Seniors often choose paradise destinations to live in after stopping work, however, not all destinations are the same. According to a recent international study that analyzed the best countries to live in after retirement, Greece is the most enjoyable place to spend the last years of life Thanks to the sunny climate and the facilities it provides.
The Greek country has been ranked as the best retirement destination in 2026, according to International Living’s annual Global Retirement Index. This recognition represents a change in the preferences of retirees seeking to settle abroad, while setting priorities Quality of life and lower costs provided by the nation.
The index evaluates global destinations based on cost of living, healthcare, housing, visas, climate and social integration. Jennifer Stevens, from International Living, explained to British media The sun Why Greece’s rise happened last year: “For years, Portugal and Spain have led the way, but recent visa changes and rising costs have prompted retirees to look elsewhere“.
“Greece now offers what many are looking for: a European base Beautiful, comfortable and affordable “With affordable accommodation options and a lifestyle that seems rich in every way,” Stevens added, the attraction for European retirees is the Golden Visa programme, which grants residence permits to foreigners who invest at least €250,000.
As for sun lovers, Greece is the ideal place, as it enjoys more than 300 sunny days a year. The cost of living is competitive. The country is characterized by diversity, as it includes more than 6,000 islands, of which 227 are inhabited. Although Santorini can be expensive, there are affordable gems like Thassos, with historical sites not to be missed.
Panama, Costa Rica and Mexico They have recently established themselves as America’s favorites due to their year-round warm climate, competitive cost of living and the warm hospitality of their people. Panama offers a retiree benefits program considered one of the best in the world, while Costa Rica combines political stability with a strong commitment to nature and health.
in europe, Portugal, Spain, Italy and France They are distinguished by their quality of life, strong infrastructure and access to first-class health systems. Portugal tops this ranking thanks to its safety, good climate and well-integrated international communities, while Spain offers a variety of landscapes, from Mediterranean coastlines to lively cities with great cultural offerings.
in asia, Thailand and Malaysia They are increasingly becoming options chosen by retirees looking for a low cost of living without sacrificing luxury. The former offers paradisiacal beaches, a hospitable culture, modern medical infrastructure, and is surprisingly affordable. The second, for its part, adds stability, well-organized cities, a tropical climate and an internationally recognized health network.
In this way, International Living’s annual Global Retirement Index was as follows: