Choosing any second residence or the best country to retire in can be very daunting.
You can choose from thousands of locations as your next home, but where do you start? Here we have made it a little easier and give your our choices for the best countries to retire in the world.
What makes somewhere the best country to retire to and better than another? Is it because it is warmer, cheaper, or has more interesting things to do?
While those are valid points to consider when choosing a new home and making such a life-altering decision, some other key aspects should be considered.
Would you like to return with more money, not less? As a high net-worth individual, you have undoubtedly put a lot of work into savings and investing, so why retire with less money?
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Retirement Index
To find out which are the best countries to retire to for expats is to head to the next step – a round of evaluation – in what we call the Retirement Index.
Finding the best retirement destination is not easy. We can help narrow down your choices with our Retirement Index, which is a one-stop list of the best countries to retire based on information from trusted sources.
We cover the basics, such as cost of living, value for money, and health care, and prepare a retirement visa to give you an idea of what you will be required to have to retire there.
The best countries to retire to offer a combination of beauty, lower cost of living, and friendly people tend to draw expats from across the globe.
While many destination countries are common retirement locations, here we’re looking at three more exotic choices for you to explore.
Best Countries to Retire
While there are many considerations to make when choosing an expat destination and a country to retire in, one of the most important ones is how easy it will be to live there once you’ve arrived.
The new International Living Quality of Life Survey rates some of the best countries for retirees using a scoring system that measures various factors that play a major role in determining the quality of life.
International Living Factors
- The ease of purchasing and owning real estate, as well as the value of Property Investments
One of the most important considerations when planning a retirement abroad is the suitability of the property market in that location.
But another often overlooked criterion is the cost, legal and administrative procedures to own real estate.
The options are unlimited.
With the real estate boom in recent years, property investing has become more popular than ever before. As such, you can find plenty of places to choose from.
There are quite a few nations that welcome retirees with open arms and a warm tropical climate.
- Discounts and benefits on things like healthcare and entertainment
Within the best countries to retire, you can find cheaper places to stay and lots of deals on food, clothing, and entertainment.
What’s more, many countries offer discounts and benefits on things like access to healthcare and public transportation passes.
- Renting costs
There is a lot of expense involved in retiring, including renting costs, health care facilities, and ambulance services, just to name a few.
These different expenses can quickly add up to a big dent in your pension at the end of the year.
You can write down your desired country and then compare rent, health care facilities, etc. You should have all this data in front of you before making a decision on which is the best country to retire in the world for your needs.
- Residency and visa requirements
Although the idea of retiring in an exotic location overseas is enticing to many, actually pulling off such a venture requires careful planning and research. US citizens who want to retire abroad need to understand if they are free to stay in their chosen countries.
You also need to check on living costs, climate, ease of travel, and whether you meet each country’s residency and visa requirements.
Then arrange your finances to make the move work. Apply for your social security benefits before you leave the country, as well as choose a retirement income source that won’t be affected by international taxes or currency exchange rates.
- Climate
Living abroad is a fantastic and adventurous way to see the world and experience new cultures.
Depending on your plans, the type of climate you prefer will be important when choosing the best country to retire in – remember those warm weather destinations may cost more to live in year-round.
- Living expenses
If you are thinking of retiring in a country different from where you were born, there are many things to weigh up.
The cost of living plays a significant role in your decision, as having adequate funds and living comfortably is paramount.
Fine weather, good medical care, and the ability to move around easily are also important in the best countries to retire.
- How easy it is to fit in and make friends
If you’re venturing abroad, the ideal country will be the one where you can enjoy an excellent standard of living while still fitting in with the locals.
If easygoingness is your top priority, looking for inexpensive countries is better.
- The political situation in the country is stable
The factors that constitute an attractive environment for retiring expats are good healthcare, a strong economy with low unemployment rates, stable political situations, and a low crime rate.
The annual Numbeo surveys on quality of life in countries provide a reliable estimation of the safety of living in different parts of the world.
