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The Collapse of U.S. Tourism (and Why Americans Are Fleeing)

The Surprising Decline in U.S. Tourism and the Rise of American Emigration

Author

Ark
May 07, 2025

As a seasoned international traveler since the age of 16, I’ve grown accustomed to checking State Department travel advisories and fielding warnings about the dangers of visiting foreign countries, particularly as a solo female traveler. Growing up in the U.S. during the 1990s, I was no stranger to fear—stories of missing children on milk cartons and warnings about abductions in parking lots were part of my childhood. Yet, I always questioned whether other countries were truly more dangerous than the U.S. Over the years, I found that many places deemed “dangerous” were often safe, with risks confined to specific areas or situations. Now, 20 years later, it’s surreal to see the tables turn: countries are issuing travel warnings for the United States, a place I called home until my early 20s.

Why Are Countries Warning Against Travel to the U.S.?

Recent headlines reveal a growing list of nations—Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Mexico, and the UK among them—issuing travel advisories for their citizens planning to visit the U.S. The reasons are multifaceted, often differing between official statements and public sentiment. According to a CNN report, much of the blame falls on tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, which have strained relations with trading partners. However, comments from citizens of these countries tell a more nuanced story.

Canadians, for instance, express frustration not only over tariffs but also over suggestions that Canada could become the “51st state.” Many are alarmed by reports of unexplained detentions at the U.S. border. A British traveler cited the high cost of food and groceries as a reason to cancel a planned trip. Meanwhile, Canadian airlines have canceled flights to some U.S. destinations, and Australian tourism providers are offering 40% discounts to boost travel to the U.S. amid plummeting demand.

The numbers paint a stark picture: tourism to the U.S. has seen double-digit declines in early 2025. Canada reports a 23–30% drop in border crossings, Mexico a 23% decrease in travelers, and Europe nearly 20% fewer tourists. Estimates suggest the economic impact could reach $60 billion. California Governor Gavin Newsom has even held press conferences urging tourists to visit his state—a rare move that underscores the severity of the situation.

The decline may worsen as the year progresses. Many canceled trips in the first quarter of 2025 were booked in 2024 to secure lower airfares and accommodations. As travelers opt for alternative destinations, summer tourism could see further drops, diverting billions in tourism dollars elsewhere.

A Growing Desire to Leave the U.S.

While inbound tourism falters, a parallel trend is emerging: Americans are increasingly looking to leave the country. A recent study found that 42% of U.S. citizens have considered or are actively planning to move abroad—an astonishing figure. This trend, which began in the 1970s, has accelerated in recent years. The reasons are diverse:

  • Cost of Living: Many Americans seek more affordable lifestyles abroad.

  • Work Opportunities: Some believe better career prospects exist overseas.

  • Tax Benefits: Others aim to reduce tax burdens through foreign income credits.

  • Quality of Life: A staggering 68% of Americans feel they are “surviving” rather than “thriving,” with homeownership increasingly unattainable.

For many, the “American Dream” feels out of reach. About four in ten Americans believe moving abroad will bring greater happiness. As someone who has helped people relocate internationally since 2005 through my company, I’ve never seen such urgency. Professionals, families, retirees, and younger generations—particularly Gen Z (63%) and Millennials (over 50%)—are driving this wave. Boomers (26%) and Gen Xers (35%) are also considering moves, often for retirement or better quality of life.

The top reasons for leaving include lower living costs, dissatisfaction with U.S. political leadership, and the pursuit of a higher quality of life. Minority groups, including the LGBTQIA+ community, women, African Americans, and people of color, increasingly cite fears for their rights as a motivating factor. Popular destinations include Canada, the UK, Australia, France, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Spain, Germany, and New Zealand. Ironically, Canada tops the list for American emigrants while simultaneously leading boycotts of U.S. travel and goods.

Challenges and Considerations for Moving Abroad

Relocating internationally isn’t always straightforward. Countries like Canada, the UK, and New Zealand have stringent visa requirements, often prioritizing work permits or specific qualifications over quality patricks of life. Moving for cost of living or quality of life alone typically isn’t sufficient for a visa. Retirees, workers, or students must carefully assess their eligibility for legal residency.

Another concern is the potential impact on U.S. passport holders traveling abroad. Historically, the strength of the U.S. economy and the significant presence of American tourists globally suggested minimal restrictions. However, with countries now issuing warnings against U.S. travel, there’s growing uncertainty about whether foreign nations might impose stricter entry requirements for Americans. As a precaution, I’m pursuing a European passport as a “Plan B”—a strategy I discuss in a related video.

The Bigger Picture

The dual trends of declining tourism and rising emigration pose significant challenges for the U.S. The loss of tourism revenue directly affects jobs and economic growth, while Americans leaving—whether renouncing citizenship or claiming foreign tax credits—reduces tax revenue. This two-sided problem could have lasting implications.

For those considering a move abroad, my team at travelingwithchristen.com/relocation is here to help. Whether you’re planning for next year or five years from now, we can guide you through the process. The desire for a better, more affordable life with less political drama is universal, and we’re seeing unprecedented demand for our services.

As the U.S. navigates these turbulent times, one thing is clear: the world’s perception of America is shifting, and Americans themselves are reevaluating their place in it. Whether you’re staying put or exploring new horizons, understanding these trends is crucial for navigating the future.

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