In 2025, a growing number of American families are doing something that used to seem extreme: packing up and moving to Europe. What started as a post-pandemic curiosity has evolved into a real and measurable trend. 

From the sun-soaked coastlines of Portugal to the alpine villages of Austria, families from across the U.S. are seeking something different, something simpler, slower, and often, more affordable.

If you’re wondering why this is happening, you’re not alone. Many are asking the same question: What is driving this wave of Americans moving across the Atlantic?

A Desire for Better Work-Life Balance

One of the most consistent reasons families cite is the craving for a healthier work-life balance. In much of Europe, long lunches, mandatory vacation days, and capped working hours aren’t luxuries, they’re cultural norms.

Compare that to the American hustle culture, where 50-hour work weeks and only a couple of weeks of vacation per year are common. For families juggling school schedules, long commutes, and corporate demands, Europe’s slower pace can be a much-needed breath of fresh air.

Healthcare That Doesn’t Break the Bank

The cost of healthcare in the United States continues to skyrocket, leaving many families burdened with monthly premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. In contrast, most European countries offer some form of universal healthcare or subsidized care that drastically reduces these expenses.

For example, in countries like France or Spain, basic doctor visits and prescriptions are either free or heavily discounted. The quality of care is high, and the stress over surprise medical bills is nearly nonexistent. This alone has made Americans moving to Europe a practical decision for families with chronic medical conditions or aging parents.

Education That Focuses on the Whole Child

Parents are also reevaluating what kind of education they want for their children. Europe is known for offering high-quality public education, often bilingual, with less focus on standardized testing and more on creative thinking, languages, and global citizenship.

Countries like Finland, Germany, and the Netherlands consistently rank high in global education indexes. Plus, the cost of college is dramatically lower, sometimes even free for residents. For families concerned about the skyrocketing price of American higher education, this factor alone is compelling.

A Lower Cost of Living in Many Regions

While not every part of Europe is cheaper than the U.S., many regions offer a significantly lower cost of living, especially when compared to major cities like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco.

Families relocating to Portugal, Spain, or rural France report paying much less for rent, groceries, childcare, and utilities. Even dining out or traveling within Europe is more affordable, making life not only more manageable but also more enjoyable. This financial flexibility has become a core motivator behind Americans moving to Europe in 2025.

Rising Real Estate Costs in the U.S.

In the U.S., the cost of buying a home has become unattainable for many middle-class families. Mortgage interest rates have soared, and housing inventory in desirable cities remains low.

In contrast, countries like Italy, Greece, and Croatia offer affordable property options, even incentives for foreign buyers in rural or underpopulated areas. The idea of owning a charming farmhouse or beachside cottage without spending a fortune is no longer just a dream.

Climate Change and Environmental Awareness

A growing number of families are considering the climate when choosing where to live. Wildfires, hurricanes, water shortages, and unbearable heat waves have become regular parts of life in many parts of the U.S.

By contrast, some regions of Europe offer more temperate climates and progressive environmental policies. Scandinavia, for instance, is known for clean air, green public transport, and widespread use of renewable energy. For eco-conscious families, these regions are proving irresistible.

Political Division and Social Instability

Let’s be honest, life in the U.S. has felt politically intense for quite some time. From culture wars to gun violence to social unrest, some families are simply looking for a place where things feel a little less volatile.

Many European countries offer a sense of political stability and social cohesion that’s increasingly hard to find in the U.S. For families with young children, the decision to raise them in a calmer, more predictable environment is deeply personal, and increasingly common.

The Rise of Remote Work

Thanks to technological advancements and the remote work revolution, people no longer need to live where they work. This has cracked open the possibility of global living.

Whether you’re a software engineer, digital marketer, or freelance writer, as long as you have Wi-Fi, you can work from a medieval village in Tuscany or a cozy apartment in Prague. Relocation is now more accessible than ever, especially with help from a trusted relocation company.

Family Heritage and Cultural Curiosity

For some, moving to Europe is a journey back to their roots. American families with European ancestry often find joy in rediscovering their family’s homeland, whether it’s tracing a family tree in Ireland or celebrating traditions in Poland.

Others are simply drawn to Europe’s deep cultural history, walkable cities, art museums, and centuries-old traditions. Living in Europe offers a kind of cultural richness that’s hard to replicate in newer, car-centric American suburbs.

Better Support for Parents and Families

In many European countries, new parents are given extensive paid maternity and paternity leave. Government-subsidized child care is often available, and public schools don’t carry a high price tag.

For example, Sweden offers over a year of shared parental leave and free preschool. Germany provides monthly child allowances. These benefits create a safety net that makes raising a family much less stressful, and it’s a major reason Americans moving to Europe are feeling supported in ways they never expected.

Safe Streets, Low Crime

Europe, statistically, has some of the safest cities in the world. Gun violence is exceedingly rare, and many cities are designed to be pedestrian- and bike-friendly.

This peace of mind is incredibly valuable for parents. Knowing their children can walk to school safely, ride public transport alone, or play in local parks without fear is one of the most commonly cited benefits of moving abroad.

A Strong Expat Community

One surprising aspect for many families is how easy it can be to adjust, thanks to strong expat communities across Europe. Cities like Lisbon, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Berlin are full of other Americans who have already leaped.

These communities help new arrivals navigate everything from bureaucracy and housing to finding friends and schools. Many families also rely on the experience and services of a professional relocation company to handle logistics and reduce the overwhelm.

Challenges and What to Consider Before the Move

Of course, it’s not all sunshine and croissants. Relocating to another continent brings its own set of challenges. Bureaucracy can be complex. Visas must be secured. Healthcare systems, languages, and tax laws require adjustment.

That’s why working with a trusted relocation company is one of the best steps you can take. They can help you navigate paperwork, find schools, set up bank accounts, and even assist with moving your household items overseas.

Where Are They Moving?

Here are some of the most popular destinations for Americans moving in 2025:

• Portugal – Friendly visa policies, low cost of living, great weather.
• Spain – Mediterranean lifestyle, good schools, healthcare.
• Italy – Culture, food, historic charm.
• France – Great education, strong social safety nets.
• Germany – Excellent public services, job opportunities.
• Netherlands – English-speaking population, progressive values.
• Sweden & Denmark – High quality of life and family support systems.

What This Means for the Future

The increasing number of Americans moving to Europe in 2025 isn’t a trend driven by escapism; it’s about intentional living. Families are asking tough questions: What do we value? What kind of life do we want for our children? Where can we thrive, not just survive? And for many, the answer lies across the Atlantic.

Whether this trend will accelerate further or plateau in the coming years remains to be seen. But one thing’s clear: the definition of the “American dream” is evolving, and sometimes, it leads to cobblestone streets, café culture, and a slower, sweeter life.

If you’re one of the many families considering the leap, don’t do it alone. Hire an experienced relocation company to make the process smooth and stress-free, from securing visas to finding the right neighborhood for your next chapter abroad. 

Additionally, we offer valuable resources such as moving checklists and personalized assistance to help clients navigate the complexities of international relocation. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and attention to detail make them a trusted partner for those embarking on a global move.