Top international relocation destinations

For adventure-seekers and fortune-seekers in the 19th century, the admonition was 'Go West, Young Man.'

In the 2000s, it might just be 'Go Overseas, Young Man.'

With the world becoming more global, moving overseas, whether for job opportunities or adventure, has never been easier.

Relocation.com's own data bears that out – even in the midst of a severe worldwide recession, people are still requesting moving estimates for overseas moving. We've compiled the top countries that people are seeking moving requests for, telling you a little bit about each country.

The top overseas destination isn't really overseas – it's right next door. Yes, people are very interested in moving to Canada. It makes sense – it's easy to get to, and the two nations have strong diplomatic relations so it's a relatively easy move. Canada will likely remain on top of the list for a long time.

As will moving to the United Kingdom, which is considered the countries of England, Scotland and Ireland. A common language here is key, as is many shared cultural norms (except for fish and chips and soccer, two things we'll never get).

No. 3 on our list is a more exotic move: moving to India. A robust economy can explain this country's popularity, as many Western countries have moved some operations there to save money, and others look to expand their business opportunities there courtesy of an expanding middle class that has money to spend.

No. 4 on the list is also close-by: moving to Mexico. This is partly due to proximity, but also because of a greater amount of both trade and population movement between the two countries.

The great Down Under is No. 5 on the list: Moving to Australia. This has long been a favorite for folks looking for a little adventure in their life – Australia appeals to people looking for great outdoor activities, a little travel, all the while buoyed by a modern and robust economy that provides job opportunities.

Moving to Puerto Rico is No. 6. There's a large Puerto Rican contingent in the U.S., particularly in large American cities like New York, so its inclusion on the list makes sense.

Brazil is No. 7 on our list of the most popular countries to move to. Like Puerto Rico, there is much back and forth movement in folks between the two countries, and Brazil is exotic enough to attract folks looking for a little spice in their lives.

No. 8 on the list is a little more traditional country that beckons would-be relocators: France. Moving to France is relative easy because of the country's diplomatic relations with the U.S. There's the language barrier, but it's got a robust international economy with many U.S. companies enjoying a footprint there.

No. 9 on Relocation.com's list is the Philippines. A growing Asian economy and a large Philippine contingent in the U.S. accounts for its inclusion on the list.

No. 10 on the list is a country that will likely be growing in relocation popularity in coming years: China. A fast-growing economy and a lessening regulatory hurdles are attracting businesses and making it easier to move here.

Most viewed