10 cities around the world suitable for retirement

As global mobility increases and remote living becomes easier, more retirees are considering international destinations for their post-work years.

Factors such as healthcare quality, living costs, visa access and proximity to family now play central roles in deciding where to settle.

According to Forbes, here are 10 countries offer various retirement options for those seeking comfort, affordability and cultural variety.

1. Albania

Located across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, Albania is gaining attention for its low living costs and Mediterranean climate. The country’s beaches, mountains and stable political environment make it an appealing base for retirees. Healthcare is improving but still rated as “adequate,” and private insurance is recommended. English is spoken in some areas. A “D Long Stay Visa” leading to a retirement permit requires proof of around $17,500 in annual pension income. Popular locations include Tirana, Durrës, Vlorë and Shkoder.

2. Argentina

Known for its European influence and diverse climate, Argentina combines urban and scenic living at a fraction of U.S. costs. Healthcare is well regarded, especially in larger cities like Buenos Aires and Mendoza, and private insurance is advised. The renewable “pensionado” visa requires proof of at least $24,000 in yearly retirement income. Spanish language skills are highly useful. Retirees often choose Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mendoza and Rosario for their mix of amenities and accessibility.

3. Austria

Austria offers a stable environment with high-quality healthcare and a cost of living close to the U.S. average. A tax treaty with the U.S. prevents double taxation, and crime rates are low. The “settlement permit except gainful employment” visa requires proof of about $50,000 in annual income for couples and proficiency in German. Vienna, Innsbruck, Salzburg and Linz are top locations for retirees seeking cultural immersion and reliable services.

4. Belize

Belize remains popular for its warm climate and English-speaking population. The cost of living is lower than in the U.S., and flights to Houston take just two hours. Healthcare is basic, and many retirees return to the U.S. for major medical care. The “Qualified Retirement Program” offers permanent residency for those earning at least $24,000 per year and exempts income from outside Belize. Coastal areas like Ambergris Caye, Corozal, Caye Caulker and Placencia attract most retirees.

5. Canada

Canada’s stability, shared language and proximity to the U.S. make it a convenient option. Permanent residency is difficult without family connections, but six-month stays are allowed annually. Healthcare is affordable but generally not accessible to non-residents without private insurance. Taxes are higher than in the U.S., though a treaty prevents double taxation. Retirees often favour Guelph, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Moncton and Estevan for their peaceful lifestyles and lower living costs.

6. Colombia

Colombia’s improved stability, lower cost of living and strong healthcare system have made it a top choice for retirees in South America. The “pensionado” visa requires proof of around $12,000 in annual income and is valid for three years. Spanish knowledge is useful. The country’s cities offer different lifestyles: Medellín and Pereira for mild weather, Cali for culture and Cartagena for coastal living. Flights to the U.S. are short and affordable.

7. Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s biodiversity and consistent political stability attract thousands of retirees each year. The pensionado visa is renewable and requires only $12,000 in annual income. Retirees can join the public healthcare system or use private options at low cost. English is widely understood, though Spanish remains valuable. Popular destinations include San José, the Central Valley region, Atenas and Santa Cruz.

8. Cyprus

Cyprus combines a Mediterranean climate with a strong expat community. English is widely spoken, and healthcare is available through both public and private systems. A “Category F” residency permit requires roughly $15,500 in annual income for a couple, while purchasing property above $340,000 also provides eligibility. A tax treaty with the U.S. avoids double taxation. Retirement locations include Limassol, Paphos, Pyrgos Village and Larnaca.

9. France

France remains a consistent favourite for retirees seeking cultural depth and reliable infrastructure. Living costs drop outside Paris, and healthcare is both excellent and affordable. The renewable “VLS-TS Long-Stay Visitor Visa” demands proof of about $19,000 in annual income for couples. Knowledge of French is essential. Popular options include Bordeaux, Lyon and Carcassonne. Taxes are high, but a treaty prevents double taxation, and pension income from the U.S. is not taxed in France.

10. Greece

Greece offers a mix of history, islands and affordable living. Healthcare is accessible and affordable with private coverage. A “Financially Independent Person Visa” requires an annual income of around $26,000 for couples. There is a tax treaty with the U.S., and a favourable tax rate may apply to foreign retirees. Common choices include Athens, Trikala, Mykonos and Thessaloniki.

Chisom Michael

Chisom Michael is a data analyst (audience engagement) and writer at BusinessDay, with diverse experience in the media industry. He holds a BSc in Industrial Physics from Imo State University and an MEng in Computer Science and Technology from Liaoning Univerisity of Technology China. He specialises in listicle writing, profiles and leveraging his skills in audience engagement analysis and data-driven insights to create compelling content that resonates with readers.