Whether it's down to finances, healthcare access or simply a change of scenery, an increasing number of American seniors are choosing to spend the rest of their lives overseas. For some these moves are dictated by family ties, whether current or ancestral, but for others it may be as simple as the weather. The following nations are the most popular with American retirees – according to data from the US government's Annual Statistical Supplement 2022, which lists retired US workers receiving social security benefits in foreign countries.

Click through this gallery to discover America's favourite retirement destinations, ranked least to most popular...

Trekking in Patagonia, visiting the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls (pictured) or exploring the mountains of the Andes – Argentina is a playground for those seeking nature and adventure in their golden years. There are vibrant cities to explore too, as well as a strong food culture that will go down particularly well with meat eaters. A retirement here can come with financial advantages – the Pensionado Visa includes some tax exemptions – although would-be retirees should be aware that the country is currently experiencing extremely high inflation.

Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world by area, so it serves up a diverse range of retirement options. The coastal northeastern city of Fortaleza is particularly popular with seniors, while Curitiba in the south is often considered the country's most European metropolis. Rio de Janeiro has its own allure too, from affluent expat areas right by the famous white sands of Copacabana to a wealth of culinary delights. Applicants for a retirement visa must show proof of retirement and a monthly income of $1,200 transferred to a Brazilian bank account.

There's not a lot that Norway doesn't excel at – a prosperous economy, a low crime rate, political stability and a strong social safety net with healthcare, infrastructure and other social guarantees. It's no surprise that it came top of the 2023 Global Retirement Index. Norway's cities all have nature right on their doorsteps, offering hiking, skiing, ice skating and cycling, although some sun-seekers might be put off by the winter cold. Most Norwegians also speak English to a high level, so you don't need to know Norwegian to get by.

Although recent political upheaval means Hong Kong is not quite as stable as it once was, it's still a top-30 most popular destination for American retirees. Although it's one of the world's most expensive places to live, it's also a tax haven and home to the second-highest number of billionaires of any city in the world, so it's a popular option for those who can afford it. The city offers exceptional medical care and a high quality of life.

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Named the fourth best place in the world to retire to in 2024 by the Annual Global Retirement Index, Panama's proximity to the US is just one reason it's so attractive to American seniors. The country has excellent weather year-round, with warm temperatures and sunshine, and is sufficiently far to the southwest that it's rarely troubled by the hurricanes that sweep across the Caribbean. Those on a retirement visa can access a variety of benefits, ranging from reduced utility bills to discounts on services.

A large number of Americans are retiring to India, many due to family ties. But that's not the only reason: India is enjoying an economic boom and is one of the world's fastest-growing economies. A recent survey found that at least 60% of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from the US, the UK, Canada, Australia and Singapore consider returning to India for retirement, and there is a large NRI retiree community. Destinations like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Goa and Delhi are often cited as good places to retire.

For those seeking a healthy and active lifestyle in old age, Sweden is a top choice. The country's national pastimes are mostly physical, from hiking its vast wildernesses to skiing and ice skating in winter. The country is consistently ranked among the happiest in the world and the Swedish healthcare system is highly regarded. Most Swedes speak near-perfect English, so it's easy for Americans to feel at home.

The Netherlands is well known for its obsession with cycling. Pair that with various green initiatives, clean air and a dedication to sustainability, and it's no surprise it's one of the world's healthiest nations. The country is compact, boasts reliable public transport and has a well-connected road system, so it's easy to explore inside the Netherlands and beyond. Most Dutch people are also bilingual and have a high level of English, which for Americans is a helpful bonus.

Regularly rated as one of the best expat countries in the world, New Zealand is an ocean and a hemisphere away but welcomes with second-to-none natural beauty, vibrant cities and unique Maori culture. It's not one of the cheapest countries to retire to but it is very prosperous, granting access to good healthcare and high quality of life. It's also English-speaking, which helps many US seniors adjust and integrate more quickly.

Taiwan doesn't offer any designated retirement visa options, but it's still popular with American seniors. The island nation is often celebrated for its friendly, welcoming people and its wealth of natural and historic attractions that mean there's plenty for retirees to explore. What's more, Taiwan is home to a range of natural hot spring towns offering endless opportunities to relax.

Switzerland is famous for being one of the world's most expensive countries – even when compared to the United States – but its costs come with various benefits, from premium healthcare to incredibly safe cities and all-round high quality of life. To retire in Switzerland, expats must apply for a special Switzerland Retirement Visa, which requires proof of income and valid health insurance among other things.

With state-of-the-art medical facilities and highly skilled medical professionals, South Korea attracts retirees partly with one of the world's most advanced healthcare systems. The country is also well-known for its wellness practices and healthy food culture, which contribute to it having one of the world's highest life expectancies. South Korea is not a cheap country by any means but renting in particular can be much less costly than in the US.

One of the best retirement destinations in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic has been luring Americans for decades. Pristine beaches, sparkling seas and an unhurried way of life are the perfect ingredients for a peaceful island retirement. With low living costs and year-round sunshine it's an attractive choice in many ways, but it lacks the high-level public healthcare of some countries on this list and many retirees here opt for private medical insurance.

Mild weather, hospitable people and beautiful cities rank among Ireland's greatest assets. With lots to offer outdoorsy types, Ireland charms with lush green countryside, dramatic coastal cliffs and sleepy villages. It's often cited among the safest places in the world, making it a pleasant – and English-speaking – environment for Americans. Ireland is a particularly popular place for Americans to retire to as many have historic family ties with the island. 

