12 Best Places to Retire in the World

Are you starting to think about winding down but need to know the best places to retire in the world?

Retirement today looks significantly different from what it did a generation ago. As people live longer, stay healthier, and often seek new adventures, more of us are choosing to spend our later years abroad.

For some, it’s about slowing down, relaxing in the sun, enjoying local markets, and spending quality time with family.

For others, it’s a chance to shake things up with a livelier pace: think vibrant European cities, endless outdoor activities, or even tropical destinations where winter coats become a distant memory.

Planning carefully can unlock significant benefits, whether that’s more space for your money, a climate that reduces heating bills, better healthcare, or the excitement of joining a welcoming expat community.

Many retirees also find that living abroad extends their pension further, leaving them with more to spend on hobbies, travel, and everyday pleasures.

Of course, selecting the right destination is the most crucial step. Each country offers something unique, whether it’s sunshine, affordability, lifestyle, or ease of access to home.

To help you weigh up the options, we’ve put together 12 of the best places in the world to retire in 2025, highlighting exactly what makes them so appealing.

1. Ireland: Close, Familiar, and Hassle-Free for Brits

Rolling green landscapes and charming villages make Ireland a top retirement choice for UK expats.

You might be surprised to know that Ireland now rightly tops many retirement lists for Brits.

For British retirees seeking to live abroad without feeling too far from home, Ireland is one of the most accessible options.

Numerous reports, such as Moneyweek, have ranked it #1 for ease, safety, and shared language, thanks to the Common Travel Area arrangement, which allows Brits to live, work, and access healthcare without a visa or residency permit, a feature no other EU country offers post-Brexit.

This makes Ireland an attractive, low-stress option for retirement.

Culturally, it feels familiar, with English as the primary language and a shared history that facilitates integration.

The landscapes are breathtaking too, rolling green countryside, dramatic coastlines, and quaint villages full of charm. Cities like Dublin and Cork provide buzz and culture, while rural regions such as County Kerry and Galway are perfect for a slower pace of life.

While the cost of living can be higher in cities, many retirees find smaller towns more affordable.

The Irish healthcare system is reliable, and private healthcare is available for those who prefer it.

Add in Ireland’s famously friendly locals, and you’ve got a retirement destination that combines convenience with character.

2. Portugal: Sunshine, Affordability, and a Warm Welcome

Golden Algarve beaches and a laid-back lifestyle draw thousands of retirees to Portugal each year.

Moving to Portugal has been attracting Brits for decades, and in 2025, it remains one of Europe’s most desirable destinations.

With over 300 days of sunshine a year in some regions, mild winters, and long, warm summers, the climate alone is a huge draw.

Add in a slower pace of life, friendly locals, and a welcoming expat community, and it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing to call Portugal home.

The Algarve is the best-known retirement hotspot, offering golden beaches, golf courses, and lively coastal towns such as Lagos and Albufeira.

For a more cultural vibe, the Lisbon coast provides easy city access while still offering seaside living.

The Silver Coast is a more affordable option, with charming towns like Nazaré and Óbidos offering traditional Portuguese life at a slower pace.

Meanwhile, the island of Madeira delivers subtropical weather, dramatic scenery, and a strong British expat community.

On top of lifestyle perks, Portugal offers excellent healthcare, relatively low living costs compared to the UK, and favourable tax schemes for retirees.

With great food, walkable villages, and endless outdoor cafés, Portugal truly makes retirement feel like a permanent holiday.

3. Cyprus: Sunshine, Simplicity, and Tax Benefits

Coastal living in Paphos offers year-round sunshine and low-tax benefits for UK retirees.

Cyprus has quietly become one of Europe’s most appealing retirement destinations, thanks to its warm Mediterranean climate, laid-back lifestyle, and expat-friendly atmosphere.

With around 340 days of sunshine a year, it’s a paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors, whether that’s relaxing on golden beaches, exploring ancient ruins, or dining al fresco in charming villages.

For retirees, Cyprus offers one of the most generous tax schemes in Europe.

Pension income from abroad can be taxed at just 5%, making it a desirable option for those relying on UK pensions.

English is widely spoken, and with many Brits already living on the island, it’s easy to slot into an established community.

Popular retirement spots include Paphos, with its archaeological sites and relaxed coastal vibe, Limassol for a cosmopolitan touch, and Larnaca for affordable living by the sea.

Healthcare is modern and accessible, with both public and private systems available.

Add in a low crime rate and excellent transport links back to the UK, and it’s no surprise Cyprus continues to rise in popularity.

4. Malta: Small Island, Big Retirement Appeal

Historic Valletta blends Mediterranean charm with modern comforts for retiring expats.

Malta may be small in size, but when it comes to retirement benefits, this island nation packs a punch.

