24 Countries Where Retiring by the Beach Is Possible

Americans have been leaving the United States at higher rates than ever, leading to what some might call a “reverse brain drain.” Record numbers of people are now looking overseas, having grown tired of America’s ongoing economic challenges. Others have more money to spare, seeking a relaxed pace of post-work life.

One factor behind the departure is retirement, something not easily done in America on a modest working salary. Therefore, the thought of getting more bang for one’s retirement buck is understandably more appealing than the opposite.

The dream for some is living out their days near a cyan-colored ocean, enjoying beach walks in the sunset — that or playing fair-weather golf every day. We’ve looked into which countries make this fantasy come true for those willing to cross international borders in their twilight.

Portugal

Some corners of Europe make perfect sense for retiring Americans, and none make more than Portugal, considering its useful East Atlantic proximity. The Algarve region on the Southern tip of the country is also known as “Europe’s California.”

The mild Portuguese winters make for perfect golf, gardening, or hiking weather; summers are long, hot, and a welcome alternative for anybody who has survived 60 Midwestern American winters.

Portugal’s Golden Visa system allows non-EU migrants a five-year temporary visa, which can become permanent based on certain fiscal investment or net worth conditions.

Spain

Spain is appealing to many Americans right now: the USA is the fourth-largest investor in Spanish real estate. Spain has a manageable distance from the United States and, like Portugal, offers American citizens the chance to one day become Spanish.

It’s hard to imagine anywhere beating Spain for retirees. Affordable real estate, cheap dining out, and incredible beaches only add to Spain’s rich history and striking landscape. Taylor Swift loves Spanish food so much that she spent over $30,000 on it during her recent Spanish tour.

Greece

There are few countries with as many miles of beach as Greece. CityPopulation puts Greece at 13th for coastline length. Most of Greece’s beaches are found scattered among its 6,000 islands, while real estate can be incredibly cheap.

Lazy days on the terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea may be a possibility for some U.S. homeowners. Prices for coastal properties can go as low as $50,000, though on islands like Santorini, expect to add more zeros.

France

While most people associate France with a chateau in the countryside or fantasy Parisian living, the French coast is underrated. In the northern regions of Brittany or Normandy, prices for beach-adjacent houses are lower than the oversubscribed South of France.

Yet, the South of France is still reasonable; those who don’t mind living slightly out of town can find great deals. South France Villas says slightly higher living costs are balanced by excellent universal healthcare, a better climate, and endless travel opportunities.

Mexico

A recent Guardian article cites a couple who moved to Mexico after realizing retirement in the States just didn’t appeal to them. Jym Varnadore told his wife Renne they had two options. They could “stay in San Diego and substantially lower their standard of living,” or head south.

For a long time, Mexico has run away as Americans’ choice for retirement. Who can argue with the rich culture, amazing food, and wonderful weather? What’s more, there is a simple rhythm to life in Mexico, focused on community, family, and local customs. Who wouldn’t like to retire with this?

Croatia

Like much of Eastern Europe’s Balkan region, Croatia is a very affordable retirement option, though the country knows this. Consequently, it isn’t so easy to find a route to permanent citizenship, but it is possible, according to Expat in Croatia.

Investing in a Croatian business could be just one option for non-EU migrants. Those who can navigate the process will find reward in its endless coastal villages, rugged coastlines, and the clearest sea in the world.

Italy

Americans have a perennial love for Italy, and many U.S. residents can trace their roots to the old country. Few countries have the same level of drama as Italy — you can breathe it in the air, see it in the architecture, and feel it in the landscape.

Thankfully, Italy has a long-term resident program for anyone with at least $32,000 annual passive income. A residenza elettiva — or elective residence permit can become permanent with five years’ eligible conditions met.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica may appeal to those who wish to avoid America’s 401K crowds in Mexico. Kiplinger Personal Finance puts Costa Rica top of their most recommended retirement zones for U.S. expats.

In addition to its boundless natural beauty, rainforests, and beaches, Costa Rica boasts one of the world’s famous “Blue Zones,” where life expectancy is uniquely high.

Panama

Naturally, Panama must appear on some wannabe expats’ list for its location, weather, and ocean-adjacent living. While it may not be as cheap as Mexico, Panama is a safe option for Central America.

The country’s economy has seen nothing but solid growth for the past few decades, and housing prices are competitive. A coastal golf-course condo can go for less than $100,000 — a mouthwatering price for aging Tiger Woods fans.

Ecuador

Further afield, we have Ecuador, home to some of the world’s most enchanting natural wonders. This location would suit a more adventurous retiree looking to transform compound interest savings into life-assuring memories.

Ecuador has every climate imaginable: verdant tropical jungles and beaches, arid deserts, and snow-covered peaks. Being tropical means there are only two seasons. International Living explains how many foreigners relocate to higher elevations where the weather ranges between 50 and 70 degrees all year.

Colombia

Like Ecuador, Colombia is not most people’s first thought when considering foreign retirement. However, those who can get past this trepidation will find a country where moving makes perfect fiscal sense.

Travel and Leisure argues that Colombia is the most affordable retirement destination in 2024, winning International Living’s cost of living category. Its biggest attraction is being able to live well on under $2,000 per month.

Dominica

Located in the Caribbean, Dominica earns the nickname “Nature Island” for its bounty of rainforests, rivers, and waterfalls. Those comfortable in the tropics will find advantages to retiring here — for one, people over 65 have reduced-rate tax incentives.

