Jade Small
Jade Small
October 17, 2024 ·  4 min read

15 former Americans explain how different life is in other countries after leaving the US

Leaving your home country is never easy, especially when it means saying goodbye to family and friends. However, many people take that leap for work or other opportunities, moving to entirely new countries and even different continents. This kind of drastic change can be especially overwhelming for those who’ve spent their whole lives in the United States. A Reddit thread sparked a conversation on this topic, with user u/whizzythorne asking, “Ex-Americans of Reddit, how has your life changed since moving out of the US?” The responses have been quite eye-opening. A common theme among the replies was the newfound access to affordable healthcare, housing, and education, making life abroad a refreshing change for many.

Less Stress and More Vacation Time
— u/swiss_baby_questions

Tranquil closeup calm sea water waves with palm trees. Beautiful sunrise sunset sunlight. Tropical island beach landscape exotic shore coast. Summer vacation, holiday amazing nature. Relax paradise
Source: Shutterstock

One of the biggest changes for Americans living abroad is less stress. A Redditor who moved to Switzerland shared that more vacation time and higher salaries have made a huge difference. “People are always talking about their next holiday,” they explained, adding that the slower pace and better public transit system have also improved their quality of life.

Affordable and Accessible Healthcare
— Redditor

A close-up of a healthcare professional in scrubs with arms crossed and a stethoscope around their neck, with a blurred background of medical staff in a hospital or clinic setting.
Source: Shutterstock

Many respondents highlighted how different healthcare is outside the US. One user who lived in various countries, including Romania and Georgia, noted how affordable it is to get quality medical care. “I recently dislocated my shoulder and could afford one of the best physical therapists,” they shared, something they couldn’t have done back in the US without insurance.

A Happier Lifestyle Abroad
— Redditor

Aerial view on Marienplatz town hall and Frauenkirche in Munich, Germany
Source: Shutterstock

A move from the US to Germany left one Redditor feeling happier than expected. “I didn’t think moving would affect my mood so much,” they confessed. Despite cultural adjustments, they found themselves smiling more often and enjoying life in ways they hadn’t anticipated.

Living in a Supportive Government
— u/SparrowsArt

Brandenburg Gate or Brandenburger Tor at sunset, Berlin, Germany
Source: Shutterstock

One former American living in Germany expressed a sense of relief knowing that the government supports its citizens. With extended sick leave and job security, they remarked, “I don’t have to worry about illness or injury ruining my life.” The affordability of groceries and a robust social safety net added to their feeling of security.

Work-Life Balance and Free Time
— u/PE_class_camp

Happy family strolling in nature all together. Happy, joyful mother, father and little children walking on green grass in a beautiful park on a sunny summer evening
Source: Shutterstock

Another Redditor shared their experience in Australia, where they found a healthier work-life balance. “No one questions if I take a sick day or need time for appointments,” they noted, emphasizing that the relaxed atmosphere has allowed them to pursue hobbies and enjoy a vibrant social life without the stress of overworking.

Home Ownership on a Single Income
— u/Zidane62

Key with house shaped keychain and contract on the table. Mortgage, home loan and insurance, buying house, real estate concept. Selective focus
Source: Shutterstock

One former American who relocated to Japan was able to buy a house in the countryside on a single income. They expressed satisfaction with the affordability of living there, allowing them to provide for their family while still having access to healthcare, despite the high food prices.

A Broader Perspective on Global Issues
— u/Bipolar_Pigeon

Tropical dense forest and environmental technology. Wide angle visual for banners or advertisements.
Source: Shutterstock

Another Redditor noted that moving to France opened their eyes to the world beyond the US. “I feel like America is in this weird bubble,” they said, sharing how their understanding of history, politics, and culture has deepened through interactions with diverse individuals.

Healthier National Discourse
— u/BilobaBaby

Walking, happy and girl with friends at university for learning, bonding and talking with fun. People, school and group of gen z students commuting outdoor ready for education at college campus.
Source: Shutterstock

An American living abroad pointed out a stark contrast in public discussions. “Here, people engage in high-level conversations about politics and economics, rather than worrying about medical expenses or job insecurity,” they noted. This shift in dialogue has made them feel more connected to their community.

Supportive Work Environments
— u/Rakshala

Male mature caucasian ceo businessman leader with diverse coworkers team, executive managers group at meeting. Multicultural professional businesspeople working together on research plan in boardroom.
Source: Shutterstock

Another former American in Australia shared how the workplace culture is vastly different. “I feel respected by my employer,” they explained, mentioning that there’s no guilt associated with taking time off for family matters. This supportive environment has transformed their outlook on work and life.

The Value of Socialized Healthcare
— u/SyeThunder2

Clinic, tablet and hands of doctor with patient for consulting, medical service and help in hospital. Healthcare, telehealth and people on digital tech for diagnosis, online results and insurance
Source: Shutterstock

A user emphasized the importance of socialized healthcare, stating, “It’s infinitely better than anything in America.” They expressed frustration about the high costs of medical care in the US, making it clear that access to affordable healthcare is a significant advantage of living abroad.

Generous Vacation Policies
— u/jaejae_fah

Family, beach and kids relax chair vacation adventure, bonding and play game together on tropical summer. Parents, children and excited of ocean island, energy and sunshine travel in Greece
Source: Shutterstock

A Redditor who moved to Sweden celebrated the generous vacation policies there. “I love having 25 vacation days and high-quality, nearly free preschool for my kids,” they shared. Despite higher taxes, they feel the benefits they receive are well worth it.

A Respectful Society for People and Animals
— u/Reddit

cow, mountains, cows, meadow, alps, mountain cows, hike, farm
Source: Shutterstock

Living in Turkey transformed one former American’s quality of life. They described the people around them as more respectful and responsible, stating, “I’ve never seen people care for their children and animals like this before.” Their love for the community in Turkey reflected a significant shift in their worldview.

The Downsides of Lower Pay
— u/danishoilsucks

Close up female hands holding credit card and smartphone, young woman paying online, using banking service, entering information, shopping, ordering in internet store, doing secure payment
Source: Shutterstock

Despite the many benefits of living abroad, one Redditor mentioned that their salary is significantly lower than what they earned in the US. However, they emphasized the indirect benefits of living in a country with universal healthcare and strong social safety nets, stating, “The work culture is much better, and the government helps with challenges that would otherwise be burdensome.”

This content has, in part, been generated with the aid of an artificial intelligence language model. While we strive for accuracy and quality, please note that the information provided may not be entirely error-free or up-to-date. We recommend independently verifying the content and consulting with professionals for specific advice or information. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the use or interpretation of this content.