What retirement is like in 50 places around the world

The stable democracy, affordable health care, low cost of living and tropical climate of Costa Rica make it an especially attractive destination for retirees. The average cost of retiring in the Central American country is certainly affordable, around $1,500 per month or $18,000 a year, and programs like the Pensionado Program, which requires expat retirees to have at least $1,000 of monthly income from a retirement account or pension program, make obtaining the necessary paperwork easier. After arrival, retirees stay busy spending time outdoors, doing everything from hiking to horseback riding to scuba diving to yoga.

Canada strikes a balance between quality of life and cost of living, something that makes it one of the top 15 places to live in the world, according to a United Nations Human Development Report. For American retirees, Canada’s proximity to their home country, universal health care system, and Old Age Security Pension (which any Canada resident is eligible for, even if they never worked in the country) are major draws. Those who move north have plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities, like hiking, camping, and skiing.

Japan ranks among the top 10 countries in the world with the highest cost of living, according to the World Population Review, which is not good news for those interested in retiring to the island nation. Enjoyment of the scenic beauty, rich cultural history, and fast-paced cities comes at a cost that many simply cannot afford. For those who can afford it, and who can wait through the visa process, learn Japanese with some fluency, and acclimate to the customs, retirement here could be enjoyable because of the great health care system and the country’s overall respect and reverence for elders.

While Spain is far from the most affordable destination on this list, it is one of the cheapest countries for retirees in western Europe. The Mediterranean climate, rich culture, impressive art scene, and overall safety are major draws for those looking to spend their retirement abroad. A standard visa doesn’t allow retirees to work in the country, but it does allow them to enter and exit as they please, meaning they can take advantage of Spain’s location and easily explore other parts of Europe.

Nicaragua has a retiree benefit program: The plan, intended to encourage foreign nationals to retire in the country, includes incentives like paying no taxes on out-of-country earnings, the ability to bring up to $20,000 of household goods duty-free, and the opportunity to open a local bank account, buy items on credit, and obtain a Nicaraguan phone plan. The country's low cost of living and the draw of the colonial, coastal towns, makes this one of the most attractive countries on the list for retirees.

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A mere 20 years ago, Colombia wasn’t making any “best places to retire” lists thanks to its high crime rate and corrupt government. These days, new safety policies, implemented in 2006, have made the country far safer, and the infrastructure has increased so dramatically that in 2015 the health care system was ranked higher than those in the United States and Canada by the World Health Organization. A beautiful, diverse country, Colombia’s cost of living is between $1,000 and $2,000 a month, and its location makes travel within South America cheap and easy.

If you’re looking to retire somewhere tropical but not too far from home, consider Panama. The developing country has many benefits (like excellent health care) at a much lower cost than in the United States. Savvy retirees can live well on $1,600 a month or less while still doing things like renting a nice home, visiting beach resorts, and playing golf. A large part of what makes retirement affordable in Panama is the resident retiree program, which offers discounts on everything from entertainment to medications and plane tickets for seniors who have established residency in the country.

With one of the oldest populations in the western hemisphere, Sweden might provide an attractive option for some retirees, especially when it comes to finding a community. Although the country’s population is on the older side, it doesn’t mean they’re idle—in fact, outdoor activities and cultural engagement are hallmarks of life. According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Sweden is slightly lower than in the United States, which would help retirees stretch their savings.

One thing many people seek in a retirement location is a place that provides first-class living at a lower cost. In that department, Chile delivers. With one of the highest standards of living in Latin America (drinkable water, reliable transportation, good health care, modern infrastructure), Chile isn’t the most affordable country in South America, but it certainly isn’t the most expensive, either. Also, residency is easy to establish and Americans don’t need a visa to enter the country.

Close to the equator, Malaysia is hot and humid for a large chunk of the year, which certainly isn't for everyone. But those who don't mind the weather can spend their golden years in a country that's been described as "paradise on a budget." With plenty of unexplored wilderness in the highlands, gorgeous coastal communities, and bustling city life, there's a huge variety within the bounds of the country, and expats from all over the world have chosen to make Malaysia their home. American expats can apply for a "Malaysia My 2nd Home Program," a 10-year, multiple-entry visa that affords them tax breaks, making settling down in the already cheap country an extra attractive option.

