A growing number of Americans are choosing to leave the United States and build new lives abroad — and the trend is happening at levels not seen in decades.

In 2025, the United States experienced a rare period of negative net migration, meaning more Americans left the country than moved in — something which hasn’t happened since 1935, according to a recent Wall Street Journal report.

While exact figures are difficult to track, estimates suggest at least 180,000 U.S. citizens relocated overseas last year, and the true number is likely higher.

Experts say this rise is due to a mix of economic pressures and lifestyle changes that have made moving abroad more appealing and accessible for many Americans.

For some people, the decision is largely financial, per the WSJ. Rising housing costs and everyday expenses, like food and healthcare, in many parts of the United States have pushed some Americans to look for outside options. Places like Portugal, Ireland, Thailand and Bali become particularly popular destinations.