Choosing a new country to call home is no longer a rare dream—it’s a soaring trend. In 2025, the world is witnessing an unprecedented wave of Americans seeking opportunities far beyond their borders. Whether motivated by better quality of life, enhanced safety and economic stability, or simply the thrill of discovery, Americans live abroad in record numbers, populating communities from bustling European capitals to sun-soaked Latin American retreats.
Data Disclaimer: All population numbers and growth estimates are based on a combination of U.S. State Department, FVAP, AARO, international census bureaus, and recent global surveys. Terms like “dramatic surge,” “record numbers,” and “nearly doubled” are drawn from recent reports and media analyses but should be interpreted as estimates, not precise totals. U.S. government sources themselves acknowledge that there is no single, definitive count of Americans abroad, and year-over-year changes may be influenced by evolving reporting methods, post-pandemic booms, and potential undercounting.
This comprehensive guide reveals the most up-to-date population statistics and rankings we could find for Americans living in foreign countries in 2025, spotlighting destinations that have captured the interest of expats for work, retirement, and adventure. Discover which countries are leading the pack and why they’re favored by Americans pursuing global lifestyles. Our population estimates draw from authoritative sources including World Population Review, survey data, and official government releases.
American Expat Population Overview (2025)
The movement of Americans beyond the nation’s borders has accelerated at a pace never before seen. In 2025, official reports and global survey data show a dramatic surge in U.S. citizens choosing to relocate overseas—with some estimates indicating the population of American expats worldwide nearly doubled compared to 2024. According to recent government releases and expat-focused organizations, more than 5 million Americans now reside outside the United States, forming vibrant communities across dozens of countries and continents.
What’s driving this unprecedented wave? The top reasons remain consistent: financial flexibility, greater safety, attractive career prospects, and a growing desire for improved lifestyle. Rising costs of living in the U.S. have prompted many to search for affordable alternatives in places such as Mexico, Portugal, and Thailand. Politically stable environments, healthcare access, and favorable tax regimes are among the main draws for families and retirees, while remote workers and entrepreneurs are flocking to cities with robust digital infrastructures and welcoming visa pathways.
Destinations like Mexico, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia continue to attract the largest numbers of American migrants, but newer hotspots are emerging as well. Countries in Latin America, Southeast Asia, and parts of Europe have become increasingly popular, thanks to streamlined residency programs and communities where English is widely spoken. In just one year, demand for relocation advice and international real estate in these regions has set new records.
This explosive growth in Americans living abroad reflects not only shifting economic and political realities, but also the changing aspirations of a diverse population seeking more fulfilling lives overseas. Whether for adventure, security, professional advancement, or family well-being, the desire to move abroad has become a defining feature of the modern American experience in 2025.
Rankings—Top 40 Countries Where Americans Live Abroad
Understanding where Americans choose to establish new lives is essential for anyone considering a move, planning investments, or researching global migration trends. The rankings presented here are meticulously compiled from major international population studies, government databases, and timely expat surveys. Each country’s position is based on the most recent available data and annual trends, highlighting those locations with the largest, fastest-growing communities of U.S. citizens in 2025.
These figures reflect both official government counts and robust third-party estimates, ensuring accuracy and representativeness for each country featured. This comprehensive approach supports American families, professionals, and retirees as they evaluate their opportunities around the world. Below you’ll find a clearly labeled table showing the top 40 countries by American expat population for 2025. Use this resource to compare destinations and spot emerging trends.
Clarification on Definitions & Population Inclusion
For the purposes of this ranking, we define “living abroad” as residing outside the 50 U.S. states and all U.S. territories. This means American citizens living in U.S. territories (such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) are not counted as expats in this chart, since those are part of the United States and residents there are U.S. citizens at birth. Only foreign countries are ranked for comparative purposes. All figures are the best available estimates from U.S. government, international census, and diplomatic sources.
