Comfortable Countries: The 5 Best Countries for Retirees Looking to Settle Down Abroad

After spending decades working hard, retirement gives you time to unwind and enjoy your golden years. Although most retirees want an affordable, safe, and beautiful area to settle down in, this idyllic setting can be found in many different places around the globe. For some, it means hiring the best Ocean Grove builders to design a dream home on Australia’s Surf Coast. For others, it’s all about building a hacienda in a mountain village in Mexico. 

You can find both of these options and more in the five comfortable countries below:

1. Portugal

Retirees are drawn to Portugal for its friendly people, beautiful landscapes, and focus on the good life. Portuguese friendliness is exemplified by greeting people with double-cheek kisses. The beautiful landscapes range from fishing villages to the wine regions of the Alto Douro, and the good life is focused on taking things slowly. 

In addition, Portugal boasts a low crime rate, great public transport, and affordable costs of living. Although there may be some language barriers, many people speak basic English, and free Portuguese classes are offered to new residents by the government.  

2. Panama

Panama is a tropical country in Central America that provides easy access to both North America and South America. Being outside the hurricane belt means it’s not prone to extreme storms that affect other nearby countries. Depending on where you choose to settle down, you can enjoy an ocean breeze, cool mountain air, or a mix of both in the grassy highlands. 

The benefits of retiring in Panama have attracted a large ex-pat community, so it’s easy to make new friends and feel part of a close-knit group. On top of that, Panama has low crime rates, affordable living costs, and top-quality healthcare. 

3. Australia

According to a US News Ranking, Australia is the #3 country for affluent people seeking a comfortable retirement. This is generally due to the health-conscious attitudes, friendly people, safety, and beautiful landscapes. In addition, medical services are high-quality, and permanent residents have access to universal public healthcare.

Although Australia is more pricey than other countries on the list, you can find affordable housing options by looking outside the major cities. Furthermore, the housing market is quite stable, and foreign citizens can apply for mortgages. 

4. Spain

Spain is the land where the sun shines nearly all year long. In addition to great weather, there is a marvelous variety of places to live – from mountain villages in the north to Mediterranean beaches on the east coast. Also, if you plan on settling down in one region and taking trips to others, the public transport is extensive, efficient, and affordable.  

Retiring to Spain as a permanent resident or citizen is fairly straightforward, crime beyond simple pickpocketing is rare, and the medical care is top-notch. 

5. Mexico

Many people from Canada, the US, and other western countries flock to Mexico to live out their retirement in a more affordable country. Of course, this affordability isn’t the only thing attracting them to Mexico. The locals are friendly, the food is delicious, and the healthcare is top-quality – which is why it’s a medical tourism hotspot. 

Residents get free access to public healthcare alongside plenty of private options. Although certain areas in Mexico are dangerous, the vast majority of places where retirees live are incredibly safe. Plus, there are pre-established ex-pat networks that can help you with any questions or needs that may arise. 

Choosing the best country to retire in requires a fair bit of research, but the five countries above provide a good starting place for those looking to settle down abroad.