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Portugal has become an increasingly popular retirement destination in recent years thanks to favorable tax conditions for foreign retirees and the low cost of living in the Algarve region ($1,500 to $2,000 a month). While expat retirees won’t be able to claim a state pension in Portugal without having contributed to social security for at least 15 years, they’ll be able to enjoy a slower pace of life along beautiful beaches and have easy access to a host of popular tourist destinations, like the granite boulder village of Monsanto. Finally, retirees who become residents of the country will have access to the free national health care service, the Servico Nacional de Saude.

Nestled in central Europe, Slovenia is a small Slavic country that offers many activities for retirees. There are six golf courses, 50 ski areas, a wine region, three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and numerous casinos all within an hour’s drive of the country’s capital. A low crime rate and cost of living (a couple can live comfortably for $1,500 a month), as well as top-notch infrastructure, round out the benefits of retirement in this Old World country.

Malta is another retirement destination that’s often overlooked. The sunny, historic island country is a short flight from both mainland Europe and northern Africa. With an average of 265 sunny days a year, the country has been a hot destination for expat retirees since the 1960s. Retirees can partake of water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and yachting; because of the country’s warm climate, beaches are usable from early spring to late fall.

Retirement in Thailand can be a bit of a culture shock, especially for American expats. The language, cultural customs, and abundance of wildlife in the tropical country are wildly different from what many are accustomed to. That being said, those looking to shake it up in retirement are sure to enjoy the country and its bustling cities—especially when they realize the cost of living in Thailand is about 30% to 40% cheaper than the cost of living in the United States.

About twice the size of Texas, Peru is a small but welcoming country. Peru has a tradition of warm hospitality toward foreigners, sharing traditions from indigenous cultures and world-renowned cuisine with those who settle in its colonial towns and modern metropolises. Obtaining a resident visa is relatively easy, and a couple can live on $1,500 or less a month, leaving plenty of financial power to explore undiscovered beaches, hike the Andes, and visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Machu Picchu.

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After the Investor Retirement Visa was abolished in 2018, retiring in Australia became a more complicated affair for expats. Those who can wrangle a visa through other channels (like blood or marriage ties to the country) can enjoy mild climates, as well as an English-speaking, immigrant-welcoming culture. Life in Australia is similar to U.S. life, albeit slightly more expensive, so most retirees would find adjusting to their new home easy.

France is not a retirement destination for those looking to enjoy their golden years on a shoestring budget; the cost of living in the country is, on average, 3.8% higher than that of the United States. Retirees who choose to live in major cities like Paris, Bordeaux, or Aix-en-Provence can enjoy an expat-friendly culture, with tons of free or low-cost activities. Locals may spend their spare time strolling through museums, whiling away an afternoon in a public park, or visiting a historical monument. There is no retiree visa system in France, but obtaining a long-term residency visa can be done easily.

Located in Southeast Asia, Cambodia’s tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and stunning temples provide a powerful pull for retirees looking for a totally different experience as they enter the next stage of their lives. Even better, it all comes quite cheaply. In 2019, International Living ranked it the cheapest country for retirees for the fourth time. An individual could live comfortably on $1,250 a month, while a couple would only need $2,000 a month.

Retirement in Italy can look different depending on where you choose to go. For example, retirement in Milan or Rome can be prohibitively expensive but can provide the bustle and cultural richness of a major global city. Meanwhile, the countryside moves at a much slower pace so retirement comes at a more affordable price. Aside from an abundance of good wine and fresh pasta, one thing all retirees in the country can benefit from is the health care system, which has been ranked as one of the best in the world by World Population Review.

