The 10 Best Countries to Live in 2026—Ranked and Reviewed for Expats

Thinking about moving abroad and starting a new chapter? You’re not alone. According to a recent International Living survey, 66% of Americans say the rising cost of living, political fatigue, and a desire for greater quality of life for expats have made moving overseas more appealing than ever. The “American Dream” isn’t gone—it’s just evolving, with people searching for a simpler, healthier, and more affordable way of life beyond U.S. borders.

The 2026 Global Retirement Index has ranked the best countries to live in 2026 for expats based on real-world experience and criteria like cost of living, healthcare for expats, safest places to live, visa options, and overall lifestyle. Whether you’re hoping to retire overseas, work as a digital nomad, or relocate with your family, these standout expat destinations are leading the pack for anyone seeking the best places to retire or simply a better life abroad.

Ready to find out where you should move next? Here are the 10 best countries to live in 2026 for expats—plus, what makes each one stand out in terms of expat life, affordability, and happiness.

1. Greece: The Best Country to Live in 2026

For the first time, Greece claims the No. 1 spot for expat destinations in 2026, surpassing favorites like Portugal and Spain. Why now? Greece delivers the full package—stunning scenery, welcoming communities, a low cost of living, and modern amenities that appeal to expats.

What Makes Greece #1:

• Affordable European Lifestyle: Expats report living comfortably on $2,500–$3,200/month, including rent. Beachfront rentals start at just $600, making Greece a top choice for cost-conscious newcomers.

• Excellent Healthcare for Expats: Greece’s private healthcare is high-quality and well-priced. Many doctors speak English, and health insurance is accessible for expats.

• Visa Options Made Easy: A revamped Golden Visa and Financially Independent Person (FIP) visas make it simpler for foreigners to secure residency and enjoy long-term living.

• Unmatched Quality of Life for Expats: Over 300 sunny days a year, rich culture, and a laid-back pace make Greece a dream for anyone seeking the best places to retire or work remotely.

2. Panama: Best for Expat Benefits and Financial Security

Panama is a perennial favorite, consistently ranked among the best countries to live in 2026. Its legendary Pensionado program offers retirees big discounts on everything from utilities to airfare, and Panama City boasts world-class healthcare for expats.

Why Panama Stands Out:

• Pensionado & Friendly Nations Visas: Multiple visa options provide easy, long-term residency for both retirees and digital nomads looking to move abroad.

• Dollarized Economy & Financial Stability: Use U.S. dollars and enjoy a stable economic environment—an attractive perk for those considering moving abroad.

• Great Infrastructure and Expat Healthcare: Modern amenities and top hospitals in Panama City attract retirees and working expats searching for security and the safest places to live.

3. Costa Rica: Best for Wellness and Natural Living

Costa Rica tops the list of expat destinations for people prioritizing wellness, nature, and a relaxed pace of life.

Costa Rica Advantages:

• Affordable Healthcare for Expats: Both public (Caja) and private healthcare systems keep medical costs low, helping reduce worries for those seeking healthcare for expats.

• Outdoor, Active Living: Beaches, volcanoes, and year-round sunshine promote a healthy, active lifestyle that’s ideal for those interested in moving abroad for quality of life.

• Community Feel and Safety: Strong social integration and a reputation as one of the safest places to live help newcomers settle in quickly.

4. Portugal: Europe’s Safe Haven

Lisbon and the Algarve remain popular, but even with rising prices, Portugal continues to offer excellent value in safety, healthcare for expats, and visa options.

Portugal Highlights:

• Safety First: Portugal is recognized globally as one of the safest places to live for expats, retirees, and families alike.

• D7 Visa and Residency Routes: Accessible visa options for retirees and remote workers with passive income, making Portugal a top pick on any list of the best countries to live in 2026.

• Friendly Locals, Walkable Cities: Expats praise the sense of security, community, and high quality of life for expats in Portugal.

5. Mexico: Easiest Transition for North Americans

With the largest North American expat community, Mexico stands out among expat destinations for convenience and comfort.

Mexico’s Perks:

• Proximity to the U.S. and Canada: Short flights and open borders make moving abroad less daunting for North Americans.

