In recent years, more and more Americans have been packing their bags and setting their sights on new adventures abroad, discovering life as an American expat. While it’s not quite a mass exodus, the number of U.S. citizens living overseas is significant—about 9 million, according to a 2020 State Department estimate. This growing trend is driven by a variety of factors, from seeking a lower cost of living to setting up a second residency or embracing the freedom of remote work.
The key to a successful and stress-free relocation lies in understanding your true motivations and aligning your personal and professional goals with your new destination. By doing so, you’ll ensure your new home is the perfect fit for your vision of life as an American expat.
So, how do you start this exciting journey? Experts suggest beginning with some soul-searching. Why do you want to leave the U.S.? Are you in pursuit of a better quality of life? Eager to learn a new language or raise your family in a multilingual, global environment? Are you a digital nomad seeking a fresh place to explore, or simply yearning for a new adventure? Research by The Washington Post reveals that the latter is often the main motivation for Americans moving abroad.
The Remote Work Revolution
Remote work has reshaped our lives by freeing us from traditional office settings. This flexibility enables us to select our ideal work environments, leading to improved work-life balance. It opens the door to traveling to exotic destinations, exploring new cuisines, and immersing ourselves in diverse cultures.
The future of remote work looks promising. Upwork predicts that by 2025, approximately 32.6 million Americans, or 22% of the workforce, will be working remotely. Already, about 16% of companies operate fully remotely, proving the feasibility of this model and setting a precedent for others to follow.
This trend is significantly increasing the number of American expats. As more individuals experience the advantages of living overseas—such as lower living costs, enhanced quality of life, and rich cultural experiences—this movement is likely to continue expanding. And with remote work opportunities on the rise, many countries are now offering digital nomad visas to attract these globetrotting workers and boost their economies.
Discovering New Homes Abroad and Embracing a Second Residency
Are you one of the many Americans dreaming of starting fresh in a new country as an American expat? If so, we invite you to read on.
At ECI Development, we get the thrill of beginning anew in an exciting new location. We’re experts in crafting beautiful homes and communities in some of the most sought-after destinations around the globe, and we’re here to help ensure that your move aligns perfectly with your vision.
But we don’t just stop at connecting you with your dream home. When you buy abroad through us, you’re also gaining access to specialized support for securing second residency. This can open doors to new markets, legally lower your tax bill, offer a safety net if things change, and even enhance your passport’s power. Imagine the freedom to live, work, study, and do business in your chosen country, with the possibility of extending that privilege to other destinations beyond typical tourist limits. A second residency isn’t just an escape—it’s an opportunity to broaden your horizons, seize new possibilities, and secure your future. It’s a bold move that can elevate your freedom, quality of life, and financial outlook.
Join us as we explore the countries where we operate, discover how we can assist you in obtaining second residency, and see why these destinations are becoming top choices for American expats.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua, the largest nation in Central America, offers superb beaches, majestic volcanoes, charming architecture, and vibrant culture, as well as better safety rates than its regional neighbors. Known for its lush biodiversity, Nicaragua is also home to excellent real estate investment opportunities, year-round surfing, and a low cost of living, with the US dollar widely accepted. You can get access to fresh, organic produce, affordable dining, and top-notch healthcare with English-speaking doctors at a fraction of the cost than in the USA. Natural beauty abounds, with endless opportunities for adventure. Digital nomads will appreciate the reliable high-speed internet and excellent infrastructure. Explore how Nicaragua can be your perfect Plan B!
SEE OUR NEIGBOURHODS IN NICARAGUA
Belize
Belize is quickly becoming a top choice for Americans seeking a tropical paradise. With magnificent natural beauty, over 200 cayes surrounded by turquoise waters, and a welcoming, English-speaking community, it’s certainly an easy place to settle. The cost of living is low, therefore allowing for a rich, worry-free lifestyle. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the year-round warm climate, coral reefs, and adventure opportunities like diving, hiking and exploring Mayan ruins. The established expat community offers a great support network, making it easy to feel at home. Ready to move? We can help you find your perfect home in beautiful Ambergris Caye!
SEE OUR NEIGHBORHOODS IN BELIZE
Costa Rica
Experience the “Pura Vida” lifestyle in Costa Rica, a haven for eco-friendly living and adventure. “Pura Vida” means embracing a life focused on well-being, happiness, and enjoying the moment. Costa Rica, with its unmatched biodiversity (around half a million species live there, roughly about 5% of the species on Earth) offers everything from sun-kissed beaches with clear blue waters, to lush mountains and secluded waterfalls. If we add to that affordable living costs and quality healthcare both in the public and private systems, Costa Rica is undeniably a diamond of many facets. Perfect for digital nomads, it boasts reliable internet and vibrant remote work communities. Various residency options make moving easy. Start your “Pura Vida” journey with us!
SEE OUR NEIGHBORHOODS IN COSTA RICA
Panama
Panama blends dynamic city life with striking natural beauty. Its robust economy, modern amenities, and stability make it a top choice for expats. Enjoy not only Panama City’s vibrant skyline, upscale shopping, and lively nightlife, but also the affordable living costs and first-rate healthcare. The US dollar simplifies finances, and diverse residency options, including tax perks for retirees, make moving easy. Rich in cultural diversity, Panama is unquestionably a melting pot of Latin American, Caribbean, African, and European influences. Its history as a major trading hub has crafted a unique blend of music, cuisine, and festivals. With convenient access to several countries in Latin America and a rich cultural scene, Panama offers an enticing lifestyle rife with weekend getaways and exploration. Discover your new home in Panama today!
SEE OUR NEIGHBORHOODS IN PANAMA
Honduras
Honduras is quickly rising as a prime destination for those seeking natural beauty and a slower, more relaxed pace of life. Nestled in Central America, this hidden gem is the home of wonderful Caribbean beaches, splendid mountains, and vibrant rainforests. With a cost of living 45% lower than in the U.S., everything from housing to fresh produce is incredibly affordable, thus making it easy to live well on a budget. Dive into Honduras’s rich cultural mix of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences while enjoying the warmth and friendliness of its people. Are you ready to explore this serene paradise?
SEE OUR NEIGHBORHOODS IN HONDURAS
As the trend of Americans moving abroad continues to grow, the opportunities for a richer, more fulfilling life are more accessible than ever. The combination of remote work and the pull of beautiful, affordable destinations creates a perfect storm for those seeking change. At ECI Development, we’re here to guide you through the process. Our goal is to ensure that your dream of living abroad in a perfect location becomes a reality. Why wait? Explore our offerings and take the first step toward your new life today!
