At least 180,000 Americans packed up and moved abroad last year, but experts warn the real number is far higher

For the first time since 1935, the United States saw more people leave than move in during 2025, marking a rare period of negative net migration. Official figures suggest at least 180,000 U.S. citizens relocated overseas last year, but experts warn the real number is likely much higher. This shift is being driven by a mix of economic pressures and lifestyle changes that are making life abroad more appealing to many Americans.

The people leaving are not just students or young professionals. Retirees, families with children, and people from all walks of life are looking to move abroad. According to the Wall Street Journal, this wide range of demographics makes the current trend stand out from past waves of emigration.

Tracking the exact number of Americans who leave is difficult because the U.S. does not have a system for counting citizens who move abroad. Instead, estimates rely on data from foreign governments and visa records, which means the actual number living overseas is likely far higher than official figures show.

The rising cost of living and desire for a better quality of life are pushing Americans to leave

Rising housing costs, along with everyday expenses like food and healthcare, are pushing many Americans to look elsewhere. Countries like Portugal, Ireland, Thailand, and Bali are becoming increasingly popular destinations, where the U.S. dollar goes much further. This financial advantage is one of the biggest factors driving the move.

The growth of remote and digital work has also made this possible for many more people. Americans can now keep their U.S.-based jobs and salaries while living in countries where the cost of living is lower, giving them a significant financial edge. Some political observers note that Trump’s immigration and economic policies have added to the uncertainty pushing people to consider leaving.

However, money is not the only reason people are leaving. Many Americans are also looking for a different pace of life, stronger social safety nets, and a greater sense of safety. One American now living in Berlin said, “You don’t face the prospect of your 5-year-old going into a kindergarten and doing an active shooter drill.” He added that while wages might be higher in the U.S., the quality of life is often higher in Europe.

Demographers are also noting that this increase in people leaving the U.S. by choice, combined with the Trump administration’s strict deportation and immigration policies, could have a significant impact on the U.S. population in the coming years. 

Critics like JD Vance, who has spoken about America’s elite social circles, argue that growing inequality is a key driver of public dissatisfaction. This combination of more people leaving and fewer people coming in could reshape the country’s population in ways that are still hard to predict.