Retirement: the golden years, the chance to leave behind the grind and finally master the art of doing absolutely nothing… except maybe play golf. But where to retire? This is a question many will face at some point, and it’s no easy task. It’s like choosing your next Netflix series, except instead of wasting an hour scrolling, you have to spend the next 20-30 years living there. No pressure, right?
Retiring overseas is an exciting leap into a new chapter of life, offering fresh experiences, vibrant cultures, and the possibility of a more relaxed lifestyle. However, the journey isn’t without its challenges.
Making the right decision requires not just a vast amount of information but also the ability to interpret that information to fit your unique needs and desires. We’ve carefully curated a list of some of the best places to retire in 2025, ensuring your golden years aren’t just lived—they’re enjoyed to their fullest.
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Panama
Located in the heart of Central America, Panama is a country that surprises visitors with its vibrant city life, sparkling skyline, and laid-back beach towns. With a monthly budget as low as $2,400, retirees can live comfortably, enjoying top-tier healthcare, clean tap water, and well-maintained roads.
Panama offers financial advantages as well, including no taxes on foreign-earned income and incredibly low property taxes. Retirees can benefit from discounts on everything from medical consultations to restaurant bills, thanks to the country’s pensionado visa program. The cost of living is low, making it possible to rent a stylish, furnished condo in Panama City for under $1,000 a month.
Panama’s ease of residency, coupled with its appeal to expats, ensures that retirees can transition seamlessly into the community. Many areas cater to English speakers, and the warmth of both the climate and the locals creates an inviting atmosphere for those seeking a change of pace.
Portugal
Portugal remains a top destination for retirees seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, and affordability. Known for its stunning coastlines, charming villages, and vibrant cities, it offers a wide range of lifestyles, from the energetic streets of Lisbon to the serene beaches of the Algarve. Retirees can live comfortably on a budget of $2,500 to $3,000 per month, though costs vary depending on location.
Popular expat hubs like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve are pricier, while regions such as Tavira and Óbidos offer more affordable options. Housing costs also differ, with renting typically recommended for the first year to find the perfect spot. Mortgages in Portugal require a hefty down payment, but for those who can pay cash, monthly living expenses can be as low as €1,400 ($1,500) in smaller towns.
The country’s favorable tax system and resident visa options make it even more appealing, with the D7 visa for passive income earners being a popular route to residency. For those seeking a mix of safety, culture, and affordability, Portugal offers a welcoming environment, blending modern conveniences with a rich, centuries-old history.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica has become a top choice for retirees seeking the perfect balance of adventure, nature, and relaxation. Known for its “Pura Vida” lifestyle, the country draws in those who want to immerse themselves in its lush landscapes. Despite its small size, Costa Rica boasts nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature lovers and ecotourism enthusiasts.
The friendly locals, known as “Ticos,” add to the warmth of this Central American gem, ensuring retirees feel welcomed and at home. Expats often share stories of how, upon arriving, they immediately felt a sense of belonging. Cost of living in Costa Rica varies depending on location and lifestyle.
You can live comfortably live on around $2,000 per month. Areas like the Central Valley, with its cooler climate and lower costs, are particularly popular with those seeking affordability and proximity to quality healthcare. In contrast, beach towns like Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo offer more urban amenities but come with higher rent and competitive housing markets.
Mexico
Mexico is an increasingly popular retirement destination thanks to its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and welcoming communities. From the sandy beaches of the Riviera Maya to the charming charm of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico offers a wealth of options for retirees. Expats from North America, in particular, are drawn to the country’s low cost of living.
Here, they can live comfortably on a modest pension while enjoying high-quality healthcare and a rich cultural experience. For many, the appeal goes beyond affordability—it’s about the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Mexican people. Expats often find themselves embraced by tight-knit communities, making it easy to settle in and form lasting connections.
With a focus on holistic well-being and patient care, many retirees find their health improves thanks to the fresh air, active lifestyle, and access to excellent medical professionals. All of this, combined with the affordable housing and opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities year-round, make Mexico one of the top choices for retirees.
France
France is an undeniably enticing option for retirees seeking a life filled with culture, exquisite food, and a relaxed pace. Its famed joie de vivre lifestyle—an appreciation for the finer things, slowing down, and savoring every moment—is one of the key reasons many retirees choose this European paradise.
France also offers retirees access to some of the best healthcare in the world at incredibly affordable prices. Doctor visits are as low as €25 ($26), with most costs reimbursed by the public healthcare system, ensuring retirees can maintain their health without breaking the bank. While France may not be considered the cheapest destination overall, retirees will find considerable savings in key areas.
Housing, for instance, is significantly more affordable than in many parts of the US, with rent averaging 51% less, and property purchases around 34% cheaper. For those looking for a charming village home, the southern regions of France, such as Provence and Dordogne, offer affordable options with scenic beauty and a mild climate.
The cost of food is also favorable, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients making meals not only a pleasure but an affordable daily ritual. A couple can enjoy a three-course gourmet meal at a restaurant for just $36, while grocery costs typically run at $600 per month. All these factors make France one of the best places to retire in 2025.
Conclusion
The best place to retire depends on what makes you happiest. Whether you’re seeking sunny beaches, rich culture, or affordable living, there’s a perfect retirement destination waiting for you. Just remember, wherever you choose, it’s less about the place and more about living life on your terms.
