With a Global Peace Index (GPI) of 12 out of 163, Ireland is widely considered a safe and friendly destination for expatriates. What's more, with careful financial planning and attention to healthcare costs, it is possible to retire in the Emerald Isle on an annual budget as low as $30,000 USD—but potential ex-pats should be aware that one must sacrifice some luxuries or amenities by living in smaller, less expensive towns.
Healthcare remains top-notch in Ireland, regardless of whether one is an EU citizen or not; however, non-EU citizens will need to purchase healthcare in two parts. In summary, Ireland offers retirees safety as well as cost-effectiveness, making it an attractive option for anyone seeking to start their next chapter abroad.
Living in Dublin, Ireland can be a stunning experience if one takes the time to appreciate the rich cultural and natural heritage that is on offer. However, the sad fact remains that much of what makes Ireland attractive is not cheap, and the cost of living at times can be extremely high. A retirement income simply isn't going to stretch very far in the hustle and bustle of city life. Even though access to healthcare services is available for all in Ireland, there may be long waiting times for certain medical procedures.
Plus, with fuel prices that are among some of the highest in Europe, trying to make ends meet can be quite a challenge. Finding affordable property also seems difficult due to the competitive market; it's no wonder why Irish ex-pats abroad tend to stay away!
Costa Rica is growing in popularity as a retirement destination—and it's not hard to see why. With its 33rd place ranking in the Global Peace Index, enviable climate, and affordable living costs, who wouldn't want to kick back and enjoy life? Cost of living-wise, Vittana reports that daily expenses come in at around $1,500 per month for an individual retiree.
Additionally, you can access universal healthcare with government subsidies known as Caja — the payment of which depends on your income. It covers all essential medical needs from doctor's appointments and medications to surgeries and more — so retirees don’t need to worry about going without the healthcare they need. All things considered, Costa Rica is perfect for ex-pats looking for a peaceful retirement full of luxurious affordability.
One of the main drawbacks to choosing Costa Rica for retirement is that it can be hard for budget-conscious individuals to live within their means. The cost of living in cities can quickly add up, and relying on imported goods from elsewhere is rarely an option due to the hefty import taxes.
Moreover, retirees may find themselves without high-quality public healthcare in emergency situations. Though excellent private healthcare options are available, they come at a hefty price tag and extended waiting times before being seen by a doctor at public hospitals.
Australia may not have the lowest GPI ranking on the list, at number 13 out of 163 countries, but that doesn't mean it isn't a great place to live. With an annual budget of $40,000 for a couple, it's possible to retire here comfortably, especially if you own your own home and avoid larger cities.
Big city living can be incredibly expensive in Australia; however, life outside the hustle and bustle is peaceful and often significantly more affordable. For retirees looking for relative comfort and many amenities without breaking the bank, Australia just might be the ideal destination.
Living in Australia is an incredibly attractive prospect, but it’s important to go beyond dreaming of beaches and sunny days. Denizens of the country’s unique wildlife are often the stuff of legends, readily outwitting any attempts at contrivance – no matter how clever those ideas may be! Retirees should be mindful of purchasing private health insurance when relocating without becoming a permanent resident, as living costs in Australia can be quite steep.
It also pays to plan one’s accommodation carefully, especially when moving in or around big cities: costs can accumulate on a daily basis and shrink savings much quicker than expected. Having a well-planned budget helps mitigate unforeseen expenses related to daily life in Australia.
New Zealand is a great place to live, offering a high Global Peace Index score of two out of 163. Although it's on the pricier side, there are several options for saving money. Residing outside the city, in more rural and tranquil areas, is one way to go, with couples commonly living comfortably with $2,500 or less.
Healthcare is another advantage New Zealand can offer to its permanent residents — with many treatments either free or only costing a small amount. All in all, it stands to be an excellent option for those looking for positive lifestyle indicators such as safety and healthcare systems at their disposal.
Living in the country offers its own unique set of benefits, however, there are reasons why city life might be more suitable for some. Living in the city could provide a better solution for those who want quick access to medical services than in the country. If you're looking to save money and if you are able to lead a lifestyle without too many frills, it may be possible to keep the cost of living relatively low even in an urban environment.