With around 300 days of sunshine each year, a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, and English as one of the official languages, it’s an easy and welcoming place for British retirees to settle.

Its compact size means everything is within easy reach, so a car is not really necessary, whether you’re living in the capital, Valletta, the lively coastal town of Sliema, or the more peaceful island of Gozo.

Malta also boasts a strong healthcare system ranked among the best in Europe, with both public and private options available.

For retirees, residency routes are straightforward, and a well-established expat community makes it easier to make new friends.

Property ranges from historic stone houses to modern apartments with sea views, with prices generally lower than those in much of Western Europe.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm locals, Malta offers an ideal balance of sun-soaked relaxation and lively community life.

For retirees wanting sunshine without sacrificing convenience, Malta delivers in spades.

5. Panama & Costa Rica: Nature, Value, and Warm Hospitality

Costa Rica’s Central Valley offers lush scenery and affordable living for retirees abroad.

For retirees looking beyond Europe, Central America offers two stand-out options: Panama and Costa Rica.

Both countries offer affordable living, beautiful natural surroundings, and welcoming expat communities.

Panama is famous for its Pensionado Program, one of the world’s most generous retirement visas.

This scheme offers big discounts on healthcare, utilities, entertainment, and even flights, making day-to-day living exceptionally affordable.

The capital, Panama City, offers cosmopolitan living, while areas like Boquete attract retirees with its cooler mountain climate and friendly small-town vibes.

Costa Rica, meanwhile, is known for its motto “Pura Vida” (pure life).

It consistently ranks highly for quality of life, safety, and healthcare. Retirees are drawn to areas like the Central Valley, with its temperate climate, or coastal regions such as Tamarindo for beachside living.

Costa Rica is also one of the most environmentally progressive nations, offering retirees an endless array of eco-friendly adventures.

Both countries provide a slower pace of life, affordable private healthcare, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to feel at home.

6. Mexico: Colourful Culture and Affordable Comfort

San Miguel de Allende is a vibrant colonial town popular with expat retirees in Mexico.

Mexico has become a retirement hotspot for those seeking to stretch their pension without compromising their quality of life.

Known for its warm climate, colourful culture, and friendly people, it offers retirees an affordable yet vibrant lifestyle.

Popular destinations include San Miguel de Allende, a colonial town famous for its art scene and historic charm, and Puerto Vallarta, where expats enjoy beachfront living alongside modern amenities.

The Riviera Maya, stretching from Cancún to Tulum, appeals to retirees who want Caribbean beaches and resort-style living.

One of Mexico’s strongest selling points is affordability. Housing, healthcare, and day-to-day living often cost a fraction of what you’d spend in the UK.

Private healthcare is high-quality and widely available, with English-speaking doctors in most expat areas.

Retirees also enjoy a strong expat network, making it easy to settle into social circles.

Combine that with world-class food, year-round sunshine, and excellent transport links back to the UK, and it’s easy to see why Mexico continues to rise as a retirement destination.

7. Spain: Sunshine, Sociability, and a Slice of Home

The Costa Blanca offers warm weather, affordable living, and a thriving British community.

Spain is another firm favourite with British retirees, and in 2025, it remains one of the most popular choices. With over 300,000 Brits already living there, you’ll never be short of company.

The appeal is obvious: long, sunny days, a friendly and sociable culture, and a cost of living that is generally lower than in the UK.

Popular retirement regions include Alicante and the Costa Blanca, renowned for their sandy beaches and thriving expat communities, as well as Malaga on the Costa del Sol, which seamlessly blends seaside relaxation with vibrant city life.

The Balearic Islands, such as Mallorca and Menorca, are ideal for those who want island living without straying too far from the UK.

It’s worth noting that, post-Brexit, retirees now need to apply for a non-lucrative visa to live in the UK long-term, which requires proof of a stable income.

However, with excellent healthcare, easy flights back to the UK, and endless opportunities to enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle, Spain continues to tick all the right boxes.

8. France: Charm, Culture, and Close Connections

Quaint stone houses in the Dordogne make France a favourite for retirees seeking rural living.

For retirees who want to stay close to the UK but enjoy a completely different lifestyle, France is a great choice.

Its combination of historic towns, beautiful countryside, and world-class cuisine has always appealed to British expats. In fact, over 150,000 Brits already call France home.

Regions like Provence and the French Riviera are ideal for sunseekers, while the Loire Valley and Dordogne appeal to those seeking rural tranquillity and charming stone houses at affordable prices.

One of France’s biggest draws is its proximity; you can hop on the Eurostar or a short flight and be back in the UK within hours, making family visits easy.

France’s healthcare system is among the best in the world, and the slower pace of life in rural areas suits many retirees perfectly.

While learning French is recommended, many expats find it enriches their experience and helps them integrate more easily into local communities.

