TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - More Americans are looking beyond the United States for the best places to retire as rising living expenses and political uncertainty reshape their plans. Evaluating living expenses, healthcare, residency pathways, climate resilience, and overall quality of life, Forbes identified the world's best places to retire abroad in 2026.
More than 712,000 Americans were receiving Social Security benefits abroad at the end of 2024, up 20 percent over the past 13 years. As more retirees consider overseas living, key factors extend beyond affordability to include healthcare, taxation, safety, climate risks, accessibility, and long-term residency options.
The following destinations were selected based on those considerations, offering a balance of affordability, healthcare, lifestyle, and residency opportunities, according to Forbes.
Top 24 Best Places to Retire Abroad in 2026
1. Albania
Albania has rapidly emerged as one of Europe's most affordable retirement destinations. Situated along the Adriatic Sea opposite Italy, the Balkan nation combines Mediterranean beaches, mountain scenery, and living costs roughly half those in the United States.
Political stability has improved significantly since the country joined NATO, while everyday expenses remain among Europe's lowest. Although healthcare is still developing, private medical care is inexpensive by U.S. standards, and many retirees supplement it with specialist treatment in nearby Italy.
Locations: Tirana, Durrës, Sarandë, Vlorë
Living Costs: Far lower than U.S. average
Healthcare: Adequate, but getting better
Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy
American retirees may stay in Albania for up to one year as tourists before applying for longer-term residency. Digital nomad permits and long-stay visas provide accessible pathways toward retirement residency, making Albania one of Europe's easiest countries for Americans seeking a permanent move.
2. Argentina
Argentina offers retirees spectacular scenery, European-inspired architecture, world-renowned wine regions, and living costs that remain about half those in the United States.
Healthcare is considered among the best in South America, particularly in larger cities, while relatively low costs make private insurance affordable. Although knowledge of Spanish is highly beneficial, many expatriates find the country's vibrant culture and relaxed lifestyle rewarding.
Locations: Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Mendoza, Rosario
Living Costs: Far lower than U.S. average
Healthcare: Good
Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy, but strict rules
Renewable retirement visas are available for applicants who can demonstrate sufficient retirement income. Combined with favorable treatment of foreign pension income, Argentina remains one of South America's most attractive retirement destinations.
3. Austria
Austria offers retirees exceptional public services, outstanding healthcare, stunning Alpine scenery, and one of Europe's richest cultural environments.
Although overall living costs are similar to those in the United States, lower healthcare and housing expenses outside major cities help offset higher food and restaurant prices.
Locations: Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, Salzburg
Living Costs: Overall, about the same as U.S.
Healthcare: Excellent
Gaining Right to Stay: Difficult but doable, and must speak some German
Retirees seeking long-term residency must demonstrate substantial retirement income and basic German-language proficiency. While obtaining residency requires patience and careful preparation, Austria rewards successful applicants with excellent healthcare, safety, and quality of life.
4. Belize
Belize remains a favorite among American retirees thanks to its English-speaking population, Caribbean lifestyle, and close proximity to the United States.
Retirees enjoy barrier reefs, tropical beaches, boating, fishing, and a relaxed pace of life while spending considerably less than they would in the U.S.
Locations: Ambergris Caye, Corozal, Caye Caulker, Placencia
Living Costs: Considerably less than U.S. average
Healthcare: Basic
Gaining Right to Stay: Very easy
Belize's Qualified Retirement Program offers one of the world's simplest retirement residency schemes, requiring relatively modest annual income while exempting foreign income from local taxation. Many retirees continue returning to the United States for major medical treatment because of Belize's limited healthcare infrastructure.
5. Canada
Canada remains an attractive option for retirees seeking familiar culture, English-speaking communities, and close access to family in the United States.
Recent citizenship reforms have also made it significantly easier for Americans with Canadian ancestry to qualify for citizenship and permanent residency.
