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Ready to leave the U.S? Resettling in a new country is no recent trend among African Americans. Activists, musicians, socialites, and writers like James Baldwin, Richard Wright, Nina Simone and Josephine Baker all famously took the leap and left America behind for life in Europe.
Margo Gabriel told Refinery29 moving abroad is about more than the pursuit of a “soft life” that it’s become ubiquitous with online. “It’s about striving for a better quality of life, safer neighborhoods, the time to slow down, dive deep into their self-care practice, and tapping into what sparks joy,” she shared.
Overall, Black families want a better quality of life. A place that offers safety, inclusivity, and opportunity to thrive. Platforms like The Black Expat give practical advice around obtaining that through a life abroad. The first step in leaving, though, is choosing where to go.
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In no particular order, here are 5 countries to consider if you’re planning to leave the United States.
1. Ghana
Since its “Year of the Return” campaign, more Black Americans looking to escape racism have relocated to Ghana. The country boasts a friendly environment, international schools, English as the business language, and low cost of living. This West African nation also has a thriving expat community. American immigrants in Ghana have developed guides to what they refer to as “Blaxit” through the African American Association of Ghana and Expat Life in Ghana.
2. Panama
Panama is the top expat destination in Central America. Over 20,000 U.S. expats now call the “Melting Pot” country home. The island has long attracted Black Americans seeking a quieter, more idyllic lifestyle. It is known for its visa policies, low costs of living, and strong sense of community.
3. Portugal
Lisbon and Porto, the two major Portugal cities, are home to a growing expat community, including many Black Americans. Portugal is known for its rich African history, largely due to its colonial past in countries like Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde. This history has helped foster a sense of respect and understanding of African cultures. The country is praised for its low crime rate, high quality of life, and relatively low cost of living. In addition, Portugal’s residents are generally known for being warm and friendly to foreigners.
4. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is another popular choice for African American expats, particularly those looking for a peaceful and family-friendly environment. Known for its “Pura Vida” philosophy—a lifestyle centered around happiness, health, and environmental sustainability—Costa Rica offers a high standard of living and an inclusive culture. The country has a large Afro-Costa Rican population, particularly on the Caribbean coast, where African heritage is deeply rooted. Costa Rica’s stable political climate, excellent healthcare system, and strong commitment to environmental conservation make it an attractive destination for Black families.
5. Canada
Canada was named in the top 5 best countries for racial equity by the U.S. News and World Report. For African Americans looking for an easy transition to life abroad, Canada offers an excellent balance of proximity, diversity, and safety. With a rich history of multiculturalism, Canada is known for its progressive attitudes toward race and inclusivity. Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal boast thriving Black communities, particularly in the arts, business, and academia. Canada’s healthcare system and overall high quality of life further enhance its appeal.
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