Dreaming of a sun-soaked retirement with a lower cost of living? You're not alone! Many of us envision golden years spent in a beautiful, affordable locale. The good news? That dream could be closer than you think. According to International Living's Annual Global Retirement Index, Greece has been crowned the best place to retire in 2026!
This index meticulously evaluates top retirement destinations worldwide, considering factors like cost of living, healthcare, housing, visa requirements, climate, and ease of integration.
Following Greece, the top contenders include:
- Panama
- Costa Rica
- Portugal
- Mexico
- Italy
- France
- Spain
- Thailand
- Malaysia
Jennifer Stevens, the executive editor of International Living, notes a significant shift in the European retirement landscape. For years, Portugal and Spain were the top choices, but recent visa changes and rising costs have retirees looking elsewhere. Greece now offers an attractive package: a welcoming, affordable European base with accessible residency options and a lifestyle that feels rich in every sense.
But here's where it gets interesting... One of the key advantages Greece offers is its Golden Visa program. This program grants residency to foreigners who invest a minimum of €250,000 (approximately $A440,000).
If you're a sun worshipper, Greece is your paradise, boasting over 300 days of sunshine annually. Dining out is also quite affordable; expect to pay around €50 (about $A90) for a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant. Coffee lovers can enjoy a cup for around €3.43 (roughly $A6).
And the choices are endless! Greece is made up of over 6,000 islands, with 227 inhabited. While some islands, like Santorini, can be pricey, there are hidden gems offering a more budget-friendly lifestyle.
Take Thassos, for example. This often-overlooked island provides various activities and places to explore, including the Ancient Agora, a site with ancient temples and sanctuaries.
One expat from Ireland, who moved to Corfu, shared her experience: "The culture around here, I’m not sure how to describe it. Everyone in the community here seems like they’re friends and there’s a strong community aspect.”
Regarding costs, she added: "Petrol per litre is about £1.56 ($A3). To get a coffee it’s three or four euros so it’s nearly creeping up to the price of home. Fruit and vegetables that are grown locally are a lot cheaper but meat and staples like that are more expensive. We spend around £61 ($A120) for us both on our weekly food shop. One of the biggest comparisons is it’s so much cheaper to live here in general on balance.”
Another individual, Renae Smith, shared on TikTok that she now pays just €800 (approximately $A1400) monthly for rent and bills in Greece, a significant decrease from the £2,200 ($A4400) she paid in the UK, plus council tax.
And this is the part most people miss...
Adding to the accessibility, Wizz Air has announced new flights to four Greek destinations starting next spring: Chania, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Zakynthos. Flights to Mykonos will operate three times a week, with the other destinations receiving twice-weekly flights. Fares start from £44.99 ($A90) per person, making it even easier to explore these beautiful islands.
What do you think? Would you consider retiring in Greece or another country? What factors are most important to you when choosing a retirement destination? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