Locations: Calgary, Moncton, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Victoria
Living Costs: Slightly less than U.S. average
Healthcare: Good and affordable, plus Medicare option
Gaining Right to Stay: Easy if a descendant of a Canadian, plus six-month stays available
For retirees without Canadian ancestry, permanent immigration remains challenging. However, Americans may spend up to six months annually in Canada, making seasonal retirement a practical alternative while maintaining access to healthcare in the United States.
6. Colombia
Colombia has transformed itself into one of Latin America's most attractive retirement destinations.
Once associated with drug violence, today's Colombia offers pleasant mountain climates, affordable living, excellent healthcare, and vibrant cities that attract a growing international retirement community.
Locations: Bogota, Cartagena, Medellin, Pereira
Living Costs: Much less than U.S. average
Healthcare: Excellent
Gaining Right to Stay: Easy
Retirement visas are relatively straightforward for Americans with stable pension income. Combined with healthcare costs far below U.S. levels and diverse climates ranging from beaches to cool mountain cities, Colombia offers retirees considerable value.
7. Costa Rica
Costa Rica has long ranked among the world's premier retirement destinations thanks to its tropical biodiversity, political stability, excellent healthcare, and welcoming expatriate communities.
Its Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, combined with cooler mountain towns, provide retirees with diverse lifestyle choices.
Locations: San José, Central Valley, Atenas, Santa Cruz
Living Costs: Significantly less than U.S. average
Healthcare: Excellent
Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy
Costa Rica's Pensionado residency program remains one of the easiest retirement pathways in Latin America. Qualified retirees can eventually participate in the country's respected public healthcare system while enjoying living costs significantly below those in the United States.
8. Cyprus
Cyprus combines Mediterranean sunshine, English-speaking communities, affordable healthcare, and attractive tax policies for foreign retirees.
Its strategic location at the eastern end of the Mediterranean also makes it an appealing base for exploring Europe and the Middle East.
Locations: Limassol, Paphos, Pyrgos Village, Larnaca
Living Costs: One-third less than U.S. average
Healthcare: Good and retirees can qualify for public healthcare system
Gaining Right to Stay: Moderately easy
Retirees commonly begin with the Category F residency permit, demonstrating sufficient retirement income before progressing toward permanent residency. Combined with relatively low living costs and widespread English usage, Cyprus continues attracting retirees from around the world.
9. France
France remains one of Europe's most desirable retirement destinations thanks to its renowned cuisine, rich cultural heritage, excellent public services, and high-quality healthcare. Although living costs vary significantly by region, retirees who settle outside Paris can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at noticeably lower costs than in many parts of the United States.
Locations: Paris, Lyon, Nice, Pau
Living Costs: Outside of Paris, noticeably less than in the U.S.
Healthcare: Excellent and affordable
Gaining Right to Stay: Difficult but doable
Healthcare is one of France's biggest attractions. Medical services are considered among the world's best and remain relatively inexpensive compared with U.S. standards. Expats may access healthcare through private insurance or, in some cases, France's universal PUMA healthcare system.
France also offers lower crime rates than the United States, although retirees should prepare for higher personal income taxes. A long-standing tax treaty between France and the U.S. helps prevent double taxation, while U.S.-sourced Social Security, pensions, and investment income generally receive favorable tax treatment.
Retirees typically apply for a renewable VLS-TS Long-Stay Visitor Visa, although professional assistance is often recommended because of the paperwork involved. Couples generally need to demonstrate around US$37,000 in annual retirement income.
10. Greece
Blessed with thousands of islands, Mediterranean weather, and centuries of history, Greece offers retirees a slower pace of life alongside significantly lower living costs than the United States.
Locations: Athens, Corfu, Kalamata, Thessaloniki
Living Costs: Considerably cheaper than U.S. average
Healthcare: Good and affordable
Gaining Right to Stay: Reasonably easy
Outside Athens, many areas cost roughly one-third less than comparable U.S. cities. Healthcare is considered good, although private insurance remains necessary for most foreign retirees.
