Hahaha. Love it. Happily married though. But in all transparency I make ~$400k in the US, but similar prospects overseas probably pay closer to $80k from what I've heard.
I don't mind a pay cut. But my research this far seems to indicate that settling down somewhere else permanently is difficult.
Iām an American living permanently in Germany. It is difficult, especially keeping on top of paperwork. Itās not impossible though, and even easier if youāre in tech (Iām assuming by the fivefold pay increase). If you learn the language of the place youāre trying to stay, itās much easier.
Iām well aware, but itās a good sight better off than the US for now. Citizenship in an EU country entitles you to freedom of travel within the EU and residency in any EU country, so once I get that, my husband and I will be able to look at other countries (though really only the Nordic countries and Ireland are better options, that we can see, and those are all pretty expensive comparatively), but even just in Germany, the difference is wild. The institutions here are much stronger, as is the sense of solidarity, so even with the (terrifying) success of the AFD and BSW/FW peeling off votes from the left and more mainstream parties, thereās a very long way to go before Germany is as far to the right as the US. Plus, you have a right to healthcare and much stronger workersā rights (and rent is way cheaper outside of major cities, Iām talking ā¬400/$440 for a two bedroom).
You can basically live indefinitely in the SEA with US passport (Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia). Find a in a nice liberal bubble with loads of other foreigners as long as you can make 2,000 usd/mo you'll be quite comfy and free here.
I've long given up on being part of the core society and embraced the life in a bubble. It's pretty awesome! Feel free to message me if you have any questions :)