Why an increasing number of young American women seem prepared to relocate to another country

Aubrey and her wife are set to relocate from the United States to Costa Rica in January, after much reflection on leaving behind their established life as homeowners in upstate New York. Months of unease about the political and social climate, including debates over LGBTQ rights and personal safety concerns, ultimately prompted their decision to make a concrete plan for leaving.

This trend is not uncommon. Recent findings from US analytics company Gallup reveal that 40% of American women aged 15 to 44 would consider moving abroad permanently if given the chance. While these numbers reflect aspirations rather than definitive plans, they indicate a growing pattern of young American women reevaluating where they want to build their futures. Gallup notes this trend has been developing for more than a decade and has resulted in the largest gender gap in migration interest ever recorded, with only 19% of younger men expressing similar intentions.

The movement gained visibility during the Trump administration, though it began toward the end of the Obama presidency. Professor Nadia E. Brown of Georgetown University highlights that women feel pressures from both conservative expectations and progressive professional life, with neither guaranteeing autonomy or dignity. This has led some to explore living abroad as an alternative. Economic challengesincluding student debt, healthcare costs, and housing pricesalso contribute to these decisions.

A Harris Poll survey found that 40% of Americans have considered relocating abroad, citing lower living costs as a primary motivation. The most likely groups to consider such a move are Millennials and Gen Z. Kaitlin, 31, who moved from Los Angeles to Portugal four years ago, shared that her move was driven by a desire for a different lifestyle, cultural experiences, and a healthier work-life balance. Living in Lisbon, she now works remotely and finds the lower cost of living and strong social environment make her feel more like a whole person.

Political and social pressures have also played a decisive role for some. Alyssa, 34, moved with her family from the US to Uruguay earlier this year. The overturning of Roe v. Wade was a major factor in her decision, alongside concerns over rhetoric surrounding immigration. She explains, "Womens rights were being stripped away in real time," and the political climate compelled her family to leave despite logistical challenges.

Confidence in US institutions has declined sharply, particularly among younger women. Gallup data shows that only 26% trust the presidency, 14% trust Congress, and less than half trust the courts. Women aged 15 to 44 have seen a 17-point drop in confidence since 2015, the steepest decline of any demographic group. Other factors influencing relocation include healthcare access, gun safety, and climate-related risks.

Marina plans to move to Portugal with her boyfriend next May, citing healthcare limitations, gun violence, and increasingly extreme weather events as key reasons. The combination of economic, environmental, and safety concerns is pushing more young American women to consider Europe and other destinations for a better quality of life.

Gallup notes that younger American women were once less likely than their peers in other advanced economies to envision a future abroad, but that trend has reversed since the late 2000s. Professor Brown emphasizes that these challenges are not unique to the US, though they are particularly visible and acute there. Access to childcare, healthcare, and family support systems abroad can heavily influence these migration decisions, highlighting how differences in social infrastructure shape personal choices. Alyssa adds, "You dont realize how far behind the US is on maternal care, parental leave, and healthcare until you leave."

Author: Sophia Brooks