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Each year, thousands of readers share their dreams of where they’d relocate if they could start fresh. It’s not just about escaping routine, it’s about embracing a richer life: waking up to ocean views, stretching your budget further, and connecting deeply with a new community, culture, and landscape.
The 2025 survey reveals a practical shift, with readers eyeing destinations not just for short getaways but for long-term stays, months, years, or even forever. They’re drawn to affordable living, top-notch healthcare, welcoming residency policies, or simply the chance to live more fully. From Europe’s historic villages to Central America’s tropical havens, these seven countries stand out for making those dreams attainable. Here’s why they’re capturing readers’ imaginations and could inspire your next chapter, especially for those exploring international property opportunities.
Portugal’s timeless appeal lies in its blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and a relaxed pace. Readers love the Algarve’s sunny beaches and whitewashed villages, but also historic cities like Porto and Coimbra or affordable inland towns. With mild weather year-round, widespread English, and excellent public transport, Portugal feels accessible and welcoming. For those considering buying property in Portugal, the market offers both coastal retreats and affordable inland homes.
Retirees are especially drawn to its residency options and tax incentives, like the Non-Habitual Resident program. Healthcare is high-quality and affordable, adding to the appeal. A couple can live comfortably on $2,500-$3,000 monthly, depending on whether they choose a coastal hotspot or a quieter rural area.
Italy’s allure goes beyond Rome and Florence. Readers are exploring smaller towns in Tuscany, Umbria, Abruzzo, and Puglia, where medieval villages, vineyards, and coastal charm come at a lower cost. Life here revolves around simple joys: market visits, leisurely pasta lunches, and evening strolls through ancient piazzas.
The south, particularly Abruzzo and Puglia, offers mild weather and budget-friendly living. A couple can thrive on $2,200 or less monthly in these regions, enjoying authentic Italian culture without the tourist crowds or high prices of bigger cities.
Spain delivers sunshine, vibrant culture, and affordability. Readers are drawn to Andalusia’s Costa del Sol for its warm climate and Moorish heritage, or northern regions like Galicia and the Basque Country for cooler, greener landscapes. Beyond major cities, costs drop significantly, with fresh markets, tapas bars, and world-class healthcare keeping life enjoyable.
High-speed trains make travel across Spain easy, and the relaxed lifestyle encourages lingering over meals or conversations. Couples can live well on $2,200–$3,000 monthly, depending on location and dining habits. To explore more about living, culture, and investment, check out our country guide Spain.
France offers more than Paris’s glamour. Readers dream of rural regions like Brittany, Occitanie, and the Dordogne, where stone houses, village markets, and rolling hills create a timeless escape. Affordable homes and rentals make these areas accessible, with couples living comfortably on $2,200-$2,600 monthly.
France’s public healthcare system is a major draw, offering peace of mind for retirees. Excellent roads and trains connect small towns to cities like Paris or Nice, blending rural tranquility with easy urban access.
Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” ethos resonates with readers seeking nature and freedom. Pacific coast towns offer laid-back beach life, while the Central Valley’s mountains provide cooler climates and stunning views. Affordable healthcare, a stable democracy, and welcoming expat communities ease the transition.
Daily life is filled with small joys: fresh tropical fruit, hummingbirds at breakfast, and warm locals. Couples can live comfortably on $2,500-$3,200 monthly, with costs varying by location and lifestyle.
Panama is a practical choice for North Americans, especially retirees, thanks to its Pensionado program, offering discounts on flights, medical care, and more. From Boquete’s cool highlands to Coronado’s beaches, there’s a lifestyle for everyone. Panama City blends modern urban living with tropical vibes.
English is common, the U.S. dollar is the currency, and private healthcare is affordable. Couples can live well on $2,000-$3,000 monthly, whether in a mountain village, beach condo, or city apartment.
Greece is climbing reader lists with its blue seas, sunny days, and relaxed pace. Beyond the islands, mainland towns and Athens’ historic neighborhoods offer modern amenities alongside timeless charm. Coastal villages provide fresh seafood and olive-shaded cafés, all at a low cost.
Greece’s residency options are improving, and the cost of living is a steal. Couples can thrive on $1,900-$2,000 monthly in smaller cities or coastal areas, covering rent, groceries, and local transport.
These seven countries show that a better life abroad is within reach, whether you’re drawn to Europe’s historic charm or Central America’s tropical ease. With affordable budgets, quality healthcare, and vibrant communities, they make the dream of relocating feel practical. Explore our 2025 Best Places to Retire ranking for detailed insights, and let these destinations inspire your next step. With a supportive expat community and resources to guide you, your new chapter is closer than you think. For personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us.
They offer low living costs, quality healthcare, welcoming residency policies, and vibrant lifestyles, blending affordability with cultural and natural appeal for retirees, remote workers, and slow travelers.
English is widely spoken in Portugal, Panama, and urban areas of Greece and the Czech Republic. In Italy, Spain, France, and Costa Rica, basic local language skills help, but expat communities and English-speaking locals ease the transition.
U.S. citizens can stay visa-free for 90 days in Portugal, Italy, Spain, France (all EU), and Greece. Costa Rica allows 90 days, extendable to 180. Panama offers 180 days. Longer stays require residency permits, often tied to income or investment.
All seven countries offer high-quality, affordable healthcare. Portugal, Spain, France, and Greece have robust public systems; private care is also cost-effective. Costa Rica and Panama have modern private hospitals, often at a fraction of U.S. costs.
Rent a short-term apartment via platforms like Airbnb or local agencies in cities like Porto, Puglia, Granada, Dordogne, Atenas, Boquete, or Crete. Use visa-free periods to explore daily life and connect with expat communities.
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