Why Do Some English People Want to Live in the United States: Benefits and Downsides
The United States has long been seen as a land of opportunity for many immigrants, including those from the United Kingdom. However, in recent years, the reasons for emigration from the UK to the US have changed significantly. While many still chose the US for career opportunities, a significant portion of the population no longer finds the country as attractive as it once was.
Changing Tides in Emigration from the UK
According to statistics from the UK, approximately 20,000 people migrate to the US annually. However, this trend has shifted, with a notable decrease in highly qualified and high-caliber British professionals choosing to live in the US. This shift is particularly evident among those from other G7 nations and beyond, with a few exceptions. For instance, a select few may choose to take on a multi-million dollar fixed-term contract lasting a few years, but the majority are hesitant to uproot themselves completely to the US, especially if they have families.
Overall Experience and Views
Personal experiences vary, and many have shared their stories of moving to the US for career opportunities. For example, I have known several English people who came to Los Angeles for career opportunities. One specific instance involves our childhood neighbor, who initially lived in London before meeting and marrying an American. They moved back to the US together, where they later started a family. Their children, born and raised in the US, are entirely American in their upbringing and identity.
Challenges and Disillusionments
However, not all English people share a positive experience living in the US. For some, the journey of emigration is far from perfect. A British woman, after living in the US for 25 years, expressed a desire to return to the UK, citing issues with the American healthcare system as a significant factor. She concluded that despite the initial allure of America, the reality can be quite different from expectations.
Main Reasons for Moving to the US
The primary driver for UK citizens moving to the US has shifted from personal desires to the attraction of high-paying job offers. Due to the insufficient local talent pool, many multinational companies opt to hire foreigners to fill high-demand roles. However, this choice is not without its challenges. One major downside is the stringent bureaucracy and oppressive social climate, where many Americans are brainwashed into believing they live in a truly free society. This belief can foster a sense of complacency and resistance to change, making personal and professional experiences sometimes less fulfilling.
Personal Anecdotes and Insights
Encounters with English people during my time at the university offer a unique perspective. Many were simply in the US for work, with no intention of staying long-term. Nevertheless, a significant number of Americans have English ancestry, contributing to the cultural tapestry of the country.
For an English person with specific interests and preferences, the US can offer an appealing environment. For instance, gun enthusiasts who thrive on a diet of hamburgers and soda, and prefer automatic transmissions to manual ones, might find the US a fitting place to live. However, these are niche scenarios and do not represent the general sentiment towards living in the US for the average English person.
In conclusion, while the United States remains a top destination for many immigrants from the UK and beyond, the reasons for emigrating have changed. Moving to the US for career opportunities is still a significant factor, but the country's challenges, particularly regarding bureaucracy and the healthcare system, need to be taken into account. The varied experiences of those who have made the move highlight the complexity of the decision to live in the US.