Why Europe is the New American Dream: The Growing Trend of Transatlantic Relocation

For decades, the "American Dream" was a one-way street leading to the United States. But in 2026, a new trend has solidified: the "Great American Exit." From remote workers and young entrepreneurs to retirees, more Americans than ever are looking across the Atlantic for a fresh start.

At AgoraExpat, we’ve seen a significant surge in inquiries from U.S. citizens navigating this transition. But what exactly is pulling Americans toward Europe right now? Here are the primary drivers of this historic migration.

The Search for a Better Work-Life Balance

In the U.S., the "hustle culture" is increasingly being traded for the European "Art de Vivre." Americans are drawn to a society where time is valued and the pace is more intentional.

Prioritizing Time and Wellbeing

In many European countries, 4 to 6 weeks of annual vacation is the norm, not a luxury. The focus on family, community, and leisure—concepts like the Italian dolce far niente or the French terrasse culture—offers a powerful antidote to burnout.

The Freedom of Remote Work

With the rise of Digital Nomad Visas in countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy, Americans can now keep their U.S. salaries while enjoying a drastically different lifestyle. This allows for a "best of both worlds" scenario: American income levels paired with European living costs.

Radical Healthcare Affordability

One of the most cited reasons for leaving the U.S. is the cost of medical care. In Europe, healthcare is viewed as a fundamental right rather than a privilege.

Cost Transparency and Accessibility

Even for expats using private systems, the out-of-pocket costs for procedures, prescriptions, and specialist visits are often a fraction of what they would be in the U.S. The fear of "medical bankruptcy" simply does not exist in the same way.

Quality of Care

European nations consistently rank at the top of global health indices for both technology and patient outcomes. Expats find that the quality of specialized care often meets or exceeds the standards they were used to back home.

Note for Expats: While European healthcare is affordable, most residency visas (like the D7 in Portugal or the Long-Stay Visa in France) require proof of comprehensive international health insurance. This is where specialized brokerage becomes essential to ensure your coverage meets strict local immigration requirements.

Safety and Social Stability

In an era of political polarization and concerns over urban safety in the U.S., Europe’s high safety rankings are a major draw. Many American families are relocating specifically for a sense of peace.

Lower Crime Rates and Walkable Cities

The ability to live without a car, using world-class public transit, creates a sense of freedom and health that many U.S. suburbs lack. Lower rates of violent crime provide a significant sense of relief for parents raising children abroad.

Child-Friendly Environments

Safe parks, affordable childcare, and high-quality public education systems make Europe an attractive destination for families looking to provide their children with a global perspective in a secure environment.

A Lower Cost of Living Without Sacrificing Luxury

While inflation is global, many Americans find that their dollars go much further in Europe. This financial "arbitrage" allows for a higher quality of life.

Premium Living for Less

Beyond the major hubs like London or Paris, regions such as the Algarve (Portugal), Valencia (Spain), or Tuscany (Italy) offer a high-end lifestyle at a price point that would be impossible in California or New York.

Planning Your Move? Don't Forget the Essentials

Relocating to Europe is an exciting adventure, but the bureaucracy can be daunting. From tax implications to visa-compliant insurance, preparation is key.

As your dedicated partner, AgoraExpat specializes in bridging the gap between American expectations and European requirements. We help you find the best international health insurance plans that satisfy both your medical needs and your visa application.

Are you ready to trade the 9-to-5 grind for a sunset on the Mediterranean?