Best Locations Outside the U.S. to Retire in 2023

Seniors in the U.S. are increasingly coming up with original and imaginative ways to enjoy retirement on their terms. Senior U.S. expats are fleeing the country in search of a better life and a more affordable cost of living. Many nations are luring U.S. retirees with alluring retirement plans as they quickly catch on.

The pleasant weather and vibrant cultures that are found in other countries appeal to many Americans. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy their golden years eating delectable foreign cuisine while unwinding on stunning beaches?

However, only some foreign nations are equally suited to house retirees from the United States. When selecting a new home, there are many things to consider.

Your individual preferences and priorities will determine where you should spend your retirement years. Long strolls on the beach may be the stuff of some people’s dreams, but regular theater outings in a bustling city may be their preference.

We’ll detail each country’s cost of living, healthcare system, safety, and retirement visa requirements so you can make an informed decision about where you want to live when you’re considering moving abroad.

1. Portugal

Portugal continues to be a top choice for retirees looking to live abroad because of its favorable climate, high standard of healthcare, open residency options, reasonable tax rates, and variety of lifestyle options.

With many Americans already residing in Portugal’s retirement communities in places like Porto, Lisbon, Cascais, and the Algarve, the country is well known for its welcoming environment for American expats.

The Global Peace Index places Portugal sixth among the safest nations in the world, so foreigners living there never have to worry about crime. Portugal has inexpensive healthcare and is ranked 12th in the world by the World Health Organization. Portuguese citizens have access to both the public and private healthcare systems and Joint Commission International facilities that are fully accredited and have staff who speak English.

With the comparable infrastructure to that of the United States and Canada, it is simple to work from home or connect with the rest of the world thanks to the availability of clean, drinkable water from the tap, dependable electricity, and high-speed fiber internet.

2.Panama

There are good reasons why Panama consistently ranks higher on the list of the best places to retire. First, Panama’s tropical climate and beautiful mountain scenery make it ideal for spending your golden years. In addition, Americans can stretch their retirement income much further than they could in the U.S. due to the low cost of living.

The Social Security System fund the free healthcare system in Panama. Additionally, Panama offers private hospitals that can be afforded on a U.S. income. Many medical procedures can be had for half to a quarter of what they would typically cost in the U.S.

Locals are friendly and welcoming, but you’ll need to learn the basics of Spanish to communicate with them. Panama provides a retirement visa, making it simple to relocate.

3.Costa Rica

Costa Rica is another popular retirement destination for Americans. This is not surprising given that even a brief taste of Costa Rica’s sun-drenched climate will leave many retirees yearning for more. The friendly locals, easygoing lifestyle and low living costs don’t hurt either.

Costa Rica’s healthcare system is ranked 36th in the world by the World Health Organization (WHO), ahead of the United States. Residents can contribute between 7% and 11% of their monthly income to Costa Rica’s universal healthcare system or visit private clinics.

There is no minimum age requirement for a retirement visa. Expats who want to retire in Costa Rica must have a monthly pension income of at least $1000 USD.

4.Greece

Greece is a Mediterranean country rich in history, culture, and sunshine. Whether you prefer the peace of the countryside or the bustle of city life, Greece has it all, with beautiful stretches of the countryside and bustling cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.

Expect high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost in the United States. Because medicine is so good, medical tourism is becoming a more critical part of the Greek economy. Visitors come to Greece for high-quality medical care at a lower cost than in their home country, from dental work to in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Many Greek doctors were educated in the United States or the United Kingdom, and most are fluent in English.

5.Malta

Malta it’s a small island country located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily. Malta, as an island, promises breathtaking coastlines and delectable seafood cuisine. Best of all, most Maltese people speak English, making communication with Americans living abroad simple.

Malta is located in the Mediterranean Sea, 60 miles north of the Italian island of Sicily. It has a beautiful climate, exquisite culture and history, and nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. According to International Living, many North Americans are unaware of it. The primary language is English. According to the World Health Organization, Malta has one of the top five healthcare systems in the world. This small country is also one of the safest in the world.

As you plan the next stage of your life, consider retiring abroad. Moving from your home to a place you’ve only ever known as a vacation destination can be intimidating. However, there are numerous advantages to retiring abroad. You’ll learn about a new culture, invest in yourself, and do what truly makes you happy, whether in a sunny location with beautiful beaches or the city.