The country maintains stable politics and relatively low crime, though wildfires, flooding, and extreme summer heat have become increasing concerns in recent years.
Americans usually begin with the Financially Independent Person Visa, which requires passive annual income of roughly US$60,000 for a couple. Greece also offers digital nomad visas that may eventually lead to permanent residency.
11. Ireland
For retirees seeking English-speaking Europe without sacrificing cultural charm, Ireland continues to stand out.
Locations: Dublin, Cork, Killarney, Waterford
Living Costs: Roughly equal to U.S. average
Healthcare: Good, with private insurance
Gaining Right to Stay: Doable, but expensive
Ireland combines stable politics, low crime, lush landscapes, and convenient nonstop flights to the United States. While living costs are similar to those in America, rural communities generally offer better affordability than Dublin.
Healthcare is reliable, though private insurance is recommended for expatriates.
Americans with Irish parents or grandparents may qualify for citizenship, making relocation significantly easier. Others must usually apply for a Long-Stay D or O Visa, which requires proving substantial financial resources—typically around US$116,000 in annual retirement income plus significant savings.
12. Italy
Italy is undoubtedly one of the best places to retire. This country attracts retirees with its iconic cities, world-famous cuisine, Mediterranean climate, and relatively affordable lifestyle outside its major metropolitan areas.
Locations: Florence, Bologna, Le Marche, Lombardy Region
Living Costs: Significantly lower than U.S. average
Healthcare: Excellent, with access to public system
Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy, but expensive
Housing and daily expenses are generally about one-third lower than comparable U.S. locations, particularly in smaller cities and rural regions.
Italy's healthcare system ranks among Europe's strongest, and long-term residents may eventually join the national health service. Crime remains relatively low, though certain regions face flooding, earthquakes, wildfires, or volcanic risks.
Retirees usually apply for an Elective Residency Visa, which generally requires couples to demonstrate approximately US$51,000 in annual retirement income.
13. Malaysia
Malaysia has emerged as one of Asia's most affordable retirement destinations, offering tropical weather, multicultural cities, and modern infrastructure.
Locations: Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Ipoh, Melaka
Living Costs: Much, much lower than U.S. average
Healthcare: Good, with private insurance
Gaining Right to Stay: Doable but somewhat expensive
Overall living expenses are roughly half those in the United States, while English is widely spoken, making everyday life easier for many Americans.
Healthcare standards are generally good, although private insurance remains necessary. Flooding and occasional crime are concerns depending on location.
Malaysia's "Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)" program remains the primary pathway for foreign retirees. Different tiers require varying levels of financial assets and property investment rather than fixed retirement income.
14. Malta
Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta combines warm weather, English-speaking communities, and strong healthcare with a slower island lifestyle.
Locations: Valletta, Gozo, St. Paul's Bay, Qawra
Living Costs: Lower than U.S. average
Healthcare: Excellent and affordable
Gaining Right to Stay: Moderately easy, but pricey
Living costs are roughly one-quarter lower than those in the United States, while healthcare consistently ranks among Europe's best.
English is an official language, making integration relatively straightforward for Americans. Crime remains low, and political stability is high.
Most retirees apply through the Malta Retirement Programme, which generally requires about US$39,000 in annual retirement income and proof of a residential lease.
15. Mauritius
This Indian Ocean island nation has become an emerging retirement destination thanks to its multicultural society, low taxes, tropical climate, and affordable lifestyle.
Locations: Port Louis, Grand Baie, Flic-en-Flac, Tamarin
Living Costs: Much lower than U.S. average
Healthcare: Solid and affordable
Gaining Right to Stay: Easy
Living costs are more than 50% below U.S. levels, while crime remains relatively low and English serves as one of the country's official languages.
Healthcare is considered solid, though most expatriates still rely on private insurance despite eligibility for the public healthcare system.
Mauritius offers a renewable Retired Non-Citizen Residence Permit, typically requiring couples to demonstrate approximately US$18,000 in annual retirement income. Capital gains are not taxed, making the country particularly attractive for retirees with investment assets.