For those looking to live abroad without the hassle of learning a new language, Belize is a solid option. Formerly a British colony, the country's primary language is English, and the U.S. dollar is accepted as a form of currency. Belize has a reputation as a party country, its health care system isn't modern, and Western cultural offerings (like theater and opera) are limited. If you have serious health care needs or want a quiet place to retire, Belize likely would not be your first choice.

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Individuals who’d like to own their own home (or castle) in retirement should consider moving to Prague, Czech Republic. Real estate prices are significantly lower in this melting pot of a country than they are in other popular areas of Europe. Retirees looking to enjoy this one-of-a-kind culture and its 2,000 castles, won’t be able to apply for a retirement visa since the country doesn’t have one, but long-term stay visas are permitted in certain situations.

A laid-back country that boasts miles of well-maintained beaches, Uruguay is a dream destination for those looking to slow down in retirement. The country boasts low crime rates and poverty levels, strong infrastructure, and a moderate climate that allows for plenty of outdoor activity. However, Uruguay is more expensive than other countries in South America, and retirees would need an average income of $2,000 a month to live comfortably in any of the country’s major cities.

For those without blood or marital connections to India, gaining the right to retire in the country can prove difficult. India has set up several barriers for non-Indian citizens, making tourist, employment, and business visas the only options for long-term, legal stays. However, if you can find your way around the legal hurdles, retirement in India can be a cheap option, with $1,000 a month allowing you to live comfortably.

A popular country for American retirees living abroad, people are drawn to the country’s spirit, modernism, and abundance of recreational activities, which include everything from hiking to spending an afternoon in a beer garden. Health care in the country is good, albeit expensive, and the overall cost of living is similar to that in the United States. Learning some German would be essential, especially if you choose to live outside major cities like Berlin.

New Zealand offers a temporary retirement visa for seniors 66 and older, which allows them to stay in the country for up to two years as long as they meet certain income requirements. Those who move to the country on this visa will almost certainly want to stay longer, after falling in love with New Zealand's natural beauty, opportunities for adventure, and commitment to leisure. Be warned, though—a substantial nest egg will be required to live here, as the cost of living is quite high.

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Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world, making retirement here not a cheap option. However, those with the finances to fund a retirement here will enjoy low tax rates that allow them to keep more money in their pockets for adventures. Retirees in Switzerland may enjoy plenty of winter sports, from downhill skiing to snowshoeing, as well as beautiful hiking trails and boating adventures, and can feel comfortable knowing they’re doing it all in one of the safest countries in the world.

Ranked as one of the best countries in the world in which to live, one of the most peaceful countries in the world, and one of the cleanest countries in the world, Iceland makes an excellent retirement destination. The fair cost of living, low-cost doctor visits (averaging at $50 even for non-residents), and the abundance of national parks featuring jaw-dropping waterfalls and active volcanoes, are just some of the country’s biggest draws. The growing art scene also makes Iceland a choice destination for expat retirees looking to stay creative in this phase of their lives.

Sitting south of the equator, Bolivia’s seasons run in reverse, with summer falling between November and March. Because of this, the South American country would make a great option for retirees looking for somewhere to live during the colder months in the United States. The visa system makes it difficult for Americans to live there permanently, but snowbirds can certainly use a 90-day visitor visa to stay during U.S. winters while saving a bit of money thanks to the low cost of living. Just be aware that Bolivia is one of two landlocked countries in South America, so hitting a beach during your time here won’t be an option.

With an average of 150 days of rain each year, Ireland is not a country for those who prefer sunny climates, but it might be a great fit for homebodies. Dublin is an expensive option for foreigners, with average rents hovering around $1,800, but rural areas can be much more affordable. Those who choose to live in the countryside don’t need to worry about getting to major cities, either. Ireland offers free public transportation for all permanent residents over age 66.

While Ecuador might not have the tropical climate or Western culture of many of the other countries on this list, it does provide one thing many other places don't: a way to really stretch your nest egg. The cost of retirement in Ecuador is one of the lowest in the world, with an average couple spending as little as $1,200 a month (the upper end of the average cost of living in the country caps out at $2,400 a month). The country also offers plenty of exciting activities, from hiking in the Andes, to exploring the nature reserves on the Galapagos Islands, to exploring the rainforest.