Many aspects of daily life become more expensive when living abroad, such as traveling to see family or buying imported goods. That is certainly true for New Zealand, where the distance from other countries is a major factor contributing not only to cost but also to time spent traveling. For example, imported food items can be costly due to the added shipping costs associated with their long journey from distant lands overseas.
Uruguay is a country that many people are finding increasingly attractive as a retirement home. Ranked an impressive 34 out of 163 on the Global Peace Index, it’s one of the most secure places for ex-pats to settle down and enjoy their golden years. Couples can get by with just $2,000 in monthly income, allowing them to live comfortably with access to great weather, friendly people, and reliable infrastructure.
With quality healthcare also being made available at affordable prices, according to Huffington Post, it’s clear why Uruguay is becoming a hotspot for those looking for peace and stability.
If you’re planning on retiring in Uruguay, it is a good idea to brush up on your Spanish language skills. While locals are very friendly and usually patient enough to help even those struggling to learn the language, some bilingual Texans have reported difficulty understanding. On top of this, the culture in Uruguay is unique and can take some time to get used to.
For example, mealtimes tend to be a bit later than many people expect - most restaurants don’t open for dinner until 7:30 pm! Fortunately, culture shock typically passes with time and exposure — so as long as you accept that everyone communicates differently and embrace the differences Uruguay has to offer, your retirement should be smooth sailing!
If you're considering retiring abroad, it might be worth looking into Spain. With a GPI of 32 out of 163 and a cost of living that varies depending on the location, there can be quite a bit to evaluate. Fortunately, SmartAsset has reported that living comfortably in Spain is possible for $25,000 per year on average.
That said, depending on which city or town you choose to live in, there are bound to be variations in cost — from tenants paying as little as $450 a month outside the city to renters shelling out around $900 in Madrid. On top of that, retirees who become residents of Spain have access to public healthcare.
Spain is still a popular destination for retirees, but it is important to understand that there are some disadvantages to living there. For starters, private healthcare can be expensive compared with other parts of the world — about $200 per month per person — and you may not qualify for public healthcare at all. Homeowners, too, should consider carefully the property taxes, which tend to be on the higher side in Spain.
Additionally, the culture itself may have some unanticipated impacts; people who have lived in more fast-paced countries may find it challenging to adjust to Spanish ways of doing things. Important services, such as dealing with government bureaucracy, often take much longer than they would in other locations, and long lines are commonplace. However, many would consider these realities part of life in Spain and feel that the advantages outweigh any of these potential downsides.
Panama may not be the safest country on the Global Peace Index (ranking 47 out of 163 countries), but it still offers a secure and stable environment. One of the main draws for people considering relocating to Panama is the low cost of living. According to Investopedia, it's possible to survive on just $500 USD per month — which would be much harder in most other countries.
On top of that, healthcare options are both plentiful and affordable too — with basic health insurance plans costing around $145 USD a month for couples. With its good value-for-money offering and tranquil settings, it's certainly worth considering Panama as a relocation destination.
If you're considering a visit or are planning to retire in Panama, there is some important stuff to mention about the country before traveling. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that travelers are up-to-date on their routine vaccinations as well as Hepatitis B, Malaria, Rabies, and Yellow Fever vaccinations prior to visiting.
Culturally speaking, Panama is known for taking things at a slower pace than other countries; this could be a great opportunity for someone looking to really slip into retirement mode and relax. Although the tempo of life may be more mellow, it doesn't mean that there aren't plenty of exciting activities and sights to explore!
Chile is an attractive destination for retirees who are looking for a comfortable and affordable lifestyle in Latin America. With a Global Peace Index score of 27 out of 163, it has the highest standard of living of any country in the region. For those who want to live well but on a budget, $1,500 per month would be enough to achieve that goal.
Plus, residents of countries included in the United States Visa Wavier Program (which Chile happens to be) may easily establish residency in Chile. All these factors combine to make Chile particularly suitable for retirement compared to other countries in the region.
