Americans Are Leaving the US in Record Numbers

Slashdot

by msmash

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Americans are leaving the U.S. in record numbers, marking a significant shift for a nation traditionally known as a land of immigration. Last year saw more people moving out than moving in—a rare occurrence not definitively recorded since the Great Depression. While the Trump administration has celebrated this "negative net migration" as a success in its deportation and visa restriction policies, a quieter trend has emerged: U.S. citizens are leaving in unprecedented numbers, seeking more affordable and safer living conditions abroad. The data reveals that since the Eisenhower era, comprehensive statistics on American emigration have not been systematically tracked. However, metrics from over 50 countries, including residence permits, foreign home purchases, and student enrollments, indicate a significant diaspora of Americans relocating overseas. Many are taking advantage of remote work opportunities or pursuing cheaper education and healthcare in countries like Portugal, Ireland, Bali, Colombia, and Thailand. In Lisbon’s cobblestoned streets and Dublin’s trendy districts, Americans are becoming a prominent demographic, with some areas seeing higher concentrations than during the 19th-century Irish influx. The trend has sparked concerns over gentrification and cultural shifts in these destinations. Meanwhile, the U.S. experienced an estimated net loss of 150,000 people in 2025, with the outflow likely to grow in 2026. According to the Brookings Institution, total in-migration dropped from nearly 6 million in 2023 to around 2.7 million last year, while deportations and self-deportations reached 675,000 and 2.2 million respectively. This shift matters deeply for tech enthusiasts and professionals, as many Americans are leveraging remote work to establish new lives abroad. The rise of global talent hubs and the adaptability of digital careers have made it easier for individuals to relocate while maintaining connections to U.S.-based employers. This trend not only reshapes the global tech landscape but also challenges the conventional narrative of America as a primary destination for immigrants. As more citizens choose to leave, the implications for U.S. policies, economic dynamics, and international relations will likely grow increasingly significant in the

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Originally published on Slashdot on 2/26/2026