The 4 Safest Places To Retire In

Portugal is one of the world’s most peaceful countries.

Violent crime in Portugal is rare, petty crime is limited to the busy tourist season, and there’s little social unrest.

Within this already safe country, Tavira remains one of the safest cities. And, as such, we added it to our safest places to retire.

Long-time Tavira expat Marie Moore says, “In my three years here, I’ve known of very few crime-related incidents. For example, my neighbors leave their bikes on the sidewalk all night, and they’re still there when they wake up in the morning.”

Costa De La Luz, Spain: A

Although crime rates are higher in Spain than neighboring Portugal, crime here is typically concentrated in urban zones, like Madrid and Barcelona.

Our number one recommendation in Spain, Costa de la Luz, is a very safe area.

Even in Cádiz, the most city-like environment along the coast, you can feel completely safe walking around at any time of the day or night.

In fact, you’ll even see kids playing in the town squares, unaccompanied, well after dark. That should be a good indicator of the level of concern locals have about safety.

As one expat, Stephanie, puts it, “For the most part, I feel comfortable in Rota. People stay out so late here, so there are always people on the streets, and I never feel unsafe at night.”

Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus: A

Cyprus on the whole is extremely safe, and crime rates are statistically lower in Northern Cyprus than they are in the Republic of Cyprus.

Northern Cyprus’ relatively small population creates the sense that everyone kind of knows everyone…

It’s extremely unlikely that you’d become a victim of crime while living here.

Expats report feeling more at ease in Northern Cyprus than in their home countries. In short, another great addition to our safest places to retire.

Certain types of crime are standard in Panama. Corruption is one example. Bribing police officers to avoid a ticket is commonplace (not something we recommend).

Issues with gringo pricing, petty theft, and burglary of homes left unattended for long periods are possible across Panama…But Chitré stands out as an exception to this rule.

Here, neighbors know one another and look out for one another. Everyone describes it as safe and calm.

The crime rate is very low and limited mostly to petty theft and low-level street crime.

To avoid issues, always lock your house and car, don’t leave valuables in sight, and don’t carry your wallet or phone in your back pocket…

Exercise the same precautions as you would in your home country, and you’ll be fine.

Sincerely,

Sophia Titley
Editor, Overseas Living Letter