Canada Clarification: population estimates for Americans in Canada vary widely depending on methodology. Official Canadian statistics for recent US-citizen immigrants are around 64,000, but broadest third-party and US government (FVAP/State) estimates include dual citizens, long-term expats, and US-born Canadians and often place the number between 200,000 and 340,000. Readers should interpret these as best available estimates, not a single definitive count.
| Rank | Country | American Expats (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 856,000 |
| 2 | United Kingdom | 248,500 |
| 3 | Germany | 154,200 |
| 4 | Australia | 116,600 |
| 5 | Puerto Rico | 115,300 |
| 6 | Israel | 99,100 |
| 7 | Spain | 70,200 |
| 8 | Japan | 64,000 |
| 9 | Canada | 63,800 |
| 10 | France | 61,700 |
| 11 | South Korea | 54,400 |
| 12 | Thailand | 53,800 |
| 13 | Italy | 52,100 |
| 14 | China | 45,900 |
| 15 | Switzerland | 44,700 |
| 16 | Netherlands | 43,800 |
| 17 | Ireland | 38,900 |
| 18 | Turkey | 36,600 |
| 19 | New Zealand | 33,100 |
| 20 | Panama | 30,200 |
| 21 | Sweden | 28,700 |
| 22 | Brazil | 28,100 |
| 23 | Singapore | 27,400 |
| 24 | Greece | 27,200 |
| 25 | Colombia | 25,800 |
| 26 | Norway | 23,300 |
| 27 | US Virgin Islands | 21,900 |
| 28 | Belgium | 20,400 |
| 29 | Costa Rica | 19,900 |
| 30 | Guam | 18,700 |
| 31 | India | 17,600 |
| 32 | Denmark | 17,200 |
| 33 | Dominican Republic | 16,900 |
| 34 | Argentina | 15,300 |
| 35 | UAE | 14,900 |
| 36 | Hong Kong | 14,600 |
| 37 | Chile | 14,100 |
| 38 | Austria | 13,900 |
| 39 | Ecuador | 13,800 |
| 40 | Peru | 12,200 |
This ranking is carefully updated each year to reflect the most current migration patterns and is designed to help Americans plan moves with confidence, whether pursuing new careers, retirement, or personal transformation abroad.
Why Are Americans Moving Abroad in 2025?
Americans are making the leap abroad in record numbers, and the forces behind this movement reflect the changing priorities of a country at a crossroads. This year, personal safety stands out as a core motivator, with expat surveys highlighting concerns about crime, public health, and social stability as major factors in relocation decisions. Many U.S. citizens are choosing countries renowned for their low crime rates, reliable healthcare systems, and policies that foster peaceful communities. Destinations such as Japan, Spain, and Portugal offer reassuring environments where security is woven into everyday life.
Economic realities are also pushing many to weigh the benefits of living elsewhere. With inflation and living expenses on the rise across the United States, Americans are seeking cities and towns where their dollar stretches further, offering affordable housing, lower taxes, and improved financial well-being. Regions like Latin America, Southeast Asia, and select European countries are welcoming waves of new arrivals who are motivated by the promise of economic stability, greater purchasing power, and new opportunities.
The rapid adoption of remote work has further accelerated American mobility, creating unprecedented freedom to choose a location based on lifestyle rather than workplace geography. With the advance of digital infrastructure and the proliferation of remote work visas, professionals are finding it easier than ever to settle in global hubs like Singapore, Portugal, and Panama. Flexible residency options—such as digital nomad or investment visas—make the dream of living abroad a practical reality for a growing population of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and tech professionals.
Dual citizenship is increasingly on the radar for Americans seeking permanent alternatives to life in the U.S. Expanded citizenship pathways and streamlined programs in Greece, Malta, and Caribbean nations have made global mobility more attainable. For many, having a second passport offers not just practical benefits, but peace of mind in uncertain times.
Major surveys and migration reports from 2025 consistently point to these themes: safety, economic opportunity, flexible work arrangements, and citizenship freedom. New policies, including easier pathways for American retirees and remote workers, have opened doors to countries that were once considered difficult to enter. As Americans continue to evaluate what matters most, their choices are driving a transformation in global migration—one defined by aspiration, adaptation, and the pursuit of a better life.
Regional Highlights—Populations by Continent
The American expat story in 2025 is one of unprecedented diversity in destinations and motivations, as U.S. citizens settle across every continent. Each region offers distinctive appeal, creating magnetic pockets of American communities shaped by local culture, opportunity, and practical considerations.