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Condé Nast Traveler ranked Cape Town, South Africa, as one of the most beautiful cities in the world in 2019. Nestled between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, the “Mother City” offers all kinds of outdoor activities, as well as a burgeoning theater scene. According to Numbeo, the city’s cost of living is affordable, with average expenses totaling just under $550 per month, excluding rent.

Another one of Condé Nast Traveler’s most beautiful cities, Budapest, Hungary, has a lot to offer to foreign retirees. Public parks, museums, castles, restaurants, and nightlife add color to the capital city’s elegant backdrop and provide retirees with plenty of options to fill their time. While not the cheapest European city, Budapest is also far from the most expensive, costing retirees, on average, $550 a month before rent.

Poland doesn’t exactly have a calm political environment or history, but that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t make a great choice for retirees looking to wind down in a European country with Old World charm. The eastern European country is cheaper than many of its western counterparts, and expats will have their choice of dense, castle-filled cities or quiet, idyllic villages. The food is delicious, the history is abundant, and the country’s public transportation will take you anywhere you want to go, so you likely won’t need a car.

Copenhagen, Denmark, has grown from a small fishing village to a thriving global city since its founding in the mid-1100s. Home to some of the happiest and coziest people in the world, Copenhagen offers a high quality of life with an emphasis on physical health and community. The high cost of living is on par with Paris, but many find the culture worth the money as they settle into their post-work daily life.

The largest country in the world, Russia offers almost every type of retirement imaginable, from the quiet countryside to the bustling hubbub of Moscow. The lifestyle options don't come cheap—experts recommend a monthly budget of at least $3,000 to live comfortably—and state-run health care is often slow and low quality. The country is family- and community-focused, is home to some of the greatest art in the world, and hosts a huge number of festivals year-round that provide a variety of free or low-cost entertainment.

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The crossroads between the East and the West, Serbia is a small, landlocked country known for its enduring traditional culture and beautiful landscapes. Expected to join the EU by 2027, Serbia is still cheaper than many current EU members but has the same safety, security, and infrastructure standards as those countries. The country is affordable, growing, and community-oriented, making it a great choice for retirees looking to find a new home in Europe.

Morocco’s culture is a mix of western Europe and northern Africa, giving the country a truly original feel. Much of the country still lives according to Old World traditions. For example, Morocco is governed by a monarch and the country’s customs remain conservative. In fact, the vast majority of locals practice Islam, meaning holidays like Ramadan are celebrated by the entire country, and LGBTQ+ retirees may not find the country welcoming to their lifestyles. However, the low cost of living and varied landscapes (from mountains to deserts to beaches) are points in favor of retiring in the African country.

Buenos Aires, Argentina, is often described as “the Paris of South America,” as it is rich in history, culture, and art. English is widely spoken in the city, and the cost of living is low, making it easy to enjoy the bars, restaurants, and outdoor markets that dot the most vibrant districts. The country had been suffering through an economic downturn until 2015, and while it is now on the upswing it can still be difficult and expensive to obtain certain things.

The largest country in the southern hemisphere, Brazil is known for its free-spirited, laid-back culture, making it a great place for retirees who don’t take life too seriously. The average cost of living in the Portuguese-speaking country is almost half that of the United States, with fluctuations depending on where you choose to live. Crime rates are higher in Brazil than in the United States, although the government is currently taking steps to crack down on crime. After obtaining a retiree visa, new residents can begin enjoying the country’s 5,000 miles of beaches, untouched rainforests, and outdoor-loving culture.

While the cost of retiring in London proper might be out of reach for the average retiree, places like Bath can provide the traditional English experience at a more affordable price. Bath is 90 minutes from London and offers an abundance of open, green spaces, while still allowing you to be relatively close to the culture and hubbub of the big city. One thing for retirees to consider before they move is how the U.K.'s current political situation (aka a no-deal Brexit) could affect their futures and cost of living.

