The pursuit of the American dream, as envisioned by immigrants and their descendants, often evokes a complex tapestry of emotions and experiences, particularly for first-generation Gen Z Americans. Despite the aspirations their parents harbored for a prosperous life in the United States, a growing number of these young adults are grappling with profound disillusionment. This sentiment stems from a confluence of factors including rapidly escalating living costs, soaring healthcare expenses, crushing student debt, and a volatile political environment. Consequently, a significant portion of this demographic is contemplating or actively planning to relocate from the U.S., driven by a mixture of exhaustion, isolation, and a poignant sense of guilt about abandoning the homeland their parents toiled to establish.

This pervasive sense of "doomism" among Gen Z is frequently articulated through viral social media posts and TikTok tutorials that detail the process of obtaining dual citizenship or relocating abroad. Research from the Pew Research Center indicates that younger Americans are more likely than older generations to perceive that other countries offer a superior quality of life compared to the U.S.

According to estimates from the United Nations, approximately 3 million Americans currently reside abroad, marking an increase of over 1.27 million since the 1990s. This rising trend of expatriation underscores a broader phenomenon of disenchantment among some first-generation American youths.

Rania Salah, 23, embodies this sentiment vividly. Although born in the U.S., Salah spent much of her childhood in Jordan. She graduated from American University in 2022 with a degree in public health and has since relocated from Virginia to Turkey, with plans to move to Qatar next. Salah's decision was largely influenced by a challenging job search compounded by a severe health setback—she was diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease. The stress associated with job hunting and the exorbitant cost of living in the U.S. led her to conclude that the quality of life she desired was unattainable within its borders. Salah’s journey, shared extensively on TikTok, has garnered over 2.5 million views. Her rheumatologist expressed optimism that her move abroad might alleviate her symptoms due to reduced stress and improved dietary conditions.

Salah's relocation highlights broader economic issues. Although inflation shows signs of easing, food prices have risen by 2.2% from April 2023 to April 2024, as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Rental costs have also surged, with the national median for an apartment nearing $2,000 per month. Despite these challenges, Salah remains resolute in her decision to leave the U.S., valuing the prospect of a cleaner, safer environment and better personal mobility over the democratic privileges she will forgo.

The U.S. continues to attract a substantial immigrant population, with nearly 20% of the world's immigrants residing there, according to Jeanne Batalova, a senior policy analyst with the Migration Policy Institute. Batalova notes that the experiences of children born to immigrants can be varied. While many achieve success in education and the economy, others face difficulties related to residential segregation, legal status, or economic disadvantages.

Michael Christian, 26, provides another perspective on this issue. Born in the Bronx to parents from Antigua, Christian’s trajectory changed dramatically after he was diagnosed with leukemia while serving in the Marine Corps in Saudi Arabia. Facing the dual burdens of medical treatment and the high cost of living, Christian is planning a move to Austria by the end of the year, with future plans to relocate to Spain. Recent political turbulence, including the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, has intensified his desire to leave the U.S.

Maz Do, 27, an author from New York with Vietnamese and Indonesian heritage, is also seeking a new path. Her parents emigrated from their home countries due to violence and lack of economic opportunity. Now, Do is preparing for a Fulbright trip to Indonesia, aiming to reconnect with her heritage and better understand her roots. Although she grapples with feelings of guilt, Do is redefining success on her own terms.

The current political climate, including President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 election, has exacerbated feelings of uncertainty and disillusionment. The contentious first presidential debate, which highlighted perceived shortcomings on both sides, has left many Gen Z Americans disheartened about the state of their country's leadership.

In response to these challenges, Salah and Christian have decided not to participate in voting, while Do is still exploring the complexities of voting from abroad. Collectively, they view the American political system as flawed, regardless of which party or individual is in power.

This trend of disillusionment among some first-generation Gen Z Americans underscores a broader questioning of the value and viability of their current environment. Despite their parents' aspirations for prosperity in the U.S., these young adults are increasingly seeking a new chapter elsewhere, driven by a blend of practical concerns and a search for a more fulfilling life.