16. Mexico
Mexico remains one of the most popular retirement destinations for Americans because of its affordability, warm climate, cultural familiarity, and close proximity to the United States.
Locations: Mérida, Oaxaca City, Puerto Vallarta, San Miguel de Allende
Living Costs: Half that of U.S. average
Healthcare: Adequate and affordable, plus easy access to the U.S. for Medicare
Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy
Living expenses can be less than half those in the United States, especially for housing and everyday necessities.
Healthcare is inexpensive and adequate, while retirees can still travel back to the U.S. to use Medicare for major procedures thanks to frequent nonstop flights.
Most retirees seek a Permanent Resident Visa, generally requiring proof of either US$74,000 in annual income or approximately US$300,000 in savings.
17. Montenegro
Situated along the Adriatic coast, Montenegro offers dramatic scenery, Mediterranean weather, and one of Europe's lowest living costs.
Locations: Podgorica, Bar, Perast, Tivat
Living Costs: Far lower than U.S. average
Healthcare: Adequate
Gaining Right to Stay: Easiest with purchase of real estate
Living costs are less than half those in the United States, while crime remains low and politics relatively stable.
Healthcare is considered adequate, although some expatriates travel to neighboring Italy or Germany for specialized treatment.
Foreign retirees typically begin with a Temporary Residence Permit, eventually transitioning toward permanent residency. Purchasing property often provides the easiest pathway.
18. Panama
Panama continues to attract American retirees thanks to its tropical climate, use of the U.S. dollar, affordable healthcare, and generous retirement policies.
Locations: Panama City, Boquete, Coronado, David
Living Costs: Much lower than U.S. average
Healthcare: High quality and affordable
Gaining Right to Stay: Very easy
Overall living costs are about one-third lower than in the United States, while healthcare is widely regarded as high quality and inexpensive.
Unlike Florida, Panama sits outside the Atlantic hurricane belt, though flooding remains a concern in some regions.
The country's well-known Pensionado Visa requires couples to demonstrate approximately US$15,000 in annual pension income, making it one of the easiest retirement visas available to Americans.
19. Portugal
Portugal continues to rank among Europe's most attractive retirement destinations thanks to its pleasant climate, lower living costs, excellent healthcare, and welcoming environment for expatriates.
Locations: Lisbon, Algarve region, Cascais, Porto
Living Costs: Much lower than the U.S. average
Healthcare: Good and affordable
Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy
Living costs remain roughly one-third lower than those in the United States, particularly outside Lisbon. Healthcare is considered high quality, and long-term residents may eventually join the country's national health service.
Crime is relatively low, although Portugal has experienced increasingly frequent wildfires and flooding linked to climate change.
Most retirees begin with the renewable D7 Residence Visa, which generally requires couples to show about US$18,000 in annual retirement income. Portugal also maintains a tax treaty with the United States to reduce double taxation.
20. Slovenia
Slovenia combines Alpine scenery, Adriatic coastline, and one of Central Europe's lowest living costs, making it an increasingly attractive destination for retirees seeking a quieter European lifestyle.
Locations: Ljubljana, Bled, Piran, Celje
Living Costs: Far less than the U.S. average
Healthcare: Good and inexpensive
Gaining Right to Stay: Moderately easy
Formerly part of Yugoslavia, Slovenia offers picturesque mountains, lakes, forests, and a short Adriatic coastline. Living costs are nearly half those in the United States, while crime remains low and political stability is strong.
English is widely spoken, particularly among younger residents, and healthcare is both affordable and reliable. Retirees may eventually join Slovenia's national healthcare system after obtaining residency, though private insurance is recommended during the initial years.
Americans can apply for a renewable Temporary Residence Permit, which may lead to permanent residency after five years. Couples generally need to demonstrate around US$15,000 in annual retirement income. While income taxes are higher than in the United States, a tax treaty helps reduce double taxation.
