Global Migration Trends: Declining Desire to Move to the United States
A recent poll conducted by Gallup in 2025 revealed a decrease in the desire of individuals worldwide to move to the United States, despite it still being the top choice for many foreign citizens looking to relocate permanently. The survey showed that 15 percent of adults globally selected the U.S. as their preferred destination, marking a significant decline from the 24 percent recorded between 2007 and 2009. In 2017, 18 percent of respondents expressed their interest in moving to the U.S.
Among the regions surveyed, Latin American, Caribbean, and sub-Saharan African countries showed a strong preference for the United States as a destination for relocation. Canada ranked second at 9 percent, followed by Germany at 5 percent. Other countries like Australia, Spain, France, the United Kingdom, and Japan each garnered 4 percent of the respondents' preferences.
The data from Gallup indicated that the desire to move to the U.S. experienced a notable decline in seven Latin American countries, with a drop from 33 percent in 2024 to 28 percent in 2025. Mexico, in particular, saw a significant decrease to 21 percent, matching the low recorded in 2017 and 2018.
Gallup highlighted a shift in global migration trends, noting a widespread decline in the desire to move across various regions. The survey also revealed an increasing interest among Americans, particularly women under 45, with 40 percent expressing a desire to move abroad, up from 10 percent in 2014.
Despite these changes, the survey estimated that approximately 900 million individuals worldwide wish to relocate, with around 134 million expressing a preference for moving to the United States. The Gallup poll, conducted from September 12-15, included over 144,000 respondents from 140 countries.
In conclusion, the Gallup poll conducted in 2025 indicates a changing landscape in global migration trends, with a decreasing desire among individuals to move to the United States. While the U.S. remains a popular choice for relocation, the survey highlights a shift in preferences and a broader outlook on migration patterns worldwide.