- Amenities and entertainment
Another important factor when choosing a location for our retirement is the atmosphere and leisure activities available.
Most people choose to live in small villages or suburbs, but some prefer living in a city that has a large community.
- Living a healthy lifestyle
Living a healthy lifestyle is the most important aspect of retiring in any country.
We have considered this, and the best countries to retire in this list fall under this category.
- Infrastructure and development
If you are thinking about retiring abroad, also consider the infrastructure that the country offers.
The countries in this list offer solid economic and political systems, are reasonably close to each other, and have fairly similar levels of economic development.
Each country is unique, but you will also find similarities between these three choices of the best place to retire in the world.
Introducing Latin America
Perfect weather, great medical care, tasty food, and a fun lifestyle are increasingly available in countries throughout Central and South America.
Retiring abroad comes with many benefits, and they are easily realized in this part of the world.
Part of this is due to the influence of colonial counterparts, as they took many cultural cues from Europe while still maintaining that distinct Latin flair and language.
These countries also have vibrant people who enjoy a good time.
Combine these characteristics with safety, affordability, friendliness, and comfort, and you’ve got a recipe for an unforgettable retirement.
Why Central America and South America are Perfect for American Retirees
- Unique lifestyle choices
From climate to culture, the Latin American region has something for everyone.
It’s one of the happiest places in the world, and there’s no wonder.
The region is a melting pot of different ethnic groups and cultures. With diversity comes creativity, and the people of Latin America are known for their love of life and contagious spirit.
- Amazing culture
The culture of Latin America is as diverse as its countries.
While the stereotype of Latin people living in a hut by an old mango tree might not be accurate, there are still huge cultural differences between South American countries.
We’ve selected some of the best expat destinations according to our personal experience and statistics we found during our research.
The Three Best Expat Countries for Retiring Abroad
1. Costa Rica
If you are looking to retire abroad and need a place that is both affordable and enjoyable, then Costa Rica might be the best country to retire for you.
After all, it’s hard to beat Costa Rica when it comes to beautiful beaches (overlooking both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea), delicious fruit and coffee, and year-round warm weather.
The democratic country has one of the top healthcare systems in Latin America, according to the World Health Organization. Better than a lot of countries in Western Europe.
- Low Cost of Living
Costa Rica is one of the most popular countries to retire due to its low cost of living, tropical climate, and gorgeous ocean views.
If you’re looking for an expat retirement destination, consider places like Costa Rica or Panama.
- Incredible spot for vacation
As a tourist, Costa Rica offers an incredible vacation. The country’s beauty entices, its people warm the heart, and its adventure opportunities satisfy the mind and body. But Costa Rica also has more to offer than just a tropical vacation getaway.
It has become a desirable place for retirees worldwide due to its affordable cost of living, healthy lifestyle, and top-notch medical facilities.
With a low cost of living and excellent health care — not to mention the fresh air, sunshine, and natural beauty — it is no wonder many expats want to retire in Costa Rica.
- Natural beauty and healthcare
Costa Rica is a dream destination for many. This laid-back country is known for its natural beauty and its pleasant atmosphere. But there is even more to it than that.
While Costa Rica has all kinds of delights to offer, one of the most enticing reasons to retire here is the country’s universal healthcare system, which is among the best in the world.
- Ideal Retirement Locale
Are you tired of the suburbs? Looking for a spot to put down roots in a place where English is the primary language and life moves at a slower pace?
Perhaps it’s time to consider Costa Rica as the ideal retirement location.
The Central American nation is among the most welcoming countries for foreign retirees in the world today, offering perks like hassle-free residence programs with little red tape, a stable democracy, a relatively low cost of living, and universal healthcare.
2. Ecuador
For a long and happy retirement, you want to retire in the best possible place. In that regard, Ecuador might be just what the doctor ordered.
The first South American country to join OPEC, this nation of 16 million people with two distinct equatorial regions is blessed with lots of sun year-round.
