‘I’m just seen as American’: This 33-year-old mom moved her family from Texas to Greece for safety, lower costs — says life is ‘much more fulfilling’ now. Should you move overseas in 2025?

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For Cara West, becoming a mother didn't just change her - it completely redefined her perspective on family in America.

In 2022, right after giving birth to her daughter, the 33-year-old was caught off guard by a $10,000 hospital bill and learned she didn't qualify for her company's maternity leave program. Then, the tragic mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas made her realize the US wasn't the safe haven for her family that she had hoped it would be.

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Becoming a parent "made me realize that the United States doesn't really support families and mothers and children," she said in an episode of CNBC Make It.

Here’s what steps West took to find a new home in a country that fit their needs.

Making the move overseas

The family chose to leave Texas and travel to Europe, living as digital nomads. Besides the lower cost of living and policies helpful to families, West, who resides in Greece, says this move made her feel more secure.

I just get to exist in peace and I'm not concerned about someone following me around in the store or treating me unfavorably because of my skin color," she said. "I'm simply viewed as an American here.

The percentage of people who said they were considering emigration rose from 10% to 18%.

A one in three expats is contemplating giving up their US citizenship completely, according to a survey from Greenback Expat Tax Services.

If you're thinking about getting in on this people's movement downtown, here's what you need to know.

5 Quick and Easy Ways to Get Back on Track

How to move abroad

Keeping a well-paying job in the United States while living in a location with a lower cost of living can significantly enhance your standard of living.

They can have the benefits of advantages from both worlds.

Citizen Remote notes that countries such as Costa Rica, Panama, Spain, Portugal, Dubai, and Japan are popular destinations for remote work. If you're relocating to a country without a specific remote work visa, it's a good idea to consult with an immigration specialist to guide you through the process, as well as a local financial advisor to help with tax matters.

Some other things to consider are housing, healthcare, education, and transportation. In many developed countries, you can get around easily on public transit, but you may need to buy a car if you move somewhere with less developed public transportation. If your family includes kids, research the local schools before making a move. And if you have specific healthcare needs, look into your insurance options in more detail.

Moving to a new country is an exciting and potentially life-changing experience, but it's only as successful as the planning and research you put into it beforehand.

“Living abroad truly brings a much more fulfilling and richer life,” West said.

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This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional guidance. It is offered without any guarantee of its accuracy or reliability.