Most of us dream of relaxing and enjoying our retirement comfortably in a place that doesn’t break the bank. But what if we told you that it doesn’t have to be a dream and that you can actually make it a reality? Here are 18 places across the world where you can afford to retire and actually enjoy it.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Why not move to a place where your neighbors are likely to speak English and living comes easily, too? San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, is a popular place for retirees, thanks to the many expats living there and the lower cost of living. It’s a place where groceries and rent won’t drain your wallet, so you can enjoy life without counting pennies.
Penang, Malaysia
In Penang, Malaysia, the best healthcare is always around the corner and doesn’t cost too much. The bills are a fraction of what they’d cost in the States, and it’s no wonder many retirees love being here. Those stunning views and delicious street food are even more reasons to move here.
Panama City, Panama
The tax-friendly policies in Panama City, Panama, like zero property taxes on new homes for up to 20 years, mean that your retirement funds could last much longer. It’s a modern city with plenty of great deals, and you should snap them up. And let’s not forget about that great weather, which makes you feel like paradise.
Algarve Portugal
Sunny skies and sandy beaches don’t have to cost a fortune when you move to the Algarve, Portugal. It has some of the most affordable living costs in Western Europe, and you can forget all about utility bills thanks to the mild weather. This is a place where you can truly spend less and live more.
Anchorage, Alaska
You don’t have to leave America to live somewhere cheap, as Anchorage, Alaska, has no sales tax or state income tax. Better yet, they pay you to live there, which is handy since it’s a cold place. If you love nature, you’ll have many stunning landscapes and wildlife on your doorstep.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, Slovenia, is a perfect mix of beauty and budget, which makes it a great spot for retirees. This city has subsidized public services, meaning practically everything is much cheaper. It’s where you can enjoy your golden years without any financial worries, especially since it’s small enough to get around easily.
Granada, Nicaragua
If you’re looking to retire somewhere truly beautiful, then Granada, Nicaragua, is the one for you, as it’s as stunning as it is budget-friendly. Groceries and rent are steal, meaning you can live comfortably for much less. You’ve also got plenty of festivals and markets to visit, which will give you all the entertainment you need for relatively cheap.
Cuenca, Ecuador
Almost everything is cheaper in Cuenca, Ecuador, including utility bills and public transport. The people respect their elders and make sure that they enjoy a good quality of life. The climate’s also fairly mild, and the streets have their own charm, which makes every day feel like you’re on vacation here.
Lyon, France
Who says you can’t live a gourmet life on a budget? Lyon, France, has many affordable markets full of fresh ingredients, so you can cook like a chef without spending like one. Living in France also means enjoying a rich culture and stunning architecture for a relatively good price.
Taipei, Taiwan
Ditch your car and save a ton of money in Taipei, Taiwan. The city’s fantastic public transit system makes getting around cheap and easy. Housing and healthcare are quite affordable, as is the healthcare system, meaning that you’ll have more money in your pocket to enjoy the city’s iconic night markets and gorgeous parks.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, Spain, has a reputation as a city for young people, but it’s also for the young at heart. You can get involved in the local volunteer exchanges and enjoy all those discounts and free services under the beautiful Spanish sun. It’s an easy way to stretch your dollar while being part of the local community.
Krakow, Poland
In Krakow, Poland, you can explore some of the best sights in Europe for a lot cheaper than you might think. The city practically spoils seniors with its discounts on almost everything, like theater tickets and museum entrance fees, so you’ll never bored. You can spend your days wandering around the old town or even just relaxing in one of the city’s many cafes.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia, Bulgaria, is another city with low taxes, which means you can enjoy the perks of European life on a budget. There are plenty of gorgeous parks here that are perfect for lazy afternoons and markets for you to meet with locals and expats alike. When you visit here, you’ll soon realize why so many people choose Sofia for retirement.
Portland, Oregon
Anyone who wants to use their green thumbs in retirement might want to check out Portland, Oregon, as plenty of community gardens are here for you. They’re a great place to make friends, and the whole city is big on sustainability. You can live green and save money in Portland at the same time.
Athens, Georgia
For some retirees, their golden years are the time for them to pick up new skills and hobbies. If that sounds like you, then why not move to Athens, Georgia, when you can hit the books again at no cost? This university town allows retirees to sit on college courses for free. After all, it’s never too late to learn something new.
Goa, India
Most people know Goa, India, for its breathtaking beaches, but it also has so much more than that. It’s a place for you to retire in paradise without the premium price, as the cost of living is surprisingly low. Once you realize how welcoming the people are and how relaxed the pace of life is, you’ll never want to leave.
Burlington, Vermont
Burlington, Vermont, has plenty of senior co-ops with shared living arrangements to help you make new friends while saving on your utility and grocery bills. This is a place where community spirit is more important than ever. With so many different social activities designed specifically for retirees, you’ll be able to enjoy your retirement to the fullest.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
With stunning mountains and amazing greenery, it’s easy to see why Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a hit with many American retirees. A huge expat community here is enjoying all that Thailand has to offer. This is where peace and community can truly coexist and are affordable.
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