1 in 4 Americans Want To Move Abroad Because of Trump

Core insights:

• 1 in 4 Americans want to leave the country because of Trump.
• Women and Gen Zers are more likely than their counterparts to want to leave the country.
• Concerns about democracy failing, rising living costs, and social issues are the primary reasons for wanting to move abroad.

26% of Americans Want To Move Abroad Due to Trump’s Policies 

More than one in four Americans (26%) say they want to move abroad because of Trump’s policies. However, only 1% have concrete plans to relocate, while another 5% are actively exploring the possibility. An additional 19% say they would like to move but are unlikely to.  The most desired destinations are Canada and the UK. 

Of those seriously considering a move, nearly half (49%) are unsure when they will relocate. Meanwhile, 13% anticipate moving within six months, 20% within the next year, and 18% within the next two years. Additionally, 60% are undecided about the duration of their move, while 30% say it would be permanent, and 11% plan for it to be temporary.

Women are more likely than men to be considering a move (27% vs 23%), and Gen Zers (32%) and Millennials (28%) are more likely to consider relocating than Gen Xers (26%) or Boomers (23%). 

Many of those considering a move have already taken steps toward relocating, including researching visa requirements (55%), browsing properties online (38%), and visiting or planning to visit their desired locations (32%). Additionally, 29% have begun organizing or downsizing their belongings.

Finances hold back some Americans from relocating abroad

For the 19% of respondents who say they would like to move but likely won’t, financial limitations are the biggest barrier, cited by 61% of respondents. Additionally, 32% feel a personal or emotional attachment to their current location, while 31% are concerned about their job prospects abroad. Further, 27% hesitate to move due to proximity to children, and 25% cite community ties. Immigration policies were also noted as a challenge by 14% of respondents.

Fear That Democracy Will Crumble and Cost-of-Living Increases Drive Desires to Move

The most cited reason for wanting to move is the fear that democracy is at risk, with 82% of respondents selecting this as a concern. Economic issues are also a major factor, with 65% worried about rising living costs and 63% fearing reduced access to healthcare.

Social and political concerns further drive the desire to leave, as 62% cite increased social inequality, 61% express concern about racial inequality, and 58% worry about deteriorating international relations.

Methodology: This report is based on data from a survey commissioned by StorageUnits.com and conducted online via Pollfish the week of February 24, 2025. The survey included 2,349 U.S. residents. Inquiries can be directed to [email protected].