If you are a little tired of the hustle and bustle of life in the USA, it’s time to move to one of the best European cities and enjoy a slower-paced and culturally enriching life. You are not alone in this quest for a different living experience as an increasing number of American expats pack their bags and cross the ocean to get a better work-life balance, live in more affordable cities, and enjoy their lives to the fullest. Europe is a charming mixture of modern conveniences and the old world, which cannot but make it one of the most appealing destinations for American expats.
Europe has something for everyone, so you can simply change the landscape where you live, have more days of vacation, or take advantage of more affordable healthcare. This guide will be of great help if you are struggling to choose the best country or city in Europe where an American expat will feel comfortable.
Interested to find out the friendliest cities and countries in Europe? Here is an overview of the best destinations.
Why Americans Are Choosing to Move to Europe
One of the main reasons Americans opt for European countries is the better quality of life looming on the horizon. Europe is a place where you are sure to find high-quality healthcare services, a safe environment, and world-class educational institutions. Overall, these features ensure a level of comfort that is hard to find in the USA.
What is more, Americans flock to European countries to take advantage of a more affordable cost of living. If we take Greece, Spain, or Portugal, for instance, we will discover that groceries, housing, and healthcare costs are much lower compared to those in the USA. And if we look at the work-life balance, we will see that Europe is definitely the winner. Europeans value personal time, so many countries provide flexible working hours and a lot of vacation days. All these reasons make Europe an ideal place for an expat looking for a more relaxed and laid-back lifestyle.
What does it mean to be an expat? Let’s see what it takes to relocate and settle down in a new place.
Top European Countries for American Expats
Portugal
Portugal is a top destination for American expats, thanks to its affordable cost of living, pleasant climate, and welcoming communities. Its residency options, such as the Golden Visa and the D7 Visa, make it relatively easy to settle in. The country’s expat communities are vibrant, and you’ll find plenty of support as you transition to life in cities like Lisbon or Porto.
Spain
The Americans find the Spanish Mediterranean lifestyle really attractive, so this is a popular country for relocation from across the Atlantic. Expats plunge into the delightful, relaxed local atmosphere with its sunny weather, delicious cuisine, and slow-paced culture. You can also take advantage of several visa options, such as a Digital Nomad Visa or a Non-Lucrative Visa. Both of these are excellent options for remote workers and retirees.
France
France’s rich culture, excellent healthcare, and established expat communities make it an appealing option for Americans. Whether you’re drawn to the romance of Paris or the coastal life in Nice, you’ll find plenty of options. Paris has one of the largest American expat communities in Europe, so you’ll never feel too far from home.
Germany
For those seeking job opportunities and economic stability, Germany is a top pick. It offers a robust economy, excellent public infrastructure, and one of the best healthcare systems in the world. Major cities like Berlin and Munich are hubs for tech and finance, making it easier for professionals to transition into the job market.
Find out how to get a long-term visa to Germany.
Italy
Italy is beloved for its rich history, warm people, and affordability in certain regions. While cities like Rome and Milan may be expensive, smaller towns in Tuscany or Umbria offer more affordable options for expats. If you love history, art, and great food, Italy is hard to beat.
You may be interested in Italian real estate.
Netherlands
Known for its progressive policies and multicultural society, the Netherlands offers a great work-life balance. It’s an ideal destination for entrepreneurs, thanks to the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, which allows U.S. citizens to set up businesses with relative ease. With a high level of English proficiency, you won’t need to learn Dutch immediately, making it a smooth transition.
Residency and Visa Options for Americans Moving to Europe
One of the most critical aspects of moving abroad is securing the right residency or visa. Fortunately, several European countries offer excellent visa options tailored for American expats.
Golden Visa Programs
Portugal and Spain both have Golden Visa programs, which allow you to gain residency through real estate investments. These programs are ideal if you’re looking to invest while obtaining residency. The investment amounts differ—Portugal starts at €280,000, while Spain requires €500,000.
FREE EXPERT CONSULTATION
on how to choose the jurisdiction
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on how to choose the jurisdiction and the economic residence or citizenship programs.
Residency Permits
Most European countries offer residency permits through work, family reunification, or entrepreneur visas. Germany and France are particularly welcoming to professionals, while countries like Italy have simplified processes for retirees. Ask our experts for details.
Digital Nomad Visas
If you’re a remote worker, several European countries offer Digital Nomad Visas, including Estonia and Croatia. These visas allow you to live in Europe while working remotely for a company outside the country, making them perfect for digital entrepreneurs.
Want to explore all opportunities for digital nomads? Here is a list of all possible destinations.
Cost of Living Comparison Across European Countries
One of the most significant factors influencing your decision to move abroad is the cost of living. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Portugal: Affordable housing, low utilities, and reasonably priced groceries. Cities like Lisbon are more expensive than smaller towns like Braga or Porto.
- Spain: You’ll find the cost of living lower in cities like Valencia compared to Barcelona or Madrid. Groceries, public transport, and healthcare are all very affordable.
- France: Paris is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, but smaller towns in the French countryside offer more affordable living.
- Germany: Germany has a higher cost of living than Portugal or Spain but offers excellent healthcare and infrastructure in return.
- Italy: Major cities are expensive, but smaller regions offer comfortable living. For more affordable options, look to Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast.
- Netherlands: Amsterdam is pricey, but the excellent public transportation system makes it easy to live in smaller, more affordable towns.
