10 Places To Retire In 2026: Global Retirement Index

Retirement is typically associated with more time at hand, relaxed mornings, more social engagement, and a leisurely life. Many people plan to shift their base from the hectic city life to a slow-paced life in smaller cities after they retire. 

However, some may even consider retiring overseas. The International Living’s 2026 Annual Global Retirement Index has a list of 10 destinations for retirees who think of spending their post-retirement life in another country. This annual index considers multiple factors in listing the destinations, such as healthcare, cost of living, visa formalities, affordability of housing, climate, etc., which can help retirees settle down easily.

Here is the list of these 10 places:

10. Malaysia

Penang is an island in Malaysia that offers a generous lifestyle to retirees. As English is a widely spoken language here, it is easy to integrate with the communities there. The cost of living is a primary attraction, as modern apartments in areas like Tanjung Bungah rent for approximately $900, with an average $2,200 total monthly expense for a high-quality life. 

Healthcare is also affordable, with internationally trained doctors and specialist consultations at $25. The island offers a rare balance of comfort and connections.

9. Thailand

Thailand scored 9th in the list. Thailand, which means “Land of the Free”, offers low-cost living post-retirement, starting at $1,200 per month. From Chiang Mai’s mountains to Jomtien’s beaches, modern amenities like Internet at $20 and world-class healthcare at one-third of prices compared to the cost in the US make it reasonably attractive for many retirees. 

They can thrive within diverse expat communities and various clubs, such as Rotary. This is a tropical dreamscape, spanning over subtropical and tropical zones, where everyone can find something to their taste. Building social networks and support systems is another aspect that Thailand offers to make life easy.

8. Spain

Spain offers a comfortable lifestyle for one person starting at around €1,800 per month, with public healthcare costing at around €157 monthly for those aged more than 65. In the community-focused culture, retirees in Spain can find a high-quality life at a lower cost. 

Language-wise, Spanish is the most spoken language, and while English-speaking communities thrive, learning Spanish is essential for deeper social connections. Those seeking an unhurried life are flocking to Málaga and Alicante, the coastal towns.

7. France

France serves as a peaceful retirement destination for international expats, especially in the Provençal villages or budget-friendly regions like Dordogne. Here, the language could be a challenge as the vast majority of the population speak French. Locals are welcoming to those who make efforts to learn. Here, the cost of living for a couple typically ranges between €2,121 and €3,200, with accessible healthcare and lower housing prices. A retiree settling there can find community through local festivals and expat groups to enjoy an inclusive and safe life abroad.

6. Italy

Italy remains the premier destination for retirees who seek "la dolce vita" (which means the good life). Whether it is the sunny Mediterranean charm of Palermo or the temperate climate of Parma, the country offers a diverse landscape. Living here is affordable, as the rent for one-bedroom apartments (usually fully furnished) in small villages starts at $400 per month. In Rome, Milan, or Venice, the cost is high, but affordable options are available in the nearby towns and villages.

For longer stays, retirees use the Elective Residency Visa (ERV), which is valid for one year and can be renewed annually. To obtain this visa, expats need to provide proof of a minimum passive income of $31,000 for a single person and $38,000 for a couple, a lease or property ownership, health insurance, and a few other documents.

5. Mexico

Mexico is a premier retirement destination, which offers retirees vibrant expat communities in places like San Miguel de Allende and Tulum. Retirees can live comfortably on $1,200 and extravagantly on $3,000 per month. 

Flights are cheap across the country. For instance, it costs only around $30 to go by flight from Riviera Maya to San Cristobal de las Casas. Language is not much of a barrier as English-speaking doctors are common in major hubs and health is professional. Retirees may get discounts on transport and services through the INAPAM card, but one should check it locally, too. Low taxes, affordable healthcare, and a blend of culture make Mexico an attractive destination.    

4. Portugal

Portugal offers diverse landscapes ranging from the Algarve’s sun-drenched coasts to lush northern hills. Retirees, whether they prefer mountains or the coastal region, can get both in Portugal. The climate is warm in the south year-round, but the temperature drops in the north. Expats can find community through shared interest groups, such as fitness groups, hiking groups, etc., but language may pose barriers. 

However, all essential services in the country often provide English-speaking support. Portugal ensures safety, accessible healthcare and an exceptional quality of life for retirees.

3. Costa Rica

This small country in central America is ideal for retirees seeking to live a slow life in the lap of nature. It offers a diverse landscape, from the spring-like Central Valley to the lush beaches of Guanacaste and Sámara. While speaking Spanish is beneficial to feel part of the communities, expat communities can easily be found in town groups or on social media. Cost of living is subjective, and while a person can live a comfortable life with around $1,500 a month, a couple can spend over $4,000 per month on various expenses.

2. Panama

Panama is emerging as a place for retirees seeking a vibrant lifestyle. In expat hubs like Coronado or the springlike highlands of Boquete, one can easily befriend people from the global communities through shared meals and beach outings. Retirees can find a housing apartment in the range of $150,000-250,000.

Notably, foreigners are accorded almost the same property rights as citizens. One significant benefit for retirees is a pension. However, the requirement is that your pension must be at least $1,000 a month or $1,250 combined with your spouse. Retiree residents in Panama get government-mandated discounts for almost all major aspects of life. These include 25 per cent off the power bill, 50 per cent off the movie and show tickets, 20 per cent off medical consultations, and much more.

1. Greece

Greece has claimed the top spot on the Retirement Index as expats are attracted to the country’s “siga siga” attitude of taking life slowly. From the sun-drenched olive groves of Corfu to bustling Athens, retirees can join vibrant communities to enrich their experience. Locals and foreigners can bond over potluck dinners and cultural workshops. Financial accessibility is what makes it more attractive. Couples can live comfortably on roughly €3,000 monthly, with rentals for the mainland starting at €300. English is widely spoken here, particularly by healthcare professionals. Despite Greek being the official language, English is widely spoken here.

One does not need to own a home to live in Greece, but many people prefer it due to the “relatively uncomplicated” process to get a Golden Visa and the benefits that come with it, such as visa-free access to several countries in Europe. While property buyers usually seek a Golden Visa, other retirees can apply for the Financially Independent Person permit, and remote workers can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa.