Greece has been named the best country in the world to retire to in 2026, according to International Living's Annual Global Retirement Index. The country jumped from seventh place to first, overtaking traditional favourites Portugal and Spain due to rising costs and stricter visa rules.
The index, based on over 40 years of research, evaluates factors including climate, healthcare, cost of living, housing, and visas. Jennifer Stevens, executive editor of International Living, said: 'Greece now offers a beautiful, welcoming, and affordable European base with accessible residency options and a lifestyle that feels rich in every sense.'
A key factor is the updated Golden Visa programme, which grants residency for a real estate investment of €250,000 (£215,000), among the most accessible in Europe. Greek rental prices are around 146% lower than in the UK, according to AnyResidence.
Retirees enjoy a relaxed pace of life, a healthy Mediterranean diet, and over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually. Correspondent Leena Horner, who retired to Corfu, wrote: 'The pace of life here is relaxed, yet it is far from dull. It is consistent, communal, balanced, and unexpectedly rich.'
With the longest coastline in the Mediterranean, stretching 8,498 miles, and thousands of islands, Greece offers diverse options from historic Athens to peaceful beaches.
