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Retirement doesn’t have to be a luxury — but it can be luxurious.
A popular tourist destination has just hit the top spot for retirement. And for good reason.
Americans are finding it nearly impossible to retire in the US as inflation hit new highs for the first time in three years.
The place folks are flocking to in their golden years: the Philippines.
The gorgeous tourist destination has been named the number one place to retire thanks to the Retirement Abroad Index 2026 from Expatriate Group.
The London-based, international insurance provider specializes in coverage for people living, working, or studying abroad and recently rolled out 15 spots where retirees are moving to.
In a shock to no one, the US did not make the list, but why? Cost of living.
The American dream has been consistently crushed as the cost of nearly everything continues to rise.
Gas, groceries, electricity, and healthcare have all surged and those on a fixed income — or Social Security — can no longer afford it.
The average cost of living in the US is $6,545 per month, according to financial expert Dave Ramsey.
In the Philippines, an income of about $860 to $2,500 a month can support a comfortable lifestyle, according to the report and some expat blogs.
That’s 50 to over 90% cheaper than the US.
The retirement report reveals the tourist hotspot received a 78 out of 100 score due to easy visa accessibility, very low living costs, and a strong expat community.
Folks 50 and over who receive a pension can actually qualify with a fixed deposit of $15,000 with no visa renewals.
In terms of healthcare, the bigger cities like Manila and Cebu City have more modern, private hospitals, where facilities have been internationally accredited.
Plus, they’re more likely to have English-speaking medical professionals, reducing language barriers in stressful times.
Just note that once you get out of those larger cities, the standards will probably vary – and an important consideration for retirees looking to make the move.
On top of it, the Philippines has crystal-clear lagoons, powdery white sand, and a rich food culture.
Hitting the number two spot is Thailand.
Ranking just one point below the Philippines, Thailand already has a well-established retirement infrastructure, according to the report.
Largely due to its healthcare system and competitive living costs, the country has become a hotbed for retirees and expats looking to settle down but not break the bank.
The report shows that to live comfortably, a steady income of around 1,150 to 2,300 a month will do.
Colombia took the third spot for an attractive, accessible retirement visa and low living costs.
Retirees can live a great life on just $1,700 a month — nearly 75% of what the average American lives off of.
However, English is not widely spoken, which may be a learning curve.
Top 20 best countries for retirement
- Philippines
- Thailand
- Colombia
- Portugal
- South Africa
- Sri Lanka
- Dubai (UAE)
- Malaysia
- Mexico
- Indonesia
- Spain
- Panama
- Qatar
- France
- Costa Rica
- New Zealand
- Greece
- Cyprus
- Cyprus
- Malta
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