The 2026 Annual Global Retirement Index ranked the top 10 destinations for retiree expats.
If you have ever considered moving abroad for retirement, there are several factors to consider. Thankfully, International Living’s annual destination report includes the most important factors, from cost of living to ease of transition. Primary considerations taken into account include visa rules, healthcare access, and the country’s climate.
The Index can be seen as a “decision-making framework” to narrow down the 195 countries (as recognised by the United Nations) into the top 10 places to retire. With many wanting to make a move from the UK, does any of the below spark your interest?
10. Malaysia
Culture
Malaysia is considered to have a slower pace of life, especially in Penang, where people stop to ask one another how they really are.
English is widely spoken in the area and there’s a mixture of locals and expats who mingle together to play sports, volunteer, and chat at the markets.
Finances
Renting a four-bed apartment in Tanjung Bungah, a suburb of George Town in Penang, goes for 4,500 ringgit (around £820) – although property ownership is possible if the house is around the one million ringgit mark (approximately £182,124).
Plus, eating out is hugely affordable – costing as little as 10 ringgit (circa £1.82).
Health
Healthcare is also “reliable and affordable” with doctors available who have been trained in the UK or Australia.
(Image: Getty)
9. Thailand
Culture
The Land of the Free is mostly a cashless society that is high-tech, diverse and multifaceted.
Mountainous views and waterfalls are to the north, while the south is the place for beaches and coconut trees.
Finances
Depending on where you stay, you could get a studio in Chiang Mai for around £222 per month, to a beachside two-bedroom bungalow in Hua Hin for around £2,812.
Health
Private health insurance is needed, but the facilities are described as “world-class”.
(Image: Getty)
8. Spain
Culture
Slow mornings, a long-established expat community – especially in coastal towns – and over 300 days of sunshine per year put Spain in the top 10 destinations to retire to.
Finances
A modern one-bedroom near the beach in Malaga would set you back around £1,135 per month, but for a comfortable lifestyle, you will need about £2,009 per person per month.
Foreigners can buy property freely, but the prices can be steep, ranging from around £3,500 to £5,000 per square meter.
Health
Spain’s healthcare system ranks among the world’s best, with many individuals taking advantage of both public and private healthcare options.
(Image: Getty)
7. France
Culture
If you can see yourself enjoying coffees and croissants alongside cobblestoned roads and a picturesque medieval backdrop, the South of France is the place for you.
Speaking French will be an asset, but you can get by with speaking English.
Finances
Rental prices can vary from a furnished two-bedroom apartment in the north going for around £900 while a similar abode in the south could cost twice as much, if not more.
Buying property is considered straightforward, but mortgages can be harder to obtain for those over the age of 60.
If you are planning to live in the south of France, expect cosmopolitan prices when it comes to eating out.
Health
As for healthcare, Doctolib is an online portal where you can filter for English-speaking doctors.
(Image: Getty)
6. Italy
Culture
With tropical weather in the south, such as in Sicily, some expats wake up to a warm sea breeze while sipping coffee on their bedroom balcony.
Expect delicious foods, exceptional wines, sunny days, and a vibrant expat community.
Finances
A one-bedroom apartment in Politeama, Sicily, costs under £700 per month, but small villages and towns can offer apartments for under £400 per month.
Health
Northern hospitals are said to be better managed than those in the south, and be prepared to pay a small fee.
(Image: Getty)
5. Mexico
Culture
Postcard-perfect beaches, stunning architecture and a welcoming atmosphere place Mexico in the top five best places for retirees to relocate to in 2026.
Finances
There’s a lower cost of living, with many people living comfortably on about £ 1,200 per month, including rent and bills.
Health
Appointments are typically available within 24 hours, making it a quick service with English-speaking doctors, dentists, and specialists commonly found in expat hubs.
(Image: Getty)
4. Portugal
Culture
The Algarve, in the south, is warm year-round, but it’s the warmth of the people that stands out.
Finances
Rents in cities like Lisbon and Porto cost around £1,310 for a one-bedroom apartment. Meanwhile, mortgages are available if you can pay them off by age 75.
Health
Expect to pay just over £100 per month for private healthcare, but public healthcare is also available.
(Image: Getty)
3. Costa Rica
Culture
A nature lover’s paradise, a slow pace of life, and many evenings on the beach watching the sunset.
Finances
Eat inexpensively by choosing local foods instead of opting for imported goods.
As for living expenses, between £1,500 to £2,000 per month, per person, is to be expected.
Health
There’s a public healthcare system, but non-emergency appointments can be lengthy; private healthcare is available.
(Image: Getty)
2. Panama
Culture
Fast friends, an active expat community, and bright surroundings, Panama offers a lot to those who move there.
Finances
If you get a pension of at least £745 per month, the Pensionado programme entitles retiree citizens to discounts on their power bills and medical insurance.
Health
There’s the option of public or private healthcare, with the latter offering modern amenities and English-speaking staff.
(Image: Getty)
1. Greece
Culture
A vibrant community, leisurely days, and buzzy evenings is commonplace across Greece.
Finances
Renting a three-bedroom home with sea views could cost as little as £900 per month, but buying a home has steadily become more expensive.
Health
You can pay around £220 per month for private healthcare (for two people) to receive “consistently good” care.
(Image: Getty)
