Greece Ranked #1 Global Destination for Retirees. Here’s Why Everyone Is Moving South!

Every year, thousands of retirees scan the world map searching for that one place where they can finally slow down, breathe, and live the life they worked so hard for.
And according to the 2026 Annual Global Retirement Index, that place is now officially Greece.

Recently, Greece was crowned the best country in the world for foreign retirees, surpassing long-time favorites like Portugal, Spain, and Mexico. The data confirms what many expats already feel: Greece isn’t just a travel destination, it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

Here’s what puts the country at the top.

🌤️ 1. A Climate Made for Good Living.

With more than 250–300 days of sunshine a year, Greece offers exactly what retirees want: stable, warm weather that supports an active, outdoor lifestyle.
From morning walks along the coast to winter days that feel like early spring, the climate consistently receives top scores in global rankings.

💸 2. Cost of Living That Stretches Your Pension.

Compared to Northern Europe or the US, Greece’s cost of living is significantly lower ,when it comes to housing, groceries, public transport, and eating out.
For many retirees, their pension simply goes further here.

This affordability was one of the strongest reasons Greece secured the #1 position internationally.

🏡 3. High-Quality Housing Options.

Whether someone dreams of a quiet village home, a seaside apartment, or a modern city flat in Athens, the housing market offers variety and relative accessibility.
Retirees report that they can rent or buy “a better lifestyle for the same money.”

🏥 4. Improving Healthcare and Access.

Greece scores high for healthcare quality, medical expertise, and availability of English-speaking professionals.
Retirees especially value easy access to both public and private services, without the extreme costs seen in the US or UK.

🍷 5. Quality of Life: The Unmeasurable Advantage.

Beyond data and rankings, Greece offers something many countries can’t quantify:
a life that feels good.

Fresh food, safe cities, walkability, nature, culture, islands, slow mornings, social cafés, it all builds a lifestyle that’s balanced and fulfilling.

This emotional well-being scored extremely high and pushed Greece to the top of the global list.

📈 A Trend That Is Growing.

With global mobility increasing and remote living becoming the new normal, Greece is becoming not only a retirement destination but a long-term home for individuals looking for stability, sun, and community.

The ranking confirms what thousands have already discovered:
Greece isn’t just a place to retire, it’s a place to truly live.

💬 Want help relocating to Greece?

Ready to plan your move? Let’s talk

Don’t Just Visit, Belong!