From 1946 to 1964, the United States experienced a total of 76 million births. Referred to as the baby boomers, this generation has been the result of a robust postwar economy. Soldiers returning home from World War II wished to settle down and start a family. The GI Bill, a law that provided a range of benefits for some of the returning World War II veterans, further promised decent pay, good jobs, and affordable housing to those raising families.
As of today, baby boomers have entered into the retirement phase. By 2030, every baby boomer would have turned 65 years or older. Add in the number of immigrants, and the United States currently houses more than 73 million older adults. The greying US population is no longer youthful as it once used to be. And for millions of these Americans, retirement seems a distant reality. Rising inflation, depreciating retirement accounts, and financial obligations have been crushing Americans and their retirement dreams.
According to The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW) Modern Wealth Survey, Americans believe that now it takes at least $2.2 million to be wealthy, and the $1 million mark doesn't cut it anymore. The same goes for retirement, with figures for a comfortable retirement increasing from $1 million to $1.25 million in a span of years. Surprisingly, only 25% of retirees are able to save their incomes throughout their careers. Meanwhile, 75% of them are falling short of meeting their retirement goals.
Given the United States' burden of an aging population, the risk of depleting social security funds, and its higher cost of living compared to many other countries, Americans are rapidly exploring their retirement options. Some of the best expat retirement countries they are moving to include Costa Rica, France, Portugal, Thailand, and the Dominican Republic.
Best Countries to Retire for US Citizens
Every year, more and more Americans are leaving the United States and retiring abroad. According to Social Security Administration, 443,546 retired workers received their social security checks outside of the USA in 2021. As such, some of the best countries to retire for US citizens include Panama, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Portugal. As these countries offer a lower cost of living than the United States, Americans receiving their social security checks there can stretch their retirement income further. Costa Rica and Panama are not only cheap but also some of the easiest countries to retire to. For those looking for affordable options, some of the cheapest countries for retirement include South Africa, Romania, Malaysia, and Portugal. Many retirees prefer healthcare over everything else, which is why they should consider retiring to countries such as Malaysia and Spain. These are some of the best places to retire overseas for affordable and efficient healthcare.
For individuals looking to draw their social security outside of the US, many banks can be used to draw social security checks in foreign countries. The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW) highlights that Americans living outside the US may encounter difficult challenges when dealing with financial transactions. However, their services can help individuals invest in US markets from abroad, access US dollar-based accounts, and tax filing. Apart from The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW), other companies that can be used are JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) and Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C).
Let's move now to the list of popular overseas places to retire for US citizens.
30 Most Popular Overseas Retirement Destinations for Americans
Pixabay/Public Domain
Methodology
To compile the list of most popular overseas retirement destinations for Americans, we have used data from Social Security Administration to determine the total number of retired workers receiving benefits in foreign countries or regions. Next, we ranked the countries from the lowest to the highest number of workers receiving social security benefits.
Here are the most popular overseas retirement destinations for Americans:
30. Panama
Number of Social Security Benefits: 2,072
Panama can be considered a retiree haven, cherished for its inviting coastal climate, picturesque beaches, and quality of life. Not only is it one of the best places to retire in Central America, but it also proudly claims the title of being the ultimate destination for retirees on social security, owing to its remarkable affordability. A single retiree can expect to live on $1,400 to $1,700 monthly in a highland or beautiful beach community.
29. Hong Kong
Number of Social Security Benefits: 2,073
Expats in Hong Kong claim that the country is an ideal retirement destination for retirees. It also boasts an advanced healthcare system, a significant draw for retirees when considering a move. The expatriate community has significantly grown over the years, making it easier for retirees to build a support network.
28. New Zealand
Number of Social Security Benefits: 2,209
As of December 2021, over 2,209 retirees received their social security benefits in New Zealand. Many reasons make it a popular overseas retirement destination for Americans, such as its high-quality healthcare, retirement-friendly policies, and welcoming culture. The country offers stunning natural landscapes, a relaxed pace of life, and a pleasant climate to enjoy one's retirement years.
27. India
Number of Social Security Benefits: 2,346
The culturally rich and diverse India is also a growing favorite amongst retirees who love culture and history. Being one of the cheapest English-speaking countries to retire to, India boasts a cost of living as low as $800. According to Living Cost, living in India is 81% cheaper than the US.
26. Taiwan
Number of Social Security Benefits: 2,469
Taiwan is another popular overseas retirement destination owing to its affordability, safety, and quality of life. Renowned for its delectable cuisine, retirees love the country for its diverse foods and flavors. The country offers a warm climate for comfortable living and a growing expatriate community.
