The age demographics in America have changed dramatically since the 1950s. Today we are living an average 20 years longer than we did seventy years ago. And a growing number of American retirees have now decided to travel permanently and remain abroad.

And the results are now in for the top destinations for U.S. retirees abroad. The metrics include cost of living, healthcare, housing, visas, climate, and the ease of moving there.

Coming in at the top for 2026, the new number one is Greece, which has a golden visa program that grants residence to folks investing about $300,000 in real estate. Coming in a strong second is Panama, which has long been a retiree favorite, offering seniors 30% off transport, 25% off airfares, 15% off medical bills, and great healthcare.

Other winners include Mexico, Costa Rica, and Portugal. And a new contender is Malta, where nonstop flights from the U.S. begin this coming summer.