Top five countries that are the best places for retirees to move to in 2025

Posted by author January 1, 2025 Travel

International Living previously released its Annual Global Retirement Index, which highlights the best places to move to in 2025.

Armed with flexibility and savings, becoming an expat can become an achievable dream. The Retirement Index assesses countries across seven key categories to determine its ultimate ranking.

Factors include housing, visas and benefits, cost of living, healthcare, development and governance, climate, and how easy it is to integrate into the local community.

Topping the list is Panama in Central America because of its Pensionado Visa, which enables retirees proving a lifetime pension of £1,000 monthly will gain access to exceptional perks.

These perks include discounts on medical services, utilities, transportation and entertainment. Panama is a Caribbean destination full of ancient ruins, fortresses and deep blue seas.

In second place is Portugal because of its all-year mild weather, rich culture and stunning coastal landscapes. There are many cosmopolitan cities to move to in Portugal, including Porto and Lisbon.

Third place goes to Costa Rica with its welcoming “pura vida” lifestyle and the friendly locals. While the community is laid-back, there’s plenty to do to keep active, including breathtaking hikes and yoga classes.

In fourth place is Mexico, North America, which has a well established expat community. Not only that, Mexico is steeped in history and traditions and the culture embraces human connection.

And, in the fifth most alluring place for retirees to move to in 2025 is France, Europe.

France may be an ideal place to move to if you want to stay close by to family in the UK.

Plus, in southern France there is a large expat community in charming and quaint villages.