10 Lessons from Americans Who Left the U.S. Because of Trump, According to Reddit

Written by Mike Wallace

MBA

Reviewed by Allen Pfeister

MBA, CPA

Mike Wallace

MBA

Mike Wallace, CEO at Greenback Expat Tax Services, has extensive experience in finance, operations, and strategic leadership. Mike has worked in numerous C-Level roles, including at large financial institutions. Mike holds a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business.

Allen Pfeister

MBA, CPA

Allen Pfeister is a Partner at Tax Uncomplicated, collaborating with Greenback Expat Tax Services and Klemsen Consulting. Allen holds an MBA from the University of New Orleans and a BS in Accounting and Finance from Louisiana State University.

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Updated on November 6, 2025

3 minute read

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Wallace, M. (2025, November 06). 10 Lessons from Americans Who Left the U.S. Because of Trump, According to Reddit. GreenbackTaxServices.com. Retrieved , from https://www.greenbacktaxservices.com/blog/americans-who-left-us-because-of-trump-reddit/

In a recent AskReddit discussion titled “People who moved outside of the U.S. solely due to Trump being elected, how are things going?” more than 7,000 commenters shared firsthand accounts of what it’s like to live abroad after leaving for political reasons.

Their responses, drawn from a wide range of countries, offer insight into how Americans experienced the move, emotionally, socially, and financially, and how their perspectives on “home” have shifted over time.

We analyzed thousands of comments in the thread and summarized the most common themes below.

1. Many Described an Immediate Drop in Stress

Across the thread, one of the most consistent observations from Expats on Reddit was that leaving the U.S. reduced stress. Commenters frequently mentioned feeling calmer, safer, or less anxious in their new environments.

While individual circumstances differed, many attributed this change to escaping the pace and polarization of American life.

Read why more American expats say they’re giving up their U.S. citizenship.

2. Healthcare and Work Conditions Were Key Quality-of-Life Differences

Expat Redditors often compared daily life abroad to what they had left behind. Access to affordable healthcare, longer vacations, and stronger labor protections were cited as major benefits. For many, these changes reshaped how they defined stability and well-being.

3. The U.S. Remained a Constant Topic Abroad

Even after relocating, commenters noted that American politics and culture continued to follow them. Media coverage, social media, and everyday conversations kept them connected, sometimes more than they preferred.

4. Leaving the Country Was Difficult and Often Required Privilege

Several top-voted replies focused on the practical barriers to emigration. Many respondents acknowledged that obtaining visas or work permits required advanced education, specialized skills, or substantial savings.

Self-Assessment Quiz

Are You Ready to Move Abroad?

Choose the answer to each question that best describes you or your current situation, and learn how ready you are to start a life abroad.

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Self-Assessment Quiz:
Are You Ready to Move Abroad?

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Cultural Engagement:*

I prefer to experience the culture firsthand when I get there.

I’ve watched some travel vlogs and read articles about the country.

I actively study the culture, follow local news, and engage with cultural communities online.

Language Skills:*

I’m counting on English being widely spoken.

I know a few key phrases and I’m learning more.

I’m conversational or taking formal language lessons.

Financial Readiness:*

I haven’t thought much about the costs.

I’ve started to outline a basic budget.

I have a detailed budget and understand the tax implications.

Social Strategy:*

I’ll make friends naturally as I go.

I plan to join online expat communities and local clubs.

I’m actively networking with locals and expats in my field or interests.

Housing Know-How:*

I’ll figure out housing when I arrive.

I’ve looked at listings online and know general costs.

I understand local renting laws and have a realtor or contacts in place.

Healthcare Planning:*

I’ll use travel insurance or pay out-of-pocket if needed.

I’m aware of the healthcare system and insurance options.

I have a comprehensive health insurance plan and know where to go for medical care.

Employment Insights:*

I think I can find a job once I’m there.

I’m familiarizing myself with the job market and visa requirements.

I have a job lined up or understand the legal requirements for working.

I’m retired or don’t plan on working abroad.

Tax Planning:*

What taxes? Once I’m an expat I won’t have to pay US taxes.

I understand I’ll still need to pay taxes but I need to learn more.

I know it can be complicated so I’ve already found an expat tax preparer to work with on my taxes.

Tax Understanding:*

I assume US tax laws apply similarly abroad.

I know there are some different rules for expats.

I’m knowledgeable about tax treaties, foreign earned income exclusions, and filing requirements.

Crisis Management:*

I handle stress well, so I’ll manage.

I’ve thought about what to do in case of an emergency.

I have an emergency plan, including contacts, insurance, and an evacuation plan if necessary.

Food Flexibility:*

I’ll find familiar food. There’s a McDonald’s everywhere, right?

I’m looking forward to trying new foods, with some comforts from home.

I am excited to embrace the local diet and try everything!

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Quiz Result

You’re an adventurer!

You have an adventurous spirit but you may need to prepare a bit more to ensure a smooth transition abroad. Consider researching more about the cultural, legal, and financial aspects of living overseas. Check out our guide 25 Thing Every Expat Should Know

You’re on track!

You’re on the right track. You’ve started to think about what life abroad will entail. Keep building on your preparations to avoid any surprises once you’ve moved. Check out our guide 25 Thing Every Expat Should Know

You’re ready!

You’re ready to move abroad! You seem well-prepared and have done your homework! You’re ready to embrace the expat life with confidence. Check out our guide 25 Thing Every Expat Should Know

5. Integration Was Essential to Long-Term Success

Those who learned local languages or made efforts to participate in community life reported smoother transitions. Others said failing to do so limited their opportunities or social connections.

6. Feelings About ‘Home’ Became More Complicated

While many expats said they were satisfied with their move, some described complex emotions, like pride, sadness, and even guilt, when thinking about the U.S.

7. Destinations Spanned Every Continent

Commenters reported living across Europe, Asia, Oceania, and Latin America. Popular destinations included Germany, Canada, Portugal, Taiwan, and Mexico. Experiences varied widely by region, but many valued safety, infrastructure, and food culture as consistent positives.

For Americans exploring longer-term settlement or retirement overseas, many countries also offer tax-free or low-tax incentives for retirees.

8. Cost of Living Was Mixed – But Value Was a Common Theme

Some found everyday costs lower abroad, while others said expenses like housing or imports were higher. Most emphasized that the trade-off felt worthwhile given other benefits.

9. Highly Educated Professionals Described a ‘Brain Drain’

A subset of users, scientists, engineers, and medical professionals cited declining research funding or reduced institutional trust as reasons for leaving.

Curious how current US policies affect expats abroad? Learn about the latest US Tax Policy changes in 2025.

10. Most Said the Move Brought Perspective, Not Perfection

Although many respondents said their lives improved, few described the move as simple or ideal. Instead, they emphasized balance, and trading certain conveniences for security or peace of mind.

The Bigger Picture: What Reddit Reveals About Modern Migration

This thread isn’t really about Trump, it’s about how Americans think about home, safety, and belonging.

For some, politics was the final push. For others, it was the permission they needed to imagine life differently. Either way, their stories reveal how deeply emotion, economics, and policy intertwine in the expat experience. Read more Reddit Expat insights here.

If you’re thinking about moving abroad, whether for politics, opportunity, or peace of mind, Greenback can help you handle the one thing no country can take off your plate: U.S. taxes.

Starting over abroad? Let us handle the taxes.

You’ve built a new life overseas — we’ll make sure your U.S. taxes keep up. Greenback’s expert accountants specialize in expat returns, so you can focus on what comes next.

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