Each year, we survey International Living readers to find out where they're most interested in living or retiring overseas. Some familiar favorites remain near the top, but this year's results also point to a shift. More readers are looking beyond the well-established hotspots in search of countries that offer greater value, a slower pace of life, and opportunities that still feel like hidden discoveries.
From the sun-drenched shores of Albania and Montenegro to the vineyards of Argentina, these are the five countries generating the most interest among our readers in 2026—and why they may deserve a place on your own overseas shortlist.
The World’s Best Retirement Havens for 2026
The World’s Best Retirement Havens for 2026
24 Countries Compared, Contrasted, Ranked, and Rated. You don’t have to be rich to enjoy a pampered retirement, you just need to know where to go. With our 35th Annual Global Retirement Index, our experts hand you a detailed roadmap. Details—and a Special Offer—Here
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1. Montenegro
Montenegro was the top up-and-coming destination in our 2026 survey, reflecting growing interest in a country that offers many of the qualities readers love about the Mediterranean, without the crowds found in some of Europe's better-known hotspots.
Tucked between Croatia and Albania on the Adriatic coast, Montenegro packs an incredible amount of variety into a surprisingly small country. Medieval towns, dramatic mountains, and sparkling bays are all within easy reach, making it possible to enjoy very different settings without traveling far.
While visitors often gravitate to Kotor and Budva, many expats are discovering quieter coastal communities like Petrovac and Perast. These smaller towns offer a slower pace of life, scenic waterfronts, and an authentic glimpse of everyday life, while remaining close to Montenegro's best-known attractions.
Montenegro's compact size also makes it easy to explore. In a single day, you can travel from the mountains to the coast, stopping in historic villages, hiking scenic trails, or lingering over fresh seafood beside the Adriatic. It's this rare mix of variety, accessibility, and untapped charm that has made Montenegro the country generating the most excitement among readers this year.
A couple can live comfortably on less than $2,000 a month, including all expenses (housing, groceries, dining out).
2. Albania
Albania still feels like one of Europe's best-kept secrets—but that may not be true for much longer. Once overlooked by travelers and expats alike, this small Balkan nation is quickly gaining attention for its crystal-clear coastline, dramatic mountain scenery, and relaxed Mediterranean pace.
Stretching between Greece and Montenegro, Albania offers an appealing mix of landscapes and settings. The Albanian Riviera is lined with turquoise bays and seaside towns like Sarandë and Vlorë, while inland you'll find vineyards, mountain villages, and historic Ottoman cities like Gjirokastër. In many places, you can drive from the beach into the mountains in less than half an hour.
One reason Albania is attracting so much attention is that it remains remarkably accessible for Americans. U.S. citizens can stay for up to one year without a visa, giving prospective expats plenty of time to explore different regions before deciding whether to make a longer-term move. Meanwhile, continued investment in roads, airports, and other infrastructure is making the country easier to reach while preserving the sense that you're getting in early.
For many, that's the real appeal. Albania offers the chance to enjoy Mediterranean living in a country that's still writing its next chapter—one where welcoming communities, beautiful scenery, and everyday affordability come together in a way that's becoming increasingly rare elsewhere in Europe.
Many retirees say they live comfortably for $1,500 to $2,000 per month, soaking up the slow pace and warm weather.
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3. Argentina
Argentina offers something unlike anywhere else on this list. From the cosmopolitan streets of Buenos Aires to the vineyards of Mendoza and the dramatic landscapes of Patagonia, it's a country of remarkable diversity that's attracting growing interest from International Living readers.
Buenos Aires is often the first stop—and for many, it's love at first sight. Nicknamed the "Paris of South America," the city is known for its elegant architecture, leafy boulevards, and distinctly European feel. But it's also unmistakably Argentine. Spend the morning browsing neighborhood markets, linger over lunch at a traditional parrilla, catch a performance at the world-renowned Teatro Colón, or enjoy an evening of tango. With 48 distinct neighborhoods, from the upscale streets of Recoleta to the bohemian charm of San Telmo, there's a corner of the city to suit almost every taste.
