Don’t Retire in the US: Here Are 19 Better Alternatives

If you’re in the United States and you’re looking to retire, it’s a good idea to look into the world of possibilities to consider moving to and spending your retirement years in. If you’re stuck, here are 19 destinations that offer great experiences.

Cyprus

Photo Credit: kirill_makarov/Shutterstock.

Sunshine, friends, and safety are just three of the many tempting reasons for a U.S. citizen to retire in Cyprus. It’s one of the many countries that have a high life expectancy, low costs of living, and well-developed infrastructure. It also offers a more flexible tax system for retirees in comparison to the U.S.

Belize

Photo Credit: Rob Crandall/Shutterstock.

With ideal weather temperatures throughout the year, a low cost of living, the English language spoken widely, and no capital gains tax, Belize is a great country for U.S. citizens to retire comfortably in. Everything you need to know about retiring in Belize can be found here on this smartasset website.

Roatán, Honduras

Photo Credit: skyfie/Shutterstock.

Another affordable place to retire is Honduras. This Caribbean island receives high ratings for its affordability, rich community of expats, and visa benefits. Everything from entertainment and activities to food and housing is a lot more affordable compared to retiring in the U.S.

Panama

Photo Credit: Rob Hainer/Shutterstock.

In terms of sustainability and environmental factors, Panama is rated highly. It’s one of the wealthiest countries in Latin America and has a fast-growing economy, as well as the best airline companies and an international airport.

Ireland

Photo Credit: Salvador Maniquiz/Shutterstock.

Retiring in Ireland does necessitate that you meet all its legal conditions and have enough funds in the bank. Its governance and development are highly rated, and its healthcare services are decent. U.S. citizens can visit Ireland for 90 days on holiday, so it’s advisable to visit the region first before embarking on a retirement journey.

Malta

Photo Credit: aappp/Shutterstock.

Malta has a vibrant expat community in which retirees spend their time networking. It has warm weather, is one of the most affordable places to live in terms of day-to-day costs, and has a cosmopolitan population of people from all over the world. The ratings for housing and cost of living are fairly average, making it an attractive option.

Oaxaca, Mexico

Photo Credit: eskystudio/Shutterstock.

Oaxaca is recognized for its infrastructure, vibrant culture, architecture, and affordable housing. Many expatriates choose Mexico due to the ease of establishing a residency for retirement and enjoying all that this beautiful place has to offer. It also has one of the world’s best wine industries.

Paris, France

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

For a stress-free but slightly up-market retirement, choose France as one of the many options because it offers the excellence of life that’s coupled with rich experiences. A bonus advantage for retirees is that it has an excellent healthcare system. However, it tends to be more expensive compared to other destinations on this list.

Costa de la Luz, Spain

Photo Credit: Gudrun Hochmuth/Shutterstock.

The Annual Global Retirement Index ranks this region in the top 5 as the perfect place to retire. It doesn’t have the same climate in all its regions, but Costa de la Luz stays, on average, 86°F (30°C) throughout the year and usually drops to about 61°F (16°C). Costa de la Luz is a very charismatic town with a rich and friendly culture.

Sanur, Bali, Indonesia

Photo Credit: Marius Dobilas/Shutterstock.

For those on the brink of retirement, Bali is a great island to consider. One of the places highly recommended for retirement is Sanur. It offers a very relaxed and laid-back atmosphere and is one of the most budget-friendly places to be. It has an already established expat community. Additional recommended places for retirees include Seminyak and Ubud.

Da Lat, Vietnam

Photo Credit: Hien Phung Thu/Shutterstock.

If you’re looking for a city that resembles paradise, Da Lat in Vietnam comes very close. It has amazing natural landscapes with lush farmlands, serene waterfalls, pine forests, and tranquil lakes. Its other name is “City of Flowers” because of the expanse of flowers stretched across the land everywhere you go. It’s a former French colony.

Thailand

Photo Credit: Daily Travel Photos/Shutterstock.

The cost of retiring in Thailand is merely a fraction of what you would spend retiring in the U.S. It has decent healthcare facilities, friendly locals, beautiful beaches, a warm climate, and affordable lifestyle options that make it an attractive destination for retirement. Suggestions include Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, and Chiang Mai.

Ecuador

Photo Credit: Fotos593/Shutterstock.