21. Spain
Spain remains one of Europe's most popular retirement destinations thanks to its sunny climate, world-famous cuisine, lower living costs, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
Locations: Barcelona, Bilbao, Canary Islands, Seville
Living Costs: Significantly lower than U.S. average
Healthcare: Excellent and cheap
Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy
Outside Madrid and Barcelona, many parts of Spain cost roughly 30% less than comparable U.S. cities. The country's healthcare system consistently ranks among Europe's best, with retirees eventually able to buy into the national system after establishing residency.
Spain enjoys stable politics and relatively low crime, although retirees should consider increasingly frequent wildfires, flooding, and summer heat waves.
Many Americans relocate through Spain's renewable Non-Lucrative Residence Visa, which generally requires couples to demonstrate about US$40,000 in annual pension income. Tax treaties also help prevent double taxation between Spain and the United States.
22. Thailand
Thailand continues to attract retirees with its affordable living, tropical climate, vibrant culture, and internationally respected healthcare system.
Locations: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Phuket
Living Costs: Much lower than U.S. average
Healthcare: Excellent and cheap
Gaining Right to Stay: Easy
Overall living costs are nearly two-thirds lower than in the United States, making Thailand one of Asia's most affordable retirement destinations. Modern hospitals in Bangkok and other major cities have earned strong international reputations while remaining significantly cheaper than comparable facilities in America.
English is widely spoken in tourist centers, crime remains relatively low, and retirees enjoy access to beaches, mountains, temples, and rich culinary traditions.
The country offers a renewable Non-Immigrant O-A retirement visa, typically requiring couples to show about US$24,000 in annual passive income. Longer-term visas are also available for wealthier applicants.
23. Uruguay
Often regarded as one of South America's most stable democracies, Uruguay offers retirees a relaxed coastal lifestyle, affordable healthcare, and relatively low living costs.
Locations: Montevideo, Atlántida, Colonia, Punta del Este
Living Costs: Much lower than U.S. averages
Healthcare: Excellent and affordable
Gaining Right to Stay: Relatively easy
Living costs are around 40% lower than those in the United States, while healthcare ranks among the strongest in South America. Retirees can access the public healthcare system or choose affordable private providers.
Uruguay's political stability, extensive Atlantic coastline, and temperate climate continue to appeal to expatriates, although some areas remain vulnerable to flooding.
Rather than issuing a traditional retirement visa, Uruguay grants permanent residency, generally requiring couples to demonstrate approximately US$30,000 in annual retirement income. Foreign retirement income is not taxed, adding to the country's appeal.
24. Vietnam
Vietnam has rapidly emerged as one of Asia's most affordable retirement destinations, combining rich culture, modern cities, and exceptionally low living costs.
Locations: Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), Hi An
Living Costs: Much, much lower than U.S. averages
Healthcare: Adequate and improving, but still spotty
Gaining Right to Stay: Repeated foreign trips needed
Living expenses can be as little as one-quarter of those in the United States, making Vietnam one of the least expensive countries for foreign retirees. Coastal cities, mountain towns, and vibrant urban centers provide diverse lifestyle choices.
Vietnam currently does not offer a dedicated retirement visa. Instead, many expatriates rely on renewable 90-day electronic visas, periodically leaving and re-entering the country to maintain legal status.
Vietnam's exceptionally low cost of living, favorable tax treatment of foreign retirement income, and vibrant culture continue to attract an increasing number of American retirees seeking an affordable overseas lifestyle.
Choosing where to retire abroad ultimately depends on more than just lower living costs. Healthcare quality, visa requirements, climate resilience, safety, taxation, language, and proximity to family all play an important role in determining whether a destination is the right long-term fit. While these countries offer some of the most attractive retirement options for Americans in 2026, if you’re planning to stay active and remain productive, you might also want to explore the best part time jobs for retirees that offer great pay and low stress.
Read: Malaysia Ranked Safest Retirement Destination in Asia
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