12 Best countries for American expats in 2026

The table gives a high-level comparison; here’s a closer look at what makes each country a popular choice for American expats, along with the US tax considerations before you relocate.

1. Australia

Pros:

• Competitive salaries across many skilled industries.
• High standard of healthcare, with public and private healthcare options available. 
• English-speaking environment that makes relocation easier.
• Strong economy with established expat communities in major cities.

Things to consider:

• Housing costs are among the highest in Sydney and Melbourne.

2. Portugal

Pros:

• Lower living costs than many Western European countries, particularly outside Lisbon and Porto.
• Well-regarded public and private healthcare systems.
• Large English-speaking expat communities in many coastal and inland regions.
• Easy access to the rest of Europe for travel.

Things to consider:

• Housing costs have increased in recent years, especially in popular expat destinations.
• Learning basic Portuguese can make everyday life easier outside major cities.

3. United Kingdom

Pros:

• No language barrier for most Americans.
• Diverse career opportunities across multiple industries.
• Familiar legal and financial systems that can make relocation easier.
• Convenient travel throughout Europe.

Things to consider:

• London is one of the most expensive cities in Europe.
• The weather may not suit everyone, particularly during winter.

4. Netherlands

Pros:

• Strong job market, particularly in technology, engineering, and finance.
• Reliable public transport and excellent cycling infrastructure.
• High standard of healthcare and public services.
• English is widely spoken, especially in larger cities.

Things to consider:

• Finding housing can be difficult in major cities such as Amsterdam.
• The cost of living is relatively high compared with other European destinations.

5. Spain

Pros:

• High-quality public and private healthcare.
• Lower living costs than many Western European countries, particularly outside Madrid and Barcelona.
• Pleasant climate with diverse cities, coastal regions, and a slower pace of life.

Things to consider:

• Learning Spanish can make everyday life easier outside major tourist areas.
• Salaries are generally lower than in many other Western European countries.

6. Singapore

Pros:

• Strong job market with competitive salaries.
• Excellent healthcare, education, and public infrastructure.
• English is widely spoken, making it easier for Americans to settle in.

Things to consider:

• Housing costs are among the highest in Asia.
• Permanent residency can be difficult to obtain.

7. United Arab Emirates

Pros:

• No local personal income tax on employment income.
• Strong demand for skilled professionals across multiple industries.
• Modern infrastructure and a large international expat community.

Things to consider:

• The cost of living can be high, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
• Residency options vary and may include employment, investment, family sponsorship, retirement, or other visa pathways, depending on your circumstances. 

8. Switzerland

Pros:

• Some of the highest salaries in the world.
• Excellent healthcare and reliable public services.
• Safe cities with efficient public transport.

Things to consider:

• Living costs are among the highest on this list.
• Work permits can be competitive depending on your occupation and residency status.

9. Ireland

Pros: 

• English-speaking environment with a familiar culture.
• Strong employment opportunities in multinational companies.
• Easy access to the rest of Europe.

Things to consider:

• Most Americans will need an appropriate employment permit or other immigration permission to work in Ireland. 
• Housing shortages have increased rental costs in many areas.
• The cost of living can be high, particularly in Dublin.

10. Canada

Pros:

• Similar language, culture, and legal system to the US.
• Universal healthcare and high-quality public services.
• Strong job opportunities in industries such as healthcare, technology, and engineering.

Things to consider:

• Housing costs can be high in cities such as Toronto and Vancouver.
• Winters can be long and severe in many parts of the country.

11. New Zealand 

Pros:

• Relaxed lifestyle with a strong focus on work-life balance.
• High-quality healthcare and education systems.
• Easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking, beaches, and national parks.

Things to consider:

• Salaries are generally lower than in Australia.
• Imported goods and everyday essentials can be relatively expensive.

12. Denmark

Pros: 

• Excellent healthcare, education, and public services.
• Strong work-life balance supported by generous employee benefits.
• Safe cities and reliable public transport.

Things to consider:

• One of the highest costs of living in Europe.
• Learning Danish can be beneficial for career opportunities and daily life.

US citizens generally still need to file annual US tax returns, regardless of where they live. Moving abroad doesn’t usually end your US tax obligations.