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A retirement in Europe is a dream for many folks. And it can easily be a reality. If it’s culture, history, and variety you’re after, Europe has it all, and at a cost much lower than you may think. In all five of the countries on this list, a couple could retire on $36,000 a year—or less.

Read our full list of the best places to retire in 2024 here: https://internationalliving.com/the-best-places-to-retire/

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In all five of the countries on this list, a couple could retire on $36,000 a year or less. If it is culture, history, and variety you’re after, Europe has it all. From idyllic rural retreats to cities where history is thickly layered with interesting historic architecture and

Grand museums, Europe has long had a strong appeal for north American retirees. Hi, I’m Jen Stevens, executive editor at International Living. Despite common assumptions about costs being high, retirement in old World Europe can in fact be affordable. When folks on a limited budget compare the quality of life they’re able to enjoy in

Europe to what their dollars buy in the states, it can be a pleasant surprise. In all five of the countries on this list, a couple could retire on $36,000 a year or less. International Living’s annual Global Retirement index identifies the five best places to retire in Europe in 2024. Number five, Italy.

Italy offers travelers and residents a staggering number of lifestyle options, romantic cities, timeless hill towns, snowy mountains, idyllic islands, vineyard covered countryside and a rivetingly beautiful coastline. Plus, outside the major cities, homes start at a mere $50,000 or less. Expats in Italy say they love not only the

Art, culture, impressive architecture, world renowned food, and easy access to the rest of Europe, but also the slower pace of life and the culture that prioritizes family and friends over work and to do lists. This is the very definition of the sweet life. It’s about surrounding yourself with

People you love, taking the time to enjoy even the simplest things, a delicate zucchini blossom, a well made cup of coffee, the feeling of sand between your toes, and prioritizing the important things in life. In the right spot, a couple can live well in Italy for as little as one $830 per month.

Number four France. If you are looking for an easy living, stress free retirement, look no further than beautiful France, one of Europe’s top gourmet destinations. If you think of France as a refined, highly cultured and stylish country, complete with an unparalleled appreciation for fine wine and good food, you may be

Among many of the passionate travelers who flock to belle France every year. What you might not have considered is that the land of croissants and camembert can be surprisingly affordable. And with the current state of inflation and rising housing prices in the US, the value has become more and more pronounced.

A growing number of expats have discovered this secret, and the total number of french residence permits issued to Americans increased by 26% from 2021 to 2022. Whether you dream of a city piedate or a rambling farmhouse among the sunflowers, or a village house wrapped in wisteria hung memories.

You can find that in France. In fact, there are many parts of a country where habitable homes in storybook settings cost less than $120,000 and you can live comfortably in France for around $2,200 a month. Number three Greece Greece has perpetually been a dream vacation destination, topping bucket lists around the world.

The allure of its ancient history and famous architectural ruins, sunsplashed islands and fresh, healthy cuisine bring multitudes to Greece each year. It comes as no surprise that in the past few years, Greece has emerged as one of the preeminent retirement destinations. Geographically, Greece offers something for everyone, boasting a richly diverse

Mainland and over 2000 islands, 227 of which are inhabited. Whether you prefer the bustle of a large city or a village retreat, you’ve got a huge number of appealing options. And with so much coastline, it’s easy to grab a property with a sea view for much less than you’d pay in the States.

I spotted a two bedroom island apartment recently, right on the water, literally 6ft from the water, with a giant balcony listing for about $162,000. Greek cuisine has got blue zone buzz these days, rich in fresh vegetables and legumes with ample doses of olive oil. That’s the diet in the aegean islands

Known for their particularly long lived people. And really, it’s what folks eat throughout Greece. Here you’ll find a lifestyle that’s slow and relaxed, where people walk daily or go for a swim and make a point to connect with family and friends. A couple can live comfortably and

Healthily in Greece for around $2,275 per month. Number two Spain Spain has consistently held its position among the top destinations in Europe for retirees. It’s long provided a warm weather escape for Europeans from colder climbs. If you’re looking for a leisurely lifestyle, this should be on your radar.

