally, firearms aren’t a concern, nor do we grapple with pervasive corruption within our social structure. What I truly pine for from America is access to its national parks. It remains uncertain whether these natural treasures will endure over time.

– heywhatsmynameagain

11. I initially moved to Finland for a one-year consulting position. It’s been 11 years since then. Coming from the Pacific Northwest, I’m quite used to the chill, which isn’t much of an issue. Summers here are incredible; I can enjoy lying in the sunlight until as late as 10 p.m. At first, I accepted a salary reduction of $8,000, yet it hardly affected my lifestyle. Additionally, rent costs less than half of what they were back in San Diego.

12. I relocated to Norway. It’s peaceful here; the unspoiled natural scenery is stunning. The air feels incredibly fresh. Their healthcare system is top-notch too. Currently, I’ve begun my maternity leave, which ensures full pay for me, and I won’t return to work until January 2026.

– External-Example-292

13. Moving from the US to China has proven beneficial as my profession offers much better compensation compared to what’s typical in the US, plus I enjoy improved physical well-being. However, accessing reliable healthcare remains inconsistent, and one always feels like an outsider. Personally, I find this arrangement satisfactory; after being here almost eight years, I've significantly reduced my weight, earned two master's degrees, and got married. This lifestyle suits me, though it may not appeal to everybody.

– Alternative_Paint_93

14. From the US to Taiwan in 2013. Almost everything has improved remarkably. Being financially stable instead of living from paycheck to paycheck, managing significant savings despite earning a teacher's income, and having the opportunity for extensive travel along with access to a comprehensive public health care system—these stand out as major advancements. Of course, the geopolitical situation in this area always looms large behind the scenes. Relocating here ranks among my finest decisions; keep up your great work, Taiwan.

– Sharealboykev

15. Traveling from the US to New Zealand in 2018 was absolutely something I’d choose to do all over again without hesitation. Living in this small nation located at the edge of the world brings me immense joy. It’s endlessly picturesque here, the locals are incredibly friendly, and the work-life equilibrium is outstanding. Having become a permanent resident recently, I still have some time before gaining citizenship but can confidently say I won’t be returning to my previous life.

16. I relocated to London but eventually returned. For those who aren’t among the highest 10 percent income bracket, moving away from the U.S. could be one of the smartest decisions you make. However, for individuals with high earnings, the potential to earn even more in the U.S. is significantly greater. Personally, I find it better to persevere here in the U.S. and plan my retirement abroad.

– Puzzleheaded-Mail896

17. I have been living in Scotland since 2005. Life hasn’t been flawless for me. Relocating overseas didn’t fix all of my issues; instead, it brought about new challenges. There was a period when I thought about returning home, but those thoughts diminished considerably after passing the ten-year mark.

I'm actually faring much better compared to how things might have turned out had we stayed in the U.S. Since my spouse brings home sufficient income, I’ve managed to follow personal interests rather than taking up a typical desk job. Our residence is fully owned with no outstanding mortgages. Unfortunately, driving isn’t possible for me; this situation proved insurmountable back home but poses fewer challenges where we currently reside. Additionally, access to quality healthcare makes life easier over here. However, moving abroad does come with certain drawbacks. Be ready for limited visits from relatives as they often claim ‘I’ll use visiting you as an excellent reason,’ yet rarely make good on those promises. Perhaps expect only one or two trips throughout many years, during which you’re likely tasked repeatedly with purchasing flights and managing travel logistics. Expect too that holiday greetings may feel more obligatory than celebratory due to differing schedules, requiring constant adjustments based on time zones—this remains true even decades into living at your current location. Hopefully, yours is different from what I experienced.

– alanaisalive

18. I relocated from Colorado to Croatia last year. Life has improved immensely. Everything others have mentioned is true, plus it's amazing not having to constantly fear being shot at my workplace (I teach) or when I’m grocery shopping.

Living abroad reveals how stressed one typically feels in the U.S., as returning would require adjusting again. Just contemplating going back tightens me up; laughably enough. Additionally, enjoying life without owning a vehicle and being able to complete tasks on foot have positively impacted my physical well-being. The quality of fresh foods here is exceptional too. Generally speaking, I feel much better overall. Everyone has different preferences, yet personally, I find myself thoroughly disenchanted with the lifestyle in the U.S. Returning isn't an option for me now. I highly endorse this experience.

– hardi902

If you've relocated overseas and have personal insights to offer, please share your experiences in the comments section below!

Responses have been shortened and clarified for brevity.