06/16/2026
✈️🌎 Americans are leaving the US in record numbers, driven by political anxiety and a search for a more affordable, secure life.
The country saw a net negative migration in 2025, according to research from The Brookings Institution. The widest estimated range was among people who left voluntarily, with Brookings estimating that between 210,000 to 405,000 people did so last year.
Driven by deep political polarization, rising living costs, and shifting social policies, many Americans no longer see a viable future at home. To navigate this complex transition, hopeful expats are turning to specialized events like Expatsi’s Move Abroad Con.
In May 2026, the convention saw its attendance double from the previous year, as attendees shelled out up to $1,000 each to learn the legal, financial, and logistical ropes of relocating to hotspots like Mexico and Spain.
While the financial investment to relocate can reach tens of thousands of dollars, many view it as a necessary price for peace of mind.
Survey data from convention attendees reveals that an overwhelming 89% are looking to emigrate due to the U.S. political climate, citing concerns over reproductive rights and democratic stability. Others are motivated by the promise of walkable cities, lower healthcare costs, and a slower pace of life. As expatriation shifts from a niche dream to a mainstream escape plan, the growing exodus highlights a profound shift in how Americans define safety, prosperity, and the pursuit of happiness.
source: Liu, J. (2026). Americans are leaving the U.S. in record numbers and spending hundreds to learn how to do it. CNBC Make It.
Have you ever considered life in another country? What factors would be most important in your decision?
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