Why I'm Sharing This

I was born and raised in Italy, so eventually, I may retire there. But when my friends in sunny Southern California ask if Italy would be a good place for them to retire too, I remind them that Italy has four distinct seasons, and in many regions, the winters are damp, chilly, and windy. Those conditions can feel harsh if you're used to perpetual sunshine and mild weather.

When this video by The World According to Briggs showed up in my feed, listing 10 countries that could be welcoming to Americans interested in retiring abroad, a few of them surprised me. So I did a little research of my own, focusing on one of the most crucial but often overlooked retirement factors: climate.

After all, for many older adults, warm, stable temperatures and minimal barometric pressure shifts are much easier on the joints than cold, wet winters or extreme seasonal changes.

Here is a short summary of the video and a cheat sheet with the points I found most useful, including my findings on the climate. The video is embedded at the bottom of the page so you can watch it without leaving this site. Below that, you’ll find links to related articles.

Video Summary

This video by The Word According to Briggs breaks down 10 countries where Americans can retire more affordably and with fewer bureaucratic hurdles. For each destination, the host outlines the minimum monthly income required to qualify for a retirement visa, healthcare options, and general lifestyle benefits. The list includes both beach areas and inland towns, with many places offering strong expat communities and simplified residency paths. The tone is casual, with occasional personal anecdotes and observations that make the information more approachable.

Cheat Sheet 10 Countries Where Retiring Abroad Is Easier Than You Think

based on the video by The World According to Briggs

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Thailand

A retirement visa is available starting at age 50. To qualify, you’ll need either $2,000 in monthly income or $24,000 held in a Thai bank account. Many retirees settle in Chiang Mai or smaller coastal towns. Rent can be very low, healthcare is both modern and inexpensive, and daily costs like food and services are minimal.

Climate: tropical, with hot, rainy, and cooler dry seasons. Good for those who tolerate heat and air conditioning well. Winters are warm and dry; summers can be humid and intense.

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Dominican Republic

Retirees over 55 can apply with proof of $1,500 in monthly income. Living costs are modest, with beachfront rentals available for less than $700, and it’s common to hire help for cleaning or gardening. Property can be purchased outright, and expats are spread across several towns including Las Terrenas and Santo Domingo.

Climate: Tropical and warm year-round with a rainy season from May through November. High humidity may feel oppressive for those sensitive to heat or dampness. No true cold season.

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Costa Rica

The Pensionado visa is available to anyone with $1,000 in guaranteed monthly income, such as Social Security. Housing is affordable, with some rentals around $500, and public transport and healthcare are widely used. Towns like Grecia and Tamarindo attract a steady expat presence.

Climate: Varies by elevation. Coastal areas are hot and humid; mountain towns (like Grecia) are springlike year-round. Generally a good option for those avoiding cold and extremes.

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Panama

Panama’s retiree visa requires $1,000/month in lifetime income. The program is permanent and includes discounts on flights, utilities, and entertainment. Many retirees live comfortably on $1,200 to $2,000/month. Panama uses the U.S. dollar and has strong infrastructure. Popular areas include Panama City and Coronado.

Climate: Varies by elevation. Coastal areas are hot and humid; mountain towns (like Grecia) are springlike year-round. Generally a good option for those avoiding cold and extremes.

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Mexico

A temporary resident visa requires either $2,600/month income or roughly $45,000 in savings. While requirements are higher, day-to-day life is affordable: rent is often under $600, and medical visits can cost as little as $40. Expats are found throughout cities like Mazatlán and Mexico City, and it’s easy to travel back to the U.S.

Climate: Varies widely. Coastal areas can be hot and humid. Inland mountain towns like San Miguel de Allende or Lake Chapala have springlike temperatures most of the year. Baja California is dry and mild, ideal for those sensitive to heat or humidity.

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Malaysia

Malaysia’s MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) visa asks for $2,500/month income plus assets between $85,000 and $125,000. Rent is low in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, and meals and healthcare are highly affordable. English is widely spoken, and Penang in particular is popular for its food and walkability.

Climate: Equatorial. Hot and humid year-round with consistent temperatures and heavy rainfall. Air conditioning is essential. Not ideal for those sensitive to persistent damp heat.

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Ecuador

Applicants need $1,275 in monthly income to qualify for a pensioner visa. Living expenses are low, and you can cover rent, groceries, and utilities comfortably on a modest budget. Cuenca is a common choice for expats, and seniors get discounts on public transportation and even domestic flights.

Climate: Varies by altitude. Coastal areas are humid and warm; mountain cities like Cuenca are temperate and springlike year-round. Minimal seasonal changes.

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Portugal

Portugal’s D7 visa allows passive income earners to apply with around $1,000/month (or €825). Private health insurance is required, but costs are far lower than in the U.S. Smaller towns outside Lisbon offer good value, and after five years you may apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

Climate: Mediterranean, with four seasons. Winters are mild along the coast but can be damp and windy. Central and northern areas get colder. May not suit those highly sensitive to humidity.

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Belize

The Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) is open to individuals 45+ with at least $2,000/month in income. No property purchase is needed, and you’re allowed to bring household goods and a vehicle duty-free in your first year. English is the official language, and the lifestyle is relaxed in both inland towns and coastal areas.

Climate: Tropical, with a wet and dry season. Warm year-round. Humidity is high, but ocean breezes help in coastal towns. Good for warmth seekers who can handle some dampness.

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Uruguay

Uruguay offers a pensioner visa for those with $1,500/month income. After three years of residency, you may apply for permanent status. Montevideo and other areas offer a clean, stable environment with relatively low costs for rent, utilities, and local services. The country is considered politically and socially progressive.

Climate: Temperate with four seasons. Winters can be cool and damp, with some wind. Summers are warm but not extreme. May not be ideal for people sensitive to cold humidity.

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