KEY POINTS
- Greece claimed the #1 spot as the best country in the world to retire in 2026.
- The ranking is from the Annual Global Retirement Index, evaluating cost, healthcare, climate and lifestyle.
- Other leading retirement countries include Panama, Costa Rica and Portugal.
Greece has been ranked the world’s best retirement destination for 2026, a first in the history of the Global Retirement Index.
The highly regarded ranking is compiled by International Living, which assesses countries on multiple key factors.
Analysts consider the cost of living, healthcare quality, housing affordability, climate and ease of residence when producing the annual list.
Greece’s Mediterranean lifestyle, warmer climate and structure of residency options helped propel it ahead of traditional favourites.
The index measured how retiree-friendly each country is for 2026, comparing a wide range of destinations.
Factors include healthcare access and affordability, which are crucial for retirees’ long-term wellbeing.
Greece earned top marks for its sunny climate, scenic coastline and cultural richness, elements often cited by expats as reasons to relocate.
Observers also noted that recent visa and residency policies made relocation more accessible.
Panama ranked near the top of the 2026 list, praised for its warm weather and established expat communities.
Costa Rica, long known for its nature, biodiversity and laid-back pace, also featured prominently.
Portugal, another perennial favourite, again scored high due to quality healthcare and affordable urban and rural options.
These countries have consistently appeared among the best places to retire in recent years.
Retirees often weigh lifestyle enjoyment alongside financial considerations.
Mediterranean nations like Greece and Portugal combine culture, cuisine and cost benefits for many retirees.
Visa and residency pathways are a major factor in ranking, as secure long-term status appeals to foreign retirees.
Countries that streamline residency and offer supportive services tend to rise in the index.
Greece’s ascent to the top spot represents a shift in global retirement preferences, surpassing spots usually held by Panama and Costa Rica.
Analysts say lifestyle and cost balance resonates strongly with an aging global population.
The broader index includes a global mix of destinations from Europe, the Americas and Asia.
Many of these locations offer natural beauty, strong expat networks and competitive living costs.
Retirees planning relocation should also consider healthcare access and long-term residency requirements.
These can be as decisive as climate and culture for quality of life after retirement.
Other countries in the top 10 include Mexico, Italy, France, Spain and Malaysia, offering diverse options.
Each destination differs in cost, infrastructure and proximity to home countries, appealing to varied retiree goals.
Greece’s #1 ranking for 2026 reflects growing interest from global retirees seeking a blend of quality living and cultural richness.
Expats and experts alike see the Mediterranean lifestyle as a key attractor.
