Pop quiz: if you were coming to the United States an expat and could live anywhere in the country, where would you go?
Although there might not be a “right” answer to such a question, San Diego comes pretty darn close.
Sure, it might seem enticing to live somewhere like New York City which is synonymous with the American dream. On the flip side, some might feel like it would make more sense to live somewhere a bit “quieter” for the sake of settling down.
San Diego offers the best of both worlds, representing a major city that boasts a number of benefits that make it the perfect place for expats.
What benefits are we talking about? Consider the following five for starters.
Plenty of Career Opportunities
As of March of 2018, the unemployment rate of San Diego sits around 3.6%, less than the national average and the likes of Los Angeles, respectively. This spells good news for those
sending remittance to South America or anywhere else that relies on money abroad.
Although California at large is known for is tech field, there are employment opportunities for expats of all skill levels. Between a massive tourism industry, school districts and a bustling downtown area, jobs are certainly out there.
A Progressive Populace
Socially speaking, San Diego traditionally embraces immigrants and is historically regarded as one of the most diverse cities in the county. Making the transition to any new city as an expat can be tough, but living within a community you’re comfortable in makes that transition so much easier.
From going to the doctor to simply asking for directions on the street, tasks both big and small are much less daunting when the population is willing to be patient with you. It’s only natural to feel out of place as an expat, but San Diego represents somewhere in which diversity is truly celebrated.
Less of Language Barrier
From Spanish and Tagalog to tons of other languages spoken by families of current and former immigrants, it’s easy to find others who speak your native tongue. Specifically, there are a number of specific Spanish-speaking neighborhoods for those who want to settle down in a community akin to their own.
Safety First
Often cited as one of the safest big cities in the United State, San Diego’s low crime rate speaks for itself. Expats have plenty to worry about, so not having to stress out about safety on a day-to-day basis is a huge upside.
Plenty of Other Expats
Between the myriad of languages spoken and the noted emphasis on diversity, San Diego is a fantastic place to connect with communities of people from your native country.
Given that loneliness is a huge concern for expats, having others who share your experiences is a huge bonus. Whether you’re just looking for conversation or a social club, the city most certainly has you covered.
Having a positive experience as an expat is easier said than done when you live somewhere that has trouble embracing you. That said, San Diego is one of the top places for expats to settle down without having to worry about as many “what-ifs” during their transition to a new home.
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