Are you one of the many people who dream about spending their time internationally – you’re not alone. As attractive as it can be to remain where you are geographically, many seniors are challenging themselves by either moving or travelling to other countries abroad. You may be interested in some of the most idyllic retirement locations and the cheapest places to move to.
Below is a list of the twelve cheapest countries to retire in the world:
1. France
France is one of the cheapest countries to retire in the world. The country has a number of absolutely gorgeous small towns that has made it a favourite place to retire to among Europeans. Get away from the cities and the offices, and move out to France when retirement hits to see what the French countryside is all about.
Not only is France very affordable but it also has positive ratings on weather, security, access to health services, and transportation. Towns like Arcachon, Andernos-les-Bains, Cannes, and Arles are highly sought after.
2. Thailand
Thailand is a very popular option for expats and retirees moving abroad, mainly because of its laidback beaches and the lifestyle which accommodates it. Some of Thailand’s smaller villages along its coastline are not so expensive with furnished townhouses and condo rentals available for as little as $500 per month, making it one of the cheapest countries to retire.
In Chiang Mai, Thailand’s main city, you will find a more luxurious way of life there including everything from resorts to golf courses, multi-course restaurants, and more.
3. Bolivia
Bolivia has affordable living, food, and healthcare readily available although it is one of the few countries on this list lacking a coast. Being land-locked though is not necessarily a bad thing as rain forests and the Andres Mountains add a lot of interest in the landscape. In Bolivia’s cities, there are also some absolutely beautiful colonial-era cathedrals, cobblestone streets, and affordable restaurants to browse.
4. Vietnam
Vietnam’s filled with cities as well as beaches, with several unique regions to partake in. Depending on where you decide to reside, a retiree can get by on a monthly budget of $1,000 or less, so it could considered one of the best and cheapest countries to retire. There’s an easy middle-class lifestyle in Vietnam in the less expensive parts, although cities such as Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi can end up costing significantly more.
5. Peru
Those looking for the cheapest countries to retire will love living in Peru. On the Pacific coast of South America, Peru’s low costs are attracting retirees from all over the world. The average retired couple in Peru spends approximately $1,500 monthly to cover rent, food, medical care, and transportation. As with the other countries on this list, where you choose to move also plays a key role on your expenses with beachfront homes costing more. Peru also boasts a favorable 300 days of sunshine a year which is no doubt another reason why so many end up calling the country home in their final years.
6. Cambodia
Ranked as the cheapest country for retirees by International Living, Cambodia provides opportunity for a person to retire comfortable for as little as $1,250/monthly. In Southeast Asia, Cambodia’s also a country complete with beautiful beaches, and plenty of ancient temples and palaces to enjoy and explore. There’s no shortage of things to do, whether you’re on a small budget or a big one.
7. Portugal
Portugal is a retiree favourite with sandy beaches, world-class golfing, and a lot of culture to enjoy. The country also has a strong dollar and a weak real estate market which comes in the favor of anyone on a budget. You can easily buy a small two-bedroom apartment for $150,000 and live comfortably. The warm temperatures, accessible and affordable healthcare, and all the flavourings of Mediterranean cuisine can also be difficulty to pass on.
8. Bali
Bali is a small country with a lot of exploration that leaves little to be desired. Buddhist temples, jungles, and surfing is all common here. A couple can also live comfortably in Bali for $1,600 a month on average, according to Live and Invest Overseas.
9. Italy
Italy’s a charming region with a lot of history behind it and fair real estate prices. This isn’t even addressing Italy’s food and wine which is second to none. Beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and travellers who want to hit up other hot spots in nearby countries are all welcome here. Italy’s a European favourite for all these reasons and others. Not only is Italy one of the cheapest countries to retire, but you also get to immerse in the beautiful culture as well.
10. Ecuador
Ecuador’s a hot spot for retirement and has been for years. The landscapes are impressive and the food’s inexpensive. A couple can live well in cities like Cuenca, Ecuador for roughly $1,000 a month. This could potentially be one of the most underrated cheapest countries to retire.
11. Malaysia
Malaysia has a lot to claim to its name, including having been recently voted as the best country in the world for healthcare according to the Annual Global Retirement Index. If you’re a retiree with advanced medical needs and/or are likely to require ongoing care, Malaysia can not only provide the level of medical care you deserve but also, the country’s a relatively inexpensive place to live.
12. India
India’s a beautiful country that many desire to explore although few would consider moving to. Even so, if you’re moving overseas, mulling a move to India might be a smart investment. Across Canada and the United States, retirees in the past few years have considered India more and more for their final retirement destination. Based on various cost-of-living data elements, many organizations and indexes have pinpointed India as an affordable, cheap place to retire to.