5 Best Places to Move if You Don’t Like Election Results
The ex-pat life may seem more appealing to many in light of this year’s particularly divisive election season. IL has compiled a list of countries where retirees can affordably escape the strife
No matter who wins this week’s 2024 presidential election, close to half the country will be unhappy with the result. Some will be so unhappy they may seriously consider leaving the country for the ex-pat life in a place with less political stress, better affordability, easy residency and accessible proximity to the U.S.
The Association of Americans Resident Overseas estimates that 5.5 million Americans live abroad in 2024, with most by far living in neighboring Mexico and Canada. The percentage of U.S. citizens who expressed interest in settling abroad if they were able reached 34% in a March 26 poll by Monmouth University, up from 12% since 1995. Monmouth polling officials said they believe the political rancor of recent years likely helped fuel the rise, with 41% of independents saying they want to resettle in another country, compared with 35% of Democrats and 22% of Republicans.
Many of these people are retirees that have been contemplating relocating overseas, and according to a recent survey from International Living, 65% of respondents are accelerating their plans to move abroad due to the election, and 78% believe that retiree well-being should be a top priority for future U.S. policy.
“With political uncertainty in the air, we’re hearing Americans talking about leaving the country in search of stability and a better quality of life,” said Jennifer Stevens, Executive Editor at International Living. “Our readers aren’t just exploring options—they’re actively planning their moves to countries where they can find political stability, affordable living, and a peaceful environment.
In light of the survey findings, International Living, the leading authority on global retirement and relocation, released a new report outlining the “5 Best Places to Move to if You Don’t Like the Election Results.”
These destinations provide what IL calls “the perfect escape from political and economic stress in the U.S,” and are known as affordable, stable countries where they can start fresh, offering a balanced lifestyle, proximity to the U.S., and welcoming expat communities.
“Tired of the divisive rhetoric and worried about the direction the country could take post-election, they’re interested in being in a place where life is simpler, slower, and politics takes a back seat,” Stevens added.
Read on for more about these 5 retirement destinations that provide a welcoming environment and what IL calls “a great escape.”
Mexico
With its proximity to the U.S., Mexico offers everything from sunny beaches and vibrant cities to charming colonial towns. Popular expat hubs include Puerto Vallarta, Mérida, and San Miguel de Allende. The cost of living is affordable, with couples living comfortably on $1,500 to $3,000 per month, and rent in popular beach towns can be as low as $750 a month. Groceries, utilities, and healthcare are also highly affordable. The Temporary Resident Visa provides an easy pathway to long-term residency for those with sufficient income. You’ll need to show proof of income—around $2,600 per month or investments totaling $43,000. After 4 years, you can apply for permanent residency without needing to leave the country.
Panama
Panama’s Pensionado Program is one of the best retiree programs in the world, making it an excellent choice for retirees. It offers discounts on everything from healthcare to entertainment for those who qualify and requires a minimum lifetime income of just $1,000 per month. With modern infrastructure, use of the U.S. dollar and world-class healthcare, Panama’s beach towns, mountain retreats, and vibrant capital city are perfect for those seeking a high quality of life. A couple can live comfortably in Panama on between $2,000 to $4,000 a month, depending on the city and lifestyle, including rent, groceries, and entertainment.
Uruguay
Uruguay, known for its political stability and excellent social services, is a peaceful destination for expats. The “Switzerland of South America” boasts a high standard of living, a strong democracy, and a reliable healthcare system. With cities like Montevideo and Punta del Este, Uruguay offers a European flair in a Latin American setting. A couple can live well on between $2,500 and $3,500 per month, and the country’s flexible residency program makes it easy to settle in. Expats can apply for residency with proof of monthly income as low as $1,500. After permanent residency is granted, there’s no requirement to live in the country full-time, and Uruguay offers citizenship after just three years for married couples.
Costa Rica
A pioneer in eco-tourism, Costa Rica is known for its lush landscapes, stable government, and focus on sustainability. The country’s pensionado residency program allows retirees to qualify with just $1,000 per month of income. Once you have legal residency, you can join Costa Rica’s public healthcare system, which provides affordable, high-quality healthcare to residents. Popular expat areas include the Central Valley and beach towns like Tamarindo and Nosara. A couple can live comfortably on $2,000 per month, but with a budget of $2,500 to $3,000, they can enjoy an even higher standard of living.
Belize
Belize is an ideal option for those seeking a tropical paradise with English as the official language. Known for its laid-back lifestyle, Belize offers expats affordable living and easy residency through the Qualified Retirement Program (QRP). It is available to anyone over 45 years old with a monthly income of at least $2,000, and allows for duty-free import of personal goods, including cars, and exempts retirees from taxes on income earned abroad. With a cost of living around $2,000 per month, it’s an attractive destination for anyone looking to relocate.
• The full International Living article can be found here: The 5 Best Places to Move to if You Don’t Like the Election Results
SEE ALSO:
• Fortune Ranks 25 Best Places to Retire Affordably
• 2024’s 10 Best Places in the World to Retire