Attention Beach Lovers: 7 Countries Where You Can Afford to Retire Peacefully

Retiring to a quiet place by the beach is a dream for many Americans and others around the world. Perhaps the last two years of pandemic-related upheaval have intensified the dream of getting away from the daily grind to resettle in an ideal place. And for many, life by the beach is that ideal.

In most of the U.S., property by the seashore comes at a premium, and home prices are out of reach for many retirees. However, quite a few countries around the world offer pristine beaches, low cost of living, and attractive lifestyles, making them affordable destinations for those whose hearts are set on beachfront living.

These are some of the countries that make it possible to find that place by the sea and live comfortably for a fraction of what it would cost in the U.S.

Most have expat communities, reasonably priced healthcare, affordable homes, and residency options.

1. Ecuador

Good quality healthcare is available at reasonable prices, and public transportation in many cities makes a car unnecessary.

In the city of Cuenca, for example, the cost of living is 66% less expensive, and rents are about 88% lower, when compared with New York City.

2. Nicaragua

The cost of living is low, and there are residency options for retirees requiring a monthly income of at least $600. In most places, U.S. dollars are accepted, and the Nicaraguan government offers tax incentives and encourages investment in the country. For example, out-of-country earnings are not taxable.

The overall cost of living is around 38% lower than in the United States, and rent is about 64% lower. Retirement visas are available for those at least 50 years old with a valid passport, background check, at least $24,500 in a Thai bank account, and monthly income of about $2,000.

4. Vietnam

For comparison, rent is about 69% lower than in the United States, and the cost of living is low — about 47% lower than in the U.S.

Most retirees opt for the private health care system where costs are low and quality is high. Food is delicious and prices are low.

5. Belize

The overall cost of living is about 28% lower than in the United States, and rent is 73% lower. Residents speak English, and both Belize currency and the U.S. dollar are accepted.

The Qualified Retired Person Residency Program, an easy way to establish residency, requires income of at least $24,000 annually along with a background and medical check.

6. Colombia

The cost of living is about 61% lower than in the United States, and rents are a bargain at an average of 80% lower than in the U.S. Medical and dental care are high quality and affordable, with both public and private institutions available.

Several visa categories are available, and the most common Migrant Pensionado Visa requires a minimum monthly income of about $717.

7. Mexico

With borders on the Gulf of Mexico in the east and the Pacific Ocean in the west, Mexico offers around 6,000 miles of coastline.

Baja California, Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, Rosarita, and La Paz are a few well-known beach areas, and quiet fishing villages might attract retirees with lower costs and casual atmospheres.

Stay away from narco places like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Mexico City, Tulum.

Mexico’s low cost of living, climate, and affordable healthcare are attractions, with rents about 70% lower than in the United States. Becoming a resident is relatively easy.

For temporary residence, monthly income of about $2,100 is required, and for permanent residence, the minimum income is $2,700.

Bank account requirements are about $36,000 and $149,000 respectively.