No Need To Learn A New Language
$150k in savings isn’t what it used to be. In fact, if all you’ve got in the bank at the time of retirement is $150k, your living options might be a little limited. But the none the less, you’ll eventually (hopefully) reach a point in life when it’s time to consider kicking back and enjoying the fruits of your labor. And when you do, gone might be the days where you have to find a retirement home. Instead, there are some incredibly beautiful, yet conspicuously affordable living options that many people simply don’t know about.
Exotic usually comes with a high price tag, but the places you’re about to discover not only offer endless possibilities of experiences and fun, but at an affordable price. From South America to Europe, you might be surprised to find that more than a handful of these places meet your needs, and your budget requirements too. Living a dream life of luxury for a lot less than you would have ever guessed might just be a real possibility after all…
Malta Is Great For Life And For Your Budget
For those of you who want to retire in a country where they speak English, Malta is a fantastic option to consider. English is a second language, and it will make living there a lot easier. It’s not the most popular retirement destination currently, but then you could totally be the one to start the trend. It will also mean that it’s not as busy as some of the other places on this list.
If you’re wondering where Malta is geographically, you can find it off the coast of Africa and Sicily. The great thing about Malta, apart from the English-speaking locals, is that their climate is considered to be ideal all year round. There’s also so much beauty on this island, and you’ll see exquisite architecture as well if it’s something that interests you.
The True Gem Of South America
Many places around the world are affordable retirement options, and when you compare Malta to other Mediterranean countries, you’ll understand why it’s a fantastic option for you and your budget. A one-bedroom apartment will set you back between $750 and $800 a month. Utilities will cost you $120 each month. If you want to enjoy the life of dining out, you’ll pay between $15 and $23, depending on where you choose to eat.
The bonus about Malta is that their public transport system is incredibly efficient. This means that you can save money that you would have spent on buying a car. You can put this toward traveling around this beautiful place instead. It also has one of the best healthcare systems in the world and ranks higher than both the UK and the US.
Get Around With Ecuador’s Great Public Transport
Have you heard about the real gem of South America? It’s time you learn and do your research about Ecuador. It has incredible modern cities alongside spectacular beaches. It should be in one of the top spots on your list of places to retire to. Expats have made Quito and Cuenca their homes, but there are so many lovely areas in Ecuador to choose from.
For those who are retiring but are passionate about an active lifestyle, this is a wonderful place to be. Some of the things that you have to do when in Ecuador include visiting the equator marker, Cotopaxi, and Quilota. If you love swimming, there’s a lagoon and a lake that will keep you active during your retirement in this beautiful spot.
Mountains And An Ocean View
If you’re wondering why this has become such a popular place to retire to, it’s because of the cost of living. If you want to live in a one-bedroom flat in Quito or Cuenca, which are the more popular areas, you’ll only spend between $340 and $430 on accommodation. If you want a lovely meal, it’s also quite affordable at $35 for two people.
$1500 per month should cover your new and fun lifestyle in this country, and you’ll also be able to walk everywhere in Cuenca. They also have a great public transport system, so you don’t need to break the bank and buy a car. You can choose between public healthcare and private health insurance, and that will only cost you $250 for two people.
Enjoy Great State Healthcare
An interesting fact about Croatia is that it first received its independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. Since this happened, it has become an amazing travel destination with thousands of people who flock to Croatia and stick around enjoying the stunning Mediterranean climate each year. It’s home to the Adriatic coast, and not only does it have the ocean, but it sports high-reaching mountains as well.
The lovely thing about Croatia is that it has something for everyone in one space. It’s also a great starting point for traveling to other incredible European countries. So for someone who loves to travel, this could be an option for your new home. There are also thousands of islands around it, so beach lovers, this is one worth exploring.
There’s A Climate For You
Because of the increase in the number of expats in Croatia, there has been a slight increase in the prices. However, it’s still a very affordable place to retire in. When looking at the cost of a one-bedroom flat, you’ll most likely spend around $380, and if you’re living outside the city, you can bring this number all the way down to $280.
Your internet access will be one of your lowest costs at a price of only $25, which means you’ll have unlimited contact with your friends and family around the world to share your new life with them. A general restaurant meal costs around $7, with a fancy dinner at about $30. You will need to join their State Health plan, which is quite an expense, but since it’s very good, it’s worth your time and money.
