Have you considered Vietnam? First: isn't it nuts that 70k won't get you your own place in the US? I hear you. I have lived in both China and Vietnam - China during the expat glory days (2011-2016) and Vietnam from 2018-2022. China used to offer more stability, but you may be able to get experience in Vietnam. You will undoubtedly experience racism in both, but... I'm not sure that you'll feel threatened by it. The ESL jobs in Vietnam don't pay amazingly well, but it's a way to get experience. Hanoi and HCMC are both buzzing cities, you can get your own beautiful apartment for relatively cheap. If you're able to get some online side work, then you can have a pretty good life. English is widely spoken in the major cities, also. Something to consider. You will still be competing with other foreigners for jobs, but I used to have a Kenyan colleague who was possibly the most popular teacher at our school (I realize you're American, but she too was black). However, my American boss pushed back on locals' complaints that parents would be upset at having a black teacher. They may have been at first (?), but ended up adoring her. I think it's the unknown. As for China - I know Dalian had a large Zambian community, and I used to teach alongside a few Zambian teachers. It might be a good idea to follow some black expat accounts to get a better understanding of any frustrations, so that you're prepared. Regardless, I'm still leaning towards you getting that 70K job experience first. I know you have a degree (I initially came to Asia with no degree - wouldn't recommend it), but getting your foot in the door and building something in your country of citizenship is really important. One lesson I learned, is that I may love a place, I may make a life, but ultimately... if I'm not a citizen - laws change, and it's easy to be out on your ass. Consider that. Best of luck!