Americans Leaving the U.S. Increased to Levels Not Seen in Decades

Reports say 2025 saw negative net migration for the United States, with at least 180,000 citizens estimated to have moved abroad; experts point to rising costs and remote work as key drivers.

A growing number of Americans are choosing to move abroad, and reports say the trend reached uncommon levels in 2025. That year was reported as a period of negative net migration, meaning more U.S. citizens left the country than moved in. Estimates indicate at least 180,000 Americans relocated overseas in 2025, though the true number is likely higher. Experts point to a mix of economic pressures, the rise of remote work, and lifestyle preferences as reasons people are relocating. Key points: - 2025 was reported as a year of negative net migration for the United States, a situation described as the first since 1935. - Estimates put at least 180,000 U.S. citizens as having moved abroad in 2025, and tracking is limited because the U.S. does not maintain a comprehensive count of citizens living overseas. - Reported drivers include rising housing and living costs, wider availability of remote and digital work, and desires for different social supports or lifestyles. - Demographers and a U.S. Census Bureau report noted the upswing could affect U.S. population figures and demographics. Summary: The increase in Americans moving abroad spans a broad range of ages and motivations and was reported to include at least 180,000 relocations in 2025, which analysts say could influence population counts and demographic patterns. Undetermined at this time.