Published on
December 28, 2025
Mexico is emerging as a top choice for retirees in 2026, alongside countries like Greece, Costa Rica, Panama, Portugal, Italy, Spain, and France. This surge in popularity can be credited to its remarkable blend of low living costs, strong healthcare, and a vibrant culture. The country’s affordable housing options make it easy for retirees to live comfortably without breaking the bank. Mexico also offers top-tier healthcare services, making it a safe haven for those seeking high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost found in other countries. Additionally, its lively culture, rich history, and beautiful landscapes provide retirees with endless opportunities to engage in an active and fulfilling lifestyle, from exploring charming cities to enjoying serene beach towns. With its mix of affordability, excellent healthcare, and cultural richness, Mexico has become a perfect destination for retirees looking to make the most of their golden years.
While many Greeks are preoccupied with rising grocery bills and electricity costs, the rest of the world has made a clear decision: Greece is the best place to retire in 2026. In its annual ranking, International Living has placed Greece at the number one spot for retirees, surpassing long-standing favorites like Portugal and Spain.
This might seem surprising to some, especially when considering Greece’s reputation for bureaucracy, lively debates, and leisurely coffee breaks that stretch for hours. However, there’s a growing allure that retirees are discovering, offering a lifestyle that many locals may take for granted.
What Makes Greece So Appealing to Retirees?
International Living’s rankings go beyond the allure of sun-drenched beaches and stunning landscapes. The publication evaluates countries on practical factors that matter most to retirees, including the cost of living, healthcare, housing, visa policies, climate, and the ease of adapting to the local culture.
Greece has risen to the top because it strikes the perfect balance between affordability and quality of life. While other European destinations like Portugal and Spain have become more expensive and restrictive in terms of residency, Greece remains an accessible and welcoming option. The country offers year-round sunshine, a laid-back lifestyle, and a social fabric that values personal connections, all of which are ideal for retirees seeking a slower pace of life.
The Golden Visa: Greece’s Gateway for Retirees
One of Greece’s most attractive features for retirees is its Golden Visa program. With a minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate, the program provides an easy pathway to residency in one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations. For retirees from Northern Europe and the United States, this visa offers the opportunity to settle in a country with mild winters, a high quality of life, and a healthcare system that’s well-regarded internationally.
Greece’s Golden Visa program is one of the most accessible in Europe, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a seamless transition into retirement. This investment opens the door to affordable housing, modern infrastructure, and vibrant communities, offering retirees the opportunity to live the dream of year-round sunshine and Mediterranean living.
Top Retirement Destinations for 2026
While Greece takes the top spot, many other countries remain attractive options for those looking to retire abroad. According to International Living, the top ten destinations for retirement in 2026 are:
- Greece – Affordable cost of living, great climate, strong healthcare, and accessible residency programs.
- Panama – Pensionado discounts and low healthcare costs.
- Costa Rica – Known for its beautiful nature, longevity, and environmental consciousness.
- Portugal – Great healthcare, favorable visa options like the D7, and stunning landscapes.
- Mexico – Affordable living, robust infrastructure, and rich culture.
- Italy – High quality of life with affordable options for purchasing older homes.
- France – Renowned for its exceptional healthcare system and lifestyle.
- Spain – Vibrant culture, excellent healthcare, and stable living conditions.
- Thailand – Affordable cost of living and a safe environment.
- Malaysia – Known for its food, cultural diversity, and scenic beauty, especially in places like Penang.
Why Greece Stands Out
For anyone considering retirement abroad, Greece now tops the list as the ultimate destination. It offers the kind of slow, fulfilling lifestyle that retirees are increasingly craving. While locals in Greece continue to juggle daily pressures, the country’s relaxed pace of life is exactly what retirees are searching for—time to unwind, connect with neighbors, and embrace the slower rhythm of life.
This peaceful, easy-going lifestyle, along with stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, makes Greece an irresistible destination for those in search of a place to spend their retirement years. Whether it’s a quiet village or a bustling coastal town, Greece offers a welcoming environment where time feels like it moves a little slower—just as retirees need it to.
Mexico has become an ideal retirement destination for 2026, joining Greece, Costa Rica, and others, thanks to its low living costs, excellent healthcare, and vibrant culture that offers retirees an affordable, fulfilling lifestyle.
In the end, while the locals remain busy navigating their daily routines, the rest of the world is flocking to Greece for the unique luxury of slowing down. It seems that Greece is the ideal place to retire, not because it’s perfect, but because it offers a rare opportunity to embrace life at a more relaxed pace—something that is increasingly valuable in today’s fast-paced world.
