Costa Rica

Known for its laid-back Pura Vida ("Pure Life") philosophy, this peaceful Central American country enchants with its volcanoes, cloud forests, wildlife, and beaches. On top of that, the country offers a straightforward residence program, affordable healthcare, a stable democracy, and easy flights to the US.

How to move to Costa Rica

With the country's digital nomad visa, remote workers can stay in Costa Rica for up to a year, with an option to extend for another year if you stay a minimum of 180 days.

South Korea

This global hub, exporting K-barbecue, K-beauty, and K-pop, attracts people wanting to be in this epicenter of popular culture. Plus, no matter where you decide to live on the peninsula, be it Seoul or Busan, you'll enjoy access to incredible islands and mountains. What's more, the country maintains a low cost of living (though one exception to this is housing, which can be pricey).

New Zealand

In search of mental well-being and work-life balance? Then you might consider New Zealand's safety, friendliness, and high quality of life. Whether you move to Auckland or Wellington, there's ferry service and plenty of affordable domestic flights for residents to explore the nation's incredible nature.

Austria

In this Central European county, you can hike in the Alps one day and enjoy a performance in a famous opera house the next. Its capital, Vienna, has been recognized for its quality of life and low crime rates, as well as an exciting food and wine scene. Plus, if you like to travel, Austria's borders touch Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Slovenia!

Canada

Not only is it easy to get to, but Canada also remains a top pick for Americans for several reasons, including affordable education, cultural diversity, safety, and an incredible natural wilderness.

Ghana

This West African nation's international community continues to grow each year thanks to the friendly locals and the laid-back culture. The vibrant capital Accra offers a great quality of life for skilled workers. Plus, Ghana uses English as its official language. Also, in 2019, Ghana commemorated the Year of Return, 400 years since the first enslaved Africans were brought to America. This kicked off a program, including a path to citizenship through the right of abode law, for African descendants planning to leave the US. The program entices residents to keep their talents in the country for at least 10 years.

Singapore

About a third of Singapore's population are foreigners, with tens of thousands of those coming from the US. The affluent city-state often ranks among the best countries to live and work, thanks to job security, high-quality schools, and one of the world's most efficient public transport systems.

Malta

Malta is a small island nation floating just south of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea. With a breathtaking coast, delicious cuisine, rich culture, and low cost of living, it's a great place for Americans. Plus, most of the population of Malta can speak English.

Sweden

In search of constant fresh air and a sense of space? Then you might consider moving to Sweden, which has one of the lowest population densities in the world. From Stockholm to Gothenburg, this Scandinavian nation has a natural ease to its approach to work-life balance. For example, most employees begin with around five weeks of paid vacation, and new parents will benefit from months-long paid maternity and paternity leaves.

United Arab Emirates

From the capital of Abu Dhabi to luxurious Dubai, people from around the world have been moving to the UAE thanks to its 0% income tax. But the UAE is also a very conservative country, where homosexuality is illegal, as is alcohol consumed outside designated tourist areas.

Netherlands

Imagine riding your bike through a colorful tulip field or by picturesque canals. It's a dreamy image that many people in the Netherlands get to enjoy, but there are many more practical advantages to living there. While it's not the most affordable country, you'll find a large international community, with many English speakers and international schools, as well as an open-minded and liberal culture, plus a large job market.

Taiwan

Taiwan has won over many people with its high quality of life. The country is financially stable, welcoming, and safe, but one of its biggest draws is its affordability and high quality healthcare system, which all residents are required to sign up for.

Ireland

From historic countryside castles to charming small towns, there's something magical about Ireland! Despite the notoriously rainy weather, foreigners in Ireland are highly satisfied with the quality of life there. This is especially true for families who get social benefits like seven weeks of paid paternity leave, for both parents.

Mexico

For Americans living abroad, Mexico has numerous benefits beyond its delicious cuisine, nature, and rich culture. Generally, the cost of living in Mexico is much lower, and there's also huge expat communities throughout the country.