Best Retirement Destinations for Americans and Canadians

What Retirees Value Most When Choosing a Country

Before comparing destinations, it’s important to define what truly matters in retirement.

Healthcare Access

Affordable, modern healthcare with short waiting times is often the top priority.

Climate and Lifestyle

Warm climates reduce joint pain, encourage outdoor activity, and improve overall well-being.

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Cost Predictability

Stable living costs matter more than the lowest possible prices.

Safety and Social Stability

Personal safety and social calmness are essential for long-term peace of mind.

Residency Options

Clear and renewable residence permits allow retirees to plan long-term.

Popular Retirement Destinations Around the World

Southern Europe - Familiar, but Costly

Southern European countries remain attractive due to culture, food, and lifestyle. However:

• living costs are rising,
• healthcare systems can be overloaded,
• property taxes and ownership costs are higher,
• residency requirements are tightening.

For retirees on fixed incomes, long-term affordability can become challenging.

Latin America - Affordable, but Uneven

Some Latin American destinations offer low living costs and warm climates, but:

• healthcare quality varies by region,
• safety can be inconsistent,
• long-term property ownership rules differ widely.

These destinations often suit adventurous retirees comfortable with variability.

Asia - Lifestyle Appeal With Structural Differences

Asian destinations attract retirees seeking warm weather and relaxed living. However:

• ownership rules may be restrictive,
• distance from family can be a factor,
• healthcare quality varies by city.

For some retirees, these factors outweigh the benefits.

Why Turkey Is Increasingly Chosen for Retirement

Turkey has quietly become one of the most balanced retirement destinations for international retirees.

Key advantages include:

• affordable, high-quality healthcare (public and private),
• warm Mediterranean climate,
• low annual property taxes,
• modern residential infrastructure,
• strong safety levels in residential areas,
• and a culture that values family and community.

Unlike many destinations, Turkey combines lifestyle comfort with practical systems.

Retirement-Friendly Property Options

Retirees often start by exploring:

• Apartments in Alanya - walkable areas, medical facilities nearby
• Villas in Antalya - space, privacy, and year-round living
• Villas in Bodrum - premium coastal lifestyle
• Apartments in Istanbul - urban living with top hospitals

Healthcare: A Key Advantage for Retirees

One of Turkey’s strongest advantages is healthcare accessibility:

• private clinics with English-speaking doctors,
• modern hospitals with short waiting times,
• affordable insurance options,
• and widely available specialist care.

For many retirees, this level of access significantly improves daily comfort and confidence.

Cost of Living: Predictable and Manageable

Retirement planning depends on predictability. Turkey offers:

• moderate housing costs,
• affordable utilities and services,
• low recurring property taxes,
• and flexible lifestyle spending.

This allows retirees to maintain a comfortable lifestyle without constant financial pressure.

Residency and Long-Term Stay

Turkey offers clear residency pathways for property owners and long-term residents.

Renewable residence permits allow retirees to:

• live year-round,
• access healthcare,
• open bank accounts,
• and integrate into local communities.

This clarity makes long-term planning easier and less stressful.

Comparing Turkey With Other Retirement Options

Many retirees compare:

• Turkey - healthcare, climate, affordability
• Southern Europe - familiarity, higher costs
• Dubai - safety, modern infrastructure
• Thailand - tropical lifestyle, distance considerations

Why Many Retirees Combine Destinations

Some retirees choose a hybrid lifestyle:

• part of the year in Europe,
• winters in warmer destinations,
• or holding property in more than one country.

In this context, Turkey often becomes the primary base, while other regions serve seasonal or lifestyle purposes.

RestProperty Supporting Lifestyle Decisions Since 2003

Since 2003, RestProperty has helped retirees and lifestyle buyers find property that supports everyday comfort - not just investment logic.

We assist with:

• selecting suitable residential areas,
• understanding healthcare access,
• planning long-term stays,
• and managing property ownership abroad.

While Turkey remains a preferred retirement destination due to its balance of comfort and practicality, we also support clients exploring lifestyle property options in Dubai, Thailand, and Northern Cyprus, helping them design flexible retirement strategies.

Retirement should feel calm - not complicated.

Final Thoughts: Retirement Is About Living Well

The best retirement destination is not the cheapest - it’s the one that allows you to live well every day.

In 2026, retirees increasingly choose destinations that combine:

• healthcare access,
• warm climate,
• social stability,
• and predictable costs.

For many, Turkey continues to meet these criteria quietly and consistently.