The most popular place to homestead is, without a doubt, the United States (check this book out about a couple that moved from Texas to Alaska!). But we’re not the only ones attempting to live a homestead lifestyle, nor are we the first to do it.
In some countries, living on a homestead is a way of life and a typical everyday tactic.
I’ve covered topics such as the best states to homestead in, and while that’s indeed interesting, I’m putting together a list of the best countries to homestead in.
It’s becoming more common for Americans to leave the states and move to a more secluded land, and since moving out of the states is cheaper with fewer regulations, I don’t blame them.
Here, we’re going to look at several countries favorable for homesteading, covering the good things and the not-so-good things.
Top 5 Countries For Homesteading
1: Canada
Canada is unquestionably one of the greatest nations in the world to homestead in. For starters, the massive country offers a vast amount of natural resources.
If your cup of tea is waterfalls, lakes, rivers, ponds, snow (for water), you’re covered. Moreover, you have plenty of wildlife to take advantage of, such as elk, moose, deer, turkey, and beyond.
Not to mention, they have slightly controlled yet incredibly relaxed gun laws that can benefit a homesteader like no other.
Many individuals in Canada are going green every day, including going off-grid and living off the land. Canadian homesteaders tend to rely on the wildlife vs. their garden, understandably.
If you’re looking for an easy way to become self-sufficient, look no further. Just keep in mind that the winters can prove to be a challenge to some.
2: Costa Rica
Costa Rica isn’t just a resort; it’s also a perfect location to start homesteading in.
This country offers a unique land that is hard to beat, including waterfalls, wildlife, and manageable growing seasons.
The main con here is that it’s hugely forestry, which can prove to be a challenge as you will likely need to clear out land if you decide to buy it.
Land that is already cleared is usually more expensive, though this depends on the location. Otherwise, the country offers a ton for the price and an appearance that is very hard to beat.
Plus, you have many resort-style places to visit when you’re not feeling nature and just want to get away from the hard work you’ll face on the stead.
My favorite aspect about this country is the weather; if you’re not into snow or cold weather, you’ll fit into this country nicely.
3: New Zealand
Many people assume New Zealand to be for the rich, but this is not the case.
Though they have a higher high way of life rating, it can be decently inexpensive to live here, especially if you plan to homestead.
This is also true for the land, as listings seem pretty reasonably priced here considering what’s included.
They’re also known for their favorable agriculture and have plenty of jobs to help you build your homestead if needed.
Plus, they have perfect homesteading laws. However, their gun laws aren’t precisely what I’d call favorable, but this is not necessarily bad considering their extremely low violence rate.
English is also pretty standard in New Zealand, so transitioning to this country from America should be pretty straightforward.
4: Mexico
Mexico is a stereotype to be a developing country as a whole, and while they do not have the highest quality of life, there are several places in the beautiful country to homestead in.
The best part about Mexico is the relaxed laws. You can essentially homestead anywhere you like, as long as the surrounding areas permit it.
Another great thing about homesteading in Mexico is the cheap, available land.
Just about anyone who makes close to the average salary in the states can buy several acres of land with little to no issues.
The country also has quite a bit of wildlife but will require more of a hunt than Canada or the states.
A huge plus about Mexico is that it’d be easy to visit family up north in the U.S, and if your family is near the border, moving near there could make it all the easier.
5: Greenland
Greenland has been known for its fantastic tourist attractions, but it’s quite the place to homestead in. The first element that sticks out is its sheer beauty.
This country is full of mountains, often covered in powdery white snow. The country offers many natural resources, including lakes, ponds, rivers, wildlife, and beyond.
The land is also relatively inexpensive here, with an excellent quality of life and many like-minded individuals.
According to people living in Greenland, the country has a community-oriented mindset, meaning your neighbor may also care about your property.
Greenland is also very supportive of small businesses and mom-and-pop shops, making it a great place to consider turning your homestead into a business, pulling in profits.
How To Choose The Best Country
Know What You Want
If you’re looking for a location that provides warm weather and a strong year-round growing season, you’ll want to choose a country like Mexico or Greenland.
Costa Rica can be good year-round as well but gets lots of rain. Canada is better suited if you do not mind snow and can prepare for the winter by stocking up on food, water, etc.
The main point here is to think about what climate you’d prefer and everything that comes with it. While Costa Rica is beautiful and warm, it doesn’t have the most wildlife for hunting.
Language Barriers
Many of the countries included here do not use English as their primary language, so you’ll want to consider how that will affect you and your family, if applicable.
Although you may not be speaking to many other individuals, it can easily wreak havoc on the community aspect of homesteading, so this is something to think about.
Mexico isn’t that hard to become accustomed to, nor is Costa Rica, and of course, Canada.
Costs of Living
Mexico will undoubtedly have the lowest living costs out of all of the countries I’ve included here. This should not be the primary reason you choose one country over the other.
Keep in mind that if you’re going to be homesteading, your living costs are already going to be next to nothing.
This is why you should instead look at the elements of the country, such as climate, natural resources, and other aspects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Steps Should I Take To Get Started?
Securing a job or some kind of income source would benefit you greatly if you don’t have significant savings.
You should also look into green cards and visas. Some countries require you to wait, while others have exceptions.
Which Country is Easiest To Move To?
For this reason, I recommend Canada or Mexico as a good start. Canada is usually welcoming if you have a semi-clean record.
Mexico is also pretty easy to gain long-term access to, as long as you meet specific but minuscule income requirements.
Can I Move My Entire Family?
Luckily, children usually do not interfere much with moving in terms of the legal stuff, so this most likely will not prove to be a problem.
However, keep in mind that moving can be a huge cultural change, so consider how your family will adjust.
Verdict
It was challenging determining which countries to include in this list. Not because I could not find many, but there were too many to have!
You may have noticed that I did not include the United States. I feel that it’s a given that the states are a great place to homestead.
It’s continually proving its ability to be a great place to homestead, offering various climates and ways of life.
If you are planning to move to a different country, do your homework. Make sure not to rush it; take your time, and everything will fall in place.
