Gallup Reports Record 40% of Younger U.S. Women Desire to Emigrate

Record High for Younger American Women

A new study released by Gallup indicates that a record 40% of younger American women, specifically those aged 15 to 44, express a desire to permanently emigrate from the United States. This figure represents a substantial increase over the past decade and marks the largest gender gap ever recorded by Gallup on this trend. In contrast, only 19% of men within the same age demographic share this aspiration to move abroad permanently.

The desire to migrate among younger women has seen a dramatic rise from just 17% in 2014, when the question was first posed. The interest began to climb sharply around 2016 and has continued its upward trajectory through subsequent presidential administrations.

Erosion of Trust in Institutions

A significant factor contributing to this growing desire to emigrate is a reported collapse in trust towards America's foundational institutions, particularly among women. Since 2015, younger women have experienced the steepest decline of any demographic in their confidence in the government, judiciary, military, and elections, with an overall drop of 17 points.

Confidence in the judicial system saw a particularly sharp decrease following the Supreme Court's 2022 Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade. Trust levels among younger women in the courts fell from 55% in 2015 to just 32% in 2025.

Demographic Shifts and Political Alignment

The study also highlights that marital status and parenthood have become less predictive of emigration desires. Between 2024 and 2025, 41% of married women and 45% of unmarried women reported wanting to move abroad. This indicates that marriage is increasingly not viewed as a barrier to migration for younger women.

While older women (over 45) are still less likely to consider leaving the U.S. than their younger counterparts, their desire to emigrate now surpasses that of men in their age group, with 14% of women over 45 expressing this wish compared to 8% of men in 2025.

Partisanship also appears to play a role in this divide. Young women have shown overwhelming support for Democratic candidates in recent elections, with nearly 60% identifying as or leaning towards Democrats, compared to 39% of young men.

Aspirations for a New Home

Although the Gallup findings reflect aspirations rather than concrete intentions, they serve as a powerful indicator of discontent among younger American women. The study notes that Canada remains a top desired destination, followed by New Zealand and Italy.