An extremely popular retirement destination for seniors around the world, Spain's temperate interior and lengthy coastline are dotted with small retiree towns. The country has one of the world's best public healthcare programmes and its fine dining and entertainment industries combine quality and affordability as well as anywhere in Europe. Several of the Spanish islands, including Mallorca in the Mediterranean and Gran Canaria in the Atlantic, are popular and attractive options for US expats.

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Those seeking a beachfront retirement location should look no further than Thailand. Cost of living is much lower here than in the United States or in western Europe, and there's temperate weather and sunshine for most of the year. Retiring to Thailand isn't too financially strenuous: retirement visa applicants must be over 50, have health insurance and be able to show either a Thai bank account containing at least $22,600 or a monthly income of $1,850 or more.

The cost of living in Portugal is among the lowest in western Europe, and the country is an excellent retirement destination for those seeking a sunny European base. Any legal resident can register with the national health service for public access to medical assistance. For many, Portugal's main draw is its stunning landscapes and natural attractions, as well as its mild weather and world-famous wine. The south coast of Portugal, especially the Algarve, is a hotspot for foreign retirees.

An increasingly large number of Americans live out their retirement years in Poland – a country with rich history, storied castles and beautiful cities. With a low cost of living and affordable rents even in the biggest cities, it's a great choice particularly for those with existing family ties. The threshold for moving to Poland is lower than in many other European countries: to apply for a national long-stay visa you need only a passport, proof of health insurance and proof that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself.

Perhaps the Mediterranean's greatest jewel, Greece's climate ensures pristine beaches, lush foliage and plenty of sunshine (almost) year-round. The quality of healthcare in Greece is high – most doctors speak good English – and residence permits aren't too difficult to come by. Greece's low flat-rate tax scheme for foreign pensioners and relatively cheap cost of living also make it a financially attractive destination.

With coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Colombia boasts mile upon mile of charming seaside dotted by peaceful beachfront communities perfect for retirement. The cost of living is much lower than in the US – particularly when it comes to rent – meaning that savings will stretch a lot further. The most common retiree visa requires a monthly income of three times the Colombian minimum wage – currently a little below $1,000.

A European hotspot for arts, culture and food, France offers its residents enticing cities, storybook villages, dramatic coastlines and delightful beaches. Its location at the heart of western Europe, with easy access to the UK, Spain, Italy, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, means that it's perfect for those seeking a travel-heavy retirement. The French healthcare system is consistently ranked among the top 20 in the world and house prices are, on average, 34% cheaper than they are in the US.

Australia is another English-speaking country popular with expats from around the world, who come here for warm weather, high quality of life and great healthcare services. The country is especially rich when it comes to nature and wildlife, offering endless road trip opportunities and diverse landscapes ranging from the deserts of the outback to tropical rainforest. The Australian economy is renowned for its stability, which means a safe financial environment for retirees.

Home to one of the world's best healthcare systems, Israel is a popular retirement choice for Americans. A warm climate, numerous ancient sites and religious landmarks, and diverse natural landscapes are among the country's benefits. The cost of living is also lower than in the US – though renting in Israeli cities is highly competitive. Currently there are clear security concerns due to the ongoing Israel-Gaza war.

A temperate climate, great healthcare, world-famous culinary delights and top-notch wine await those looking to spend their golden years in Italy. The country's allure is hard to argue with, from coasts lapped by azure seas to mountains full of secret clifftop towns. One way to secure a retirement in this enticing country is by gaining a renewable residency permit through the Golden Visa programme. The programme requires you to pick one of a range of investment options, such as $271,000 in a start-up or $1,090,000 in a philanthropic initiative.

Right in the heart of Europe, Germany has much to offer to those seeking a retirement full of history and culture. The cities are a hum of activity but the countryside is dotted with sleepy towns, lush forests and historic castles. The country is consistently ranked highly for safety and security, quality of healthcare and human freedoms, offering a peaceful and prosperous environment to expats of all ages.

A common choice for those wanting to live in an English-speaking country, the UK offers a diverse range of cities, towns and villages spanning four distinct nations – England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. From rambles in the rolling English countryside to a wealth of National Trust sites and gardens, the UK is chock-full of attractions to fill retired days with. The UK's National Health Service provides free or low-cost medical services, which is a major bonus for seniors.

Just missing out on the podium, the Philippines is the fourth most retired-to country for Americans, a tropical archipelago that recently became southeast Asia's fastest-growing economy. Friendly locals, ample sunshine and breathtaking wildlife await, while rent, food prices and consumer goods are all much, much cheaper than in America. Retirees here can apply for a Special Resident Retiree Visa which grants indefinite leave and saves the hassle of future visa renewals and residency applications.

With warm weather, endless coastline, beautiful cities and a wide range of places to live, Mexico is unsurprisingly popular with American seniors. Many come here as a result of family ties, but financial savings are also a big draw. Rents in Mexico are often less than half what they would be in comparable properties in the US, and the all-round cost of living is significantly lower. Public health insurance is available to retirees, and private hospitals and health professionals are also available at relatively low cost.

Life expectancy in Japan is among the highest in the world, so it's unsurprising that many choose to retire to this country that famously blends tradition with innovation. Japanese cuisine comes with all the health benefits of seafood, vegetables and lean protein, while the country's culture incorporates mindfulness and physical activity. The country is home to well-trained medical specialists and rents in Japan are significantly cheaper on average than they are in America.

Something of a home away from home, Canada is culturally – and physically – as close as it gets to the US, so it's unsurprising that it's the top choice for retirees. One of the world's strongest economies and one of its most peaceful countries, Canada pairs security with breathtaking natural wonders and culture-filled cities. With shared customs and language, American retirees might find themselves more integrated than elsewhere, while the often-favourable exchange rate can stretch savings further.

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