Spain
With its blend of affordability, culture and a top-notch healthcare system, Spain is a hotspot for digital nomads and retirees. Popular areas for expats include Malaga (which has been named a top city for expats to live), Madrid, the beaches of the Costa Blanca and scenic towns like Marbella and Denia. Through The Lux Nomads, Garabito guides expats through the Digital Nomad Visa process, connecting them with top immigration and tax professionals. “Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa offers tremendous flexibility, allowing nomads to travel freely throughout the Schengen zone,” says Garabito. “This gives them the chance to explore other European countries, enjoy an incredible work-life balance, immerse in diverse cultures and savor nourishing, wholesome foods.”
Albania
Albania is quickly becoming a favorite among American expats, thanks to its welcoming policies, low cost of living and beautiful untouched nature. “U.S. citizens can live there visa-free for a year,” says Cepee Tabibian, founder of She Hit Refresh and author of the book I’m Outta Here! An American’s Ultimate Visa Guide to Living in Europe. “The Albanian government and people are very welcoming to Americans, and it’s one of the safest and most affordable places in Europe.”
Cheryl Orlov, a She Hit Refresh client who moved from California to Tirana in September 2023, says she always wanted to explore Europe—and she couldn’t be happier with Albania, which she described to me in an interview as “a dream.” Some other winning features: “The topography and climate remind me of California, but with a much lower cost of living and a strong sense of community,” says Orlov.
Italy
Italy has long drawn Americans, and the interest is only growing. “Italy is a great place to live because of the ease of public transportation here—it is very well-connected by trains—and affordable public healthcare, along with advertising a wealth of art and beauty, from our coastlines to our architectural masterpieces,” says Permunian of Italian Real Estate Lawyers. “It’s a place where you can relax and enjoy life but also go out and explore cities with centuries of history.” Permunian says he has seen a spike in inquiries from Americans, especially people seeking Italian citizenship or investing in property. Many are purchasing homes not just for personal use but also to rent out, often using platforms like Airbnb to help finance their new lifestyle. (One client told Permunian that once they have their Italian citizenship, they plan to purchase a property in Italy, where they will live for the next four years.)
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a top choice for Americans looking to escape the noise of election season and enjoy all the perks that make it an expat favorite—favorable tax policies, no tax on foreign-earned income and a highly regarded, affordable healthcare system. International Living named Costa Rica the world’s top retirement destination for 2024. “It remains a place where good-value living is easy,” Jennifer Stevens, executive editor of International Living, told me in an interview. Moving here is surprisingly straightforward: Costa Rica has established residency programs that simplify the process, whether you’re retired or working remotely. Recent incentives, such as simplified residency options and tax exemptions on imported goods, add to the appeal, along with property taxes as low as 0.25% and investment visas available if you’re purchasing real estate worth $150,000 or more.
Places like W Residences Costa Rica—which offers a sustainable, high-end living experience at the luxurious Reserva Conchal Sustainable Community Resort—make relocation effortless. “At Reserva Conchal, about 60% of the families who have chosen to make this home are from the U.S.,” Fabián Fernández, business manager at Reserva Conchal, told me in an interview. “They’re drawn by the country’s vibrant lifestyle, strong sense of community and focus on sustainability. It’s easy to see why Costa Rica continues to be a top choice for families seeking both adventure and tranquility.”