The volume of immigrants to the United States has been on a steady increase over the past few decades, and for good reason. America is a land of opportunity with immense potential—immigrants worldwide have come here in search of a better life. An online discussion among immigrants revealed some reasons why they chose to start a new life in America and here are the most common ones.
1. Economic Mobility
Unsurprisingly, economic mobility is high on immigrants’ lists of reasons to live in America. The United States boasts a massive job market and a capable workforce, so the opportunity exists for anybody who wants a new job or a different career path.
2. A Better Life in General
Not all nations enjoy the same freedoms, infrastructure, and quality of life as the United States. One Eastern European man who recently moved to the U.S. puts everything in perspective.
“Lived through a civil war in my birth country,” he reveals. “There were days during the dry season when load shedding/power outage was up to 16-18 hours a day. I was frequently sick because of bad air and water. All that changed after coming here. I worked my way up all the way from college, and I think I have a better life than I was living in my birth country.
3. Education Opportunities
While far from perfect, the United States is home to near-endless opportunities to receive an education. From its public school system to graduate programs to trade schools, many immigrants believe America has the best education system in the world – and several people agree.
4. The Varying Climates and Landscapes
The United States is blessed with a moderately temperate climate throughout the country. Thankfully, it rarely gets too hot or cold (although the humidity can get downright overbearing in some areas). In addition, America is home to farmland, mountains, deserts, coastlines, valleys, and other regions, making it easy for anyone to fall in love with its vast geography.
5. Freedom of Speech
As one of the world’s leaders of democracy, it’s no surprise that many immigrants cite freedom of speech as a big reason to move to America. Even though it’s something Americans take for granted, free speech is a number-one priority for many others living abroad.
“Well, not living under an authoritarian communist regime is a plus,” one man admits. “I can talk negatively about a leader all I want, and no secret police would show up to my door and take me away; I can’t say the same about where I came from or even many other first-world countries out there right now.”
6. National Parks
According to the National Parks Foundation, there are 424 national parks found in the United States, collectively spanning over 84 million acres. This is more than enough reason for nature lovers to move to the United States, as protected natural parks are one of the true highlights of American culture.
7. Lack of Air Pollution
Although a few cities have notoriously high air pollution levels (I’m looking at you, Los Angeles), the United States maintains a very high air quality standard overall. Many people confess wanting to leave their home countries due to borderline-unbreathable air in heavily-populated countries like India.
8. Variety of Food Choices
You won the lottery if you’re a foodie living in the United States. The U.S. – thanks to its diverse population – boasts some of the tastiest cuisines in the world. In most cities, it’s easy to find a quality dish no matter what you’re in the mood for – Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Southern, Thai, and Italian, to name a few. Great, now I’m getting hungry.
9. The Ability To Amass Wealth
For many, the dream of becoming rich beyond your wildest dreams is a dream that can only happen in America. “I like making money,” confesses one man. “There is no limit to how much money you can make in America. I like it here. Taxes are relatively low, too.” If you live in a country that limits the amount of money you can make, the United States is a definite step up.
10. Overall National Stability
Unlike many third-world countries, the United States is in no danger of dissolving, becoming economically bankrupt, or likely its government to be overthrown. This type of security isn’t found in other nations, and it’s high on immigrants’ lists of reasons to want to live in America.
11. Opportunity to Experience “A Slice of Every Culture”
Among all developed countries, the United States is one of the most diverse in terms of its cultural makeup. Immigrants from around the world have come here to create a unique and vibrant culture that is unlike any other while still maintaining their own.
“Barring Canada, I can’t think of too many countries that can offer a true ‘cultural melting pot’ experience like the US,” emphasizes one immigrant who has lived for a decade across six states.
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