Safest Places to Retire for Comfort and Peace of Mind

Top 10 Safest Retirement Destinations

1. Portugal

GPI Rank: 7 | AGRI Rank: 2
Portugal is a beacon of safety and inclusivity, ranking seventh on the GPI. Violent crime is nearly nonexistent, thanks to strict gun laws, and daily life exudes calm. In Tavira, expat Terry Coles describes a warm community where elderly locals stroll safely, and diverse residents coexist harmoniously. With nearly 25% of the population over 65, Portugal caters to retirees with affordable healthcare (€400–€1,000/year for private plans) and the D7 visa (€820/month income). Petty theft in tourist hubs like Lisbon requires basic vigilance, but the overall sense of security is profound. Learn more about retirement in Portugal and why it’s one of Europe’s safest and most welcoming destinations for retirees.

• Highlights: Low crime, excellent healthcare, welcoming culture.
• Cost of Living: ~€2,500/month for a couple in coastal areas.
• Expat Tip: Settle in the Algarve for sunny beaches or Braga for affordability.

2. Malaysia

GPI Rank: 10 | AGRI Rank: 7
Malaysia’s multi-ethnic harmony and relaxed pace make it a safe haven, as expat Keith Hockton attests after 16 years. Ranking 10th on the GPI, areas like Penang and Langkawi see minimal petty crime. The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa offers 10-year residency, and healthcare is top-notch, with specialist visits costing $10-$50. Cultural respect fosters safety, allowing retirees to enjoy night markets worry-free.

• Highlights: Affordable healthcare, diverse culture, expat-friendly hubs.
• Cost of Living: ~$1,500/month for a couple in George Town.
• Expat Tip: Choose Penang for walkable neighborhoods and English-speaking communities.

3. Ireland

GPI Rank: 2 | AGRI Rank: 15
Ireland’s second-place GPI ranking reflects its low crime and strong community spirit. Rural villages and coastal towns like County Clare offer a relaxed, open-door culture. Violent crime is rare, and the public healthcare system provides free GP visits for those over 70. Expats find integration easy due to English-speaking locals and welcoming pubs. A €50,000/year income secures residency, making Ireland ideal for a serene retirement.

• Highlights: Safe villages, free healthcare for seniors, friendly locals.
• Cost of Living: ~$2,800/month for a couple in rural areas.
• Expat Tip: Explore Galway for cultural vibrancy and affordability.

4. Spain

GPI Rank: 23 | AGRI Rank: 6
Spain, ranked 23rd on the GPI, offers unparalleled safety, as expat Marsha Scarbrough notes after eight years. Streets buzz with camaraderie, and public transport is secure. Universal healthcare ensures low-cost care, with private insurance at around $135/month. Strict gun regulations minimize threats, though pickpocketing in Madrid requires caution. Spain’s affordability (€2,000/month for a couple) and vibrant culture make it a retiree favorite. Discover why so many expats choose retirement in Spain for its balance of safety, lifestyle, and affordability.

• Highlights: Safe public spaces, excellent healthcare, rich culture.
• Cost of Living: ~€2,000/month for a couple in Andalusia.
• Expat Tip: Consider Valencia for lower costs and cultural depth.

5. Italy

GPI Rank: 33 | AGRI Rank: 9
Italy’s low violent crime rates and community pride create a secure environment, says expat Chip Stites. In Rieti, lost wallets are returned intact, reflecting local values. Italy’s murder rate is 12 times lower than the U.S., and its healthcare system ranks among the best. The Elective Residency Visa requires €31,000/year income. Pickpocketing in Rome is a minor concern, but small towns offer tranquility.

• Highlights: Low crime, world-class healthcare, cultural richness.
• Cost of Living: ~$2,800/month for a couple in smaller cities.
• Expat Tip: Settle in Tuscany for a slower pace and scenic beauty.

6. Greece

GPI Rank: 40 | AGRI Rank: 8
Greece’s philoxenia (hospitality) and visible police presence ensure safety, as expat Lynn Roulo feels safer in Athens than San Francisco. Violent crime is rare, and petty theft is manageable with caution. The Golden Visa (€250,000 property investment) offers residency. Affordable living (~$2,000/month for a couple) and expat communities in Corfu make Greece a secure, sunny retreat.

• Highlights: Hospitable culture, low violent crime, affordable housing.
• Cost of Living: ~$2,000/month for a couple in Athens.
• Expat Tip: Choose Crete for year-round mild weather and expat hubs.

7. Vietnam

Vietnam’s low violent crime and hospitable locals make it surprisingly safe, say expats Sharyn and Tim Nielsen. In Ho Chi Minh City, night walks feel secure, though pickpocketing in tourist areas requires awareness. Affordable living (~$1,500/month for a couple) and quality healthcare attract retirees, despite no specific retirement visa. Hoi An’s riverside charm adds to its appeal.

• Highlights: Low violent crime, affordable living, vibrant culture.
• Cost of Living: ~$1,500/month for a couple in Hoi An.
• Expat Tip: Opt for Hoi An for a peaceful, budget-friendly lifestyle.

8. Costa Rica

GPI Rank: 58 | AGRI Rank: 3
Costa Rica’s Pura Vida lifestyle and natural beauty ensure safety, says expat Bekah Bottone, raising her children in Tamarindo. Gated communities and neighborhood watches enhance security. The Pensionado Visa ($1,000/month income) and excellent healthcare (ranked above the U.S.) make it retiree-friendly. Petty theft requires vigilance, but violent crime is low.

• Highlights: Natural beauty, strong healthcare, retiree visa.
• Cost of Living: ~$2,500/month for a couple in Tamarindo.
• Expat Tip: Explore Atenas for cooler climates and low crime.

9. Uruguay

GPI Rank: 52 | AGRI Rank: 14
Uruguay, Latin America’s safest country, offers a low-stress lifestyle, says expat David Hammond after 20 years in Montevideo. Security cameras and community vigilance deter crime. The Pensionado Visa ($1,500/month income) and universal healthcare (~$100/month private plans) support retirees. Coastal areas like Punta del Este are particularly secure.

• Highlights: Latin America’s safest, affordable healthcare, stable governance.
• Cost of Living: ~$3,000/month for a couple in Montevideo.
• Expat Tip: Choose Punta del Este for beachside safety.

10. Bali, Indonesia

GPI Rank: 48 | AGRI Rank: 17
Bali’s Hindu-Buddhist culture fosters safety and hospitality, says expat Roland Dalton after 40 years. Violent crime is rare, and the Retirement Visa ensures long-term stays. Petty theft in Kuta requires caution, but areas like Ubud offer tranquility. Affordable living (~$2,000/month for a couple) and private healthcare make Bali a tropical haven.

• Highlights: Cultural warmth, affordable living, tropical beauty.
• Cost of Living: ~$2,000/month for a couple in Ubud.
• Expat Tip: Settle in Ubud for a serene, expat-friendly vibe.