- Budget-Friendly
Ecuador is a great budget-friendly country to retire to. Its capital city, Quito, has been named the Andes Capital of Culture and Don Juan Shopping City.
Enjoy visits to major must-see locations like Old Town Centro Histórico, La Compañía de Jesús Cathedral, and the impressive Quito Artisan Market.
By visiting Ecuador today, you’ll be one step closer to living life like a local.
- Gorgeous and Affordable
Ecuador is a gorgeous and extremely affordable location to retire abroad.
This nation of sixteen million inhabitants is situated on northern South America’s west coast, just on the border of Colombia.
Ecuador offers the opportunity to enjoy a picturesque and incredibly biodiverse area that incorporates the Galapagos Islands, part of the Andes Mountain range, tropical rainforests, and beaches. Many retirees choose to live in Quito, Ecuador’s capital city.
- Exotic Places to Visit
This modern city features exquisite parks, churches, and various styles of architecture. Retirees and expats should find Quito easy to grow accustomed to.
The diverse country has a variety of activities ranging from horseback riding to golfing.
- Artisanal culture and Healthcare Facilities
Ecuador’s famous Galapagos Islands are a paradise for adventurers and sun-seekers alike.
But the country has so much more to offer, including a multitude of opportunities to immerse yourself in local artisanal culture.
The capital city Quito offers plenty of interesting historical sites and the opportunity to participate in weekly street festivals. The country is also home to a sophisticated healthcare system funded in part by insurance premiums and medical tourism.
3. Panama
Panama is a small country well-known by many as a great retirement location. The climate is ideal, and you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round.
Other attractions include its fascinating wildlife, including howler monkeys and parrots, and the tropical flora, from palm trees to flowering grounds.
- Climate
If you love warm, sunny weather, then Panama might be the best country to retire for you. There’s plenty to see and do—from beautiful beaches to amazing rainforests.
Low-cost healthcare, affordable housing, and all kinds of inexpensive travel opportunities make Panama an excellent place for retirees and anyone else seeking a more peaceful pace of life.
- Freedom of Living Independently
In Panama, you’ll enjoy the freedom of living independently in a beautiful tropical location without harsh winters.
Its weather is comfortable year-round, with ocean breezes keeping it from getting too hot, so you can enjoy all that this country has to offer.
- Ideal for Expats
Panama is one of the best countries to retire to for expats. Here, accommodations and transportation are cheap, access to Western-trained healthcare is fantastic, and entertainment is abundant.
There are also plenty of retiree benefits in Panama City and all over the country that make your new life completely stress-free.
- Ideal Retirement Locale
Panama has a booming expat population, and for good reason. When you retire here, you are treated to discounts for entertainment, airfare, local transportation, and hotel stays.
Panama is also home to Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá, offering some of the most popular courses that allow you to earn an MBA while enjoying the benefits of living in Panama.
- Land of Serenity
Panama is truly a land of serenity and great weather.
Most retirees enjoy the ability to work part-time and get by on a pension or Social Security income.
- Safety and Low-Tax
Real estate taxes are extremely low in comparison to other countries.
Panama is also one of the safest countries in Latin America, with low crime and hardly any natural disaster threats.
Residence Permits Can Lead to Citizenship
The dream lifestyle is waiting for you in one of the best countries to retire in the world. In some countries, you can become a citizen within weeks or months.
What are the top expat retirement destinations?
Many nomads head for countries with a low cost of living and great weather, such as Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Panama.
Others find that their dream is within reach in a Western European country. In Malta, Spain, Portugal, and Greece (where a lot of UNESCO World Heritage Sites are), residency permits can lead to citizenship within a few years or months.
The costs of living in many of these countries may not be cheap, but if you’ve already chosen to retire abroad, then it is the perfect time for long-term planning.
At Nomad Capitalist, we have helped clients obtain citizenship in 28+ countries. Become a client today, and we will create a holistic plan that will help you keep more of your wealth and retire where you are treated best.
