The 2024 Overseas Retirement Index unveils the 10 destinations we think make the most sense for an overseas move this year. We’ve ranked and rated them across 14 categories including cost of living, health care, crime, infrastructure, community, and more…
We’ve also identified three up-and-coming spots we think are worthy of your attention.
The first of this trio is a Mediterranean gem that’s long been close to our hearts here at Live And Invest Overseas… and this year it’s smack dab at the center of our retire-overseas radar, too.
It offers perhaps the most affordable lifestyle in Europe, available on a monthly budget of as little as $550.
Its property is extremely affordable too—low enough that most people can afford to take a position here. The price per square meter in the country’s most expensive market is only $1,285.
This is a country where the modern and the traditional are juxtaposed, at once familiar and excitingly different. Here, along thousands of miles of coastline, you can find sleek resorts and modern medical facilities, just yards from the monumental remains of ancient cities.
We’ve identified three beach towns here that are worthy of your attention. Each offers staggeringly beautiful landscapes, including perfect ocean vistas, as well as interesting culture, affordable and healthy local cuisine, and ancient history, all steeped in the friendly local hospitality.
They boast the best weather in the country too, bathed in sunshine, with over 300 days of sunshine a year and mild temperatures year-round. Summers are about 77°F (25°C), and winters are about 54°F (12°C).
Next up is a much-loved expat destination we’re returning our attention to following a long hiatus.
It recently became more flexible in terms of its tourist visa policies, doubling the amount of time that visitors can stay here without a visa from three to six months.
Plus, we got a tip from long-time contributor and Latin America expert, Lee Harrison, about a beach town here that Lee says is one of the most naturally beautiful places he’s ever been… and he’s been everywhere.
Over the past few decades its transformed from a sleepy fishing village to a lively spot with a welcoming expat community, improved infrastructure, and a range of amenities. Happily, it’s retained its laidback beach town vibe.
Aside from beaches, there are jungle-laden mountains where you can escape to cooler climes, hike, chase waterfalls, and observe flora and fauna in their natural realm.
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The weather is warm year-round, with an average high of 88°F (31°C) and an average low of 22°F (72°C).
From a residency point of view, setting up life here is easy. The country offers a retiree-specific visa. To qualify, you need to show proof of $1,000 per month in a retirement fund or permanent pension source. This gets you a two-year residence permit that you can renew.
It’s also friendly from a tax perspective… It only taxes residents on their locally sourced income, making it a great choice if you’re looking to reduce your tax burden.
Rounding out this trio of up-and-comers is a university city popular with expats for its affordable lifestyle, attractive harbor-front promenade, and convenient location that allows for easy getaways.
Down by the harbor, you’ll find upscale restaurants, bars, and food stalls along a promenade backed by sea views.
This city also offers community, with about 5,000 expats who organize social events and activities regularly. The low cost of living is a major draw: a couple can live comfortably here for about $1,500 to $1,800 per month.
You’ll enjoy a tropical-dry climate here. The average high is 88°F (31°C), and the average low is 77°F (25°C).
Plus, the transition to life here is made easier because English is an official language and over 90% of the population speaks it fluently.
Sincerely,
Sophia Titley
Editor, Overseas Living Letter