For those seeking both culture and convenience, France is a top-tier choice.

9. Canada: Natural Beauty and World-Class Living

Vancouver combines mountain views with a cosmopolitan lifestyle for expat retirees.

Though further afield, Canada offers retirees a winning mix of spectacular scenery, modern amenities, and a high quality of life.

Known for its friendly people and safe communities, it’s an excellent choice for those who want both outdoor adventure and urban sophistication.

British Columbia and Ontario are among the most popular regions for retirees.

In Vancouver, you’ll find a bustling coastal city with mountain views, while Toronto offers cultural diversity, world-class dining, and excellent healthcare.

For a quieter pace, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island offer small-town charm and affordability, with close-knit communities that are perfect for retirees.

Canada’s healthcare system is well-regarded; however, private insurance is often recommended for expatriates.

While winters can be harsh in some regions, summers are glorious, with long days perfect for hiking, boating, and enjoying the country’s vast natural beauty.

With English widely spoken, strong ties to the UK, and a stable economy, Canada remains a practical and exciting retirement destination.

10. Australia: Sun, Space, and a Laid-Back Lifestyle

Retirees in Queensland enjoy year-round sunshine and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle.

For those ready to travel further afield, Australia remains a highly ranked retirement destination.

With its stunning beaches, vast open landscapes, and warm climate, it’s an ideal destination for retirees seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The lifestyle is famously laid-back, with outdoor living at its core, think barbecues, coastal walks, and an active community spirit.

Popular retirement areas include Queensland, with its year-round sunshine and the Great Barrier Reef on your doorstep; Tasmania, known for its pristine wilderness and slower pace; and Victoria, where Melbourne combines vibrant city living with coastal escapes.

Australia also offers excellent healthcare, consistently ranked among the best globally.

Visas can be more complicated, as retirees need to meet specific financial requirements, but once settled, the quality of life is hard to beat.

Add in a strong expat community and a shared language, and Australia feels familiar while still offering something fresh and exciting.

11. Thailand: Affordability with a Cultural Twist

Chiang Mai’s temples and slower pace of life make it a popular retirement hub in Thailand.

Thailand has become a favourite destination for retirees seeking a comfortable life without breaking the bank.

The cost of living is significantly lower than in the UK, meaning pensions stretch further, covering everything from housing to healthcare and everyday luxuries.

It’s easy to live well here on a modest budget if you decide to retire to Thailand.

Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, is particularly popular among expats due to its cooler climate, relaxed pace, and thriving community.

For those drawn to coastal living, areas like Phuket and Hua Hin provide beaches, modern amenities, and vibrant expat hubs.

Thai culture is rich and welcoming, with world-class cuisine and a strong sense of hospitality.

Healthcare in major cities is excellent and affordable, with many doctors speaking English.

The country also offers retirement visas, making long-term stays straightforward for those who meet the requirements.

For retirees seeking affordability, culture, and sunshine, Thailand offers the full package.

12. New Zealand: Scenic Living with a Laid-Back Lifestyle

Bay of Plenty’s coastal charm attracts retirees looking for space and tranquillity.

New Zealand is a dream retirement spot for those who value space, scenery, and a slower pace of life.

Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, from the Southern Alps to golden beaches, it’s perfect for retirees who enjoy the outdoors. Hiking, sailing, and exploring national parks are all part of everyday life here.

Regions like the Bay of Plenty offer sunny coastal living, while areas such as Marlborough attract wine lovers to scenic vineyards.

Cities like Auckland and Wellington provide cosmopolitan living while still maintaining a relaxed atmosphere.

Healthcare is excellent, communities are safe, and English is the primary language, making integration easy.

While the distance from the UK is a drawback both in terms of flight times and cost, the rewards are significant.

With friendly locals, a high standard of living, and an unbeatable quality of life, New Zealand is a worthy consideration for retirees seeking a fresh start in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.

Start Your Retirement Journey with White & Company

Retiring to another country is an exciting step, but it also comes with significant decisions and numerous practicalities that will require your full attention.

From choosing the right destination to making sure your treasured belongings arrive safely, careful planning makes all the difference.

That’s why working with a trusted international removals specialist like White & Company is such a smart move.

With over 150 years of experience, our removal teams understand the complexities of relocating overseas and provide tailored services to suit your needs, whether that’s expert packing, secure storage, or managing customs.

By leaving the logistics in our hands, you can focus on the more enjoyable side of retirement: settling into your new home and embracing the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of and working towards.

We also offer storage facilities, ranging from long-term to short-term. If you want to spend a few months abroad before making your final decision, storing all your belongings is a great option.

Give us a call today. Our free, no-obligation home survey can be undertaken in person or via a video call. Following this, you will receive our written quotation for your move.

You have nothing to lose!

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.