These Are the Top 3 Countries American Retirees Are Moving To

Whether your goal in retirement is to flee political drama, save money, or simply have a new, life-changing experience, moving abroad may be something you've considered. However, have you thought about where you'd like to go?

Have you considered how far your retirement savings will carry you in a foreign country? According to International Living, these are the top three spots for retirees in 2026, after factoring in quality of life and affordability.

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1. Greece

With the Ionian Sea to the west, the Aegean Sea to the east, and the Mediterranean to the south, Greece is practically surrounded by water. Much of Greece receives more than 300 days of sunshine each year, and residents take advantage of the weather with all kinds of outdoor celebrations.

With an average monthly cost of living around $1,700, including rent, you can enjoy the warmth of the sun and the people, as well as proximity to some of the most iconic historical sites in the world.

2. Panama

As trite as it may sound, Panama truly does have it all: UNESCO World Heritage sites, fascinating architecture, stunning beaches, world-class museums, and a laid-back atmosphere.

It's also a place where it's possible to stretch a dollar. The absolute minimum monthly budget you would need to live in Panama is $1,200 to $1,500, which covers the essentials for a single person outside major cities. To live a more comfortable life, you would need to budget $3,000 to $4,800 per month, an amount that provides better private healthcare in retirement. $3,000 to $4,800 per month also gives you access to unrestricted air conditioning, imported groceries, and an emergency fund.

3. Costa Rica

If you're looking for a country with an affordable cost of living and a landscape that includes everything from rainforests to volcanoes and sunny beaches, Costa Rica may be a good fit.

To live comfortably in this tropical climate, most retirees spend between $1,600 and $3,500 per month. However, if you can't imagine moving to Costa Rica without living on the coast, you're more likely to spend between $2,500 and $4,000+ for proximity to the water.

Rounding out the top 10

The other countries mentioned as top spots for American retirees are:

• Portugal
• Mexico
• Italy
• France
• Spain
• Thailand
• Malaysia

There's more to moving abroad in retirement than the cost of living, though. Before making the big move, visit the country you're most interested in, and stay long enough to get a true sense of the area. Speak with locals (and other expats) to learn what they like and what they're not wild about.

Make sure the lifestyle you're picturing is one you can realistically afford and that you're comfortable adapting to a new way of life.

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