The best place to retire abroad is no longer in Europe – but six of the top ten are

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-10-04T05:24:43.051Z • Permanent link

A new global retirement ranking, compiled by the International Association of Retirees, has unveiled a surprising twist in the traditional narrative of retirement destinations. Contrary to the long-held assumption that Europe remains the top choice for retirees, the top ten spots now boast a mix of countries from the Americas, Asia, and Africa. The rankings, which took into account factors such as cost of living, healthcare, climate, and language barriers, shed light on the evolving preferences of retirees worldwide.

According to the report, the top three countries in the rankings are Costa Rica, followed closely by Panama and Portugal. The inclusion of these Central American and Iberian nations marks a significant shift from the traditional European stronghold, driven by factors such as rising living costs, stricter immigration policies, and concerns over healthcare access. For instance, a report by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) found that the average cost of living in Europe has increased by over 20% in the past five years, prompting many retirees to seek alternative destinations.

Notably, the report highlights the growing influence of digital nomadism, with many retirees embracing remote work arrangements and digital lifestyles. For example, the expat community in Chiang Mai, Thailand, has swelled in recent years, with retirees attracted to the city's low cost of living, rich cultural heritage, and thriving digital infrastructure. The International Association of Retirees has also noted a significant increase in interest from retirees in countries with a strong focus on digital literacy and e-government services.

The implications of this new ranking are far-reaching, with significant consequences for companies, research communities, and markets that cater to the global retiree population. For instance, the report highlights the growing importance of digital infrastructure and e-government services, which could lead to increased investments in these areas. Companies such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, and Google, which offer a range of digital services and tools for remote work, are likely to benefit from this trend.

Furthermore, the report's findings have significant implications for research communities, particularly those focused on aging and retirement. As the global retiree population continues to grow, researchers will need to adapt their approaches to better understand the needs and preferences of this demographic. For example, the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new initiative to improve access to healthcare services for older adults, which could lead to increased collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.

The new ranking is part of a larger pattern of shifting global trends in the retirement sector. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly living, with many retirees seeking destinations that offer a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. The report's findings also reflect a broader shift towards digitalization and remote work, which has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the global economy continues to evolve, it is likely that the retirement sector will also undergo significant changes, driven by technological advancements, demographic shifts, and changing attitudes towards work and retirement.