Relocation

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• List what matters most: affordability, climate, job opportunities, healthcare, schools, access to nature, community values, etc.
• Consider your family’s unique needs (e.g., medical, educational, cultural, or accessibility requirements).
   

• Investigate cost of living, housing prices, taxes, and employment options.
• Research climate risks (wildfire, flooding, hurricanes, drought), water availability, and air quality.
• Assess access to healthcare, schools, and essential services.
• Explore local laws and regulations that may affect self-sufficiency (e.g., homesteading, livestock, rainwater collection).
   

• Spend time in your top-choice areas to get a feel for the community, amenities, and lifestyle.
• Talk to locals about pros and cons, and ask about the area’s resilience to disruptions.

• Look for active community groups, local food systems, and mutual aid networks.
• Consider diversity, inclusivity, and opportunities to build strong social connections.

• Calculate moving costs, including transportation, deposits, and emergency funds.
• Research job markets or remote work options if needed.
• Plan for a buffer in case of unexpected expenses or delays.

• If self-reliance is a goal, look for properties with space for gardening, water sources, and renewable energy options.
• Assess access to hunting, fishing, or foraging if those are important to you.
   

 Why?

•   Affordable land with fertile soil for gardening and livestock.
• Minimal government interference; rural communities are very self-reliant.
• Great hunting (deer, turkey, etc.) and fishing opportunities.
• Moderate climate with four distinct seasons.
• Active timber and sawmill industry.

Standout Areas:

•  Southern Missouri, such as near West Plains or around the Mark Twain National Forest.

 Why?

•  No state income tax and low property taxes.
•  Land is relatively affordable, especially in rural counties.
•  Great for hunting and self-sufficient farming.
•  Mild winters and longer growing seasons.
•  Communities in this region value independence and are generally friendly.

Standout Areas: 

• The Cumberland Plateau or regions near the Great Smoky Mountains.

 Why?

•  Low cost of living and affordable, usable land.
•  Excellent hunting (deer, bear, small game) and access to outdoor activities.
•  Strong timber industry presence.
•  Minimal zoning and regulation in rural areas.
•  Friendly communities.

Standout Areas: 

• The Ozark Mountains or areas near Harrison or Mountain View.

 Why?

•  Low property taxes and affordable land for farming and livestock.
•  Great for hunting (deer, elk, turkey).
•  Communities value independence and privacy.
•  Timber and sawmill opportunities exist in rural areas.
•  Mild climate with ample rainfall for gardens.

Standout Areas: 

• Areas near Somerset, Corbin, or along the Daniel Boone National Forest.

 Why?

•  Incredibly affordable land in rural areas with few restrictions.
•  Some of the best hunting in the U.S. (deer, bear, moose).
•  Strong timber and sawmill industries.
•  Independent-minded people and minimal government oversight.

Standout Areas: 

• Northern or central Maine, though winters are harsher compared to the South.

•  Research countries that align with your goals-whether for work,  retirement, family, safety, cost of living, climate, or lifestyle  preferences.
• Consider political stability, healthcare quality, language, and cultural fit.

•  Every country has its own visa rules. Common visa types include work,  student, retirement, family reunification, and investment visas.
• Check if your chosen country offers digital nomad or remote work visas if you plan to work online.
• Decide if you want temporary residency, permanent  residency, or citizenship. Some countries require you to give up US  citizenship for full naturalization.

•  Gather essential documents: passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, financial records, and health records.
• Open an international bank account or ensure your US bank supports international transactions.
• Understand the local requirements for property rental or purchase.
   

•  US citizens must file US taxes on worldwide income, even when living abroad
• Learn about the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion, Foreign  Tax Credit, and reporting requirements for foreign bank accounts (FBAR,  FATCA)
• Research tax treaties between the US and your new country to avoid double taxation

•  Research the healthcare system in your destination: Is it public,  private, or a mix? Are you eligible for coverage as a resident or expat?
• Consider international health insurance if local coverage isn’t available immediately.

•  Calculate the cost of living, including housing, utilities, food, transportation, and education
• Plan for moving expenses and have an emergency fund.
   

•  If possible, spend several weeks or months in your target country to get  a feel for daily life and assess if it meets your expectations 

• If relocating with family, research schools, childcare, and community resources.
• Consider language barriers, local customs, and integration opportunities.

• Downsize your belongings; decide what to ship, store, or sell.
• Arrange for shipping, storage, and temporary housing if needed. 
• Update your address with banks, government agencies, and subscriptions

• Register with the US embassy in your new country for safety updates and assistance.
• Keep copies of important documents in both physical and digital formats.