Greece has been named the world’s most attractive destination for retirees in 2026, according to the annual Global Retirement Index published by International Living.
The southern European country outranked long‑standing favorites including Portugal, Spain, Thailand and France.
The survey, which evaluates nations across seven categories, cited Greece’s sunny climate, affordable living costs and accessible residency options as key factors behind its rise to the top.
The index measures housing affordability and availability, visa and residency rules, cost of living, lifestyle and social opportunities, healthcare quality and expenses, infrastructure reliability, and climate diversity.
Large parts of Greece enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine each year.
Monthly expenses for retirees are often lower than in their home countries, with housing and healthcare costs considered reasonable.
The country also offers a mix of vibrant cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki, scenic coastlines, mountain ranges, wine regions and more than 200 inhabited islands.
Residency permits are described as straightforward to obtain.
Many retirees apply for visas designed for financially independent individuals, while property buyers often use the Golden Visa program.
A Digital Nomad Visa is also available for remote workers.
The report noted that Greece’s cultural traditions, from colorful carnival parades to week‑long Easter celebrations, add to the appeal of retirement life in the country.