Stevens cites that following years of dominance by Portugal and Spain, factors like stricter visa policies and increasing costs have encouraged retirees to consider Greece. As she describes, “Greece now offers what many are seeking a beautiful, welcoming, and affordable European base with accessible residency options and a lifestyle that feels rich in every sense.”
The 2026 Top Retirement DestinationsAccording to International Living’s latest index, the top 10 destinations are:Greece
Panama
Costa Rica
Portugal
Mexico
Italy
France
Spain
Thailand
Malaysia
The rankings are derived from the comprehensive evaluations of weather, healthcare, housing, visas, living expenses, and overall quality of life, including the insights from global correspondents and expats on the ground.
Why Greece Has Become the New No. 1Greece’s attraction rests on a rare blend of natural beauty, historical richness, affordability, and accessible residency pathways. The country features thousands of miles of coastline, hundreds of islands, mild climate, and a strong culinary and cultural tradition.
International Living’s Greece correspondent Leena Horner, who relocated from Boulder, Colorado, to Corfu, describes the country’s charm: “Greece quietly transforms the way you live.” She cites, “It’s not just one thing; it’s the climate, the ‘siga siga’ attitude of taking life slowly, the vibrant community, and the daily connection with nature.”
The phrase “Siga siga” translates to “slowly, slowly” or “little by little,” showing Greece’s popularly relaxed, unhurried lifestyle.
Horner and her husband report living comfortably on €2,900–€3,000 a month, considerably lower than comparable expenses in the U.S. They also emphasize the affordability of private healthcare. “The private healthcare here has been consistently good,” Horner, an OBGYN, stated. Their private insurance plan for two costs is estimated at €250 per month, and routine care rarely surpasses €1,000 each year.
Some medical treatments cost a fraction of U.S. prices, Horner states that her husband’s retinal detachment laser treatment was €250 “in total treatment, follow-ups, everything. In the U.S., that would have cost at least five thousand dollars.”
That said, affordability differs depending on views. While several foreign retirees find Greece reasonably priced, Greek pensioners often financially, over 60 percent get under €1,000 each month, according to national pension data.
A Popular Choice for American RetireesOver 20,000 U.S. citizens currently reside in Greece full-time, and several more are expressing interest. Citizenship expatriations from the U.S. have increased sharply, 1,285 Americans renounced their citizenship in the first quarter of 2025, a 102% jump from the previous year, portraying the developing momentum toward long-term relocation.Greece’s Accessible Residency OptionsA significant reason for Greece’s rising popularity is due to its flexible and attainable visa system. The country offers one of Europe’s most welcoming Golden Visa programs, providing a five-year residence permit with no minimum stay requirement. Investment thresholds include:€800,000 for premium zones (e.g., Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini)
€400,000 for other areas
€250,000 for properties destined for renovation or residential conversion
€500,000 minimum for bank deposits, bonds, or business investments
There is also the Financially Independent Person (FIP) visa that is tailored for retirees with passive salaries. Applicants must have at least €3,500 each month, with extra amounts for spouses and children.How Other Top-Ranked Countries ComparePanamaPanama remains to excel in retiree advantages, particularly through its Pensionado Program, which includes significant discounts on entertainment, travel, airfare, medical services, and utilities. Healthcare is admired for being high-quality yet far more cheaper than in the U.S.Costa RicaTops first for climate, Costa Rica is popular for environmental protection, renewable energy, and longevity, home to one of the world’s five Blue Zones. Several expats report better health after settling there.PortugalAdmired healthcare quality and governance, Portugal provides the famous D7 passive-income visa. Living outside significant urban centers is inexpensive for several retirees.MexicoHome to the largest North American expat community, Mexico scores best for visas, cost of living, infrastructure, and healthcare. Several expats emphasize the ease of integration and welcoming communities.ItalyItaly ranks top for lifestyle and ease of integration. Its strong healthcare system, historic charm, and considerably low renovation expenses make it a distinctive draw for retirees looking for culture and community.FranceDespite possible changes to healthcare rules for foreign retirees, France continues to be highly attractive, especially for its healthcare system, climate, and cultural richness.SpainSpain shines in healthcare and quality of life, though elevating costs slightly impact its affordability score. Non-Lucrative visas provide a pathway to residency for retirees.ThailandThailand tops among the budget-friendly destinations, with low living costs, friendly communities, tropical weather, and accessible long-term stay options for eligible retirees.MalaysiaMalaysia stands out for contemporary infrastructure, affordability, and the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program. Penang, particularly, is famous for its food, multicultural environment, and natural beauty.FAQs;1. Why is Greece regarded as the best retirement destination in 2026?
Greece provides affordable living, accessible visas, warm culture, and beautiful scenery. Expats enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with modern amenities.
2. What does “siga siga” mean?
“Siga siga” is a Greek phrase which means “slowly, slowly” or “little by little.” It mirrors the local, unhurried approach to daily life.