Santiago, Chile's capital, is a great city to visit and enjoy, but retirees should be aware of the cost of living. There are quality medical services available in the city, however, rent and daily living expenses can be quite high. Furthermore, city life comes with traffic congestion and air pollution, like in any other major city.
If living right in Santiago is not absolutely necessary for elderly people, it may be best to consider living somewhere outside the city boundaries and travel into Santiago just when necessary.
Bulgaria is a great option for expats looking for a comfortable lifestyle with affordable living costs. According to the Global Peace Index (GPI), Bulgaria ranks 26th out of 163 countries, making it one of the most peaceful and stable countries in the region. An added bonus is the flat tax rate of 10%, which makes it extremely attractive for those looking to save money. Furthermore, DispatchesEurope has emphasized that even with low income, one can live comfortably as a foreigner in Bulgaria; according to them, $500 per month per person should be sufficient.
Lastly, Bulgaria boasts excellent and affordable medical care which provides good quality service while minimizing wait times; all factors considered, it’s no surprise why so many people choose Bulgaria as their ideal destination when living abroad.
Moving to Sofia can present some unique challenges for those who are not familiar with the local culture. One of the most pressing concerns is the complexity of purchasing property, as real estate laws vary between countries, and it's important to know that this process can be difficult in Bulgaria.
Fortunately, renting a residence is still very inexpensive, so many ex-pats choose this option as an alternative. Another benefit of being an ex-pat in Sofia is that a large number of people already speak English, making communication easier and allowing visitors to focus on learning Bulgarian to connect with their new community and fully embrace their new life.
Romania has been gaining a lot of attention in recent years, thanks in part to its incredibly low GPI of 25 out of 163. But what really makes the county an attractive destination is its affordability. According to RomaniaExperience, you can buy a one-bedroom apartment for just $33,000 or rent for less than $200 per month! Retirees can even enjoy their golden years on a budget of only $1,000 per month if they opt to live in Romania.
Furthermore, doctors' fees and private hospitals are very affordable. Private healthcare is within reach of everyone's pocket — the cost of visiting a doctor is as low as $20! If you're looking for an economical way to relocate or retire without sacrificing luxury and comfort, look no further than Romania!
Romania may not be the ideal destination for someone who craves the hustle and bustle of city life, as it's much quieter than other places. Many towns completely shut down by 10 PM, so visitors should plan activities accordingly. Customer service could also leave something to be desired; although, to be fair, most Romanians are very friendly and hospitable.
The public healthcare system is a lot cheaper than private hospitals, but many users report that they're outdated or overstretched — plus, there can be long waiting times. Finally, public transportation isn't the best, although luckily, taxis are affordable.
Malaysia is becoming a popular country for retirees, as seen by its steady rise in the Global Peace Index (GPI). It currently ranks 16th out of 163 countries worldwide, signaling an improvement in the overall global ranking. What makes Malaysia so attractive to retirees is the low cost of living. Not only can one live comfortably on a $1000 monthly budget, but healthcare is also affordable yet reliable. The government has heavily invested in healthcare development and infrastructure, allowing retirees to enjoy better quality medical care at reduced rates compared to other countries.
Lastly, Malaysia offers 10-year visa eligibility, making it easy for retirees to stay longer and settle into their new homes more easily than they would be able to do elsewhere. All these advantages make retiring in Malaysia an enviable option for those seeking peace and security abroad.
Living in Malaysia can be a challenge for many, as the air quality can deteriorate quickly and make those with sensitive lungs feel unwell. Spending international money on importing anything non-Malaysian is also something to consider — it can be incredibly expensive depending on the item(s). The service quality in public areas may leave a bit to be desired, especially if you’re used to more attentive customer service like in the United States.
Additionally, seasonally extreme temperature swings can be disorienting even for those who have experienced harsh winters before — having access to a quality AC system could really make or break an experience in this southeast Asian country.
The Czech Republic, or Czechia, has a GPI of 10, making it an extremely affordable place to call home. In fact, one can live relatively comfortably on a budget of $1,000 per month. While more money will be needed in the capital city of Prague, almost all other cities and towns in the area are incredibly affordable.