Explore The Dominican Republic’s Rainforests
Say hello to the Dominican Republic! Many expats prefer this location to be their winter home, but others also enjoy it throughout the year. The fabulous thing is that there are a total of six international airports here, so flying in and out is a breeze. This country has a lot to offer, including the desert, mountains, and also the rainforests.
After searching, you’ll find the perfect climate for you and your loved one to retire in. What are the costs of living, though? Many people who live there say that it’s possible to live on just $1000 per month. You’ll have some initial costs, though, that you might need to budget for. The first cost is a $1500 long-term visa that you’ll need to really enjoy your stay there.
Get Active In Your Retirement
If you’re living in an expat or tourist area, your rent will cost quite a bit more. It depends on how much money you want to spend. If you want to stay in an area like Santo Domingo, you’ll probably pay $415 for a one-bedroom apartment. If you need to spend less than that, you can search for a place outside of the city that will cost almost half of that at $250.
Utilities only add up to around $65 with an additional fee of $50 for the internet. Now, for healthcare: their system in the Dominican Republic is excellent and also accessible. Most expats who decide to live here get themselves sorted out with private healthcare. Go and enjoy whale watching when in season, a round of golf, exploring the forests, or relaxing at a stunning resort.
Relax On A Beach In Greece
If you want your retirement to be a more active one, a great place to consider is Bali. People know that the beaches are just amazing, but they have other attractions as well that will suit this kind of lifestyle. There are amazing volcanoes to go and hike as well as many temples and ruins to explore too. It’s not just a dream holiday destination; it would be a dream to live there.
This Indonesian culture has so much to offer in terms of their history and also shopping. There’s just so much to do here that you’ll never be bored. It also offers something for everyone, as you have places where you can just relax and other places where you can enjoy being active and go around starting a real-life adventure.
So Many Things To Do And Explore
One of the best places for a nice retirement, of course, has to be Greece. There are so many things on offer in this country. Some of the best things it has for its visitors are great and affordable food options, a lovely climate all year round, and so many opportunities to go sightseeing. What’s the downside of this really beautiful place?
Their medical insurance comes with quite a hefty fee, and it’s highly recommended to get insurance. The news that you’ll be happy to hear, though, is that the doctors and hospitals that you will have access to are impressive, but you’ll have to venture out to the bigger cities in Greece for this. This is just something to factor in if you have a health problem that needs treatment regularly.
What Life In Kuta Is Like
The thing that’s attracting so many people to retire in Greece is their financial issues at the moment. It’s something that’s making the locals unhappy, but it’s great for those who want to live in Greece on a budget of just $1,800 per month. A lovely one-bedroom flat will cost you around $265 with additional costs of utilities and groceries that add up to an additional $400.
You’ll probably be able to get more for your money if you live further out and away from the more tourist-centric locations. Living here would be a dream come true, and for someone who loves being outdoors and exploring, this is a paradise. You’ll have the Acropolis of Athens and the Parthenon on your doorstep. This is definitely a place worth considering for your retirement.
Dreaming Of A Life In Italy
Indonesia in general is a great destination, because you have a choice between city life or something more rural. If you end up choosing the city-slicker life, you can live on a comfortable budget of $1700 per month. Of course, if you choose to live outside the city in a more rural area (like Kuta instead of Bali), this cost will go down quite a bit. What are the average costs of an apartment?
If you want to live in the city, a one-bedroom apartment will cost you $245 per month. If you choose to live outside of the city, you’ll probably pay around $180. Medical care isn’t so great in Bali and Kuta though; one of its only cons is that they only have one major hospital, which means queues for days. You would have to travel to Bangkok or Singapore if you needed a specialized treatment or operation.
Life Just Outside Of The City
Ever thought about how great it would be to spend the rest of your life in Italy? Lots of others have too! You’ve probably also thought that it wasn’t going to be possible on your retirement budget, but it actually is. You just have to be smart about your choices when moving there. The first thing is that you’ll need to look for a place to live that’s outside of the touristy areas such as Umbria or Tuscany.
