Spain, Portugal, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Mexico, and More Offer Top Retirement Choices for Americans in 2025 with Ideal Conditions for Expats Seeking a Better Lifestyle

Published on June 24, 2025

Spain, Portugal, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Mexico, and other top countries are emerging as prime retirement destinations for Americans in 2025, offering a desirable mix of affordability, high quality of life, and friendly environments for expats. These countries present the ideal conditions for retirees seeking a peaceful and enriching lifestyle. Spain and Portugal stand out for their mild climates, vibrant cultures, and affordable healthcare systems. Costa Rica is famed for its breathtaking natural landscapes, while Mexico attracts retirees with its proximity to the U.S. and cost-effective living. Uruguay is recognized for its political stability and serene surroundings. From Costa Rica’s natural wonders to Spain’s historical charm, these destinations offer retirees a perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and fresh new opportunities.

Nearly 5.5 million Americans are currently living abroad, with approximately 700,000 of them enjoying their retirement in foreign countries, according to the Association of Americans Resident Overseas. If you’re considering joining this group but are unsure where to relocate, Global Citizen Solutions has unveiled a list of the top destinations for American retirees in 2025, making the decision a little easier.

Released in June, the report from Global Citizen Solutions, a company that specializes in assisting Americans with investments abroad, identifies the best countries for U.S. retirees. The list spans a range of attractive destinations from Portugal to Costa Rica, each offering distinct lifestyle advantages for retirees. With so many appealing choices, determining the right location can be overwhelming.

Global Citizen Solutions evaluated various countries based on key criteria essential to retirees: cost of living, healthcare availability, climate, tax benefits for retirees and expatriates, safety, and opportunities for recreational activities. After a detailed assessment, Spain emerged as the top choice for American retirees in 2025.

Spain clinched the top spot in the rankings, earning a perfect score in the Global Intelligence Unit’s U.S. retirement trend report. Although petty theft can sometimes be an issue in popular tourist areas like Madrid and Barcelona, Spain generally enjoys low crime rates. Madrid, in particular, is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and work, celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and thriving social life. Retirees moving to Spain can expect monthly living costs ranging between $2,000 and $2,500. For those seeking to rent a one-bedroom apartment, the average price in central Madrid is about $1,322.50 per month, while in outer areas, it drops to approximately $968.05.

For retirees interested in relocating to Spain permanently, the Non-Lucrative Visa offers a straightforward option. This visa allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain without the right to work. To qualify, applicants must prove they have a minimum monthly income of $2,700, along with evidence of accommodation and private health insurance. It’s important to note that Spain’s Golden Visa program, which grants residency through investments, was suspended earlier in 2025, limiting some avenues for relocation.

Following Spain closely is Portugal, another Iberian country that is highly regarded for its favorable climate, affordability, and excellent healthcare system. Portugal has also maintained its Golden Visa program, which grants residency through investment, such as real estate. However, there have been recent changes to this program. Now, if you invest in real estate, it must be located in a rural area, allowing retirees to explore the scenic countryside while contributing to local development.

Other top countries on the list include Costa Rica, which ranks third, thanks to its warm climate, tax advantages, and welcoming expat communities. Uruguay comes in fourth, known for its stable political environment and breathtaking landscapes, while Mexico rounds out the top five with its proximity to the U.S., low living costs, and a vibrant culture. Each of these destinations offers an inviting climate, tax perks, and accessible visa options, making them highly appealing to retirees looking to settle abroad.

These countries offer retirees the perfect balance of lifestyle, affordability, and quality of life. Whether you are drawn to Spain’s rich culture, Portugal’s peaceful countryside, or the tropical climate of Costa Rica, there is a destination that caters to every preference and financial situation.

Spain, Portugal, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Mexico, and other top destinations offer ideal conditions for American retirees in 2025, providing a perfect blend of affordability, high quality of life, and welcoming communities for those seeking a better lifestyle abroad.

For those considering retiring overseas, it is essential to consider several factors, including cost of living, healthcare services, visa requirements, and the overall lifestyle each country offers. Spain, Portugal, Costa Rica, Uruguay, and Mexico are all excellent choices, each providing retirees with a fulfilling, affordable, and rewarding experience while benefiting from welcoming communities, tax incentives, and a high quality of life.