Let’s look at the details:
| Country | Housing (1-bed apartment) | Utilities | Groceries | Public Transport | Healthcare |
 Portugal | $800–$1,500 (Lisbon), lower in Braga | $100–$150 | Affordable | $40/month | Public: Free; Private: $50–$100 |
 Spain | $900–$1,800 (Madrid, lower in Valencia) | $100–$200 | Affordable | $40/month | Public: Free; Private: $50–$150 |
 France | $1,500–$3,000 (Paris), lower in countryside | $150–$200 | Moderate | $80/month | Public: Free; Private: $100+ |
 Germany | $1,200–$2,500 (Berlin) | $150–$250 | Moderate | $90/month | Public: Free; Private: $150+ |
 Italy | $900–$2,000 (Rome, lower in Tuscany) | $100–$150 | Moderate | $50/month | Public: Free; Private: $100+ |
 Netherlands | $1,500–$3,000 (Amsterdam, lower in smaller towns) | $150–$250 | Expensive | $100/month | Public: Free; Private: $100+ |
Please read our more detailed survey on how much it costs to live in Europe.
Healthcare Systems in Europe: A Major Draw for American Expats
One of the biggest perks of moving to Europe is access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. Unlike the U.S., most European countries offer universal healthcare, ensuring you’ll never have to worry about exorbitant medical bills.
- Spain: Spain’s public healthcare system is free for residents, and private insurance is affordable.
- France: Known for having one of the best healthcare systems globally, France offers top-tier medical care to both residents and expats.
- Germany: Germany’s healthcare system is well-funded and comprehensive, covering everything from regular checkups to major surgeries.
Best European Countries for Work-Life Balance and Jobs
Europeans have a reputation for prioritizing work-life balance, and it’s easy to see why. Countries like the Netherlands and Germany offer generous vacation policies, shorter workweeks, and a general respect for personal time.
- Germany: Known for its robust job market, especially in tech and finance. Germans value work-life balance, with ample vacation time and flexible working hours.
- Netherlands: The Dutch take work-life balance seriously. With shorter work hours and excellent remote work opportunities, it’s an ideal country for expats.
- Sweden: Famous for its progressive work culture, Sweden offers a high standard of living and excellent job opportunities, particularly in tech.
Top Cities for American Expats in Europe
Some cities in Europe are particularly well-suited for expats, offering a mix of affordability, culture, and job opportunities.
- Lisbon, Portugal: Lisbon’s expat community is growing, thanks to its sunny weather, affordability, and vibrant culture.
- Barcelona, Spain: This Mediterranean city offers a laid-back lifestyle, excellent food, and a strong expat network.
- Berlin, Germany: Berlin is known for its creative culture, thriving tech scene, and affordability compared to other major European capitals.
- Paris, France: If you’re after cultural experiences and world-class cuisine, Paris offers it all, with a large expat community to boot.
Language Barrier and Cultural Adaptation
Moving to a new country often means adapting to a different language and culture. The good news is that many European countries have high levels of English proficiency.
- Netherlands: Nearly everyone speaks English, making it one of the easiest countries for American expats to integrate.
- Germany: While English is widely spoken in urban areas, learning basic German will make daily life easier.
- Scandinavia: Countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Norway have some of the highest levels of English proficiency in Europe.
Tax Considerations for American Expats in Europe
When moving to Europe, taxes can be a concern, but many countries have treaties in place to avoid double taxation. Here are some tax-friendly options:
- Portugal: The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime offers significant tax breaks for new residents. Our dedicated article provides more on Portuguese taxation.
- Cyprus: Cyprus offers low tax rates for expats, making it one of the most attractive options for those looking to save on taxes.
- Malta: Malta’s tax benefits, particularly for retirees, are a big draw for American expats.
Benefits and Challenges of Living in Europe
Benefits:
- Affordable healthcare
- Work-life balance
- Rich cultural experiences
Challenges:
- Bureaucracy
- Language barriers in certain countries
- Tax implications
Who are the happiest people in Europe? Discover it in our article and opt for these destinations to live among smiling faces!
Conclusion
Moving to Europe offers a wealth of opportunities, from improved quality of life to new job prospects. Whether you’re drawn to Portugal’s sunny beaches or Germany’s thriving economy, each European country has something unique to offer. If you’re ready to make the leap, start researching visa options and reach out to relocation experts.
What is the best European country to live in as an American expat?
Portugal and Spain top the list due to their visa options, affordability, and welcoming expat communities. Countries like Germany and the Netherlands are also popular for job opportunities and high living standards.
How much does it cost to live in Europe as an American?
The cost varies significantly by country. In Portugal and Spain, you can live comfortably on $2,000–$3,000 a month, while countries like Germany or the Netherlands might require a higher budget, especially in larger cities.
Do American expats pay U.S. taxes while living in Europe?
Yes, American expats are still required to file U.S. taxes. However, treaties between the U.S. and many European countries help avoid double taxation.
What countries in Europe have the best healthcare for expats?
Countries like France, Spain, and Germany are renowned for their universal healthcare systems, providing affordable and high-quality care for residents and expats alike.
Can I work in Europe as an American expat without knowing the local language?
In many European countries, especially the Netherlands, Germany, and Scandinavian nations, you can work without knowing the local language due to high English proficiency. However, learning the local language will enhance your experience and job opportunities.
What are the best European countries for digital nomads?
Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Estonia are some of the best countries offering Digital Nomad Visas, allowing remote workers to live and work in Europe legally.
Which European countries offer the best residency programs for Americans?
Portugal, Spain, and Malta offer some of the most attractive residency programs, including the Golden Visa for investors and the D7 or Non-Lucrative Visas for retirees and remote workers.
What is the best country in Europe for remote work?
Portugal and Estonia are standout choices for remote workers due to their Digital Nomad Visas, strong internet infrastructure, and affordable living costs.
25 September 2024 