Top Destinations
Whether you’re looking for sand and sea, a skyline full of high-rises, or a secluded retreat deep in the mountains, our top countries can offer you all that and more. Explore the countries below and find the retirement destination that’s right for you.
Panama
Panama’s modern infrastructure, affordable living, and proximity to the U.S. make it a top expat destination. Its famous Pensionado Program offers retirees discounts on healthcare, utilities, and more. With vibrant cities, serene beaches, and mountain retreats, Panama has something for everyone.
Portugal
When you imagine old Europe—those cobblestone alleys, medieval town walls, crenelated castles on hilltops, all soundtracked by the toll of church bells. Portugal delivers. Not in a touristy, contrived way, but as the standard day-to-day life of the country.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers a great climate year-round, neighborly atmosphere, no-hassle residence programs, excellent healthcare, a stable democracy, and safety and security. It doesn’t hurt that many retired couples report living well on $2,000 a month—that includes all their costs.
How to Live Abroad
You can embrace a more international life in so many different ways today—go winter over somewhere warm, travel a few months a year, retire overseas full-time, even take a sabbatical and work remotely for a time. Singles, couples, multi-generational groups... you have so many options today. Here at International Living, our experts will help you explore your options and find your path.
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Get The Global Retirement Index
If you’re considering retirement abroad , you need information, and you need lots of it. But more than that, you need guidance on how to interpret that information. That’s what we’re here for, and that’s why we’ve compiled the 2025 Annual Global Retirement Index: to help you with the exciting business of choosing where in the world will best suit your needs.
Spotlight Event
In-Person Conference
Feb 7, 2025Fast Track Panama 2025
Join us and discover everything you need to know to decide if Panama is your ideal retirement or relocation destination… Come away with the knowledge and expert contacts you need to make your move happen with confidence.
People We've Helped
“Your International Living Magazine & Postcards are nothing short of life-changing! Since I’ve been a reader, I’ve become very clear about how I want to live by immersing myself in the cultures of the world. I am currently working towards that goal by putting my affairs in order before I fly out the door. Thank you for all the inspiration.”
Expat Stories
Real-life stories from people, just like you, who have made the move overseas. Some have retired…others have relocated and started a business in their new country... some are wintering over where it's sunny... and still others are taking their portable incomes with them to a good-value place they'd rather spend time... From Europe to Latin America to Southeast Asia... you'll find some of their stories, below...
From Disaster to a Dream Life in Portugal
It was love at first sight when Rhonda laid eyes on Tavira, in Portugal's sunny Algarve region.
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Our vision was a sun-drenched tropical paradise with a relaxed vibe and low cost of living.
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On that exploratory trip, we fell in love…with the people, food, and wine in every town we visited.
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