The Disruptive Long-Term Costs of International Migration on Subjective Well-Being

Gabriel Rodríguez-Puello (), Leonidas Hernandez, Diana Romero-Espinosa and Francisco Rowe
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Gabriel Rodríguez-Puello: Jönköping University
Leonidas Hernandez: Universidad Católica del Norte
Diana Romero-Espinosa: Corporación Universidad de la Costa
Francisco Rowe: University of Liverpool
Authors registered in the RePEc Author Service: Gabriel Rodríguez-Puello

Journal of Happiness Studies, 2025, vol. 26, issue 6, No 6, 29 pages

Abstract: Abstract People often move internationally to improve their personal situation. Yet, integration into the host society can be challenging and have negative immediate consequences on individuals’ well-being. This paper explores the relationship between international migration and subjective well-being for a sample of European individuals. We use an instrumental variable panel data approach to estimate the monetary cost of individuals’ well-being post-migration. Specifically, we estimate the average cost an individual is willing to bear to accept the potential negative effects of international migration on their well-being. Our results reveal a negative relationship between international migration and subjective well-being. Our estimates suggest that an average migrant is willing to accept an increase of EUR 1164 (roughly USD$1605) in their monthly overall income to migrate across international borders and endure a negative impact on their well-being as captured by their level of life satisfaction. This negative association is particularly pronounced the more years since migration and among those from lower-middle-income countries. Our work highlights the importance of studying the determinants of well-being for individuals and contributes evidence to inform policies seeking to improve the local conditions of recent migrants and their adaptation to the new environment.

Keywords: International migration; Europe; Subjective well-being; Willingness to accept (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Working Paper: The disruptive long-term costs of international migration on subjective well-being (2024)
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DOI: 10.1007/s10902-025-00916-1

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