A major retirement ranking has identified a new country as the world’s top destination for retirees.
The shake-up marks the first change at the top in more than three decades.
Greece has secured the number one position in International Living’s 2026 Annual Global Retirement Index, marking the first time the Mediterranean nation has topped the rankings in the index’s 35-year existence.
The achievement signals a notable transformation in where retirees are choosing to settle across Europe.
“Greece’s rise to number one marks a shift in Europe’s retirement landscape,” says Jennifer Stevens, Executive Editor of International Living.
“For years, Portugal and Spain led the way, but recent visa changes and rising costs have retirees looking elsewhere.”
The annual guide assesses global destinations across multiple criteria including cost of living, healthcare provision, housing availability, visa accessibility, climate conditions and how easily newcomers can integrate into local communities.
Greece achieved particularly strong scores in the climate, healthcare and housing categories, reflecting both its natural appeal and the quality of care available to residents.
The country’s Golden Visa programme, which provides residency rights to those who invest in property, has become one of the most accessible routes into Europe, especially following Portugal’s decision to tighten its own regulations.
Best place to retire in 2026 unveiled
|
GETTY“All in all, when it comes to Golden Visa options, I’d say Greece is more than the new Portugal – it may be even better,” notes Ted Baumann, International Living’s Global Diversification Expert.
With over 8,000 miles of coastline, hundreds of islands and more than 300 days of annual sunshine, the country delivers an exceptional quality of life at relatively modest expense.
Leena Horner, International Living’s Greece correspondent and a retired obstetrician-gynaecologist, relocated to Corfu four years ago and now lives comfortably with her husband on approximately €2,900 to €3,000 monthly (around £2,500–£2,550).
Seaside rental properties in comparable locations range from €600 to €1,000 per month (about £510–£850), whilst dining out for two with wine typically costs between €30 and €50 (roughly £25–£42).
“The private healthcare here has been consistently good,” Ms Horner says.
“We pay €250 a month (about £210) total for private insurance for the two of us, primarily catastrophic coverage. For most routine care, we pay out of pocket and have never spent more than €1,000 a year (around £850).”
Specialist treatment proves remarkably affordable too – her husband’s laser procedure for a retinal detachment cost just €250 (around £212) including all follow-up appointments, compared to an estimated $5,000 in America.
The Top 10 Retirement Destinations for 2026
- Greece
- Panama
- Costa Rica
- Portugal
- Mexico
- Italy
- France
- Spain
- Thailand
- Malaysia
European nations dominated this year’s rankings, with five countries securing places among the leading ten
|
GETTY
Residency options are another factor that set Greece apart this year
|
PA/GETTYEuropean nations dominated this year’s rankings, with five countries securing places among the leading ten – a clear indication that the continent remains highly attractive for retirees seeking value.
Portugal and Spain both performed well across healthcare, climate and housing metrics, offering traditional European character alongside contemporary facilities at competitive prices.
In Latin America, Panama and Costa Rica continue to appeal through straightforward residency processes, established expatriate networks and opportunities for active outdoor lifestyles.
Thailand and Malaysia emerged as Asia’s frontrunners, distinguished by their low living costs, high-quality medical services and tropical weather conditions.