If you decide to settle in America, whether in the North or South of the continent, you’re embarking on an exciting adventure. Cultures abound, professional opportunities abound and expatriates generally appreciate the quality of life. From Miami to Santiago, many American metropolises offer a pleasant and dynamic living environment.
Before you leave, find out exactly what the safety situation is like in each city, and take out expatriate insurance to ensure solid coverage in the event of the unexpected. In this article, we present the most popular destinations for expatriates, as well as cities where vigilance is essential.
North America: hard work, dynamism and multiculturalism
United States
- Miami: Nicknamed the “Gateway to the Americas”, Miami is known for its tropical climate, multicultural mix (particularly Spanish-speaking) and opportunities in tourism, finance and real estate.
- Boston: Student city par excellence (Harvard, MIT) and tech and research hub. Boston attracts qualified expatriates in cutting-edge sectors.
- New York City: The East Coast megalopolis offers a wealth of professional opportunities, as well as an outstanding cultural and artistic life. The cost of living, however, is high.
- Los Angeles: The film capital of the world, Los Angeles is an anchor for the creative professions (film, music, design). It’s also a major hub if you want to work in tech (Silicon Beach).
- San Francisco: At the heart of Silicon Valley, San Francisco is an Eldorado. Whether you’re an engineer, developer or start-up entrepreneur, this is the city for you.
Canada
- Toronto: As the country’s largest city, Toronto’s economic dynamism (finance, services) is a real draw. Its cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of life are also part of what sets this city apart.
- Vancouver: Nestled between the mountains and the Pacific, the city attracts visitors for its relaxed lifestyle, high-tech hub and multicultural mix.
- Montreal: This city combines French culture with North American influence. Montreal is renowned for its creativity, quality of higher education and relatively affordable cost of living.
- Ottawa: Canada’s capital city offers a stable environment. You may also be attracted by its government institutions and large international community.
- Edmonton: Located in Alberta, Edmonton is appreciated for its job market (oil, technology). Its nearby natural environment is also appreciated by expatriates.
Mexico
- Mexico City: Exuberant and sprawling, Mexico’s capital is at the heart of the country’s political, economic and cultural life. Its cost of living remains reasonable.
- Puerto Vallarta: A seaside resort on the Pacific coast, popular with expatriates for its climate, tourist industry and relaxed atmosphere.
- San Miguel de Allende: This small colonial town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It attracts artists and retirees in search of tranquility and historic charm.
- Mérida: Capital of Yucatán, Mérida is renowned for its colonial architecture, relative safety and tourism opportunities.
- Tulum: A fast-growing coastal town, Tulum’s appeal lies in its paradisiacal beaches and growing ecotourism appeal.
South America: between cultural ferment and quality of life
Brazil
- São Paulo: Latin America’s economic powerhouse, São Paulo is ideal for your career. It’s a good destination if you work in finance, international trade or the technology industry.
- Rio de Janeiro: World-famous for its carnival and beaches, the “Cidade Maravilhosa” offers a festive lifestyle. However, some neighborhoods require extra caution.
- Brasilia: A modern administrative capital, Brasilia is home to political institutions and a wealth of public-sector jobs.
Argentina
- Buenos Aires: Nicknamed the “Paris of Latin America”, the capital’s appeal lies in its cultural life, European heritage and vibrant art scene.
- Cordoba: As an industrial and university center, Cordoba attracts many students and skilled workers. This is particularly true in the automotive and aeronautics industries.
- Mendoza: Located at the foot of the Andes, this is the country’s most famous wine-growing region. Its tranquil setting is particularly appealing to those seeking to combine work and nature.
Chile
- Santiago: A modern, dynamic capital, Santiago is home to multinational headquarters, financial institutions and prestigious universities. The Andes mountains are never far away for outdoor sports enthusiasts.
- Valparaiso: A colorful, bohemian port, Valparaiso is prized for its artistic ambience, picturesque hills and maritime history.
- Viña del Mar: A sunny seaside resort close to Valparaiso, offering a pleasant living environment and good tourism prospects.
Costa Rica
- Guanacaste: Coastal province known for its dream beaches, very popular with expatriates looking for a lifestyle based on ecotourism and relaxation.
- Liberia: The regional capital of Guanacaste, close to national parks and famous beaches, the city attracts investors and tourism workers.
- Puntarenas: A key fishing and trading port, also renowned for its maritime tourist attractions.
Uruguay
- Montevideo: America’s southernmost capital, Montevideo is often cited for its quality of life, political stability and peaceful atmosphere.
Watch out for the most dangerous cities
While the majority of large American metropolises offer satisfactory living conditions for expatriates, some cities are among the most dangerous on the continent, or even in the world, due to high crime rates.
Top 5 highest-risk cities :
- Caracas (Venezuela): Venezuela’s capital is notorious for its high homicide rate and conflicts between gangs and police, compounded by an unstable economic and political situation.
- Tijuana (Mexico) and Los Cabos (Mexico): Although some areas are extremely dangerous (trafficking, cartels), other neighborhoods or tourist sectors remain relatively safe. Meticulous preparation and precise knowledge of the areas to avoid are essential for anyone wishing to visit them.
- Saint-Louis (United States): Located in the American Midwest, this city has a high crime rate, mainly concentrated in certain disadvantaged neighborhoods.
- Maceio (Brazil): In Brazil, socio-economic inequalities and drug trafficking have an impact on the safety of this city, where certain areas are notoriously dangerous.
In many cities classified as “at risk”, there are nonetheless safer neighborhoods, popular with expatriates and tourists alike. It is essential to be well-informed, to consult reliable sources and to follow safety recommendations adapted to each local context.
Tips for a successful expatriation
First, find out about the local culture, cost of living, job opportunities and safety. Then anticipate the formalities: each country imposes its own visa and work permit requirements. If you don’t take care of them, you may have to wait several months before finalizing everything.
Be sure to take out expatriate insurance, as medical costs can become exorbitant. Even in a city with a reputation for safety, it’s important to remain cautious. Identify areas to avoid and adopt essential safety reflexes. Finally, to facilitate your integration, immerse yourself in the local culture: learn the language, explore the gastronomy and forge links with the locals.
