THE 8 BEST COUNTRIES TO MOVE TO

MANY AMERICANS ARE ESCAPING CONSERVATIVE POLITICS BY MOVING TO OTHER COUNTRIES

BY SNN.BZ REALTORS

A New Horizon: Welcoming Countries for Disgruntled Americans Seeking Progressive Values

For many Americans who have passionately advocated for diversity, equity, inclusion, LGBTQ+ rights, and progressive ideals, living under President Donald J. Trump’s conservative rule may feel untenable. If you’re among those who poured your heart into a vision of a more inclusive society—only to see a different outcome unfold—you might be seeking a fresh start elsewhere.

Across the globe, there are nations ready to embrace you with open arms, offering vibrant communities, progressive policies, and a chance to live authentically. However, adjusting to a new country can be challenging, and you may not be certain it’s the right fit long-term. Rather than committing to buying a home, renting for a trial period—like six months—offers flexibility while you explore your options.

Below, we’ve outlined some of the most welcoming countries for your family, along with trusted moving companies, cash estimates for relocation and healthcare, and the specific costs to rent accommodations, pay utilities, and buy groceries for six months for a family of two adults and up to 3 or 4 children.

1. Canada: The Neighbor with a Warm Heart

Canada’s universal healthcare, strong LGBTQ+ rights (same-sex marriage legal since 2005), and multicultural ethos make it a natural fit for progressive families. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offer diverse, artistic communities where DEI thrives.

Official Resource: Canada.ca – Immigrate to Canada
Moving Company: North American Van Lines (northamerican.com) – Door-to-door delivery with a personal coordinator.
Cash on Hand for Relocation: $25,000–$35,000 USD
Cash for Out-of-Pocket Medical Care: $2,000–$4,000 USD/year
Six-Month Rental, Utilities, and Groceries: Approximately $24,000–$30,000 USD
- Rent: $3,000–$4,000/month = $18,000–$24,000
- Utilities: $200–$300/month = $1,200–$1,800
- Groceries: $800–$1,000/month = $4,800–$6,000

2. Sweden: A Pioneer in Equality

Sweden’s commitment to gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights (decriminalized since 1944), and social justice, paired with its welfare system, appeals to progressive ideals. Stockholm is an artistic haven with high acceptance.

Official Resource: Migrationsverket.se – Moving to Sweden
Moving Company: Allied Van Lines (allied.com) – Global shipping with extensive agent network.
Cash on Hand for Relocation: $30,000–$40,000 USD
Cash for Out-of-Pocket Medical Care: $1,500–$3,000 USD/year
Six-Month Rental, Utilities, and Groceries: Approximately $27,000–$33,000 USD
- Rent: $3,500–$4,000/month = $21,000–$24,000
- Utilities: $250–$350/month = $1,500–$2,100
- Groceries: $900–$1,200/month = $5,400–$7,200

3. The Netherlands: Freedom and Creativity Unleashed

The Netherlands, especially Amsterdam, champions tolerance with same-sex marriage since 2001 and advanced DEI policies. It’s a creative, diverse hub.

Official Resource: Netherlandsandyou.nl – Visas and Residence Permits
Moving Company: International Van Lines (internationalvanlines.com) – Flexible, transparent services.
Cash on Hand for Relocation: $28,000–$38,000 USD
Cash for Out-of-Pocket Medical Care: $2,500–$5,000 USD/year
Six-Month Rental, Utilities, and Groceries: Approximately $25,000–$31,000 USD
- Rent: $3,200–$3,800/month = $19,200–$22,800
- Utilities: $200–$300/month = $1,200–$1,800
- Groceries: $800–$1,100/month = $4,800–$6,600

4. New Zealand: A Progressive Paradise

New Zealand’s progressive policies (same-sex marriage since 2013), inclusivity, and stunning landscapes make it a peaceful retreat. Wellington and Auckland welcome expats warmly.

Official Resource: Immigration.govt.nz – Visas and Immigration
Moving Company: Schumacher Cargo Logistics (schumachercargo.com) – Affordable, custom shipping.
Cash on Hand for Relocation: $35,000–$45,000 USD
Cash for Out-of-Pocket Medical Care: $2,000–$4,000 USD/year
Six-Month Rental, Utilities, and Groceries: Approximately $23,000–$29,000 USD
- Rent: $3,000–$3,500/month = $18,000–$21,000
- Utilities: $200–$300/month = $1,200–$1,800
- Groceries: $800–$1,200/month = $4,800–$7,200

5. Portugal: Affordable and Inclusive Living

Portugal offers affordability, progressive values (same-sex marriage since 2010), and a sunny climate. Lisbon and Porto are diverse and welcoming.

Official Resource: Vistos.mne.gov.pt – Visa Information
Moving Company: Suddath (suddath.com) – Full-service with a personal counselor.
Cash on Hand for Relocation: $20,000–$30,000 USD
Cash for Out-of-Pocket Medical Care: $1,000–$2,500 USD/year
Six-Month Rental, Utilities, and Groceries: Approximately $16,000–$21,000 USD
- Rent: $1,800–$2,200/month = $10,800–$13,200
- Utilities: $150–$250/month = $900–$1,500
- Groceries: $700–$900/month = $4,200–$5,400

6. Denmark: Happiness Meets Progress

Denmark’s high quality of life, same-sex partnerships since 1989, and focus on equality and sustainability align with progressive ideals. Copenhagen is a joyful hub.

