Thinking of moving abroad? Here’s where American Gen Zs would go

Jetsetter or not, moving into a new country with new culture and possibly a new language could tick the final boxes on your wanderlust list. Where to? Here are the top countries for young Americans according to a survey.

If you’ve been daydreaming about strolling through Tokyo streets enjoying all the authentic ramen and sushi you can get, or sipping a Macchiato shot in the cobbled streets of Italy, you’re not alone.

According to a Preply survey of 3,000 Americans (18 to 26 years old), 25 percent of the Gen Zs are eyeing to move abroad for a better life. In sum, that’s 1 out of 4 participants plotting a course to a different life abroad.

Furthermore, 19 percent are chasing cultural changes, 17 percent looking for a change in political scenery and 18 percent are seeking to escape the financial storm and search for a more affordable haven.

But why abroad? The Gen Z participants said it’s because of the rising cost of living and the worsening political climate in the US. Aside from these two issues, more Gen Zs are also feeling unsafe with the increasing cases of gun violence all across the state.

A country with excellent social programs and universal healthcare — that’s what young Americans are dreaming of. Topping the list of their reasons for moving abroad — a new culture scene.

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Top 10 dream destinations for young Americans

These are the places that Gen Z Americans aim to be their home sweet home:

1. United Kingdom
2. Canada
3. Japan
4. Netherlands
5. Singapore
6. Australia
7. Switzerland
8. Italy
9. Germany
10. Ireland

English-speaking countries top the list catering to 67 percent of participants who don’t speak any other languages. While Germany, Italy and Japan championed the OECD countries spending more on their social programs.

If you’re wondering if these young Americans are just testing the waters of wanderlust, you’ll be surprised that 34 percent are ready to say goodbye to their American dreams indefinitely while 33 percent are just planning a 1- to 3-year hiatus.

But there are also 12 percent who’d move abroad for less than a year. With an increasing desire to move abroad as they get older, two-thirds are also considering flying solo and perhaps starting a family abroad.

Two Asian countries included in the top 20 list

Basking under the sun on the pristine beaches of the Philippines, particularly Palawan, is a no-brainer. Plus, young Americans are suckers for warm weather, which Singapore could offer.

In the top 20 of the survey, the Philippines landed the 19th spot — a country where an English speaker won’t have any issues with language barriers.

Meanwhile, Singapore, the global hub of business and dreams, boasts of its expat communities, proximity to other Asian gems and international schools.

The question is, will the American dream soon have a new address abroad? Only the Gen Zs could tell.