Accommodation will be the majority of your expenses when living there, but you’ll really love this part: the majority of the entertainment and experiences there are free. You don’t have to pay to access any of the beaches or even the national parks. If you want to go to a movie, the cost is really low, and you’ll only have to shell out $4 for a ticket.
A Tropical And Exciting New Home
Now you’re probably wondering what area is considered to be one that’s affordable on your budget. Take a look at Abruzzo. It has the coast on its one side and the mountains on the other. It’s also very close to Caramanico, which is home to the 16th-century thermal springs if you’re craving a relaxing day. This area is the definition of old-world charm, and you can afford to live there on your budget.
If you want to live in the city, though, you’ll pay $850 for a two-bedroom flat. If you go outside of the city, you can get a place for just $250. Your utilities will be quite high, because you’ll need to have that air conditioning on during some months of the year. Italy is also ranked as the second in the world for healthcare, and it only adds up to a total of around $450 each year.
Eating Like A King In Thailand
If you’re keen on somewhere tropical and exciting, look no further than Thailand. You’ll also be able to travel light, since all you need is a pair of shorts, sandals, and your swimming outfit. You’ll also notice that when you’re in the bigger cities, English is spoken to a level that you can manage. Try your best to study some phrases to help you in rural areas, though.
If you’re a lover of the heat and the sun, you’ll enjoy the fact that the temperature can soar as high as 105 degrees from the months of March to May. Later on in the year, from November onwards, you can expect more manageable temperatures in the high 80s. Once again, the price of living here is completely dependent on where you are.
The Beautiful Climate Of Costa Rica
If you want to be living in Phuket, which is one of the bigger cities, you’ll need to put away $1500 to $2000 each month to cover your living expenses. If you aren’t a fan of the local cuisine, you’ll pay quite a bit to enjoy a more Westernized meal. But, if you’re ready to be one of the locals, you’ll only have to pay $15 for a Thai dinner with a beer as well.
You’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in Thailand. They have some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and you’ll be able to visit things like the Grand Palace and Khao Yai National Park. You can also get your diving license and explore the ocean. They also surprisingly offer advanced healthcare, and your hospital bill will be a fraction of what it is in the US.
Take In The Sights At The National Park
Are you looking for an easy-going lifestyle to enjoy in your retirement? Well, so are a lot of Americans, and this is why they’ve chosen Costa Rica as their place to be. This is a place that has a large focus on environmentalism, and they speak both English and Spanish throughout pretty much the whole place. What else is there to love about Costa Rica?
They have a beautifully warm climate, so you can leave all your winter clothes behind and enjoy a sun-kissed life. You’ll also discover that the country is home to some small microclimates, but this truly is a tropical paradise. There’s been an increase in price here due to the number of expats who have decided to make Costa Rica their home.
The Most Popular Place To Retire In Southeast Asia
Don’t worry; the prices haven’t climbed too high. You can comfortably live on anywhere between $1400 and $1700 each month in Costa Rica. To give you an idea of the cost of groceries, you’ll be charged 50 cents for a head of lettuce. In terms of apartment costs, you’ll pay $650 for an apartment, with about $38 budgeted for your internet access.
You’ll be able to get full coverage from the public health insurance system by paying a maximum of $150 each month. If you need to pay the doctor a visit, you’ll only pay somewhere around $20. Besides affordability, you should also have many things to see there too. You can visit the Manuel Antonio National Park, some volcanoes, and also the Tabacon hot springs.
Three-Course Meals All Day Every Day
Can you guess which place in Southeast Asia has become the most popular place to retire to? It’s Malaysia. This could be due to the fact that many of the locals are able to speak English, and they also have a lovely temperature all year round at an average of 77 to 95 degrees. But this comes with humidity, and they also have a monsoon season from October to March.
If those are things that you can deal with, you’ll be spoiled for choice on things to spend your time doing. You can visit the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park in which you can go for beautiful hikes, go swimming, and you’ll be able to take a walk over vast suspension bridges. You can also take the cable cars and get a beautiful view of the Genting Highlands mountains.
Visit The Mexican Pyramids
The even better thing about Malaysia is that the cost of living there is so low. A meal from a street vendor will only cost you about $3. The best thing is that a three-course restaurant meal for two will be $15. You’ll also be able to rent a lovely one-bedroom condo in the city center for $550. What are the other options for an affordable luxury living?
