Whether you’re planning on retiring soon or simply looking for a quieter lifestyle, where you live matters – and the Global Retirement Index (GRI) highlights just how much quality of life can vary from place to place. These top 10 destinations have recently been named as the best places to retire.
The Natixis Global Retirement Index (GRI) is an in-depth research report that provides a comparative assessment of retirement and quality of life across 44 developed countries worldwide.
Since its debut in 2012, this index has become a benchmark for measuring national quality of life. Drawing on 18 indicators across four weighted sub-indices (Finances in Retirement, Material Wellbeing, Health, and Quality of Life), it captures the full spectrum of factors that shape how people live.
From economic stability and life expectancy to environmental conditions, the rankings reward not just individual strengths but the balance and consistency a country maintains across all areas, offering a clear, multi-dimensional portrait of quality of life around the world.
The top 10 best places to retire, according to the Global Retirement Index for 2026
- Greece
- Panama
- Costa Rica
- Portugal
- Mexico
- Italy
- France
- Spain
- Thailand
- Malaysia
How each country secured a spot on the list
1. Greece
Greece takes the top spot for 2026, charming retirees with its sun-drenched islands, relaxed Mediterranean rhythm and wonderfully affordable lifestyle. From the whitewashed villages of the Cyclades to the lush green shores of Corfu, the country offers an enviable balance of beauty and practicality. Accessible residency schemes, excellent private healthcare and a slower, more sociable pace of life make Greece feel less like a retirement destination and more like a permanent holiday.
2. Panama
Panama continues to attract retirees seeking tropical warmth with a dash of cosmopolitan comfort. Its famous Pensionado programme offers generous discounts on everything from restaurants to healthcare, while modern infrastructure and a stable economy add reassurance. Whether it’s the cool mountain air of Boquete or the sleek skyline of Panama City, the country combines convenience with adventure in equal measure.
3. Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s appeal lies in its effortless embrace of the “pura vida” lifestyle — a philosophy centred on wellbeing, nature and simplicity. Retirees are drawn to its pristine beaches, rainforest landscapes and welcoming communities, as well as a healthcare system considered among the best in Latin America. The country’s emphasis on sustainability and outdoor living creates an atmosphere that feels both invigorating and restorative.
4. Portugal
Long beloved by British retirees, Portugal remains one of Europe’s most elegant and accessible places to settle down. Historic cities, golden Atlantic beaches and excellent seafood come together with a mild climate and high-quality healthcare. Although living costs have risen in recent years, Portugal still offers remarkable value compared with much of Western Europe, especially beyond Lisbon and the Algarve hotspots.
5. Mexico
Mexico offers retirees a vibrant blend of culture, colour and affordability. Colonial towns such as San Miguel de Allende and coastal favourites like Puerto Vallarta have thriving international communities, while everyday living costs remain refreshingly manageable. Rich cuisine, lively traditions and warm hospitality make it particularly attractive for those seeking a retirement filled with energy and character.
6. Italy
Italy continues to seduce retirees with its timeless beauty and incomparable lifestyle. Whether in a Tuscan hill town, a lakeside village or along the southern coast, life here revolves around good food, strong community ties and a deep appreciation for simple pleasures. Affordable homes in lesser-known regions and excellent regional healthcare add further appeal to a country where daily life feels effortlessly cinematic.
7. France
France earns its place thanks to its outstanding healthcare system, refined culture and exceptional quality of life. From the lavender fields of Provence to the Atlantic coast and rural Dordogne, retirees can enjoy world-class cuisine, elegant surroundings and excellent public services. While it may not be the cheapest option on the list, France offers a sense of sophistication and comfort that few destinations can rival.
8. Spain
Spain remains a perennial favourite for retirees seeking sunshine, sociability and a relaxed pace of life. Coastal towns along the Costa del Sol and Valencia region continue to attract expats with their warm climate, lively café culture and accessible healthcare. Combined with affordable dining and a deeply ingrained outdoor lifestyle, Spain delivers an easy-going charm that feels tailor-made for retirement living.
9. Thailand
Thailand stands out for offering extraordinary value without compromising on comfort. Retirees can enjoy tropical beaches, vibrant cities and world-renowned cuisine at a fraction of the cost of many Western countries. Modern healthcare facilities, particularly in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, are another major draw, while the famously warm hospitality gives the country an unmistakably welcoming atmosphere.
10. Malaysia
Malaysia rounds out the top ten with its compelling mix of affordability, infrastructure and multicultural charm. Penang and Kuala Lumpur are especially popular among retirees thanks to their modern amenities, excellent healthcare and English-speaking communities. Add year-round warmth, fascinating cuisine and comparatively low living costs, and Malaysia becomes an appealing gateway to a comfortable tropical retirement.
Are you looking for the best place to retire? Find inspiration in these articles:
