He sold everything he owned, from the car to decades of furniture, then bought a one way ticket to Italy. The paperwork nearly pushed him to quit. Purchasing a medieval farmhouse in a language he barely spoke tested every ounce of patience. A year later, he calls it the best decision of his life.
He is not alone. New reports from Global Citizen Solutions and William Russell show more Americans are actively planning moves abroad in 2026. Rising housing costs, healthcare bills, and retirement worries are driving families to places where income stretches further.
Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece top the list in Europe. Mexico and Canada remain favorites for proximity and familiarity. Panama stands out for financial freedom, while Malta, Cyprus, and St. Kitts and Nevis attract those seeking tax benefits or second passports.
Each destination offers its own visa path and income thresholds. Americans still must file US taxes, even overseas, and visa rules change often. Experts advise checking official sources and consulting tax and immigration professionals before making plans.
For many retirees, the focus is shifting. It is less about how much they saved and more about where that money can create a better life.
My Take…
He sold the car, the couch, the random junk haunting his garage since the Clinton era, and grabbed a one way ticket to Italy. The paperwork alone nearly broke him. Try buying a medieval farmhouse in a language you butcher worse than karaoke night. A year later he swears it is the best decision of his life. Go figure.Turns out he is not some lone Eat Pray Love extra. Reports say more Americans are eyeing the exit in 2026. Blame housing prices, healthcare bills, retirement panic. The usual Greatest Hits.Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece lead the Euro parade. Mexico and Canada feel comfortingly close. Panama whispers financial freedom. Malta, Cyprus, St. Kitts and Nevis tempt with tax perks and passports.Still, visa hoops are real, Uncle Sam wants taxes, rules shift constantly. Check officials, call pros.For retirees it is not about stash size. It is about where that stash actually lets you breathe. Not a bad plot twist.
Click on the link below for the full article:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimdobson/2026/05/24/how-to-move-out-of-america-in-2026-10-best-countries-for-the-great-escape/
