The Great American Exodus
- INLIS Consulting
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
A record number of Americans are seeking second residency or citizenship abroad. This isn’t just about luxury travel or tax optimization — it’s a deep social and economic migration trend.
What Is the “Great American Exodus”?
According to Golden Visa’s 2024 report, a growing number of U.S. citizens are actively pursuing residency abroad, dual citizenship, or investment-based visas.
📊 Key stat:
Over 1,300 Americans renounced their U.S. citizenship in the first half of 2024, marking a 27% increase compared to 2023.
Top Motivations for Americans Moving Abroad
Motivation | % of Respondents (2024) |
Social & Political Unrest | 46% |
Rising Cost of Living | 33% |
Retirement Abroad | 21% |
Work-Life Balance | 18% |
Investment Diversification | 15% |
Vacation / Second Home | 12% |
Second Passport | 5% |
Economic Pressures
The rising cost of living in major U.S. cities is pushing many to explore affordable alternatives overseas.
61% cited living costs as a key motivator.
42% highlighted healthcare affordability.
38% mentioned housing prices.
Political and Social Instability
Nearly half of surveyed Americans reported feeling “social division and institutional decline” in the U.S., fueling a desire for security and stability abroad.
Work-Life Balance
Remote work is redefining mobility.
63% of professionals said they want “a slower pace.”
48% plan to keep their remote jobs while living abroad.
Where Are Americans Moving?
Destination Country | Popularity (2024) | Visa Type / Program | Average Investment |
🇵🇹 Portugal | 29% | Golden Visa / D7 / Digital Nomad Visa | €500,000 (real estate) |
🇪🇸 Spain | 18% | Golden Visa | €500,000 |
🇬🇷 Greece | 11% | Golden Visa | €250,000 |
🇮🇹 Italy | 9% | Investor Visa / Digital Nomad Visa | €250,000–€500,000 |
🇲🇹 Malta | 7% | Permanent Residency / Citizenship | €300,000 |
Portugal leads the pack, offering a balance of affordability, stability, and lifestyle. Its Golden Visa and D7 Visa programs attract retirees, remote professionals, and investors seeking EU residency.
Lifestyle & Quality of Life Factors
Lifestyle Priority | % of Respondents |
Better Healthcare | 52% |
Lower Stress / Slower Pace | 63% |
Safety & Stability | 57% |
Access to Nature & Culture | 48% |
Community & Belonging | 34% |
“I love the U.S., but I don’t feel at peace there anymore. Portugal gives me room to breathe.” American expat, Lisbon
These emotional drivers show that the American Exodus is about more than economics; it’s about well-being.
Investment & Tax Diversification
For investors and entrepreneurs, residency-by-investment programs offer:
Access to EU markets
Potential tax incentives
Greater global mobility
Protection from domestic instability
Program | Minimum Investment | Processing Time | Residency Benefits |
Portugal Golden Visa | €500,000 | 6–12 months | EU access, Schengen mobility |
Greece Golden Visa | €250,000 | 3–6 months | Fast-track residency |
Spain Golden Visa | €500,000 | 6–9 months | Renewable 2-year permits |
Malta Residency | €300,000 | 8–12 months | Tax-friendly regime |
Global Impact: What This Means for Countries
Country | Avg. U.S. Applicants (2024) | Top Benefit for Expats |
Portugal | 17,000 | Affordable lifestyle, digital visas |
Spain | 11,500 | Healthcare & infrastructure |
Greece | 8,300 | Property affordability |
Italy | 6,700 | Culture & tax incentives |
Malta | 3,900 | EU access & stability |
Destination countries are reaping benefits from:
Increased foreign investment
Revitalized real estate markets
Enhanced international visibility
The Future of the American Exodus
The trend shows no signs of slowing down:
47% of U.S. respondents plan to apply for foreign residency by 2026.
Remote-friendly visa programs are expanding in over 40 countries.
As economic inequality, social division, and political uncertainty persist, more Americans are rethinking what “home” really means.
Final Thoughts
The Great American Exodus is not a fad; it’s a redefinition of freedom, stability, and belonging. Whether motivated by lower living costs, investment diversification, or emotional peace, thousands of Americans are creating new lives in Europe and beyond.
If you’re considering a move abroad — whether for work, retirement, or investment — start with a consultation to understand residency options, taxation, and visa pathways best suited to your profile.
Comments