The Best 5 Countries to Retire in Outside of the United States

With healthcare and cost of living, being a huge issue for many American who may be looking at retirement, some could consider a unconventional answer, leaving the US. Each year, American retirees leave the United States for various reasons. Here are the top 5 countries to consider.

Panama: Van Halen knew what they were talking about. This place is all about affordable living and the enjoyment of amazing beaches. One of the easier places to retire to, they welcome you and your money. You only have to prove income of $500 a month or $600 for a couple. That includes social security benefits. You are also exempt for import duty charges on a new car every two years. Retirees also qualify for discounts on attractions by as much as 50%. It offer a great healthcare system, and is within reasonable travel expense to come back to the US. Most people in the city speak English but learning some Spanish would be helpful. Also, the summers can be brutal if you are not use to the weather.

New Zealand: This countries beauty will blow you away. It doesn't have a capital gains tax, and the seasons are reverse of the United States. The main drawback is that this country caters to young working immigrants rather than retirees. So you may have to maintain the "snowbird" mentality of living there part time. However, the cost of living is worth it.

Eucador: The cost of living is so low that a couple can live comfortably for under $2,000 a month. In the city of Cuenca you can rent a apartment or $300 or buy a condo for under $50,000. If healthcare costs are a concern, don't worry for the cost of a co-pay you can see a doctor and get first class service.

Italy: Americans are in love with Italy. This country combines charm, history, friendly people and most of all a low affordable cost of living. For under $75,000 you can buy a beautiful home in many of the cities. If healthcare is your concern, this is the country to look at. It ranks high on affordability. Travel back to the US can be expensive, so you may have to plan ahead to find the bargains.

Dominican Republic: With family retired here, I can say, the experience they have had has been amazing. Finding Americans and Europeans on this island is usually only a house or condo away. Affordable living, a beautiful country, amazing food, friendly people and good healthcare have made this island a huge attraction to retirees. Your American dollars go very far here and travel back to the US is reasonable. The weather is also very attractive.

Years ago most Americans would be adverse to leaving their country behind. But, as the cost of maintaining a lifestyle, investment values being down and cost of healthcare continuing to skyrocket, many are looking at better options. If you are looking to relocated, spend several months in the country you are considering to make sure you can handle the changes that will occur such as culture and convenience.