Moving to the U.S. as an EB-5 Investor: How to Choose the Right City or State

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is one of the most accessible and strategic ways for global investors to gain lawful permanent residence in the United States. By investing a minimum of $1,050,000, or $800,000 in targeted employment areas (TEAs), in a new commercial enterprise that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers, investors and their immediate families can obtain Green Cards and begin their new lives in the U.S.

One of the great advantages of the EB-5 program is the freedom it provides: unlike many other visa categories, EB-5 investors are not tied to a specific employer or geographic region. After receiving a Green Card, they are free to live, work, and travel anywhere in the United States. This flexibility opens up a wide range of possibilities. But it also presents a crucial decision: where should you live?

Choosing the right city or state to settle in isn’t just about lifestyle. It can have lasting impacts on your family’s well-being, your business prospects, and the long-term success of your investment. Here’s a guide to thinking strategically about where to land.

Freedom to Live Anywhere

First, it’s important to underscore that EB-5 investors are not required to live in the state where their investment is located. This means you can invest in a project in Virginia and still choose to settle in Florida, for example. Your Green Card does not limit your movement, and your residency status does not depend on proximity to your investment.

This unique aspect of the EB-5 visa creates a wonderful opportunity: you can prioritize personal goals, family needs, and lifestyle preferences when choosing where to live.

Aligning Your Move With Your Business and Lifestyle Goals

While you may have specific preferences for weather, education, or city culture, aligning your location with your business goals, or even your future business aspirations, is often a smart move. For instance, if you’re interested in launching or investing in a particular industry, some cities naturally provide more opportunities and connections than others.

California: Innovation, Sunshine, and Startups

California remains a top destination for many EB-5 investors, and for good reason. The state boasts the world’s fifth-largest economy and serves as a global center for technology, entertainment, and innovation. Silicon Valley, in particular, is a magnet for tech investors and startups, and Los Angeles offers rich opportunities in media, real estate, and international trade.

Beyond business, California offers a high quality of life with its mild climate, diverse communities, and world-class public and private universities.

New York: Financial Powerhouse and Cultural Epicenter

For those drawn to finance, media, or the arts, New York offers unmatched access to opportunity. Wall Street remains the heartbeat of global finance, while Manhattan and Brooklyn are creative centers for everything from fashion to publishing.

But New York isn’t just about business. It’s a vibrant, global city with diverse neighborhoods, world-renowned museums, and elite educational institutions. The pace is fast, the winters are cold, but the connections and career prospects can be extraordinary.

Texas: Business-Friendly and Booming

If you’re looking for a business-friendly climate with no state income tax, Texas is worth serious consideration. Cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston are booming, with growing economies, large immigrant communities, and a relatively low cost of living.

Austin, in particular, is becoming a tech and innovation hub, drawing talent from Silicon Valley and beyond. Texas also has a strong real estate market and is often praised for its low regulatory burdens on businesses.

Florida: International Appeal and Tax Advantages

Florida combines warm weather, a lower cost of living (relative to the coasts), and no state income tax, making it an attractive destination for investors and retirees alike. Miami is a major hub for Latin American trade and finance, and it has a strong EB-5 presence thanks to its history of international investment and development.

Florida also offers a relaxed lifestyle with a focus on outdoor living, making it ideal for families and retirees alike.

Other Popular Choices

North Carolina’s Research Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) is an emerging center for biotech and research-driven industries. The area offers strong schools, affordable real estate, and a growing job market.

Colorado, with cities like Denver and Boulder, is appealing for entrepreneurs in green technology, outdoor recreation, and health-related fields. The state’s lifestyle-oriented culture and beautiful environment are a draw for young professionals and families alike.

Virginia blends family-friendly living with access to good schools, job markets, and natural beauty. Especially coastal towns offer a relaxed pace, scenic views, and a close-knit community, perfect for those who value outdoor living and quality of life. Meanwhile, areas near Washington, D.C. provide strong business networks and education options, making Virginia a well-rounded choice for EB-5 investors.

Washington state, particularly Seattle, is home to tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft. It offers a progressive environment, strong job market, and excellent public schools, making it a good match for tech-savvy investors.

Personal Considerations: Family, Education, and Lifestyle

Beyond business potential, there are deeply personal reasons that might guide your choice of city or state. If you have school-age children, education is likely a top priority. States like Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Maryland consistently rank high in public school quality, while cities like Boston are home to some of the world’s top universities.

Climate and lifestyle are also major factors. If you enjoy warm weather and coastal living, the Southeast or Southern California may appeal to you. If you prefer four distinct seasons or proximity to ski resorts, places like Colorado, Utah, or even upstate New York may be ideal.

It’s also wise to consider where you already have connections. Some investors prefer cities with existing communities from their home country, as this can ease the transition and provide cultural continuity.

The EB-5 visa is not just an immigration strategy, it’s a long-term investment in your future. Where you choose to settle can shape your social network, your children’s education, and your professional opportunities for decades.

Some investors move to the U.S. for their children’s education and plan to return home later, while others aim to establish businesses, purchase real estate, and fully integrate into American life. Either path is valid, but both benefit from thoughtful planning.

Choosing the Right Place for Your Family

The freedom to choose your home state is a major benefit of the EB-5 program. Take the time to visit a few cities before deciding, speak with other investors who have already made the move, and consult with real estate professionals or relocation experts who understand the needs of new immigrants.

The U.S. is filled with places where you can thrive as an investor and a resident. The right city for you is the one that aligns not only with your financial strategy but with your life goals.

At EB5AN, transparency is of the utmost importance to us. EB5AN has helped more than 2,700 families from 70+ countries become lawful permanent residents of the United States. Our team has more than a decade of experience and offers clients first-rate, low-risk EB-5 regional center projects with a 100% USCIS project approval rate.

If you would like to know more about your EB-5 investment options, book a free call with our expert team today.