Rising rents, tough job competition, high taxes, and stretched salaries are pushing thousands of young Britons to leave the UK for better pay, lifestyle, and opportunities overseas.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 195,000 people under 35 moved abroad in the year to June — many seeking financial stability, safety, and a more positive work culture.
Why Are Young People Leaving the UK?
Experts say this new wave of migration is driven by:
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Soaring living costs and expensive housing
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Limited graduate roles and unstable career growth
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Higher taxes and economic uncertainty
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Desire for safer, sunnier, and more optimistic environments
Financial analyst David Little says destinations such as UAE, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Hong Kong and Bali are now seen as career hubs, offering tax benefits, security, booming job markets and stronger entrepreneurial environments.
Where Are Young Britons Moving?
Tokyo: Safety, Stability and Career Confidence
25-year-old Cambridge graduate Ray Amjad moved to Tokyo after working remotely in 20 countries. He says Japan offers safety, respect for public spaces, affordable living compared to London, and growing opportunities for international professionals.
Ray believes the UK is losing “fully trained talent” while countries like Japan benefit without paying for their education or healthcare.
Dubai: Tax-Free Salaries and Big Ambitions
Entrepreneur Isobel Perl (30) is relocating to Dubai, inspired by business opportunities, security, sunshine, and no income tax.
She also secured Dubai’s prestigious 10-year Golden Visa, reflecting the emirate’s role as a global hub for startups, influencers, and professionals.
She says Dubai’s “dream-big environment” motivates success and innovation.
Bali & Beyond: Freedom, Mental Wellbeing and Remote Work
25-year-old entrepreneur Sol Hyde left his stressful corporate job in the UK to run his marketing consultancy from Bali and Cape Town.
He says life abroad brought:
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Better mental health
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Stronger social connections
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Better work-life balance
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More business confidence
He believes the UK can sometimes discourage success, while high taxes restrict entrepreneurship.
Will They Ever Return?
Some say their move is temporary; others see it as permanent. Many plan to return only after becoming financially secure. Others believe their future now lies abroad due to better quality of life, career growth, and motivation.
Government Response
A UK government spokesperson said efforts continue to grow the economy, support startups, and create jobs, noting graduates still have an 87% employment rate. However, analysts warn that if opportunities don’t improve, the “brain drain” could intensify.
