Best Places for Digital Nomads to Retire in 2025

Not every digital nomad is in their 20-40s. In fact, according to a recent report by demandsage, 24% of digital nomads are over 50. These digital nomads may start looking for places to retire. International Living recently released its Global Retirement Index, which evaluates some of the best places to retire in 2025 based on firsthand accounts from residents. Here’s a breakdown of the top five destinations:

1. Panama

Panama combines modern amenities with affordability, offering retirees a comfortable lifestyle on $2,400 per month—or a more indulgent one at $2,900. Its excellent healthcare, tax-free foreign income policies, and retiree discounts make it a standout destination. Accessible residency options, such as the pensioner visa for those with $1,000 monthly income, and the Friendly Nations visa for property investors, add to Panama’s appeal. A new telework visa also allows a trial stay without committing beforehand.

2. Portugal

Portugal attracts retirees with its scenic coastlines, historic towns, and low cost of living. Couples can comfortably live on $2,500 to $3,000 per month. Healthcare is affordable, utilities are reasonable, and renting outside major cities can help save even more. While taxes apply to foreign pensions if retirees choose to become citizens after an initial five-year stay, the vibrant culture, mild climate, and welcoming communities more than make up for it. A mix of urban liveliness, peaceful countryside, and island options in Madeira and the Azores makes Portugal an intriguing choice.

3. Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers retirees pristine beaches, lush forests, and a warm, welcoming culture. Public and private healthcare systems are both high-quality and affordable, with doctor visits costing as little as $48. Retirees benefit from residency options such as the Pensionado visa ($1,000 monthly income) and Rentista visa ($2,500 income or a $60,000 deposit). The laid-back lifestyle and “pura vida” spirit provide the perfect backdrop for a fulfilling retirement.

4. Mexico

From beach towns to mountain retreats, Mexico caters to all tastes and budgets. Rent can be as low as $500 a month, and the cost of living accommodates both frugal and luxury lifestyles. Healthcare is exceptional and inexpensive, with dental crowns costing just $350 compared to thousands in the U.S. Friendly locals and expats create a sense of belonging, while its 180-day visa-free stay makes Mexico easily accessible.

5. France

France offers culture, history, and gastronomy at affordable prices. Housing and healthcare are far more affordable than in the U.S., and government-fixed medical costs ensure stability. A couple can live comfortably on $2,000 per month (excluding rent) by avoiding pricey cities like Paris. The Long-Stay visa is straightforward to obtain and gives access to France’s exceptional public healthcare system. Provence and Dordogne offer retirees sunshine, picturesque villages, and moderate real estate prices.

These destinations prove that retiring abroad, even as a digital nomad still doing some work on a laptop from time to time, can be a dream come true and an alternative to retiring back in one’s home country. Of course, there is also the option of continuing to nomad around, but it’s nice to know that there are other options for settling down in foreign countries as an older digital nomad through the retirement visa route.