Best Countries to Live as a US Expat

Nowadays, more Americans than ever are choosing to live abroad. Whether you’re a solo digital nomad looking for your next place to post up, a family of four looking to start over on the other side of the world, or a retiree looking for a place to settle down, 2025 could be the perfect time to make the move. We’ve put together eight of the best countries to live as a US expat based on a mix of affordability, safety, quality of life, and career opportunities.

What Makes a Country Great for American Expats?

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key stats we’ve used to determine what makes a country a best fit for US expats:

• Cost of Living Index (CLI): A measure of affordability for everyday expenses such as groceries, rent, and transportation.
• Quality of Life Index (QLI): A measure of overall well-being, which includes healthcare, commute times, and climate.
• Global Peace Index (GPI): This index measures peacefulness and political stability.
• Average Monthly Salary (USD): You can expect to earn this in your new host country.
• Monthly Costs for Family (USD): Realistic cost of living expenses for a family, including food, utilities, transportation, and education.
• Safety Index: A score on perceived and statistical safety. The higher the score, the safer the country overall.

Outside of these parameters, you should also consider language barriers, the availability of visa types, and any tax implications (e.g., avoiding double taxation through tax treaties between the US and your host country).

Portugal

Portugal remains one of the most popular destinations for American expats, especially with digital nomads and retirees. Its mild Mediterranean climate, delicious food, affordable living, and comparatively simple visa programs make it an easy recommendation. Once outside Lisbon, expats can expect to find picturesque coastal cities and a laid-back pace of life. It’s also ranked one of the safest countries in the world.

Quick Facts:

• Cost of Living Index: 44.56
• Quality of Life Index: 168.33
• Global Peace Index Rank: 7
• Average Monthly Salary: $2,500 – $4,000
• Monthly Family Costs: ~$2,676 (excluding rent)
• Safety Index: 68.8

Germany

Germany boasts a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and strong economic opportunities. In major cities, expats have access to robust public transportation, vibrant food and beer culture, and a large English-speaking international community — especially in Berlin. For freelancers and digital nomads, Germany’s generous working visas and tax treaties with the US make it a great base of operations in the heart of Europe.

Quick Facts:

• Cost of Living Index: 62.56
• Quality of Life Index: 192.29
• Global Peace Index Rank: 16
• Average Monthly Salary: ~$4,000
• Monthly Family Costs: ~$3,759 (excluding rent)
• Safety Index: 61.1

Spain

Spain continues to be another attractive country for US expats settling abroad. With its relative affordability, world-class cuisine, and year-round sunshine, Spain is a good choice for those looking to enjoy life at a slower pace. Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa allows non-EU residents, such as retirees and those with passive incomes, to remain in the country and potentially qualify for permanent residency after five years.

Quick Facts:

• Cost of Living Index: 53.77
• Quality of Life Index: 169.82
• Global Peace Index Rank: 29
• Average Monthly Salary: $1,800 – $2,200
• Monthly Family Costs: ~$2,500 (excluding rent)
• Safety Index: 63.8

Thailand

Thailand offers a tropical climate, excellent street food, and a vibrant expat community. Those looking to get out of urban areas can easily access beautiful beaches and mountains. Thailand’s central location in Southeast Asia also makes it a great spot to hop around to nearby countries such as Vietnam, Laos, Taiwan, and Indonesia. With its low cost of living, Thailand is always a solid choice for expat retirees.

Quick Facts:

• Cost of Living Index: 40.7
• Quality of Life Index: 116.55
• Global Peace Index Rank: 103
• Average Monthly Salary: $800 – $1,000
• Monthly Family Costs: ~$2,000 (excluding rent)
• Safety Index: 42.3

Australia

Australia is an excellent choice for American expats who want something new and exotic but don’t want to deal with a language barrier. With a high standard of living, multicultural society, and varied natural landscapes, Australia has much to offer families and retirees. Expats will also find access to excellent healthcare and education and safe and vibrant urban areas.

Quick Facts:

• Cost of Living Index: 73.54
• Quality of Life Index: 181.18
• Global Peace Index Rank: 22
• Average Monthly Salary: $3,000 – $4,200
• Monthly Family Costs: ~$3,800 (excluding rent)
• Safety Index: 57.2

New Zealand

Just a short plane ride away, New Zealand is famous for its breathtaking natural scenery, laid-back culture, and friendly locals. While housing prices can be a little steep in major cities, New Zealand’s exceptionally low crime levels, education system, and universal healthcare make it the perfect place to raise a family.

Quick Facts:

• Cost of Living Index: 72.53
• Quality of Life Index: 187.96
• Global Peace Index Rank: 4
• Average Monthly Salary: ~$2,900
• Monthly Family Costs: ~$4,000 (excluding rent)
• Safety Index: 52.3

Austria

Often overlooked due to its small size, Austria has one of the highest quality of life in the world. Vienna, in particular, offers beautiful Baroque architecture, low crime, and a rich arts scene. Most of Austria is covered by the Alps and contains many freshwater lakes outside urban areas — including Lake Constance, one of the largest in Europe. Austria borders eight countries, and its central location makes it an excellent spot for getting around the rest of Europe.

Quick Facts:

• Cost of Living Index: 67.3
• Quality of Life Index: 190.4
• Global Peace Index Rank: 3
• Average Monthly Salary: ~$3,000 – $3,600
• Monthly Family Costs: ~$3,800 (excluding rent)
• Safety Index: 75.4

The Netherlands

The Netherlands offers safe and clean cities, high wages, and a great work-life balance. It is also home to numerous intentional schools, and its healthcare system consistently ranks as one of the best in the world. For those nervous about the language barrier, approximately 90–93% of the Dutch speak English.

Quick Facts:

• Cost of Living Index: 63.1
• Quality of Life Index: 207.5
• Global Peace Index Rank: 21
• Average Monthly Salary: ~$3,400
• Monthly Family Costs: ~$3,500 (excluding rent)
• Safety Index: 73.7

Final Thoughts

Packing everything up and moving to the other side of the world is never easy, but with proper research and planning, you can find a country that meets your needs. These are just a few suggestions for the best countries to live as a US expat out of many, and any country you choose will have its unique traits and come with its pros and cons.

As an American expat, you are responsible for reporting annual income and filing a tax return no matter where you go in the world. When researching countries, be sure to look for those that have tax treaties with the United States. This is the best way to avoid double taxation while abroad.

Once you get to where you’re going, try MyExpatTaxes. With our easy-to-use tax software, you can plug in your information, confirm the results and calculations, and we’ll e-file it on your behalf — no matter how complex your expat tax situation is.