If you want to live in Penang, you’ll pay $265 for the same type of apartment there. You have options in Malaysia, which is fantastic. Their healthcare is also affordable, along with everything else there. Many expats who live here have said that they prefer to go to private hospitals and clinics in the country because their services are excellent and come at a great price.
Pay The Price For Air Conditioning
Hola, it’s time to go to Mexico. You may be worried because of the dangers that you hear about on the news, but it actually isn’t as dangerous as it’s made out to be. You’ll be able to enjoy their amazing beaches and really pretty towns. You’ll also have a to-do list every single day, because there’s so much to see and explore in Mexico.
Some of the expats’ favorite activities are things like scuba diving, sport fishing, museum trips, shopping, and also visiting the Mexican pyramids. The cost of living here is very low, which makes it very appealing. A one-bedroom apartment will cost you between $200 and $500. What about your other costs? You’ll be amazed at how low they are.
The Least Expensive Country To Live In
Your internet access will only cost you $25 per month, and wait for this: your grocery bill will only be $10. The only thing that may cost you quite a bit in Mexico will be your utility bill, because you’ll definitely need the air conditioning on when summer sets in. There are some homes that make use of solar power for the air conditioning, though.
The medical costs are also very manageable, and you can join the Mexican health care system for just $250 per person per year. The only thing is that with this, the lines are long, so don’t expect your treatment to happen any time soon. Because of this, expats join private health insurance and will only pay around $25 for a doctor’s visit or $20 for a filling at the dentist.
Take In The Sights At Pena Palace
The great thing is that Europe isn’t as expensive as it may seem. If you do a little bit of research, you can find a beautiful place to retire. One of those places is Portugal. It also happens to be one of the least expensive countries to live in. You’ll even come to see that it’s more affordable than retiring in sunny Spain.
You have the choice of the city in Lisbon if you have a bit more money to spend, but you can also really enjoy life in a smaller town that won’t cost you as much. The prices are, however, very reasonable across all of Portugal. The country also boasts a really nice climate, ranging between the upper 50s to the mid 70s, for the most part.
Say Hello To The Sunshine In Spain
If you want to see the proof that it’s affordable to retire here, all you have to do is look at the cost of a one-bedroom flat outside of the city. It will only cost you $488 per month, and your utilities will fall somewhere around $100. Enjoy a meal at one of their local restaurants, and your bill will only come to $8.50. What about a three-course meal?
You’ll only end up paying a joint bill of $34. You’ll really get the feeling of old-world charm in Portugal, and in some places, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to the past. The attractions in Portugal include Pena Palace, Belem, and many stunning castles that will keep you busy all day. You can also visit the Matosinhos Beach or take a boat out on Furnas Lake.
Enjoy Life Inside Or Outside The City
If you’re a lover of sunshine and all things bright and beautiful, this next option is for you. We’re talking about stunning Spain. It’s becoming a very popular destination to retire in because of the food on offer and also its very laid back lifestyle. You also have to give a special mention to the fantastic weather all year round.
If you come to retire here, you would never even need to leave, because there’s just so much to do and see. You’ll get the chance to explore some of the amazing tourist locations such as Seville, Merida, Salamanca, and also go and visit the beaches of Mallorca. It’s also a great place to travel from, so it gives you access to more European adventures.
Summer In Jamaica All Year Round
The only thing to know is that you may want to start taking some Spanish lessons now, because it’ll be a big help for you living here if you can speak the language. English is only really spoken by people in the bigger cities. Now, where is it affordable to live in Spain? Unfortunately, the prices in Barcelona have skyrocketed since the tourists and expats discovered it.
But, not all is lost. You could live in Valencia for $525 a month in a one-bedroom apartment or $400 if you decide to live outside the city. Another affordable option is Gran Canaria, and they also have a really lovely climate. In terms of healthcare, you’ll find this very affordable, with access to private doctors and hospitals too.
A Higher Quality Of Life
You’ve hit the jackpot with this retirement spot. It’s a tropical island where all the locals speak English; it’s Jamaica, baby! It’s warm all year round, so you won’t have to worry about getting a chill in your bones. You’ll enjoy an average temperature of 91 degrees in July. Wonder what the colder months look like?