• Low Cost of Living: From everyday expenses to luxuries like domestic help, your money goes further here, making it a favorite for the best places to retire.

• Healthcare for Expats: High-quality medical care at a fraction of U.S. costs means peace of mind for retirees and families.

• Well-Established Expat Communities: Cities like Lake Chapala and Mérida make the transition easy and help new arrivals quickly tap into a supportive network.

6. Italy: For Culture, Food, and Affordable Living

Italy’s “Dolce Vita” is alive and well, making this classic destination a top contender for those seeking the best countries to live in 2026, especially with its affordable options beyond the major tourist cities.

Why Italy Appeals:

• Inexpensive Rural Real Estate: Small villages offer deals and even financial incentives for new residents, ideal for those looking to retire overseas affordably.

• Rich Culture and Culinary Scene: Italy is renowned for food, community, and quality of life—making it one of the top expat destinations.

• Healthcare for Expats & Relocation Incentives: Italy’s public healthcare is solid, and select regions offer incentives to attract new residents seeking a slower-paced, higher-quality lifestyle.

7. France: Healthcare Quality and Everyday Value

While Paris can be pricey, much of France provides outstanding value for expats—particularly with its gold-standard healthcare for expats.

France’s Strengths:

• Best Places to Retire for Healthcare: France’s public healthcare system is one of the world’s finest—offering peace of mind to those seeking to retire overseas.

• Affordable Living in Smaller Cities: Picturesque regions like the southwest mean you can enjoy the good life without breaking the bank.

• Healthy, Inclusive Lifestyle: The pace is slower, the food is fantastic, and social inclusion is a way of life for those moving abroad.

8. Spain: Vibrant, Modern, and Accessible

With lively cities, Mediterranean coasts, and reliable infrastructure, Spain is an expat hotspot and one of the safest places to live in Europe.

Why Spain Attracts Expats:

• Mediterranean Lifestyle: Enjoy abundant sunshine, great food, and a friendly environment—key ingredients for high quality of life for expats.

• Diverse Expat Hubs and Affordable Healthcare: Choose from bustling cities, quiet towns, or coastal escapes while benefiting from excellent public healthcare for expats.

• Easy Visa Options and Welcoming Communities: Many find the transition to Spanish life smooth thanks to clear visa options and thriving expat groups.

9. Thailand: Best Cost of Living

Looking for the best countries to live in 2026 if you’re on a budget? Thailand is unbeatable in cost, comfort, and adventure.

Thailand’s Best Features:

• Ultra-Affordable Cost of Living: Rent, food, and daily expenses are low, making it perfect for stretching your budget and enjoying a high quality of life.

• Modern Healthcare for Expats: High-quality, inexpensive hospitals and dental facilities attract both retirees and younger digital nomads.

• Easy Day-to-Day Living: The simplicity and hospitality of Thai culture make it a relaxing place to call home, with welcoming expat communities adding to the appeal.

10. Malaysia: Southeast Asia’s Gateway

Malaysia offers modern comfort, English-friendly living, and significant value—ideal for those considering moving abroad or planning to retire overseas.

Malaysia Highlights:

• English Widely Spoken: Make your transition smooth if you’re new to Southeast Asia or moving abroad for the first time.

• Excellent Infrastructure and Affordable Housing: Cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang consistently receive top marks from expats in search of the best countries to live in 2026.

• Long-Stay Visa Options: Malaysia’s “Malaysia My Second Home” program and other attractive visa options make long-term stays a breeze for retirees and working expats alike.

The Takeaway: How to Choose the Best Countries to Live in 2026

The trend is clear: more people are seeking the best countries to live in 2026, whether they’re planning to retire overseas, work remotely, or simply build a better life as an expat. These top expat destinations stand out for blending cost of living, healthcare for expats, visa options, and the quality of life for expats—all while delivering the safety, adventure, and social benefits that make moving abroad so rewarding.

Thinking about making the leap? Explore these destinations, research residency and long-stay visa requirements, tap into expat communities, and plan your move carefully. Your dream of high quality of life for expats is within reach—the best places to retire or launch a new adventure are waiting for you in 2026.