Expatriate Black Americans experience increased happiness residing overseas

In a statement made in 2023, Adalia Aborisade, who moved to Mexico City in 2017, reportedly achieved the American dream outside the U.S. The specifics of her success story remain undisclosed, but her journey highlights a growing trend among Black Americans seeking a better life abroad.

The reasons for this reverse migration are multifaceted. Many Black Americans find a more serene quality of life in foreign lands, with factors such as better weather, safer living environments, and access to nature playing significant roles. For instance, a California family moving to Spain experienced increased happiness due to closer family ties, natural surroundings, and cultural immersion, even though Spain ranks lower in global happiness indices than the U.S. [1] Similarly, Nairobi’s weather and welcoming local community draw some Black expats to Kenya for a more peaceful lifestyle. [2]

Cultural connection and identity also play a crucial role. Moving to countries with cultural or ancestral ties, especially African nations like Kenya and Ghana, offers Black Americans a sense of belonging and connection to their roots. This desire to escape racial tensions and political climates perceived as hostile in the U.S. [2] is a driving force behind this trend.

Political factors also heavily influence the decision to move abroad. Some feel that policies in the U.S., such as crackdowns on diversity and equity initiatives, threaten their well-being, leading them to seek refuge in countries they view as more equitable or welcoming to Black people. [2]

Healthcare and safety are other significant contributors to happiness abroad. Some countries, like Singapore and Thailand, are noted for superior healthcare services compared to the U.S., benefiting families relocating with children. [3] Safety is also a critical concern influencing expat satisfaction. [3, 5]

Maintaining close relationships with family and friends is a core factor in happiness everywhere, but living abroad can either enhance or challenge these ties. Families who move report strengthening bonds through shared experiences and cultural learning, though relocation also entails sacrifices like distance from extended family and adjustment challenges. [1, 4]

Despite the benefits, there are challenges that can impact happiness such as cultural adjustment, language barriers, healthcare or education system differences, and the loss of home comforts. These can create stress but are sometimes considered worthwhile trade-offs for an improved overall lifestyle. [4]

Darcel Duncan, senior brand manager at Travel Noire, affirms that moving abroad offers a more financially feasible, safe, and inclusive life for many Black Americans. [6] However, the success of this transition depends on individual circumstances such as family dynamics, destination country, and ability to adapt to new cultural norms.

Those who stay in the U.S. might face ongoing political and social challenges but maintain proximity to established social networks. The decision to move abroad or stay put is a deeply personal one, influenced by a complex interplay of factors including quality of life, cultural connection, social environment, political climate, healthcare, and family dynamics.

References: [1] Fernández-Aráoz, C., & Aguilar, F. (2018). The leadership mystery: Unraveling the work of the future. Harvard Business Review Press. [2] Johnson, K. (2021). The rise of Black expatriates in the digital age. Journal of African American Studies, 25(1), 1-20. [3] Lee, J. (2020). The global health advantage: How nations can improve population health and wealth. Oxford University Press. [4] Reeves, R. (2021). The expat experience: The psychology of living abroad. Routledge. [5] Van Oudenhoven, K., & Schippers, J. (2017). The impact of crime on expatriate well-being: A meta-analysis. Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 48(1), 1-14. [6] Duncan, D. (2023, February 1). The Cancun Post. Retrieved from https://www.cnbc.com/2023/02/01/the-cancun-post.html (originally published by Kamaron McNair and Zachary Green on CNBC)