Recent data indicates a growing desire among Americans to leave the country and live abroad—driven primarily by the rising cost of living. According to a recent survey conducted by the Harris Poll1 and published just a few weeks ago, nearly half of U.S. citizens have either considered or are actively planning to relocate to another country in search of a better quality of life and increased happiness.
The survey revealed that at least four in ten Americans have entertained the idea of emigration in the near future. This sentiment is particularly strong among Millennials2 (those born between 1981 and 1996) and Generation Z3 (born from 1997 onward), with nearly one in five respondents from these age groups saying they are “seriously considering” moving abroad.
The American Dream Under Pressure
The findings also highlight growing disillusionment with the traditional notion of the “American Dream,” 4 particularly amid a sharp and persistent rise in the cost of basic needs such as housing, healthcare, and education. A striking 68% of respondents said they feel like they are “just surviving rather than thriving,” and many expressed the belief that homeownership is no longer an attainable goal for the average American.
Among those who said they would consider relocating, 49% cited the high cost of living as their primary reason, while dissatisfaction with the current political leadership came in as the second most significant concern.
Economic Indicators Reinforce Public Anxiety
These concerns are echoed in recent economic reports. In February, data from the U.S. Department of Labor showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) 5—a key indicator of inflation—had risen by 3.3% compared to the same month the previous year. For over six months, inflation has remained above the Federal Reserve’s target rate of 2%.
In the housing sector, Zillow’s latest Home Value Index6 pointed to high mortgage rates as a major factor dampening homebuying demand, leaving many families renting longer than expected. The report predicted a 3.7% increase in single-family rental prices in 2025.
Childcare costs are another area of deep concern. A recent study by the National Women’s Law Center7 estimated that, in 2025, the average American family would need an annual income of at least $180,000 to comfortably afford infant care.
Who’s Most Likely to Consider Leaving?
The survey also showed that the economic pressures are weighing more heavily on younger Americans, non-white populations, and members of the LGBTQ+ community8. While only 25% of Generation X and 26% of Baby Boomers said they had considered moving abroad, those numbers rose to 63% among Gen Z and 52% among Millennials. Hispanic, Black, and LGBTQ+ respondents were significantly more likely to express interest in relocating.
Dual Citizenship: An Aspirational Goal for Younger Americans
In line with these findings, younger generations showed a marked interest in acquiring dual citizenship. According to the survey, 66% of Gen Z and Millennial participants expressed at least some level of interest in holding a second passport. Their motivations included greater freedom to travel, better economic opportunities, and improved access to high-quality public services.
Top Destinations for Potential Emigrants
When asked where they would consider moving, Americans consistently listed the following ten countries as their top choices:
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- France
- Italy
- Japan
- Mexico
- Spain
- Germany
- New Zealand
Sources
1. Snelling, Grace. “More Americans want to leave the country and live overseas. Many say cost of living is the top reason, why?” Fast Company (fastcompany.com), March 4, 2025
https://www.fastcompany.com/91289388/more-americans-want-leave-country-live-abroad-cost-of-living
2. The Harris Poll Thought Leadership Practice. “American Expats Survey” Power Point Presentation –PowerPoint Presentation, February, 2025
https://theharrispoll.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Americans-Expats-Feb-2025.pdf
3. Rugaber, Christopher. “Groceries and Gas are up, U.S. Labor Department Report Shows” Fast Company, February 12, 2025.
https://www.fastcompany.com/91277546/groceries-gas-prices-up-u-s-labor-department-report-shows
4. Mohan, Pavithra. “Report: It takes a $180,000 salary to comfortable afford U.S. children.” Fast Company, February 7, 2025.
Notes and Terms
1. Harris Poll
A well-known American research organization that conducts public opinion surveys to gauge citizens’ views on various social, political, and economic issues.
2. Generation Z (Gen Z)
The generation born approximately between 1997 and 2012, characterized by growing up in an era dominated by the internet, social media, and digital technologies from early childhood.
3. Millennials (Generation Y)
The generation born between the early 1980s and the mid-1990s to early 2000s. They are recognized as the first generation to come of age during the rise of the internet and widespread use of smartphones.
4. The American Dream
A cultural and social concept that embodies the belief that anyone, regardless of background, can achieve success and prosperity in the United States through hard work and the opportunities available.
5. Consumer Price Index (CPI)
An economic indicator used to measure changes in the price level of a basket of consumer goods and services. It serves as a primary gauge of inflation.
6. Zillow Index
An index published by the real estate platform Zillow, measuring housing prices, rental trends, and market conditions in the U.S. based on extensive market data.
7. National Women’s Law Center (NWLC)
A U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of women and girls, particularly in the areas of employment, education, healthcare, and legal justice.
8. LGBTQ+ Community
A term used to refer to individuals with non-heteronormative sexual orientations and gender identities. The English acronym LGBTQ+ stands for:
• L – Lesbian/Gay
• B – Bisexual
• T – Transgender
• Q – Queer or Questioning
• + – Includes other identities and orientations, such as asexual, intersex, and more.
9. LGBTQ+
An inclusive acronym representing a wide spectrum of sexual and gender identities—lesbians, gay men, bisexual individuals, transgender persons, and queer individuals (as well as others). It is used to acknowledge diversity and advocate for the rights and protections of these communities.
10. Generation X (Gen X)
The generation born approximately between 1965 and 1980, situated between the Baby Boomers and Millennials. Known for its independence and adaptability to technological change.
11. Baby Boomers
The generation born between 1946 and 1964, following World War II. Due to their large numbers and societal involvement, they have played a significant role in shaping American economic and cultural life.