Top Countries for Retiring Abroad in 2025: Affordable Living and Great Quality of Life
Many people aspire to spend their retirement years in a different country. This move can offer both a fresh experience and significant cost savings compared to living in the United States.
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If you’re contemplating an international retirement next year, here are some top-rated destinations as highlighted by International Living. These locations were assessed based on real living costs, healthcare quality, climate, lifestyle options, and input from experts. Each offers a rewarding lifestyle at a fraction of the cost you might face in the U.S.
Here’s a breakdown of the best places to retire abroad in 2025. For additional insights, check out the rankings of the best and worst states for retiring in 2024.
Panama
- Estimated monthly living costs: $2,400 or $2,900 for a luxury lifestyle
- Tax on foreign-earned income: $0
- Property taxes: 0.5%
- Car insurance: $57 per month
- Retiree discounts: 25% off utility bills, 50% off movie and event tickets, 20% off medical consultations and medication, 25% off meals at restaurants
- Rent for a one-bedroom furnished condo: About $1,000
- Golf club membership: $350 a month
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Portugal
- Average monthly living costs: $2,500 to $3,000 for a couple
- Rent: $1,300 to $1,500 per month
- Utilities (electricity, gas, and water): $87 to $163 per month
- Cell phones and internet bundle: $70 per month
- Groceries: $434 per month
- Private health insurance: $600 per month, covering 80% of expenses
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Costa Rica
- Average monthly living costs: $2,500+ for a couple
- Rent: $550 to $900 per month
- Socialized healthcare: $110 per month
- Internet: $55 per month
Mexico
- Estimated monthly costs: $1,000+
- Rent: $500 per month
- Emergency room visit: $350
France
- Estimated monthly budget: $2,000 for a couple, excluding rent
- Rent: $600 to $950 per month
- Doctor visit cost: $26
- Specialist visit cost: $85
- Groceries: $600 per month for a couple
- Cost for a 3-course gourmet meal: $36
More Insights from GOBankingRates
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Best Countries to Retire Abroad in 2025: See How Much Each Costs
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