International Living Ranked the Top 15 Places to Retire Around the World
My wife and I were big fans of International Living for many years. However, once we actually moved overseas, we found our experience did not exactly match the perceptions we had garnered from reading the periodical. Frankly, they paint over many of the negatives in the locations they cover. We strive NOT to do that here. However, some of their assessments are worth noting. Since we focus on retiring in Europe, let’s look at their European destinations.
Six of their selections were in Europe. When it comes to retirement, Europe offers a wealth of options that blend cultural richness with practical advantages. In their annual ranking of the best places to retire globally, International Living has highlighted six European destinations—Portugal, Greece, France, Italy, Malta, and Ireland—that excel in categories such as affordability, healthcare, accessibility, and quality of life. Here's how each country measures up against the metrics:
1. Portugal: A Leader in Value and Climate
Value: Portugal is consistently lauded for its affordability. Retirees can live comfortably on a modest budget, particularly in smaller cities like Coimbra or coastal areas like the Algarve.
Housing: Real estate is diverse, with options ranging from affordable apartments to luxury villas.
Healthcare: Portugal boasts an excellent healthcare system that is both high-quality and affordable, especially for those in its public system.
Visas & Citizenship: The D7 Visa, designed for retirees with a steady income, makes relocating straightforward.
Climate: With mild winters and sunny summers, Portugal’s climate is hard to beat.
Government & Infrastructure: Stable and well-developed, the country offers reliable public services and transportation.
2. Greece: Scenic Beauty and Affordable Living
Value: Greece is one of Europe’s most affordable destinations, with low costs for housing, dining, and leisure activities.
Housing: A wide range of properties are available, from traditional homes on the islands to modern apartments in Athens.
Healthcare: While private healthcare is recommended for expats, it remains affordable compared to other countries.
Visas & Citizenship: The Greece Golden Visa program provides residency to those investing in property.
Climate: Mediterranean weather ensures warm, dry summers and mild winters, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Government & Infrastructure: While improving, infrastructure in rural areas can lag behind urban centers.
3. France: A Blend of Sophistication and Practicality
Value: Though not the cheapest option, France offers excellent value for its high standard of living. Smaller towns like Annecy or Aix-en-Provence provide affordability without sacrificing charm.
Housing: The real estate market is vast, with options ranging from countryside cottages to urban apartments.
Healthcare: France’s healthcare system is among the best in the world, accessible through a low-cost universal health program.
Visas & Citizenship: Long-term visas are obtainable for retirees with sufficient financial resources.
Climate: France offers a range of climates, from Mediterranean warmth in the south to temperate seasons in the north.
Government & Infrastructure: A robust infrastructure supports public services, transport, and cultural amenities.
4. Italy: Cultural Richness Meets Affordable Living
Value: Italy provides affordable living, especially in less-touristy regions like Abruzzo or Puglia, where daily expenses are low.
Housing: The housing market offers bargains, particularly in rural areas, with ongoing initiatives like €1 homes in select villages. Please note that there is no such thing as a move-in ready house for €1. All of these initiatives are designed to get families to refurbish areas that have fallen into disrepair.
Healthcare: Italy’s public healthcare system is both high-quality and affordable for residents.
Visas & Citizenship: Italy’s Elective Residency Visa caters to retirees with steady income sources.
Climate: Italy’s diverse geography means you can choose your ideal climate, from the warm coasts to the cooler northern regions.
Government & Infrastructure: While bureaucracy can be challenging, infrastructure in major cities and tourist hubs is well-developed.
5. Malta: A Small Island with Big Advantages
Value: Malta offers a slightly higher cost of living but compensates with tax-friendly policies for retirees.
Housing: The housing market is competitive but includes options from modern apartments to historic homes.
Healthcare: Malta’s healthcare system ranks highly, offering free public healthcare to residents and affordable private options.
Visas & Citizenship: The Malta Retirement Program provides tax incentives and residency for non-EU retirees.
Climate: With over 300 sunny days per year, Malta’s climate is ideal for those who love warm weather.
Government & Infrastructure: A stable government and efficient infrastructure make it easy to settle in.
6. Ireland: A Haven of Natural Beauty and Warm Welcomes
Value: Ireland is less affordable than other European options, but its charm and quality of life justify the expense.
Housing: Housing can be expensive in cities, but rural areas offer more affordable options.
Healthcare: Ireland’s healthcare system is solid, though private health insurance is common among expats.
Visas & Citizenship: A Stamp 0 visa is available for retirees with substantial financial means.
Climate: Ireland’s climate is temperate but rainy, perfect for lush landscapes and cozy living. OK, that’s a typical International Living positive spin. We lived in Ireland for 5 months. We saw the sun about half a dozen times.
Government & Infrastructure: Modern infrastructure (which has improved greatly in the last couple of decades) and a welcoming government make Ireland a favorite for English-speaking retirees.
Conclusion
These six European countries stand out for their ability to balance affordability, healthcare, and lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to Portugal’s sunny coasts, Italy’s historical treasures, or Ireland’s green hills, Europe offers a retirement experience as diverse as its cultures. By considering these metrics, retirees can find a destination that aligns with their dreams and practical needs.
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