More Black families are leaving the United States and moving abroad. While there is little data on the exact numbers, more Facebook groups, YouTube channels, and social media accounts are popping up with users detailing how they successfully relocated their families. These groups provide community and are utilized as resources for people considering making a move, as well as tales as cautionary tales and how to prepare for life as an expat or permanent resident.
For many Black families, systematic racism is a driving factor for leaving. Safety, healthcare, affordability, and quality of life are other reasons. For the first time since the World Happiness Report was issued in 2012, the U.S. did not rank in the top 20 of the world’s happiest countries list. According to the report, happiness has fallen sharply for young people under 30 compared to the older population classified as over 60.
Packing up and moving to another country has many advantages when done right. Black families have reported feeling safer and healthier.
There are many factors Black families must consider before relocating; the most important is race relations. It’s impossible to escape racism, but there are some destinations that are better than others. Other factors to consider are access to quality education and healthcare, employment opportunities, housing affordability, and community.
As you consider relocating, remember that it is a privilege to have the opportunity to live outside of your home country. It should be a top priority to support the local economy, hire locals if you’re starting a business, and, most importantly, ensure that you’re not contributing to pushing locals out of affordable homes.
Travel Noire has compiled a list of some of the best destinations for Black families to relocate.
Ghana
Since its “Year of Return” campaign, more Black Americans have relocated to the West African country. It’s one of the best countries for Black people to relocate who are looking to escape racism since it’s a predominantly Black country. There is a remarkable Black expat community. What’s great about Black families considering a move to Ghana is that there are many resources. There’s the African American Association of Ghana and Expat Life Ghana, which serves as a guide to what they refer to as a “Blaxit.”
Merida, Mexico
Merida, Mexico, has a strong Black expat community and is a well-known place to raise a family. There is a lot to do for children in Merida, which is located near various beach towns, parks, indoor play spaces, and more.
If your children are still in school, many parents send them to private or international schools, which cost between $200 and $300 per month per child. Many families also homeschool their children to save money.
Merida has great medical centers and is known to be LGBTQ-friendly.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Another popular destination for Black families is Oaxaca, Mexico. It consistently ranks as one of Mexico’s most colorful and vibrant cities.
Located in southern Mexico, Oaxaca is the perfect destination for families looking for a destination that offers a lot to do for children, great weather, and access to the outdoors to keep you and your children physically active.
The capital city of the state of Oaxaca is also known for its warm and welcoming culture, especially for Black families.
Panama
For Black families looking for an easier transition, Panama has been a top destination for expats worldwide. Panama is attractive for several reasons, including its tropical climate, affordability, health care, and English is the second official language.
Another draw is the culture. The Panamanian people are known to be extremely friendly and will make you feel right at home. In addition, the country has low crime rates and long life expectancy.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica checks off many positive boxes for Black families. It offers good healthcare, stunning scenery with mountains and volcanoes, beaches, and great schools, and it’s a safe place to raise Black children. Central American countries are known for having stable economies, strong middle classes, and universal health care.
Black families will also find a significant Black expat community in Costa Rica.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is an up-and-coming haven for Black families, which has much to do with Black in Bali’s work (BIB). BIB has made significant strides in attracting Black Americans and people of African descent to Southeast Asia by building community.
During an interview with Black in Bali, the co-founders told Travel Noire they aim to help make the transition to Bali easier for Black families by being intentional with events and resources. Group leaders plan Sunday brunches, professional business seminars, and health and wellness events. They also work with families relocating by providing them with resources on schools, employment, and housing opportunities.
