Why Americans are retiring abroad faster
Americans are living about 20 years longer than in 1950, despite recent plateaus in life expectancy, and retirement expectations have shifted. Rising housing costs, healthcare expenses, and taxes are pushing many retirees to look beyond U.S. borders. For some, it is about stretching savings. For others, it is about lifestyle and quality of life.
International Living’s 2026 Global Retirement Index reflects this shift clearly. It ranks countries based on cost of living, healthcare, visas, housing, climate, and ease of settling in. This year’s top pick surprised many longtime watchers. Greece moved ahead of traditional favorites, signaling a major change in how retirees are choosing their next chapter.
Greece takes the top retirement spot
In 2026, Greece was ranked the world’s number one retirement destination by International Living. It replaced longtime leaders like Panama and Portugal. The decision was driven by affordability, strong healthcare access, and easier residency options for foreigners.
For American retirees, Greece offers something rare in Europe: Mediterranean living without luxury-level prices. Daily costs remain lower than most Western European countries, especially outside Athens and major islands. Combined with sunshine, walkable towns, and a slower pace of life, Greece now checks more boxes than almost any competitor.
Cost of living works for fixed incomes
One of Greece’s strongest advantages is affordability. In many regions, retirees report monthly living costs between $1,500 and $2,200, including rent. Housing prices remain far below U.S. averages, especially in smaller towns and islands. Groceries, public transport, and dining out are noticeably cheaper than in most American cities.
Unlike some popular retirement countries, Greece has not seen runaway inflation in expat hubs yet. International Living notes that careful location choice makes a big difference. Retirees who avoid tourist-heavy areas can live comfortably on Social Security alone, something increasingly difficult to do in the U.S.
Healthcare is strong and affordable
Healthcare played a major role in Greece’s rise to number one. The country scored high for medical access, quality, and affordability. Private healthcare is widely used by expats and costs far less than in the United States. Doctor visits often range from $40 to $70 without insurance.
Many Greek doctors are trained in Western Europe or the U.S. Major cities and islands have modern clinics and hospitals. Retirees can also purchase private insurance at lower premiums than American plans. For aging Americans concerned about medical costs, Greece offers reassurance without sacrificing care quality.
Residency is easier than most of Europe
Greece’s residency options are among the most accessible in Europe. Its Golden Visa program allows residency through real estate investment starting at €250,000 in many regions. That threshold is lower than similar programs in Spain or Italy. Residency does not require full-time living year-round.
For retirees without investment plans, long-stay visas and residency permits remain realistic. International Living highlights Greece’s improving bureaucracy and expat support. Compared with recent visa tightening in Portugal, Greece now feels more welcoming. This shift has redirected many American retirees who once favored Iberia.
Climate supports year-round living
Greece’s Mediterranean climate is another major draw. Summers are warm but manageable near the coast, while winters remain mild in most regions. Snow is rare outside mountainous areas. Sunshine dominates much of the year, supporting outdoor living and active routines.
For Americans coming from harsh winters or extreme heat zones, Greece offers balance. Walking towns, outdoor cafés, and coastal paths encourage daily movement. This climate supports both physical health and mental well-being. International Living consistently ranks Greece high for lifestyle comfort tied directly to weather.
Daily life feels welcoming to expats
Ease of integration helped Greece score high in the “affinity” category. Locals are known for warmth, hospitality, and patience with newcomers learning the language. English is widely spoken in healthcare, government offices, and urban areas.
American retirees often describe feeling included rather than tolerated. Community life revolves around food, family, and shared spaces. Small-town living allows faster relationship building than large cities. For retirees worried about isolation abroad, Greece offers a strong social fabric that feels accessible.
Panama still excels for retiree perks
Although Greece took the top spot, Panama remains a powerhouse. It ranked highest for retiree benefits thanks to its Pensionado Program. Retirees receive discounts on transportation, utilities, medical care, and entertainment.
Healthcare costs remain dramatically lower than in the U.S. International Living cites hospital stays costing a fraction of American prices. Panama’s infrastructure, internet reliability, and expat networks remain strong. For Americans prioritizing financial perks and familiarity, Panama continues to compete closely with Greece.
Costa Rica leads in climate and wellness
Costa Rica ranked first for climate in the 2026 index. About 25% of its land is protected rainforest, and nearly all electricity comes from renewable sources. It is also home to one of the world’s five “blue zones,” known for long life expectancy.
Healthcare access is strong, and residency pathways are straightforward. While costs have risen, lifestyle benefits remain compelling. For Americans focused on longevity, nature, and sustainability, Costa Rica still holds strong appeal even as Greece takes the overall lead.
Portugal remains affordable with planning
Portugal dropped slightly in ranking but remains a favorite. It scores high in healthcare and climate, with a well-established expat community. The D7 passive income visa allows residency without major investment.
Costs rise sharply in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, but smaller towns remain affordable. International Living notes retirees can live comfortably for far less outside tourist centers. For Americans willing to research locations carefully, Portugal still delivers strong value.
Mexico offers scale and familiarity
With nearly one million Americans and Canadians living there, Mexico hosts the largest North American expat population in the world. Infrastructure, healthcare, and internet access score well. Residency pathways are clear and flexible.
Costs remain low compared to the U.S., especially outside major cities. Many retirees appreciate cultural familiarity and proximity to home. For those wanting affordability without crossing oceans, Mexico continues to be one of the easiest transitions abroad.
Italy attracts heart-led retirees
Italy scored highest in the “affinity” category, reflecting emotional connection and lifestyle appeal. Healthcare quality rivals Greece, and small-town living remains affordable.
Some Americans have purchased historic homes for surprisingly low prices. Bureaucracy can be slow, but locals are welcoming. For retirees motivated by culture, history, and community, Italy offers emotional rewards that outweigh administrative challenges.
France leads healthcare rankings
France earned the highest healthcare score in the index at 97. Its universal healthcare system remains a global benchmark, though policy changes for foreign retirees are under review.
Despite that uncertainty, France continues to attract Americans seeking culture, cuisine, and structure. Costs vary widely by region. Rural France remains far more affordable than Paris. For retirees prioritizing healthcare quality above all else, France remains compelling.
Would you retire abroad if it meant better healthcare and a lower cost of living, or is staying close to family worth the higher price?
This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
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