Businesses That Travel Well

One of the biggest myths about moving abroad is that you need a high-paying tech job or a venture-backed startup.

In reality, many Americans living overseas run relatively simple online businesses that generate enough income to support their lifestyle.

The goal isn't necessarily becoming a millionaire.

For many people, the goal is earning enough to create more freedom.

Freelance and Service Businesses

Examples include:

• Virtual assistance
• Bookkeeping
• Graphic design
• Social media management
• Copywriting
• Online tutoring
• Marketing services

These businesses often have low startup costs and can be run from anywhere with reliable internet. Many freelancers qualify for digital nomad visas that allow them to live abroad while serving US or international clients.

Content and Creator Businesses

Examples include:

• Blogs
• YouTube channels
• Newsletters
• Podcasts
• Online communities

Many creators earn income through advertising, sponsorships, affiliate marketing, memberships, or digital products.

E-Commerce Businesses

Examples include:

• Etsy shops
• Print-on-demand stores
• Amazon KDP publishing
• Shopify stores
• eBay businesses

These models allow entrepreneurs to sell products without necessarily managing inventory themselves.

Digital Product Businesses

Examples include:

• Templates
• Spreadsheets
• Guides
• Online courses
• Notion systems
• Printable products

Digital products are attractive because they can often be sold repeatedly without additional production costs.

Software and Technology Businesses

Examples include:

• SaaS products
• AI tools
• Mobile apps
• Subscription platforms

These businesses can scale significantly, but they are only one of many paths to location independence.

What Income Level Is Realistic?

The reality is that many expats are not earning six-figure software salaries. Some are supporting themselves on $2,000–$4,000 per month from relatively simple online businesses.

In countries with lower living costs, that income can provide a surprisingly comfortable lifestyle while offering flexibility that traditional employment often cannot.

Many people assume they need to replace their entire U.S. salary before moving abroad. In reality, relocating to a lower-cost country can dramatically reduce the income needed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. See our cost of living guide for how to estimate your real budget overseas.

Someone earning $3,000 per month from a combination of freelance work, digital products, and online services may struggle in expensive U.S. cities but could live quite comfortably in parts of Mexico, Thailand, or Portugal.

For that reason, many successful expats focus less on maximizing income and more on creating a business that provides flexibility, stability, and geographic freedom.

If you're exploring where a remote income would stretch the furthest, our best countries for digital nomads list highlights the destinations most popular with location-independent professionals.