Discover the top 15 safe countries to retire abroad in 2023. From Vietnam’s affordability to France’s rich history, explore the best places to retire abroad, including Indonesia, Colombia, Thailand, and more. Find your ideal retirement destination with TravelstoEurope.
1. Vietnam
Vietnam, with its affordability and high quality of life, stands as an attractive retirement destination. This captivating country offers stunning natural landscapes, including a long coastline, mountains, and tropical islands. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and nutritious yet budget-friendly cuisine add to the allure. Delotte, a resort town with French colonial influences, is a popular choice for retirement in Vietnam. The average cost of living for foreigners ranges from $500 to $1,500 per month, with prices potentially higher in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
2. Indonesia
Indonesia presents another appealing retirement option due to its low cost of living and breathtaking natural beauty, particularly its beaches and marine ecosystems. The country boasts well-established expat communities, with places like Bali being particularly attractive. Sanur, a peaceful suburb in Bali, serves as an ideal retirement spot known for its tranquil atmosphere, scenic coastal pathways, and affordable lifestyle. Foreigners living in Sanur can expect to spend around $800 to $1,500 per month.
3. Colombia
Colombia is increasingly popular among expats, thanks to its diverse microclimates, affordable living costs, and welcoming locals. The country offers a top-tier healthcare system, low-cost subsidized insurance, and retirement visas based on social security or rental income. Smaller cities like Manizales and Pereira provide a lower cost of living starting at $1,000 per month, while larger cities like Bogota and Medellin have a higher cost of living starting at $2,000 per month.
4. Thailand
Thailand stands out in Southeast Asia as an untouched country with a unique culture and a focus on sanuk, or fun. It offers an affordable cost of living and attracts retirees from various countries. Thailand’s natural beauty ranges from islands to bustling cities and rural areas. The average cost of living in Thailand is around $2,500 per month for a good lifestyle, but some retirees manage with even less, especially if they own property. The country boasts excellent healthcare facilities and fosters a strong sense of community among expats.
5. France
Known for its high-quality healthcare system, excellent infrastructure, and rich history, France is an enticing destination for retirement. Living in France means enjoying a high quality of life, great food, wine, art, and shopping. While Paris has a higher cost of living, other regions in France remain affordable and offer a wealth of history and culture. The average cost of living in France, excluding rent, for a single person ranges from $1,400 to $1,800 per month.
6. Mexico
Mexico stands as a convenient and popular retirement choice for Americans and Canadians alike. With well-established expat communities, warm year-round temperatures, beautiful coastlines, and a relatively low cost of living, it appeals to many. Notably, Oaxaca shines as an attractive retirement destination due to its moderate climate, affordability, and high-quality healthcare. The average monthly cost of living in Mexico, excluding rent for a single person, ranges from $600 to $900.
7. Italy
Italy emerges as an ideal retirement destination, offering a diverse climate, breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and renowned attractions. Retiring in Italy allows for a longer, more fulfilling life filled with adventure, all while maintaining a lower cost of living. Each region in Italy offers unique specialties in terms of food, wine, and outdoor activities. The average monthly cost of living in Italy, excluding rent for a single person, ranges from $800 to $1,200.
8. Spain
Spain presents an appealing retirement option in Western Europe, particularly for North Americans seeking affordability. It boasts a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and a lower cost of living compared to other European countries. Spain is renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, music, cuisine, viticulture, art, architecture, and festivals. Geographically, it offers mountains, plateaus, rivers, beaches, and islands, with the Costa De la Luz standing out for its abundant sunshine and the ancient city of Cadiz. The region also hosts expat communities and is gaining recognition as a golf destination. The average cost of living in Spain, excluding rent for a single person, is estimated to be around $800 to $1,200 per month, varying based on individual choices and specific regions.
9. Belize
Belize is an inviting country for retirement, with English as its official language and a jurisdictional tax system. Its Qualified Retired Program (QRP) Visa is widely regarded as one of the best retirement residency programs globally. Belize is celebrated for its pristine white sand Caribbean beaches, clear waters, and historical significance as part of the Maya Empire. Corozal, the northernmost district, stands out as a notable retirement location offering various lifestyle options. The average cost of living in Belize, excluding rent, is estimated to be around $800 to $1,200 per month, subject to variations based on location, lifestyle choices, and personal circumstances.
10. Greece
Greece comes highly recommended for retirement, boasting natural beauty, an affordable cost of living, rich history, and warm hospitality. With English widely spoken and a small population, the country’s archaeological sites and Greek Islands make it an appealing choice. Abundant sunshine, a high-quality and affordable healthcare system, and a relatively low cost of living further enhance Greece’s allure. Greek culture emphasizes socializing and enjoying life without excessive spending. Thorough research of visa and residency options is necessary. The average cost of living in Greece, excluding rent for a single person, ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month, varying based on location and lifestyle choices.
11. Northern Cyprus
Northern Cyprus stands as an appealing retirement destination with its year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. The welcoming expat community and English-speaking environment make it easy to settle in. Low crime rates, affordable healthcare, and pension options contribute to its attractiveness. Remarkably low real estate prices, including beachfront properties, coupled with favorable currency exchange rates, add to the affordability. Kyrenia, a charming town on the northern coast, is a popular choice for retirees. Consulting official government websites, expat forums, or local publications is advisable for accurate information on the cost of living.
12. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a sought-after retirement destination known for its tropical climate, affordable cost of living, and friendly locals. The country’s stable democracy, commitment to the environment, and top-rated healthcare system contribute to its appeal. Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes and outdoor activities foster a healthy lifestyle. The government actively welcomes expats, making it an excellent time to explore the country. A comfortable lifestyle in Costa Rica can be achieved with a monthly budget ranging from $2,500 to $3,000 for a couple, including rent, groceries, entertainment, transportation, and healthcare.
13. Ecuador
Ecuador, located in South America, offers an affordable and diverse retirement option. With modern conveniences, temperate weather, and a rich culture, it attracts tourists, expats, and retirees alike. The low cost of living and accessible housing options, whether beachfront properties or condos in the Andes, make it enticing. Ecuadorians are known for their friendly nature, and the country offers a range of activities and festivities. The cost of living in Ecuador is relatively low, allowing a comfortable lifestyle. On average, a couple can live comfortably with around $1,500 to $1,800 per month, depending on location and lifestyle choices.
14. Switzerland
Switzerland, known for its picturesque Alpine landscapes, offers a high quality of life, efficient infrastructure, stable political environment, and strong economy. The exceptional healthcare system and highly regarded education contribute to its appeal. Outdoor activities like skiing and hiking are popular among residents. However, the cost of living in major Swiss cities is higher compared to smaller towns or rural areas. A comfortable standard of living in Switzerland can range from $2,500 to $4,000 per month, depending on factors such as accommodation, transportation, food, entertainment, and healthcare.
15. New Zealand
New Zealand is a stunning country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, with beautiful landscapes it is known for its welcoming culture and great retirement options. The country offers breathtaking scenery including mountains, lakes, forests and coastlines, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The quality of life in New Zealand is high, with a well-developed Health Care System, excellent education and a focus on work-life balance. The country is safe, clean and known for its friendly communities retiring in. New Zealand offers a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle, however, the cost of living especially in major cities like Auckland and Wellington can be relatively High. The average cost of living in New Zealand ranges from $2500 to $4000 dollars per month depending on location, lifestyle and individual preferences.
