Best places to retire (international edition)
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Retiring overseas is more than a dream; it’s a life-changing decision. But choosing where to go can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in.
The 2026 Annual Global Retirement Index is your essential tool for cutting through the clutter and zeroing in on the places that offer the best lifestyle, value, and ease of transition abroad. Based on more than 40 years of on-the-ground experience and in-depth reporting from our trusted network of expats and correspondents, this Index is built to help you take action.
And here’s the thing: the world is changing—fast. Cost of living, visa rules, healthcare access, and even climate patterns are evolving. That’s why our team has re-evaluated and recalculated everything for 2026. We’ve surveyed our experts on the ground and leveraged real-time data to pinpoint where your dollars stretch further, where you can thrive year-round, and where you’ll find a warm welcome.
Our Index isn’t just a list; it’s a decision-making framework. We score destinations across multiple categories: climate, healthcare, cost of living, housing, visas, and more. But we also bring a human touch. Our correspondents are living the life you want to live. Their insights are candid, personal, and practical.
Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal village, a colonial city, or a rugged mountain retreat, we’re here to help you find a location that matches your lifestyle, priorities, and budget.
This isn’t just about moving abroad. It’s about building the best possible life overseas—on your terms.
So, where should you retire in 2026? Let’s find out…
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In some places there are mentions of requirements for "pension income." Since many employers (at least those in the USA) have ditched "pension" in favor of 401(k), I wonder if they accept some kind of 401(k)-to-pension equivalent calculation.
