American expats are chasing better lifestyles, lower costs, and less financial stress overseas.
For many Americans, the grind of skyrocketing healthcare costs, housing prices, and work stress has pushed them to consider something they never thought they would: leaving the country entirely. What was once seen as a bold or rare move is now becoming a serious financial strategy for those looking to stretch their dollars, improve their quality of life, and escape some of the pressures weighing down life in the U.S.
The appeal isn’t just about cheaper living—it’s about finding places that offer solid healthcare, safety, good infrastructure, and a better work-life balance, all while allowing savings to go much further. These 13 countries have become increasingly popular destinations for Americans seeking more comfort, affordability, and stability, without sacrificing lifestyle or safety.
1. Mexico offers affordable living with vibrant culture and proximity to home.
Mexico remains one of the top choices for American expats, thanks to its low cost of living, excellent food, and strong expat communities, according to Kathleen Peddicord at Forbes. Popular cities like Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, and San Miguel de Allende offer high-quality healthcare, affordable real estate, and plenty of modern amenities while allowing expats to live comfortably on much less.
The short flight back to the U.S. is a huge bonus for those wanting to stay close to family. Many find they can afford private healthcare, housekeepers, and frequent dining out while spending a fraction of what they would back home. Mexico’s welcoming atmosphere and established expat networks make the transition much easier for first-timers.
2. Portugal attracts Americans with its safety, healthcare, and mild climate.
Portugal has exploded in popularity thanks to its combination of affordability, excellent public healthcare, and peaceful lifestyle, as reported by Brian O’Connell at Kiplinger. Cities like Lisbon and Porto offer a European lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of other Western European countries, while smaller towns and the Algarve region deliver even more savings.
The government’s residency and tax programs make it relatively easy for retirees and remote workers to establish themselves. Portugal also consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world, with a friendly, welcoming vibe that appeals to Americans looking for stability and comfort in their daily lives.
3. Costa Rica delivers a laid-back lifestyle with strong healthcare options.
Costa Rica’s “pura vida” approach draws Americans who want to slow down and enjoy nature while still having access to high-quality, affordable healthcare, as stated by the authors at Crocodile Bay. The country’s public and private healthcare systems are both widely praised, and residency options for retirees and remote workers are very accessible.
Expats living in areas like the Central Valley or beach towns such as Tamarindo and Nosara often report living comfortably for far less than it would cost in most parts of the U.S. With stable politics, stunning biodiversity, and a peaceful atmosphere, Costa Rica is an increasingly popular escape for those burned out by American life.
4. Thailand offers low living costs with world-class healthcare.
Thailand is a favorite for budget-conscious Americans who still want access to modern conveniences. Cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok offer affordable rent, excellent public transportation, and a wide range of international hospitals that rival U.S. standards for a fraction of the cost.
Many Americans living in Thailand report that their monthly expenses are often less than half of what they were back home, even while maintaining a comfortable, urban lifestyle. Add in the tropical climate, welcoming locals, and rich cultural history, and it’s easy to see why Thailand continues to attract new American arrivals every year.
5. Spain draws Americans with its relaxed pace and affordable healthcare.
Spain offers many of the benefits of Western Europe without the extreme price tags seen in places like London or Paris. Americans relocating to cities like Valencia, Seville, or Granada find affordable rent, high-quality public healthcare, and an emphasis on work-life balance that’s hard to replicate in the States.
Spain’s healthcare system regularly ranks among the best globally, and the cost of living remains surprisingly reasonable—especially in smaller cities and rural regions. With its rich culture, warm climate, and strong expat communities, Spain has become an increasingly attractive destination for Americans seeking more comfort without sacrificing quality.
6. Ecuador combines low costs with breathtaking natural beauty.
Ecuador delivers a unique mix of stunning scenery, excellent healthcare, and extremely low living costs. Cities like Cuenca and Loja are popular among retirees and remote workers, offering a slower pace of life, affordable real estate, and a robust public healthcare system.