25. Ecuador
Number of Social Security Benefits: 2,833
Americans love Ecuador for the luxury life they can get on their social security paychecks. That's right, a luxury life in Ecuador is only possible under $1,500. Besides the affordable cost of living, the country also boasts affordable healthcare, welcoming culture, and a growing expat community.
24. Norway
Number of Social Security Benefits: 3,826
Norway is a fantastic option for Americans seeking a high quality of life during their golden years. The beautiful country is home to stunning natural landscapes that allow retirees to enjoy a scenic environment. Healthcare in the country is top-notch, and the outdoor culture is the perfect opportunity for retirees to live an active lifestyle.
23. Netherlands
Number of Social Security Benefits: 4,085
One of the safest countries in the world, the Netherlands offers an abundance of culture, beautiful cities, towns, and a high quality of life. Famous for its cycling culture, retirees enjoy an active lifestyle in the country. Moreover, Dutch healthcare is both accessible and top-notch.
22. Sweden
Number of Social Security Benefits: 4,726
Sweden is a popular overseas retirement destination, with 4,726 retired Americans claiming their social security checks in the country. High quality of life, stunning natural beauty, and a strong social support system make it a favorite amongst retirees.
21. Switzerland
Number of Social Security Benefits: 5,079
The welcoming country of Switzerland consistently ranks as one of the best countries in terms of quality of life. It also boasts a world-class healthcare system, beautiful landscapes, and numerous outdoor activities for retired individuals. Everything is top-quality in Switzerland, from towns to food options and even infrastructure.
20. Dominican Republic
Number of Social Security Benefits: 5,217
The Dominican Republic holds the title of being one of the best places to retire in the Caribbean, and simultaneously ranks as one of the cheapest countries for retirement. Retirees can live in the country for as low as $1,200, enjoying the tropical climate and beautiful beaches. Healthcare in the country is affordable, and there is a growing expat community in the country.
19. South Korea
Number of Social Security Benefits: 5,510
A surprising number of Americans are also receiving their social security benefits in South Korea, despite language barriers and cultural differences. A number of reasons may come into play for retiring to the country, such as affordable living, high quality of life, and top-notch healthcare.
18. Thailand
Number of Social Security Benefits: 6,311
Retirees in Thailand get to enjoy premium healthcare, affordable living, and a friendly local community. From the high-rise metropolis of Bangkok to the rice fields of Northern Thailand, there are several options for them to retire to, depending on their preferences. As of December 2021, 6,311 retired workers drew social security in Thailand.
17. Ireland
Number of Social Security Benefits: 7,010
Revered for its vibrant culture, rich arts scene, and traditional music, Americans are increasingly choosing Ireland as their retirement destination. The country is home to some stunning natural landscapes; featuring rugged coastlines, historic castles, and green countryside. More than 10,000 Americans already live on this Emerald Isle.
16. Spain
Number of Social Security Benefits: 8,195
Spain is one of the most popular overseas retirement destinations for Americans. It is home to over 6 million foreigners, making it a popular overseas retirement destination. Affordable living, high-quality healthcare, and delicious Spanish cuisine appeal to retirees who live here. The country also boasts rich history and culture, plentiful recreation, and a thriving expat community.
15. Colombia
Number of Social Security Benefits: 8,658
Another popular retirement destination for expats is Colombia. The country is 75% less expensive than the United States, making it an affordable place to retire to. It also boasts a rich history and culture, an improving healthcare system, and breathtaking landscapes for retirees to enjoy.
14. Israel
Number of Social Security Benefits: 9,558
9,558 Americans withdrew social security in Israel as of December 2021, making it one of the most popular overseas retirement destinations for Americans. The country has a well-regarded healthcare system, a multicultural society, as well as a diverse food scene. The Mediterranean climate is the perfect addition for retirees, along with beautiful beaches to savor a life of peace and relaxation.
13. Portugal
Number of Social Security Benefits: 9,945
Portugal offers many of the best places to retire in Europe, largely because of its high quality of life and inexpensive living. The year-round weather is mild and pleasant, the healthcare system is well-regarded, and the country is also one of the safest places in the world to live.
12. France
Number of Social Security Benefits: 11,501
France is one of the most popular European countries for retirees, and with good reason. The French lifestyle, diverse climate, and high-quality healthcare attract retirees as much as it appeals younger individuals. From Michelin-starred restaurants to luxury shopping and well-regarded healthcare, this country has it all.
11. Australia
Number of Social Security Benefits: 12,222
Australia, or the Land Down Under, is an appealing retirement destination due to its modern amenities and beautiful coastal areas. Retirees get to enjoy a high quality of life in the country. Plentiful outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, and hiking keep retirees busy all year round. Moreover, Australia is a politically safe country to retire to, offering many retirement-friendly policies for foreigners.
