Rising Healthcare Costs Drive Americans to Seek Affordable Care Abroad
Soaring medical expenses within the United States are prompting a growing number of Americans to explore alternative healthcare solutions overseas, particularly in nations offering universal health coverage. A recent survey by the West Health-Gallup Center for Healthcare in America revealed that nearly half of American adults express concern about affording necessary medications or health-related costs, a figure representing the highest level of anxiety recorded since 2021. This trend, coupled with factors like stricter food safety regulations and a desire for safer environments, is fueling a wave of expatriation.
A Personal Struggle with Asthma and Costly Treatment
Hilary Hodge, a U.S. resident, exemplifies this shift. Since childhood, Hodge has battled severe allergic asthma, a condition that worsened over time despite conventional treatments. By age 32, her inhaler offered little relief, transforming her chronic respiratory illness into "a big struggle," as she shared with USA TODAY. In 2012, she found a glimmer of hope in biologic medication, a specialized treatment option. However, the cost of this potentially life-changing therapy in the United States proved prohibitive – a staggering $36,000 annually. In contrast, the same treatment was available for just $3,000 annually across the Atlantic.
Finding Relief and a New Home in France
In 2017, Hodge and her husband made a temporary relocation to France to be closer to his family and friends. The immediate access to affordable biologic medication proved transformative. "That was sort of one of the very first experiences I had with realizing how different the systems were," Hodge recounted. The initial temporary move swiftly evolved into a more permanent decision, culminating in homeownership and the arrival of their son. "It just sort of all of a sudden turned a lot more permanent, I guess we're here," Hodge stated, emphasizing that accessible and affordable healthcare played a significant role in their decision.
Exploring International Healthcare Options and Expatriation Trends
Beyond Hodge’s story, a broader trend is emerging. Countries like Canada, Japan, and those within the European Union offer significantly lower healthcare costs, universal access, and streamlined processes for citizens and eligible visa holders. According to a recent American Expats Survey by The Harris Poll, 38% of respondents cited cheaper, better healthcare as a primary motivator for considering expatriation. Michelle Garabito, of the luxury relocation service The Lux Nomads, has observed a substantial increase in clients seeking relocation for health-related reasons, including families with young children and retirees prioritizing a higher quality of life.
The Financial Burden of U.S. Healthcare
The United States consistently spends the most on healthcare globally. In 2025, the average cost of a family health insurance plan reached $26,993, representing a 6% increase from the previous year. Unexpected medical emergencies or serious diagnoses, such as cancer, can easily plunge individuals into substantial debt. Hodge explained, "In the States, you kind of do the math… Like, how sick do I have to get to go pay that $500 deductible?" This financial anxiety is a driving force for many seeking alternatives abroad.
Beyond Cost: Food Safety and Quality of Life
The benefits of relocating extend beyond just healthcare costs. Leah Mark, who moved to Mallorca, Spain, in June, highlights the European Union’s stricter food standards, which prohibit numerous additives and preservatives commonly found in American food products. Mark also noted the affordability of food in Europe, contributing to an overall improved quality of life. She initially considered relocating within the U.S. but ultimately chose to move abroad due to concerns about “the toxic culture, the food, and the increasing political unrest.” A tragic shooting near her former home in Indiana solidified her decision, prompting her to pursue a digital nomad visa with the assistance of The Lux Nomads.
Navigating the Process of Relocation and Healthcare Access
Relocating abroad is a complex undertaking requiring legal documentation, logistical planning, and emotional adjustments. Garabito recommends a one-month trial run in various European countries to assess the lifestyle and healthcare system firsthand. Obtaining legal residency and access to public healthcare typically involves securing a visa, such as a digital nomad or non-lucrative visa, which often requires private health insurance. The entire process, from visa approval to healthcare enrollment, can take approximately three to six months. In countries like Portugal, Spain, and Greece, digital nomad visas can serve as a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. Ultimately, for many Americans, the pursuit of better health and overall well-being makes the challenges of relocation worthwhile.
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