Many expats find that even on modest Social Security checks or remote work income, they can afford to live well—often with money left over to travel or invest. The lower elevation cities provide cooler weather, while coastal towns offer tropical beaches, giving expats multiple climate options depending on personal preference.
7. Vietnam is an emerging favorite for digital nomads and retirees alike.
Vietnam offers an unbeatable combination of extremely low living costs, excellent street food, and a rapidly improving infrastructure that appeals to both remote workers and retirees. Cities like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City provide modern comforts for a fraction of U.S. prices.
Even healthcare, often a concern for expats, is affordable and of high quality in private clinics catering to foreigners. Many Americans living in Vietnam report being able to save or invest far more aggressively while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle filled with travel, dining, and cultural experiences.
8. Panama’s retiree programs and U.S. ties make it easy for Americans to settle.
Panama has long been a favorite destination for American retirees thanks to its Pensionado program, which offers residency and significant discounts for retirees on everything from medical care to entertainment. The country uses the U.S. dollar, which removes currency exchange concerns for many Americans.
Panama City offers modern high-rises, world-class healthcare, and strong financial infrastructure, while coastal areas and the highlands provide quieter, more affordable living options. Its proximity to the U.S., stable economy, and modern amenities make it one of the most comfortable transitions for Americans looking to relocate abroad.
9. Malaysia offers a low cost of living with big-city perks.
Malaysia, particularly Kuala Lumpur and Penang, delivers urban living, excellent public transportation, and world-class healthcare at a fraction of the U.S. cost. English is widely spoken, making integration easier for American expats.
Healthcare quality is very high, with many doctors trained internationally. Food, entertainment, and housing are also remarkably affordable, allowing expats to enjoy a high standard of living on a much smaller budget. Many Americans who originally came for work or travel decide to stay long-term after discovering just how far their money goes in Malaysia.
10. Belize gives Americans a tropical paradise close to home.
Belize offers beautiful beaches, Caribbean charm, and the major bonus of English being the official language, which makes it very accessible to Americans. Its Qualified Retired Persons program provides tax benefits and streamlined residency for eligible expats.
Real estate is generally affordable, and while imported goods can be pricey, day-to-day living costs are still lower than in many parts of the U.S. The laid-back lifestyle, combined with proximity to the States, makes Belize a comfortable option for Americans looking to simplify and slow down without sacrificing too many conveniences.
11. Colombia surprises many Americans with its affordability and modern cities.
Colombia has quickly become a rising star for American expats thanks to cities like Medellín, which offer modern amenities, strong public transit, affordable healthcare, and a much lower cost of living than major U.S. cities.
While Colombia still battles some lingering reputation issues, expats overwhelmingly report feeling safe in many of its urban areas. With warm weather year-round, vibrant culture, and affordable rent and healthcare, Colombia offers an extremely attractive alternative for Americans looking to stretch their dollars without sacrificing city life comforts.
12. The Czech Republic offers Europe’s charm without Western Europe’s prices.
Prague and other Czech cities deliver old-world beauty, solid public healthcare, and relatively low costs compared to neighboring countries. While it’s not as dirt-cheap as Southeast Asia, younger expats and retirees alike find that their U.S. incomes stretch surprisingly far here.
Czech residency visas for remote workers and freelancers are accessible, and the country’s location makes it perfect for affordable travel throughout Europe. For Americans craving a European lifestyle with less financial pressure, the Czech Republic is becoming an increasingly popular option for a long-term move.
13. Uruguay provides stability, safety, and modern infrastructure for expats.
Often overlooked, Uruguay quietly offers one of South America’s most stable economies and political systems. Cities like Montevideo and Punta del Este give American expats access to modern healthcare, quality infrastructure, and a peaceful, slower-paced lifestyle.
Though real estate prices aren’t rock-bottom, overall living expenses remain very manageable, especially for retirees and remote workers. With its low crime rates, strong legal protections, and friendly visa processes, Uruguay offers an underrated escape for Americans looking to trade in financial stress for long-term comfort and calm.