Ecuador, in South America, is widely considered one of the best countries for retirees. Known for its weather, friendly locals, and affordable lifestyle, it offers convenience with high-speed internet and priced healthcare and housing options. The country’s terrain includes mountains, beaches, and rainforests.

Portugal

Photo Credit: DaLiu/Shutterstock.

One of the safest countries to retire is Portugal. It’s been receiving praise from expats for its welcoming community, pleasant weather, and excellent healthcare services. The cost of living is practicable, and there are residency programs to help expats, such as the Golden Visa initiative.

Costa Rica

Photo Credit: Stefan Neumann/Shutterstock.

Central America has a reputation for being a safe region, with a great climate and decent private insurance selections. It also has a specific retirement visa program for those looking to retire, and Costa Rica is one of the recommended places to think about moving to.

Italy

Photo Credit: DaLiu/Shutterstock.

There are many pros to retiring in Italy. Besides being the first place everyone wants to visit at least once in their lifetime, it’s also considered one of the best places to live. Those who are into rich cultures, awe-inspiring art, various mouth-watering culinary varieties, a warm climate, and a higher quality of life should consider retiring here.

New Zealand

Photo Credit: lazy pigeon sketches/Shutterstock.

New Zealand is famous for its magnificent scenery and provides a safe environment for people of all ages, especially those of retirement age. While the cost of living may be relatively higher compared to other countries, it’s still regarded as one of the best places to be.

Australia

Photo Credit: Serge Goujon/Shutterstock.

When you’re planning to retire, one of the top priorities on your list of things to look for should be a decent healthcare system. This is why Australia doesn’t fall short—it has one of the best healthcare facilities and access to services in the world. It also offers a high quality of life to both its citizens and retirees.

Greece

Photo Credit: vlas2000/Shutterstock.

Many holidaymakers looking for the perfect dream vacation often end up in Greece. The island caters to everyone with its beach resorts, healthy cuisines, and archeological ruins. For retirees, this place is more than suitable, as it’s relaxed, warm, friendly, and affordable.

READ MORE

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

As boomers fondly clutch onto practices that evoke nostalgia, Gen Z is at the next counter, eagerly trading in the old for a dash of modern sparkle. From handwritten notes to digital memos, from piggy banks to digital wallets—the dance between ‘then’ and ‘now’ has never been more lively. Join us as we explore 18 traditions that boomers want to uphold but Gen Z says need to go.

BOOMERS HAVE SPOKEN: 18 TRADITIONS THEY WANT TO UPHOLD BUT GEN Z SAYS “NEED TO GO”

16 THINGS MEN KNOW (BUT WILL NEVER REVEAL TO THE LADIES)

Photo Credit: Krakenimages.com/Shutterstock.

Have you ever wondered what men really think or do? Then look no further. A recent internet survey asked, “What are some ‘guy secrets’ girls don’t know about?” Here are the top 16 answers:

16 THINGS MEN KNOW (BUT WILL NEVER REVEAL TO THE LADIES)

18 BABY BOOMER SLANG PHRASES THAT MAKE MILLENNIALS SCRATCH THEIR HEADS

Photo Credit: Prostock-studio/Shutterstock.

While it’s easy for younger generations to feel like they’re steeped in slang, Boomers know that some of the best phrases have been passed down for years. Think you’re hip to all of them? Read on for 18 popular phrases of Baby Boomer slang.

18 BABY BOOMER SLANG PHRASES THAT MAKE MILLENNIALS SCRATCH THEIR HEADS

20 THINGS OLD PEOPLE LOVE THAT THE REST OF US DON’T UNDERSTAND

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

Different generations enjoy different things, but have you ever seen something an old person loves and thought to yourself, why? A recent internet survey asked, “What is something that old people love that you don’t understand?” Here are the top 20 answers.

20 THINGS OLD PEOPLE LOVE THAT THE REST OF US DON’T UNDERSTAND

20 THINGS WE DID WHEN WE WERE YOUNG THAT WE REGRET NOW

Photo Credit: Kues/Shutterstock.

It’s easy to say hindsight is 20/20, but what advice would you really give your younger self? Here are 20 things that most people did when they were young that they regret today.

20 THINGS WE DID WHEN WE WERE YOUNG THAT WE REGRET NOW