The Philippines secured the top spot in the 2026 Retirement Abroad Index published June 16 by the London-based Expatriate Group, scoring 78 out of 100 points [1, 2, 3, 4]. The index ranks the country highest for its low living costs, easy visa processes, developed expatriate community, and lifestyle benefits including beaches and cuisine [5, 1, 2, 3, 4].
Monthly expenses for retirees in the Philippines range from $860 to $2,500, which is 50% to 90% cheaper than the US average of $6,545 per month per person, highlighting the significant cost savings for expat retirees [5, 1, 2, 3, 4]. Financial expert Dave Ramsey noted, “美国平均每人每月的生活成本高达6545美元。” [5, 4].
Following the Philippines, Thailand ranked second with 77 points, offering comfortable living costs between $1,150 and $2,300 per month for retirees [5, 1, 2, 3, 4]. Colombia took third place, where retirees need approximately $1,700 monthly to maintain a good standard of living — roughly one quarter of US costs [5, 1, 2, 3, 4]. Other Asian countries featured in the index include Malaysia, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka [5, 1, 2, 3, 4].
Retirement visas in the Philippines require applicants to be over 50 years old with a pension income and a $15,000 deposit for long-term residency [4]. Cities such as Manila and Cebu offer higher medical standards and English-speaking doctors, while rural areas have more limited healthcare facilities [5, 1, 2, 3, 4]. The report cautions that medical care outside major cities may pose challenges for retirees, and language barriers affect Colombia [5, 1, 2, 3, 4].
The United States did not appear in the top 15 due to its high living costs [5, 1, 2, 3]. The Expatriate Group focuses on insured expatriate living, working, and studying internationally [5, 1, 2, 3, 4].
The 2026 Retirement Abroad Index will be updated next year to reflect shifting trends and costs for retirees worldwide.
