This Country Was Just Named the Best Place to Retire in Asia for Its Warm Climate, Affordability, and Beaches

"Each year, the publication releases the index, identifying "the best global destinations for a rewarding, low-cost retirement overseas." The list is curated based on several criteria, including cost of living, housing, visas, healthcare, ease of integration, and climate. International Living also utilizes input from its global network of expats and correspondents to weave in on-the-ground experiences. Greece took the overall top seed this year-for the first time ever-followed by Panama, Costa Rica, and Portugal."

"Up one spot from the 2025 index, Thailand stands out as a retirement hotspot for a few reasons. For starters, it's more affordable than many places in the United States. In fact, Numbeo reports that the cost of living in Thailand is, on average, 45.1% lower than in the U.S. According to Taxes for Expats, the country also bats above average in terms of natural beauty-you have access to both beaches and mountains-cultural richness, and visa options."

International Living's 2026 Annual Global Retirement Index ranks top destinations for low-cost, rewarding retirements overseas using criteria such as cost of living, housing, visas, healthcare, ease of integration, and climate. The index incorporates input from a global network of expats and correspondents to reflect on-the-ground experiences. Greece placed first, followed by Panama, Costa Rica, and Portugal, while Thailand ranked ninth and Malaysia tenth. Thailand offers significant affordability—Numbeo reports a cost of living about 45.1% lower than in the United States—along with natural beauty, cultural richness, visa options, and English-speaking expat communities in cities like Chiang Mai. The Thailand Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant OA) permits stays up to one year with annual renewal.

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