Whether you’re in the market for a part time escape, a full time retirement locale, or a place from which you could work remotely, you could buy a new build two bedroom apartment in a resort community on the southern coast with a view from around $200,000.

And it’s not only housing that is relatively affordable in Spain, the low cost of fresh food contributes to an overall lower cost of living. Restaurant meals can be remarkably affordable, too. A three course lunch throughout Spain would typically cost from $16 to $20. The warm weather is another major draw.

Some of the country enjoys a mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, making it an ideal destination. If you’re looking for a year round warmth and sunshine, retirees can spend their days exploring the beautiful countryside, relaxing on the beach or indulging in the country’s delicious cuisine and wine.

A couple can live comfortably in Spain for around $2,400 per month. Number one Portugal Portugal remains Europe’s best place to retire, and it’s with reason. Living in Portugal gives you an abundance of choices. You can base yourself in a sleepy fishing village, a thriving beach resort, a

Mountain retreat or in the heart of vibrant Lisbon, where the restaurants, museums and attractions rival anywhere else in Europe. Vibrant cities like Lisbon and Porto offer residents a buzzing nightlife and lots of museums, cultural events, concerts, gastronomy and great public transport options. Seaside havens in the Algarve serve up

Turquoise waters, towering cliffs and supple white sand. Historic cobbled villages feature narrow lanes, ruined castles and a cafe culture permeated by these sweet smells of coffee and pastries. Life in Portugal is relaxed and easygoing, where you can sit and sip wine with friends for hours or nurse the same cup of

Coffee all morning and never be asked to leave the cafe. The portuguese people are warm and welcoming to foreigners, and Portugal is home to over half a million folks who have settled from all around the world. Retirement in Portugal can be an extraordinarily satisfying adventure, safe

From gun violence with low costs, excellent health care, year round mild weather and a friendly culture that makes it easy to make friends. Property near the coast comes with a higher price tag and brings summer tourists just like anywhere else in the world. Expect to pay at least $300,000 for a

Place a few minutes walk to the water in the Algarve. For more authentic vibe, head inland, where rural villages lay in the shadow of castle ruins surrounded by lush, emerald green rolling hills. I spotted a renovated, move in ready, three bed, three bath house in a rural

Village not far from the spanish border for around 200,000. Most expats retire to Portugal nicely on about $3,000 a month, depending on lifestyle and whether they own or rent their home. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment below letting us know what you think.

14 Comments

  1. The problem is health insurance…when you're retired with medical issues you maintain here in 🇺🇸…you won't get that replaced dollar to dollar

  2. Another video that recommends the on the cheap, but the underlying question is what is the tax situation for pensioners and the tax changes for 2024? Very few reliable videos or information in general.

  3. I enjoyed the video but I think you might want to mention things like the difficulty in getting "retirement" type visas in Italy and Greece. It is possible but not as easy as other countries. The second issue that really needs to be highlighted is the fact that even if your retirement funds might not be taxed in say the U.S. they will be in places like Portugal. So now your $3000 estimate needs to be net of taxes after the recent changes to the NHR tax scheme.

  4. Good video and my favorite one so far! I think the amount of money that is stated/needed is more realistic for today's expenses. These countries were not a surprise but I love to hear about them in any case. Anyone who has been to Europe also knows that the benefits Jen states here just scratch the surface.

  5. We loved Lisbon & what little we saw of Portugal. We're hoping to get to Spain (southern) later this year or early next. My concern is finding someone in either country that can explain how to get a mortgage as well as the other finer points regarding property shopping/ buying in those locations.

  6. I have retired in Nice France. I live quite well for 3,000 euros a month including rent of a 1 bedroom fully furnished seaside apartment. Some months its more, some months less. Healthcare is extremely low cost and i can get an appointment quicly. No double taxation here.i don't have a car and dont need one.

  7. Which places caught your eye, and why? Share your dream retirement spot, and let's build a list of the best places to savor life after work!

  8. I would love to retire to Italy. Affordable real estate, etc, etc…but 30% taxes on US social security is a deal breaker…for me. I would appreciate the latest info of Portugal's new tax policies…yep, on social security. NHR is gone.

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