Even in the country’s coldest month, you’ll only go down to 85 degrees as an average temperature. Jamaica is the perfect spot to retire if you’re athletic, as there are so many fun activities to take part in. You can do sports like sailing, hiking, cycling, canoeing, kayaking and more. But there’s a cost for all of these perks that come with life in Jamaica.
The Top Choice For Expats
The slight catch is that life in Jamaica isn’t as cheap as some other places, but you’ll have a higher quality of life here. A two-bedroom apartment costs $540, and your utility bill will be around $72. In terms of food costs, Jamaica isn’t too bad, with a pound of chicken breast going for $2.35 and a 2l bottle of coke for $1.50. The thing that’s costly is gas.
The thing about Jamaica is that they offer cheap public transport that goes everywhere, so gas shouldn’t factor into your costs at the end of the day. You can get a monthly pass for $33. Their shopping is great, but you won’t find stores you’re used to like Walmart. The healthcare is free, but it isn’t rated very highly (even the private hospitals), so you may want to go back home for your treatments.
Panama’s Program for Retirees
The reason this place is a top choice for expats is because of the country’s amazing way of life. In Panama, you’ll be able to enjoy really amazing diving and an awesome lifestyle, good healthcare, and bustling culture as well. Because of its close proximity to Miami, there’s English mixed in with Spanish, so the language barrier isn’t an issue for anyone looking to move here.
There’s something for everyone, with the beautiful beaches, the cooler mountain areas, and even the stunning and exotic rainforests. You’ll be able to explore all of these in one area and not even have to travel too far. They have a nice range of temperatures from 90 degrees in the summer months to a low of 72 degrees in the wintertime.
The Most Beautiful Spot In Central America
The cost of living isn’t too bad here, but you’ll pay quite a bit for an apartment if you want to live in a large city. You’ll pay around $1000 for a 900-square-foot apartment. If you don’t mind being a bit outside of the hustle and bustle of the city, you’ll only pay $620. So, it really all depends on your monthly budget and what you want to spend.
Panama offers a great program for their retirees that helps to subsidize you, including your car taxes and property taxes; it also provides a few other benefits, making this an attractive option. To gain access to this, you just need to show that you earn $1000 a month from your country. Aside from that, you can visit the San Blas Islands and the ruins in Portobello.
Enjoy The Local Foods On A Budget
Belize definitely ranks as one of the most beautiful countries in Central America. It offers a laid back lifestyle that appeals to many people who are looking to retire. The great news is that English is the official language of the country. This makes getting around and learning about the country very easy for you when you get there.
The weather is also a big draw card and is good all year round, so you have the time to go out and see all there is to enjoy. A must-see is the ancient temple ruins at Xunantunich, the Great Blue Hole, and also make time to take a dive and see the Belize Barrier. It also has some incredible Mayan ruins that won’t be crowded by tourists.
From The East To The West
Life in Belize won’t cost you a lot. For an apartment of 900 square feet, you’ll only pay $460 a month, and your internet will cost you $40. According to expats who are currently living there, they say their lifestyle costs them $1200 each month. The only real expense there is imported food, and people go to Mexico to get these items.
The food (and especially seafood) that’s found locally is affordable, and this is a great option if you want to keep your spending to a minimum. Because of the mild climate, you won’t need to shell out for things like heating or air conditioning. You can get a public transport pass for $35, and their healthcare is affordable but tricky to find when you’re in the rural areas.
Living The Life In Nicaragua
In Nicaragua, you’ll find something to like! If you’re in the west, you’ll see things like lakes, mountains, and volcanoes. If you head over to the east, you’ll experience some of the most amazing beaches. Spanish is the most commonly spoken language here, but you’ll notice that English is also very prevalent, which will help you get around.
With a temperature that’s nice all year round, it’s a beautiful place to be. You’ll learn that the country actually has three temperature zones. In the nighttime, you may see have lows of 72 all the way up to 100s in the summer. Around the coast is the warmest for those of you who prefer that kind of weather. If you prefer cooler weather, you can live in the mountain area.
