Can I Afford to Move Abroad? A Conversation with Expat Financial Planner Alex Ingrim

Bargain Homes Abroad
Sep 9
3 min read

Updated: Sep 22

Portrait of Alex Ingrim, financial planner and expat, discussing the costs of moving abroad on the Armchair Expat podcast.

For many Americans dreaming of life overseas, the question isn’t where to move — it’s whether they can actually afford it. From rising rents to complicated tax rules, the financial side of moving abroad can feel overwhelming. That’s why I invited Alex Ingrim, financial advisor, expat, and CEO of Liberty Atlantic Advisors, onto the Armchair Expat podcast to break it all down.

Alex has lived in France, Canada, the UK, Malta, and now Italy, where he and his family are based in Florence. With nearly two decades of personal expat experience — and a career dedicated to helping Americans navigate wealth planning in Europe — Alex brings both practical expertise and real-life perspective to the conversation.

Why Finances Are the #1 Concern for Future Expats

It’s no secret that cost is one of the biggest obstacles Americans face when considering a move abroad. Questions like:

How much does it cost to live in Europe compared to the U.S.?
Will I be double taxed as an American abroad?
What visas allow me to keep working while living overseas?
Where can I stretch my retirement income the furthest?

In the episode, Alex explains how affordability often depends less on income and more on lifestyle choices, planning, and location. For example, while Paris or Barcelona may be pricey, many families and retirees live comfortably in other regions of France, Spain, Portugal, or Italy on $3,000–$5,000 per month.

The Tax Trap Americans Don’t Expect

One of the biggest surprises for Americans moving abroad is learning that the U.S. taxes its citizens based on citizenship, not residency. That means:

Even if you live full-time in Europe, you still have to file a U.S. tax return.
You’ll also be subject to the tax laws of your new country of residence.
Treaties help avoid “double taxation,” but every country has different rules.

Alex breaks this down in simple terms, highlighting how treaties between the U.S. and countries like France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal determine where your income is taxed. The key? Planning ahead — ideally 18–24 months before a move — to structure your finances in the most tax-efficient way.

Affordable Doesn’t Mean Easy

Yes, life abroad can be more affordable than in the U.S. — housing, healthcare, and even groceries often cost less. But affordability is about more than just day-to-day expenses. Alex emphasizes:

Visa requirements: Choosing the wrong visa can limit your ability to work or earn income.
Retirement planning: Some countries tax U.S. retirement accounts differently — what’s tax-free in the U.S. may not be abroad.
Location matters: Popular expat hubs like Lisbon or Valencia can quickly become unaffordable as demand grows. Lesser-known regions often provide better value.

Key Takeaways from Alex Ingrim

Start planning early. Give yourself two tax years before moving.
Do your research. Don’t rely on Google or Facebook forums alone — rules change often.
Know your numbers. Understand what it costs to live comfortably in different regions.
Seek professional advice. U.S. expats face unique financial challenges that require tailored solutions

Listen to the Full Episode

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can I really afford to move abroad?” this episode is for you. Alex Ingrim shares candid insights on the cost of living in Europe, navigating U.S. tax obligations, and how to make the expat dream a financial reality.

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Connect with Alex

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Disclaimer: This is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Everyone’s circumstances are unique—listeners are encouraged to seek professional guidance from a qualified advisor before making decisions about taxes, finances, or relocation.