Video: European Destinations for Retirement: Which Country Attracts the Most Pensioners and Couples?
A recent survey reveals that the majority of people looking to move abroad are either married or in a relationship, with over one-third planning to reside abroad for at least six months per year. The top destinations for those seeking a change of scenery or retirement in 2025 include Thailand, Portugal, Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Uruguay.
Affordable Living in Thailand
Ranked as the number one global retirement destination, Thailand offers an attractive living environment with property costs typically ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 for purchase or $300 to $600 per month for rent for a one-bedroom apartment. The country's appeal lies in its comfortable, affordable lifestyle, tropical climate, good healthcare, and expatriate-friendly visas.
Portugal: A Popular European Choice
Portugal is a popular choice among retirees due to its mild climate, good healthcare, and accessible property prices. The average monthly budget is around $1,500 to $2,200, with rent averaging $500 to $900 per month. The D7 visa allows retirees with passive income to stay long term in the country.
Spain: A Favourite Among Americans
Spain is a popular destination among American retirees, with estimated monthly spending around $1,500 to $1,800 and living costs about 45% lower compared to the US. The country offers the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa and has reasonable property costs.
Mexico: Proximity and Affordability
Mexico is a favourite among US retirees looking for proximity and affordability. Monthly budgets typically range from $1,200 to $2,000, with significantly lower living costs (about 60% less than the US). Several visa options are available, including Temporary and Permanent Resident Visas.
Costa Rica and Uruguay: Quality of Life
Costa Rica and Uruguay offer good quality of life, with monthly budgets around $1,200 to $1,800 and $1,800 to $2,400, respectively. These countries facilitate retirement through visas such as the Pensionado or Rentista visa in Costa Rica and Temporary Residence Visas in Uruguay.
Only 6.3% of respondents looking to purchase a home abroad see it as an investment. Portugal ranks third, with 18% of preferences, while Italy is the top choice for people moving abroad, with 53% of preferences. The survey also indicates that most people interested in moving abroad are over 56 years old, with more than one-third aged over 66.
Italy's excessive bureaucracy, high taxation, and lackluster economic conditions are factors that deter some people from moving there. However, Italy's dream regions for potential buyers include Tuscany, Sicily, Lombardy near Lake Como, Liguria, and Puglia. Properties with balconies are in high demand, and Ostuni is the top-ranked town for potential buyers, followed by Santa Maria del Cedro, Caltagirone, Noto, Carovigno, Todi, Nizza Monferrato, Scalea, Casciana Terme Lari, and San Vito dei Normanni.
In summary, retirees can expect to spend from approximately $1,000 (Thailand) up to around $2,000 or more (Portugal, Uruguay) monthly on living and housing expenses. Property prices in these countries correspond with these broad cost-of-living ranges, making them attractive depending on budget and lifestyle preferences.
- When considering real-estate investment overseas, Japan ranked second to Italy, with 16% of preferences, providing opportunities for investors in both urban and home-and-garden properties.
- For those seeking to diversify their financial portfolios through investing in property abroad, Thailand offers attractive property costs and good rental yields, making it an appealing choice in the lifestyle segment of the real-estate market.
