What if we removed the Trump equation? Would people be so anxious to live abroad if Hillary Clinton won the election? There are many reasons Americans decide to live abroad: 35% of American expats are looking for an adventure, while 31% simply enjoy living abroad. As an expat entrepreneur, I have lived abroad for almost 3 years in multiple countries. I enjoy the adventures and daily life. Many Americans do not realize that they can experience a higher quality of life abroad. According to last year’s InterNations statistics,[1] 81% of American expats are generally satisfied with their expat life. Almost one-third (32%) of them stated that they would consider staying in their new country forever. Here are three reasons why life is better for Americans abroad.
1. Education Opportunities
The cost of higher education has continued to rise in the United States. As a result, college enrollment rates have decreased in the last four years.[2] So, there is no doubt that rising tuition rates are keeping students away from obtaining a college degree. However, there are better alternatives abroad:
Germany is the economic powerhouse of Europe, and offers free tuition at public universities for foreigners. There are 1,000+ college programs that are taught in English. Norway is one of the Scandinavian countries where Americans can get free tuition at their state universities. Czech Republic is another European country that allows anyone to study for free in Czech (their native language).
There are some other countries that offer free tuition to foreigners, including (but not limited to) Argentina, Finland, and Brazil.
2. Healthcare Opportunities
I have been amazed at the quality of health care in so-called developing countries. In Mexico, I was able to get a dental cleaning for $26, and a full thyroid blood panel test for $50. You can get surgery, blood tests, and other health procedures done for 40-60% off prices in the United States. But Mexico is not the only example. You can find high quality health care in other countries, including (but not limited to) Panama and South Africa.
3. Housing Opportunities
Do you prefer to live in an apartment or house? Both options are cheaper and more plentiful in most countries abroad. In Spain, I paid 15% less than the average monthly rental price in the United States. In Mexico, bargain deals are not hard to find at all. In San Miguel De Allende, it is not uncommon to find houses to rent for $400 a month, outside of the downtown area. Most of these $400/month houses are not furnished, but I was fortunate to find a furnished one. These amazing deals are not limited to Mexico and Spain. You can find great deals in countries, including (but not limited to) Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, South Africa, and China.
The Final Word
You probably noticed a common thing in these three reasons. Low prices! They are significantly lower than prices in the United States. Why pay more when you can pay less? Many American expats are retirees who find that their retirement checks buy more abroad than in America. Whether you are a retiree or not, living abroad offers a higher quality of life with a low cost of living. Many Americans aspire to be wealthy. If Americans could live a luxurious life abroad for less than $100,000 a year, I do not think most people would care about earning a six-figure salary anymore. The expat population is growing. There are 8 million Americans abroad.[3] If the American expat population was one state, it would be America’s 13th most populous state. Perhaps it is time that you join the club! Featured photo credit: Alex Mihis via pexels.com
