Greece is the world's best place to retire
What's the story
Greece has been named the world's best country for retirement in 2026, according to International Living's Annual Global Retirement Index. The sun-kissed Southern European nation topped the list for its affordable lifestyle, accessible residency options, and high-quality healthcare. The index evaluates potential retirement destinations on factors such as cost of living, healthcare quality, housing affordability, visa regulations, climate conditions, and integration ease.
Visa benefits
Greece's Golden Visa program and lifestyle appeal
Greece's Golden Visa program, which offers residency to foreigners investing at least €250,000 (approximately $290,000) in real estate, is one of the most accessible in Europe. The country also scored high on climate, healthcare quality, and housing affordability. Tourists say they are attracted to Greece's affordable coastal lifestyle and the convenience of modern amenities, such as hospitals and airports.
Retirement benefits
Panama's Pensionado Program and healthcare system
Panama topped the index in the visa/retiree benefits category. The country has long been a favorite among US retirees due to its Pensionado Program, which offers generous discounts on entertainment, transportation, airfares, medical services, and more. "Panama's healthcare system rivals the US in quality—without the price tag," says International Living. A hospital stay that might cost $30,000 in Miami could be just $3,200 here including CT scans and medication.
Green retirement
Costa Rica's environmental commitment and health benefits
Costa Rica ranked first in the climate category of the index. The country protects a quarter of its land as rainforest and derives 99% of its energy from renewable sources. Its Nicoya Peninsula is one of five "blue zones" globally, known for their residents' longevity. US woman Kema Ward-Hopper moved her family to Pueblo Nuevo in Nicoya after breast cancer treatment in 2018, telling CNN that they have experienced improved health since living there.
Visa options
Portugal's D7 visa and affordable living
Portugal ranks second only to France in healthcare quality and scores high on climate and governance. Despite ending its Golden Visa program for residential property development, other investment visas remain. International Living suggests the D7 "passive income" visa requiring proof of steady income instead of large investments (as little as $1,011/month) is ideal for most retirees wanting to move there.
Expat haven
Mexico's expat population and modern infrastructure
Mexico is home to the largest North American expat population in the world, with as many as one million Americans and Canadians already calling it home. The country scored high in visa/retiree benefits and governance categories. International Living's report praises Mexico for its excellent highways, fast internet, modern infrastructure, low cost of living, first-rate healthcare services, and an easy path to residency.
Integration ease
Italy's integration ease and healthcare quality
Italy scored high in the index for its integration ease and healthcare quality. Massachusetts couple Doug and Leah Johnson told CNN they bought a 14th-century apartment in Vasanello, Lazio region, for just €9,000 ($10,000) in 2019. They praised Italy's preservation of old buildings and welcoming locals who often don't accept payment from foreigners investing in their community.
Healthcare debate
France's universal healthcare and proposed changes
France scored the highest in the index for its "renowned universal healthcare," with a score of 97. However, French lawmakers are considering a proposal to end free healthcare for foreign pensioners and make them pay a minimum contribution. Despite this potential change, France is likely to remain an attractive destination for retirees due to its climate culture cuisine combination.