Retiring abroad is an interesting and exciting adventure, but it also comes with certain challenges. In particular, before choosing the perfect place, you need to process a lot of information and study the advantages and disadvantages of many destinations. Ratings from professional agencies will help you get rid of the long search for the perfect place. Find out which countries were recognized as the best for retirement in 2025

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Many people who have gone through a difficult labor path dream of retiring in a country with an ideal climate, excellent infrastructure, rich culture, good social security and reasonable prices. Fortunately, there are many countries in the world that can offer all this to future retirees. Read more about the best countries for retirement in 2025 according to Internationalliving in this article.

Best Countries to Retire in 2025

5th place - France

If you are not carried away by exquisite food, world-class art and entertainment and stunning natural landscapes, then France may just conquer you with its healthcare system and lifestyle of joie de vivre - it is slowing down, appreciating the best things in life and finding beauty in every moment. Another advantage is the healthcare system in the country, which is incredibly affordable and often ranks first in the world.

Rent is on average 51% lower than in the USA. Buying a home is about 34% cheaper, and property taxes are a fraction of what they are in the U.S. Health care is also incredibly inexpensive: a visit to the doctor costs €25 ($26) and a visit to a specialist costs €80 ($85), with 70% of these costs reimbursed.

Food costs are another area where retirees can save. A couple can expect to spend $600 a month on groceries, and you can still enjoy a fancy three-course meal at a restaurant for $36.

In southern France, renting a two-bedroom apartment costs an average of $950 a month, with prices higher on the coast and lower in the countryside. Prices fall further in regions such as Dordogne, Alsace, Brittany, and Normandy.

France offers one of the easiest visas to obtain in Europe, making it an affordable choice for retirees. The long-term visa, the most common option, requires proof of a net monthly income of $1,521 and proof of three months of accommodation, such as a short-term rental or hotel reservation.

The long-term visa is valid for 12 months and can be extended up to four times. After five years, retirees can apply for a 10-year residency or French citizenship.

4th place – Mexico

Mexico is a vibrant and diverse retirement destination. The country combines affordability, culture and warm communities, making it a favorite destination for expats from all over the world.

Mexico has large, friendly expat communities across the country that help newcomers find their way. No matter your preference for climate, altitude, landscape or lifestyle, there is a place in Mexico that will suit your needs.

You can live on the beach, in the mountains, in semi-arid areas, in lush jungles or forests.

Renting a one-bedroom apartment costs an average of $500 per month. Of course, if you prefer luxury, you can find that too. Some mansions in Cozumel rent for $2,000 per week.

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

3rd Place – Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s laid-back vibe attracts those seeking outdoor adventure and a laid-back lifestyle. The country is home to nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity and is a top destination for ecotourism and nature lovers.

Your lifestyle greatly affects the cost of living in Costa Rica. Some couples live comfortably on $2,500 a month, while others spend double or triple that amount.

Healthcare in Costa Rica is high-quality and affordable. As a resident, you must pay into the state-run Caja system, but many expats also use private healthcare for convenience. Private visits to a doctor cost around $48, and to specialists cost around $120. Procedures like a colonoscopy cost $350, while a dermatology exam costs $50. Prescription medications and lab work are also available.

Visa and residency procedures in Costa Rica can be time-consuming, but they can be managed with patience. US and Canadian citizens can stay visa-free for up to 180 days, while temporary residency options include the Pensionado visa (for retirees with a monthly income of $1,000) and the Rentista visa (a deposit of $60,000 or $2,500 in monthly income). Permanent residency is available after three years of legal residency.

2nd Place – Portugal

Portugal is a perennial favorite among retirees, known for its stunning coastline, historic charm, and affordable living. From the bustling neighborhoods of Lisbon to the golden beaches of the Algarve, Portugal offers a variety of lifestyle options.

A couple can live comfortably on $2,500–$3,000 per month, depending on lifestyle and location.

Housing options in Portugal range from city centre apartments to country estates with gardens.

Apartments usually have dishwashers and washing machines, but no tumble dryers. Heating systems are rare, with most homes relying on portable heaters or wood burners.

Healthcare in Portugal is highly rated, with both private and public systems available. Private healthcare allows for personalized care with English-speaking doctors. Visits to private doctors cost just €16 (US$17.40), and private insurance, at around €550 (US$600) per month, covers 80% of costs.

1st place – Panama

Panama is a safe, stable and wealthy country where you can live comfortably on $2,400 a month, and with $2,900 a month you can live in true luxury.

The healthcare system is also excellent, the workers are highly educated, speak English well, but the prices for their services are much lower than what most people are used to in the US and Europe.

In addition, Panama is one of the most desirable places in the world to legally obtain a residence permit.

If your pension is at least $1,000, you can apply for a retirement visa after six months.

Retirees in Panama can get amazing discounts: 25% discount on electricity bills, 50% discount on movie tickets and events, 20% discount on medical consultations and medicines, 25% discount on meals in restaurants.

Renting a modern one-bedroom apartment with modern renovation will cost at least $ 1,000. The only metro line in Central America, cheap Uber, great shopping and lively restaurants await you in Panama.

You can play golf, tennis, pickleball or anything else you like all year round. This is one of the sunniest and most desirable countries on earth.

There are many countries in the world that can become the best destination for retirees, the main thing when choosing a place is to pay attention to the affordability of moving, the cost of living and the level of development of the healthcare system.

Let us remind you! At the end of 2024, the number of Americans considering moving abroad increased significantly. Typically, Americans choose English-speaking countries and states in Europe. We talked about the most popular destinations for Americans to move to in 2024 and available migration options earlier.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe trip abroad, I advise you to contact a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations while traveling around the world.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.

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