Beyond the capital, Argentina offers endless opportunities to explore. Wine enthusiasts gravitate to Mendoza, outdoor lovers head for Bariloche and Patagonia, while Córdoba blends colonial history with a vibrant university culture. Excellent public transportation, a café culture that encourages lingering, and a way of life built around family and friends all add to the country's appeal.
For Americans earning in U.S. dollars, Argentina can also represent exceptional value, although the country's economic conditions continue to evolve. For many, though, the attraction goes beyond affordability. It's the chance to immerse yourself in a culture that celebrates food, conversation, the arts, and making time to enjoy everyday life.
A single person can live well here on $1,200 to $1,500 a month; a couple can expect to spend $2,000 to $2,500 a month.
4. Cyprus
Sunshine, sea views, and a relaxed Mediterranean pace have long made Cyprus a favorite with European retirees. Now, it's beginning to capture the attention of more IL readers as well.
As the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus offers a little of everything. Historic villages dot the hillsides, Blue Flag beaches stretch along the coast, and modern cities like Limassol blend waterfront living with cafés, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Many expats gravitate to Paphos, where established international communities make it easy to settle in while still enjoying authentic Cypriot culture.
One of Cyprus's biggest advantages is its accessibility. English is widely spoken, healthcare is well regarded, and the island's compact size makes it easy to explore everything from mountain wineries to seaside promenades in just a few hours. With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, it's also an easy place to embrace life outdoors.
For those looking for a Mediterranean destination that combines European comforts with a slower pace of life, Cyprus is becoming an increasingly appealing option—and one that's earning a place on more overseas shortlists.
Many couples find they can live comfortably here for under $2,400 a month, with singles often getting by on $1,800 to $2,000.
5. Czechia
For many Americans, Prague is their first introduction to Czechia, and it's an unforgettable one. With Gothic spires, cobblestone streets, and one of Europe's best-preserved Old Towns, the city feels like a step back in time. But beyond the storybook scenery lies a modern, livable capital with efficient public transportation, quality healthcare, a thriving café culture, and living costs that are often lower than in many Western European cities.
Yet Prague is only part of the story. Brno and Ostrava offer vibrant urban living at an even more affordable price, while Karlovy Vary is renowned for its centuries-old thermal spas and Český Krumlov draws visitors with its medieval streets and riverside setting. Fast, reliable trains make it easy to explore the country, and Czechia's location in the heart of Europe puts destinations like Vienna, Berlin, and Budapest within easy reach for weekend trips.
For those who want the culture and convenience of Western Europe without the premium price tag, Czechia is becoming an increasingly attractive option. A renewable one-year residency permit, excellent infrastructure, and an established expat community make settling in easier than many people expect.
You’ll find you can stretch your budget surprisingly far; many report living well on $1,800 to $2,500 per month.
The World’s Best Retirement Havens for 2026
The World’s Best Retirement Havens for 2026
24 Countries Compared, Contrasted, Ranked, and Rated. You don’t have to be rich to enjoy a pampered retirement, you just need to know where to go. With our 35th Annual Global Retirement Index, our experts hand you a detailed roadmap. Details—and a Special Offer—Here
By submitting your email address, you will receive a free subscription to IL Postcards, The Untourist Daily and special offers from International Living and our affiliates. You can unsubscribe at any time, and we encourage you to read more about our Privacy Policy.
Continue Your Research
Curious about how these emerging destinations compare with more established expat favorites?
Explore the full results of the International Living 2026 Reader Survey to see where Americans are most interested in living, retiring, and investing abroad, along with the trends shaping today's expat lifestyle choices.
If you're ready to take the next step, join us at the Ultimate Go Overseas Bootcamp, September 5–7, 2026, in Tampa, Florida. Over three days, you'll hear directly from International Living editors and country correspondents, learn about visas, healthcare, real estate, and taxes, and walk away with practical strategies for making your move with confidence.
And for a deeper look at many of the countries featured here, including Portugal, Greece, Panama, and others, download the International Living Global Retirement Index 2026. It compares the world's top retirement destinations across key categories such as cost of living, healthcare, climate, infrastructure, and ease of fitting in, giving you another valuable tool as you narrow your shortlist.
Whether you're just beginning to dream or actively planning your move, these resources can help you turn inspiration into a practical plan.
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