7,000 Tropical Islands To Choose From
The lifestyle here is affordable, and you’ll be able to rent a nice apartment for $460 per month. With a budget of $1200 per month, you’ll have a great time, and if you increase it a bit more to $2000, you’ll really be living like royalty here. Your groceries will land you with a bill of $300 per month, so all in all, it’s a great option….
In terms of healthcare, the country has a very interesting system in place. The hospitals base their fees on your age instead of your income. If you’re between the ages of 51 to 65, you’ll pay $61 a month. If you’re older, you only pay $65. You can also go snorkeling, diving, hiking, and all-around adventuring to get the most out of your retirement in Nicaragua.
The Philippines And A Low-Cost Lifestyle
You truly have so many options to choose from when considering the Philippines. They have over 7,000 tropical islands, so you’ll definitely find something that suits you and your needs. It has miles of amazing sand and sun and is the perfect place for someone who enjoys tropical living. With so much to do, you’ll never be bored.
In the Philippines, you can go to the temple of Cebu if you want to learn more about the culture. You could also visit Manila Ocean Park or Fort Santiago. Take a trip to the Tubbataha Reef, and don’t forget the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The cost of living is also a great pull to the Philippines for many of the expats who have made the move.
More Than Just Machu Picchu
For $2200 a month, you can really live it up. With that said, you’ll still be able to live very nicely on a lower budget of $1500. If you want to lower your budget even more, you can make do without cable TV and things like that and bring the cost down to $1000 per month. They also speak English really well in the Philippines, so you’ll be able to socialize.
You won’t believe that you’ll be able to rent a three-bedroom apartment for only $400, and it will cost you even less when you live outside of the city. Your utility and internet costs will add up to about $120. Food is also very affordable, and you can manage on $200 for food. They also boast their healthcare across the islands, and their doctors receive their training from the States.
Live Outside Of Lima
Peru is a stunning place to visit and to live. They have a variable climate, so you’ll be able to explore and find the one that you fall in love with. This country has so much going for it. You’ll be kept busy from the moment you land in Peru. The most significant place to visit in Peru is obviously the well known Machu Picchu, but there’s also much more.
You could visit the Lake Titicaca islands and then go and explore around Cusco. An adventure you will never forget would be to go and see the Amazon Rainforests. You could even try sandboarding in Huacachina. These are just a few of the amazing opportunities you’ll have when you go and retire in Peru. Surely there must be a catch to this wonderful place on Earth?
Warm And Upscale Colombia
There isn’t a catch when living here! The cost of living in Peru is actually very inexpensive. If you want to live in Lima though, this will go up and up. If you’re happy outside of Lima, you can live on just $1000 a month. If you choose Lima, though, you’ll end up paying almost that amount for the rent of a three-bedroom apartment. But 20 minutes away.
You’ll end up getting the same apartment for $600 less than that. You can enjoy delicious food at the local restaurants for $6 for two, and even an upscale restaurant meal for two will only cost you $18. Public healthcare won’t satisfy those who choose to retire here, so you’ll need to look into private healthcare, which is also very affordable in Peru.
Try Their Coffee And Their Lifestyle
If you’re interested in finding a place to retire that it’s both warm and upscale, you should try out Colombia. Located in South America, this country has the most biodiverse climate on the planet. It’s also not considered a third world country like other surrounding countries on the continent. This means that you’ll live a wonderful life with great roads, restaurants, and good service.
There are also so many activities to enjoy when living here. You’ll get the opportunity to visit the rainforest, the national park, and also Spratt Bight Beach. Even if you don’t end up retiring here, it sure is worth the visit and perhaps even to just taste their coffee, as it’s considered to be the absolute best coffee in the world.
If Colombian coffee doesn’t wake you up enough to see why you should live here, maybe a chat about affordable lifestyles will. For a 900-square-foot apartment, you’ll only pay around $450. Between two people, you’ll pay $100 for your utilities and a mere $23 for internet connection. What’s the estimate of the cost of living by expats in Colombia?
They say they’re living happily off just $1000! For an even higher standard of living, add an extra $500 onto that monthly amount, and you’ll be loving your new life in Colombia. Colombia is located close to the equator, which means that there is no change in their seasons, and their temperature won’t vary. You’ll also get 12 hours of daylight to go out and explore.