Official Resource: Nyidanmark.dk – New to Denmark
Moving Company: JK Moving Services (jkmoving.com) – Comprehensive relocation with 24/7 support.
Cash on Hand for Relocation: $30,000–$40,000 USD
Cash for Out-of-Pocket Medical Care: $1,500–$3,000 USD/year
Six-Month Rental, Utilities, and Groceries: Approximately $27,000–$33,000 USD
- Rent: $3,500–$4,000/month = $21,000–$24,000
- Utilities: $250–$350/month = $1,500–$2,100
- Groceries: $900–$1,200/month = $5,400–$7,200

7. Spain: A Vibrant Embrace of Diversity

Spain’s progressive transformation (same-sex marriage since 2005) and vibrant cities like Madrid and Barcelona offer thriving queer communities and artistic energy.

Official Resource: Exteriores.gob.es – Visas and Immigration
Moving Company: United Van Lines (unitedvanlines.com) – Nearly a century of experience with a move manager.
Cash on Hand for Relocation: $25,000–$35,000 USD
Cash for Out-of-Pocket Medical Care: $1,500–$3,000 USD/year
Six-Month Rental, Utilities, and Groceries: Approximately $18,000–$23,000 USD
- Rent: $2,000–$2,500/month = $12,000–$15,000
- Utilities: $150–$250/month = $900–$1,500
- Groceries: $750–$1,000/month = $4,500–$6,000

8. Thailand: A Rainbow Haven with Kathoey Culture

For those in the LGBTQ+ community—especially gay and transgender individuals feeling stifled by America’s new conservative climate—Thailand offers a vibrant escape. Same-sex marriage became legal in 2025, making it Southeast Asia’s first, and its gay scene sparkles in Bangkok’s Silom district, Phuket, and Pattaya.

Thailand is famed for its kathoey (pronounced “cat-hway”), a term meaning “third gender” that embraces transgender women and effeminate gay men. Often called “ladyboys” in tourist contexts, kathoey are woven into the cultural fabric—think dazzling cabaret performers and everyday folks alike—offering a visible, celebrated community for those seeking freedom to express their identities. While rural areas may lean conservative, urban centers pulse with acceptance, affordable living, and top-tier gender-affirming healthcare.

Official Resource: MFA.go.th – Visa Information – Details on visas like the Non-Immigrant O-A (retirement) or Elite Visa for longer stays.
Moving Company: Asian Tigers Mobility (asiantigersgroup.com) – Specializes in Southeast Asia relocations with packing and customs expertise.
Cash on Hand for Relocation: Approximately $18,000–$25,000 USD – Includes visa fees ($200–$1,000, depending on type), moving costs ($5,000–$8,000 for a 3–4 bedroom home), and initial living expenses (e.g., $1,500/month rent, $700/month food and utilities) plus a buffer.
Cash for Out-of-Pocket Medical Care: Approximately $800–$2,000 USD/year – Non-residents pay $20–$50 per doctor visit, $50–$150 for specialists, and $200–$800 for emergency care; gender-affirming surgeries (e.g., $5,000–$15,000 total) are a draw, with prescriptions at $5–$20 until residency (3–12 months).
Six-Month Rental, Utilities, and Groceries: Approximately $13,000–$18,000 USD
- Rent: $1,500–$2,000/month for a 3–4 bedroom in Bangkok or Phuket = $9,000–$12,000
- Utilities: $100–$200/month (electricity, water, internet) = $600–$1,200
- Groceries: $600–$800/month = $3,600–$4,800

Planning Your Temporary Move

Renting for six months allows you to test the waters without the long-term commitment of buying property—a wise choice if you’re unsure about your new home’s political or cultural fit. The costs above reflect a moderate lifestyle in major cities, covering a 3–4 bedroom rental, utilities (electricity, heat, water, internet), and groceries for a family of 4–5. Add your relocation cash ($20,000–$45,000) and medical buffer ($1,000–$5,000) to the six-month totals for a full financial picture:

Canada: $51,000–$69,000 USD
Sweden: $58,500–$76,000 USD
Netherlands: $55,500–$74,000 USD
New Zealand: $60,000–$78,000 USD
Portugal: $41,000–$57,500 USD
Denmark: $58,500–$76,000 USD
Spain: $44,500–$63,000 USD
Thailand: $31,800–$45,000 USD

Planning Your Temporary Move

Renting for six months allows you to test the waters without the long-term commitment of buying property—a wise choice if you’re unsure about your new home’s political or cultural fit. The costs above reflect a moderate lifestyle in major cities, covering a 3–4 bedroom rental, utilities (electricity, heat, water, internet), and groceries for a family of 4–5. Add your relocation cash and medical buffer to the six-month totals for a full financial picture:

Canada: $51,000–$69,000 USD
Sweden: $58,500–$76,000 USD
Netherlands: $55,500–$74,000 USD
New Zealand: $60,000–$78,000 USD
Portugal: $41,000–$57,500 USD
Denmark: $58,500–$76,000 USD
Spain: $44,500–$63,000 USD
Thailand: $31,800–$45,000 USD

A Loving Invitation to Pause and Reflect

As you ponder this big step, dear friends, why not give yourselves just one more month to soak in the changes unfolding here? Things are brightening up in the sweetest way across the U.S., and it might tug at your heart to stay a little longer.

President Trump’s bold nudge to world leaders to drop those decades-old tariffs against us is blooming into something wonderful—more than 95% of other countries have agreed to lower the tariffs they’ve held against the USA to nearly nothing, creating a joyful, reciprocal dance of trade.

Already, the prices of eggs, gas, and groceries are dipping lower, making life feel more affordable and full of promise. Even as Spain calls with its vibrant charm and deep ties to the Middle East—drawing some seeking new paths, including a few with troubled pasts (such as young terrorists)—you might find that the quality of life you’ve longed for is blossoming right here in the USA.

Take a moment, breathe in the fresh new hope, and see if this oxygen rich American springtime wraps you in warmth—it could be the most delightful gift you give yourselves!