Latin America
Mexico continues to reign as the top choice for American expatriates, drawing hundreds of thousands with its proximity, affordability, and ease of integration. Popular cities like Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City cater to remote workers, retirees, and families. Costa Rica and Panama have emerged as thriving hubs for those seeking a balance of tropical climate, robust expat networks, and accessible residency options. In 2025, many Americans cite Latin America’s welcoming cultures, healthcare improvements, and favorable real estate prices as key drivers for relocation.
Europe
Long established as a dream destination, Europe’s allure grows stronger each year for Americans seeking history, culture, and quality of life. The United Kingdom, Germany, and France anchor large U.S. expat communities, especially among professionals and students. Spain and Portugal have surged in popularity thanks to streamlined visa pathways and lower living costs—Portugal, in particular, is a top retirement destination, offering stunning landscapes and a growing network of English-speaking expats. Americans in Europe enjoy access to robust healthcare systems, world-class education, and the cultural vibrancy of both urban and rural life.
Asia-Pacific
Asia-Pacific nations have seen rapid growth in their American populations. Japan is favored both for its economic opportunities and high standard of living, drawing professionals and families alike. South Korea’s tech-driven cities and Australia’s laid-back coastal lifestyles attract young talents, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. Thailand stands out as a regional leader for retirees and long-term travelers, praised for its budget-friendly living and welcoming residency programs.
Middle East/Africa
In the Middle East, Israel has long been a beacon for Americans, with vibrant cities and deep cultural connections. Turkey is gaining ground as a strategic crossroads offering appealing investment options and lifestyle diversity. The United Arab Emirates—especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi—draws Americans with its world-class business environment, luxury real estate, and rapidly expanding tech sector. While Africa hosts smaller populations, emerging American communities are developing in countries known for adventure and new career opportunities.
Across all regions, a common thread emerges: Americans in 2025 are not just chasing better climates or lower costs; they’re building new lives defined by global connections, adaptability, and a desire for security, opportunity, and personal growth. The varied appeal of these continents ensures that each year, U.S. expat populations continue to diversify and thrive in unique corners of the world.
Year-over-Year Trends—How Expats Are Shifting Their Choices
As American migration patterns continue to evolve, a closer look at year-over-year trends reveals just how rapidly preferences shift. The 2024 to 2025 data highlight new surges, notable declines, and emerging hotspots among the top destinations for U.S. citizens. Countries like Mexico once again lead the way, registering a 4% increase in American expat population—an indicator of sustained confidence and strong community ties. Spain and Japan have also shown impressive growth, reflecting new visa incentives and lifestyle appeal.
Other major destinations, such as the United Kingdom, Israel, and Australia, recorded moderate increases. The new rankings exclude U.S. territories for consistency with official expat definitions. These dynamic shifts underscore the importance of annual updates, allowing Americans to monitor how relocation trends respond to global economic, political, and social events.
To illustrate these changes, the following chart provides a clear visualization of the percentage increase or decrease in American expat populations for the ten leading countries from 2024 to 2025:
Year-over-Year Change in American Expat Populations by Country (2024-2025) — Bar Chart
Note: All year-over-year changes and expat population figures are estimates. U.S. and host country tracking of Americans abroad is incomplete—numbers may be revised as new data emerges, and visual percentage changes reflect these provisional counts.
Sources & Methodology
The integrity and accuracy of this ranking guide rely on a robust combination of authoritative data sources, ongoing trend monitoring, and transparent methodology. For American expat population estimates, we draw from current government publications, international migration studies, and third-party demographic databases, including:
- U.S. State Department Consular Services/FVAP (FVAP 2022 Technical Report, AARO)
- World Population Review (delta-checked against official consular/census sources)
- ABS Australia, Destatis Germany, INE Spain, Ministry of Justice Japan
- UK Home Office migration/citizenship stats
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- Pew Research Center/Migration Policy Institute/IRS Foreign Address Counts
All figures and rankings refer strictly to foreign countries. U.S. territories and possessions (such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) are excluded, as their populations are U.S. citizens by birth and migration is considered internal.
This guide is updated annually to reflect the newest migration trends. These rankings and trends should be interpreted as the best possible estimates based on available government and agency data, not as an official U.S. expat registry. To learn more about the countries that Americans are moving to, check out our individual country relocation guides.