For extra encouragement, the government also offers the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program wherein foreigners can put money into real estate or bonds. It might be worth contacting a Dominican tax lawyer to see where you can put your $100,000 investment.

Aruba

Nothing is better than enjoying life under a stable economy, political climate, and predominantly blue sky. All these things are possible in Aruba, which sits atop the South American continent in the Lesser Antilles.

Living between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean is fraught with danger for Hurricane Belt islands. Aruba sits outside this passage, bringing year-round sunshine. Moreover, Aruba’s Easy Residency Program makes the process simple for those 55-year-olds who qualify.

Belize

While Belize isn’t known exclusively as a retirement destination, two distinct areas of the country with UNESCO Heritage status are. One is tourist hotspot Ambergris Caye (cay is a word for island), which has more expensive real estate than its rival, Caye Caulker.

A quick hop north by ferry from Belize City is the curiously named Caye Caulker, a tiny four-by-one mile island free of cars, littered with beaches, and surrounded by bustling coral reefs. Retiring in Belize is explained by its Qualified Retired Person Program.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti. In contrast to its neighbor’s volatile economy and recent societal nosedive, it remains relatively stable for retirees. In addition, the long-term visa pathway doesn’t require excessive personal wealth.

This tropical paradise has dozens of activities for any resident, though relocators are advised to have personal health insurance. The Dominican Republic remains one of the best-priced retirement options for American residents.

Anguilla

The Leeward Islands are a collective of former colonies and current protectorate states, including British Overseas Territory Anguilla. Like many islands in the region, it supports a stable economy and desirable Caribbean-style lifestyle.

Anguilla is also a tax haven, with no income taxes or deductions on capital gains, inheritance, or VAT. The only drawback is residents have no access to urgent medical care, meaning they must travel to nearby St. Martin or elsewhere for emergencies.

Turks and Caicos

One of the coolest-named Caribbean islands is Turks and Caicos, another British Overseas Territory popular with wealthier pensioners. There are eight main pieces of land in this archipelago; life here isn’t cheap — for good reason.

The endless adventure activities scattered about, including a 14-mile barrier reef off the north shore of Provos. Turks and Caicos will suit early retirees who enjoy the fine things in life — or those who can still hoist a windsurf sail.

U.S. Virgin Islands

As far as weather goes, it’s hard to beat the U.S. Virgin Islands’ year-long climate, which ranges from 77 to 83 degrees. It’s the reason so many Americans flock there for retirement and vacation.

Better still, all healthcare facilities are accessible for American passport holders, Medicare is usable, and so is the U.S. dollar. One caveat for those sold on the idea is that living costs are higher than in mainland America, according to Numbeo.

Uruguay

Foreign living platform Expatsi has an annual Expat Test for those considering moving abroad. When asked which climate they desire in a new country, most respondents indicated “Temperate with (a) warm summer, like San Francisco,” or “Continental with (a) warm summer, like South Tahoe.”

Uruguay may fall into this category. This off-the-map nation is surrounded by the highly populated (and more celebrated at soccer) Argentina and Brazil. Nevertheless, the country’s mild climate, affordable healthcare, and modern living standards give Uruguay a retirement dark horse tag.

Thailand

Thailand captures the imagination of many young backpackers, especially gap-year students looking to expand their cultural horizons. In reality, they are surrounded by foreigners who look and sound much like them, albeit in a tropical paradise.

For people finished with work, Thailand has many corners for escape from the full-moon party revelers. In Thailand, healthcare is exemplary at paid hospitals, food is deliciously cheap, and the warm Thai hospitality can make any retirement a magic one. Like most countries in the region, Thailand has a one-year visa allowance that can be extended with a good record.

Cambodia

Vietnam’s neighbor, Cambodia, may be less desirable in rural areas, but there are plenty of coastal hotspots with cheap lettings and real estate. The country has incredible natural landscapes sprinkled with outrageous historical monuments — a location for those harboring an Indiana Jones streak.

Cambodia’s simple visa application is available for 55-year-olds who can prove they are retired. Pensioners braving such a country can expect a wallet-friendly lifestyle, welcoming hosts, and affordable private healthcare and medication.

Indonesia

Malaysia’s neighbor has one of the cheapest living costs in Southeast Asia. While Jakarta may have the highest regional real estate prices, other Indonesian cities offer excellent bang for your buck.

Americans are big fans of Bali, though other regions of the Indonesian peninsula are just as picturesque — some would say more so. Owning an Indonesian property is possible, though it works under a different form of ownership: hak pakai.

Get Bali Visa says this process involves renewing ownership every 30, 50, and 80 years, paying 0.3% of the land value each year.

Malaysia

One might consider looking east when retiring, and several countries are well suited to adventurous types. Asian retirement is becoming more popular, considering how cheap some places are compared to Europe.

Malaysia has no shortage of coastal zones with world-class beaches, all offering fantastic value compared to the United States. Furthermore, Malaysia only taxes money earned inside the country, leaving income from outside the country yours to keep.

Morocco

North Africa may not be the first idea many people have when contemplating a foreign sanctuary to live out their golden years. However, 60,000 French retirees cannot be wrong, can they? If beach living is at the top of an expatriate’s wishlist, a financially sound option might be the strip of land hugging Africa’s Atlantic coast.

Cities like Casablanca are modern, and real estate is far cheaper than anywhere in Europe. In exchange, retirees will enjoy great food, low rents, and almost non-existent crime rates, says Morocco Guide.