An added bonus for those considering retiring to the Czech Republic is its excellent healthcare system; each district has a doctor, but retirees can also choose their own physicians. This allows them access to specialized attention that puts their well-being first and foremost.
Retiring in the Czech Republic might sound like a dream come true, but it comes at a cost. Gas prices tend to be relatively high across Europe, which may work against retirees looking to make ends meet on a limited budget. Fair warning: rent can also be more expensive for the expatriate community too, so having a knack for striking an agreeable deal is important. Although English is slowly becoming the lingua franca of Europe, Czech is still the main language of communication in most parts of the country.
Learning it fluently could open plenty of doors — both figuratively when it comes to making new friends, and literally if you're thinking of getting your driver’s license easily. It can be quite difficult as one must pass both written and practical exams as well as attend driving school — all of which require their own set of paperwork. Knowing your way around these processes would definitely give you an advantage!
Retiring in the Czech Republic might sound like a dream come true, but it comes at a cost. Gas prices tend to be relatively high across Europe, which may work against retirees looking to make ends meet on a limited budget. Fair warning: rent can also be more expensive for the expatriate community too, so having a knack for striking an agreeable deal is important. Although English is slowly becoming the lingua franca of Europe, Czech is still the main language of communication in most parts of the country.
Learning it fluently could open plenty of doors — both figuratively when it comes to making new friends, and literally if you're thinking of getting your driver’s license easily. It can be quite difficult as one must pass both written and practical exams as well as attend driving school — all of which require their own set of paperwork. Knowing your way around these processes would definitely give you an advantage!
Residing in Slovenia can offer ex-pats from the U.S. a unique experience, though there are some challenges to navigate. For example, social customs and behaviors tend to differ when compared to what one may be used to in the United States. In addition, taxes in Slovenia can seem tricky at first, and understanding the tax breaks available for U.S. ex-pats who have retired there is essential.
Even down to seemingly small details like routine business hours: during the weekdays, it is not uncommon for shops to close as early as 6 pm, while Sundays are almost completely devoid of open stores or businesses.
Portugal's GPI of three puts it in a favorable light for those looking for an affordable destination to retire from. With a budget of $1,400 per month, retirees can pay for their everyday expenses and still have some extra cash left over for leisure activities or travel. For an even more luxurious lifestyle, a budget of $2,000 per month provides plenty of opportunities to explore the culture and beauty of Portugal.
Plus, with retirement income tax-exempt, residents don't need to worry about making ends meet each month. Obtaining residency is also easy, so retirees can enjoy the wonderful features Portugal offers without lengthy bureaucratic processes!
Moving to Portugal as a retirement destination has its benefits, but a few cons should be considered. Obtaining health insurance can be difficult since you have to already have it before you can apply for Portuguese health insurance. Thankfully, many American companies offer their own insurance benefits in Portugal, which solves this problem.
Unfortunately, the bureaucracy of the country is often extremely tedious and frustrating and might give even the most patient person fits. Knowing about these cons in advance may help retirees plan ahead for their move to Portugal and understand what to expect once they're there.
Austria is ranked as one of the best countries to retire comfortably, with an impressive Global Peace Index of four out of 163. You can comfortably live in Austria at around $1,500 per month per person. The further you move away from city centers, the more affordable it becomes; however, many of the rural areas have aging infrastructure, so modern amenities may be sparse.
Regarding healthcare, Austria boasts excellent medical facilities and highly skilled doctors. Although private health insurance can be costly, Austria's residents can access universal coverage, ensuring access to all aspects of medical care.
While Austria has a higher cost of living than some other countries, the flip side is that it is so safe and secure. Admission into Austria may be a bit more difficult due to its cultural differences. The population may not seem quite as welcoming as in the U.S., but once established there, you can opt for a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle with access to excellent schooling and healthcare options.
However, one must be sure to keep track of expenses closely since the high standard of living can deplete one's resources quickly if care isn't taken.
