Which is the Best Place to Retire Abroad?

Retiring in another country is not just a dream for rich people or adventurers anymore. More and more folks are moving overseas to enjoy a comfortable, affordable, and richer retirement. But with so many beautiful places worldwide, how do you choose?

Right now, in 2025, Portugal keeps coming up as the top spot to retire abroad, and for good reason. Here is a closer look at why Portugal is so special and what makes it the perfect retirement paradise for people from all over the world.

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Why Portugal is a Good Place to Retire?

Here are all the reasons that make Portugal a great place to live. 

1. Affordable Cost of Living

Portugal lets you live a great life without spending a lot of money. Things you buy every day, like food, healthcare, and transport, are much cheaper there than in places like the U.S., Canada, or even some parts of Western Europe. In smaller towns, for instance, in areas like Coimbra or the Algarve, retirees can live quite comfortably on about $2,000 to $2,500 each month.

2. Mild Climate

Portugal gets more than 300 sunny days a year, especially in its southern parts. Winters there are not too cold, and summers are warm but never burning hot. This great weather makes it easy to enjoy a relaxed life outside. It is just perfect for taking long walks, eating lunch by the ocean, and visiting lovely vineyards.

3. High-Quality Healthcare

Portugal has a really great healthcare system, and it is affordable too. If you live there, public healthcare either costs nothing or is very low-cost. Plus, getting private health insurance is also very reasonably priced. Portugal is actually ranked very high on worldwide lists for healthcare, which gives retirees a lot of peace of mind.

4. Safety and Stability

Portugal is always ranked as one of the safest countries in the whole world. Crime rates are very low there, and the country is politically stable. This means it is a really secure and calm place to spend your retirement.

5. Expat-Friendly Community

In popular spots for people from other countries, like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, lots of people speak English. The local people are very nice and welcoming. Plus, there is a lively group of people from other countries already living there, which helps new folks settle in fast.

6. Visa and Residency Options

For those who wish to retire in Portugal, there are various visa options available. The D7 Passive Income Visa is a fantastic option. For people who receive a steady income from investments or pensions, this visa is ideal. You can even apply to become a citizen after five years of residency!

7. Rich Culture and Travel Opportunities

From old castles and charming villages with cobblestone streets to the soulful Fado music and delicious fresh seafood, Portugal is full of rich culture and endless places to explore. On top of that, it is like a doorway to the rest of Europe. Countries like Spain, France, and Italy are just a short flight away!

Other Top Contenders

While Portugal leads the pack, here are a few other great countries for retirement in 2025:

Mexico: Close to the U.S., low cost of living, vibrant culture, and beautiful coastlines.

Costa Rica:  Stunning biodiversity, warm climate, and a peaceful, "Pura Vida" lifestyle.

Spain:  Great infrastructure, relaxed lifestyle, and Mediterranean charm.

Thailand: Affordable healthcare, exotic beauty, and a well-established expat scene.

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