Financial Sense Newshour Best Places to Retire Overseas in 2026
Feb 3, 2026
Jennifer Stevens, senior editor at International Living who authors the Global Retirement Index, discusses top retirement destinations for 2026. She highlights Greece’s rise, affordable options in Mexico and Southeast Asia, healthcare picks like France and Panama, visa routes including golden visas, and practical steps such as renting first and sorting taxes and banking before moving abroad.
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Greece Is The New Sweet-Spot For Retirees
- Greece has risen to the top of International Living's 2026 Global Retirement Index due to favorable golden visa rules and improving economy.
- Costs remain low now, creating a short-term sweet spot for value and lifestyle.
Choose Region By Budget And Proximity
- Consider Southeast Asia for the lowest cost-of-living: Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand, Bali, and Malaysia top the list for value.
- If you prefer proximity to the U.S., choose Mexico, Ecuador, Panama, or Costa Rica to live well under $3,000/month.
Couple Lives Large On One Social Security Check
- Steve Garfink and his wife sold their California house and moved to Mexico, living on one Social Security check while traveling a lot.
- They invested in international real estate and stretch their retirement income dramatically.