Many Americans want to live a better life in another country. As they grow older, more and more of them express this desire.
About one in four American Gen Zers (those aged 18 to 26) say they would consider moving to another country for improved social programs, such as universal health care. This information comes from a survey conducted in October by Preply, a language tutoring platform, which involved 3,000 Americans in the specified age group.
Close behind, 19% of Gen Z Americans mention seeking a new cultural experience as their primary reason for considering life abroad. Additionally, 18% point to the high cost of living in the U.S., while 17% express dissatisfaction with the political environment in the country.
A majority of 59% state that gun violence in the U.S. significantly influences their desire to reside in another country.
Regarding preferred destinations, here are the top 10 countries where young adults in the U.S. would like to relocate for a new life abroad:
Top 10 Countries
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Japan
- Netherlands
- Singapore
- Australia
- Switzerland
- Italy
- Germany
- Ireland
What Young Americans Want and Why
The list is led by English-speaking countries, which is advantageous for the 67% of participants who mention not knowing another language. Italy, Germany, and Japan are some of the OECD nations that allocate a significant portion of their gross domestic product to social programs for residents.
In addition to this, young Americans show a preference for places with warm and sunny weather, such as Singapore and Australia. These locations also have large expatriate communities.
Young Americans are strongly considering the prospect of a better life in another country. The majority, at 34%, express the likelihood of living outside the U.S. indefinitely. Another 33% indicate a plan to be away for a period of 1 to 3 years. Only 12% mention the intention to move abroad for less than a year.
A significant portion, two-thirds, are open to starting a family in a foreign country. Additionally, a similar proportion notes that their desire to leave the U.S. and live abroad is growing as they age.
Conclusion
More and more young Americans want a better life in another country, driven by factors like improved social programs and seeking new experiences. They’re drawn to English-speaking countries, with 67% not knowing another language. Top destinations also prioritize warm weather and large expat communities. Many consider living abroad indefinitely, starting a family, and this desire grows with age.
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