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Sri Lanka is a great retirement location for those looking to take a small step outside their comfort zone. English is a requirement in the country’s school system, which will make communication easier elsewhere. The Sri Lanka My Dream Home Visa Programme allows foreign national retirees to stay for two years and provides several other benefits. Retirees will find that day-to-day living is quite a bit cheaper than living in the United States, so they will have the money for outdoor activities like swimming, sailing, and kayaking.

Taiwan provides retirees a mix of high-tech, hyperefficient, and ultra-traditional living. The independent state’s capital, Taipei, is safe, clean, and boasts a plethora of public amenities, like a rapid mass transit system that could appeal to retirees who don’t want to use a car. Taiwan is significantly cheaper than other popular destinations in the region, like Hong Kong and Singapore, as well as 15.41% less expensive than the United States.

Seoul, South Korea, is home to over 10 million people, making it one of the largest capital cities in the world. As a result, Seoul is not a particularly cheap place to live, and retirees who want to be comfortable should plan to spend between $2,000 and $4,000 a month, but it does provide plenty to do. Outside city limits, plenty of retirees enjoy visiting the country’s natural hot springs, exploring eastern medicine, and forest bathing.

Retirees can enjoy the hot summers and mild winters of Greece for 18% less than what it would cost to retire in the average American city. Obtaining residence in the country requires that you live there, so retirees seeking to make the country their permanent residence would first need to obtain a temporary visa. Once you’re a resident of the country, you can apply for local health care, which tends to be significantly cheaper than U.S. health insurance. In your downtime, you can take day trips to picturesque islands, visit historical landmarks like the Acropolis of Athens, or relax on a sandy beach.

When it comes to retirement in Egypt, Cairo is the place to be. With a large expat community and the fact that English is widely spoken, the city can provide a familiar home base for adventure-seeking retirees. It's important for transplants to have a basic grasp of Arabic and respect for the country's conservative Islamic customs, so Egypt would not be a great fit for those who want to live exactly as they did in the United States. The low cost of living and the opportunity to visit the major landmarks in one of the world's oldest cultures attract a significant number of foreign retirees each year.

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Vietnam is renowned for its beauty, cuisine, and cost of living that’s 46.46% cheaper than the average American city. However, moving to the southeast Asian country isn’t for the faint of heart. English isn’t commonly spoken, Vietnamese can prove challenging to learn, pollution and overpopulation are rampant in major cities, and the quality of health care is well below the standard Americans are used to. In addition, the country doesn’t offer any long-term visa options for retirees, meaning they must find time between island hopping and temple wandering to renew visas every one to three months.

The Dominican Republic is one of the most popular vacation destinations for U.S. travelers. Those who want their retirement to feel like one, long holiday full of beach time and sunshine, may consider moving to the island, especially as the two-step residency process is relatively easy. Of course, there are downsides to the move—crime rates are not particularly low and blackouts are frequent—but the substantially lower cost of living makes these inconveniences worth it for many.

Many Americans have reported that the bureaucracy in Croatia, and the country’s current lack of an appropriate visa program, make it difficult to obtain the necessary approval to stay long term. On the other hand, the country offers a safe, affordable culture with great private health care, and a thriving food and wine scene for retirees who manage to find a way to remain in the country.

Located in central Europe, Austria’s culture is heavy with German influences. The high standard of living in the country makes the cost of living unaffordable for many retirees, but the overall safety of the country and the strength of the health care system make the cost worth it for those who do choose to live here. Austria is the winter sports capital of Europe, so there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy during the colder months, while museums, cultural events, and art can fill the summer months.

Mexico consistently earns a spot on lists of the "best places in the world to retire." The country's high ranking might be because of its warm climate, the real estate developments built with U.S. retirees in mind, health care costs that are half of what you might expect to pay in the United States, or the low cost of living, which averages between $1,500 and $3,000 a month per couple. Millions of expat retirees enjoy beach time, bustling city life, and cosmopolitan cultural activities all over Mexico.

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