Top Spots to Retire

3. Ecuador

Beyond its fabulous weather, Ecuador is a standout when it comes to affordability and the availability of real estate to buy or rent. It’s actually not difficult for a couple to live on $1,500 a month. There’s also no shortage of retiree perks. Those over 65 get discounts on flights originating in Ecuador as well as up to 50 percent off public transportation and entry to movies and sporting events.

4. Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s breathtaking landscapes and unspoiled beaches have long fueled this country’s popularity among travelers. For retirees, a highly regarded health care system, with costs just a fraction of what you might pay in the U.S., is also a huge draw. And getting residency status couldn’t be more straightforward. Retirees just need an income of $1,000 per month from Social Security, a pension, disability or another similar source. That covers the applicant and a dependent spouse, offering a nice solution for long-term living in Costa Rica.

5. Colombia

Once rejected as a possible retirement haven because of its reputation for conflict and drug cartels, Colombia has shed its dark past and stepped into the spotlight as an attractive place for those seeking excellent health care, a temperate climate and a low cost of living. This country at the northern tip of South America offers lush green coffee plantations, beautiful beaches and quaint colonial towns — something for everyone.

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6. Malaysia

Clean and modern, Malaysian cities boast an unrivaled public transportation system as well as some of the friendliest people in Asia. The country also straddles the tourism market, managing to offer both memorable budget holidays and first-class luxury vacations. Its multicultural society tolerates all religions, and it’s this fusion of cultures that, for many, makes Malaysia so special.

7. Spain

In Europe, Spain stands out because of its superior infrastructure, world-class health care system and laid-back lifestyle. And for retirees on a budget, the low cost of living and real estate is appealing. Indeed, a couple can live comfortably in a smaller city for as little as $1,900 a month, including rent. Small one- and two-bedroom apartments can be rented for a mere $500 a month and purchased for $70,000 and up. Another plus: the Mediterranean diet, which is both good and good for you.

8. Nicaragua

Until recently, the largest nation in Central America has been generally sidestepped in favor of its more popular neighbors, Costa Rica and Guatemala. Not anymore. Although Nicaragua remains poor, there have been major infrastructure improvements during the past few years, including an expansion of the international airport in Managua. To top it off, there’s great health care, little traffic, warm people and a low cost of living. A couple on a budget can be comfortable on $1,500 a month —not bad.

9. Portugal

Another inexpensive country, Portugal also entices retirees with its low cost of living and real estate. A couple can do well on just $1,700 a month in many smaller cities; in Lisbon, the capital, about $2,200 a month or more is needed. Other big draws are the usually mild climate and the country’s superior red and white wines. (The seafood is excellent, too.) The laid-back atmosphere means less stress, and the western coast, lined with beaches, offers plenty of recreational opportunities.

10. Malta

On a map, this tiny island chain between the coasts of Sicily and North Africa is easy to miss. But this Mediterranean destination has been enchanting countless visitors for decades, thanks to its centuries-old cities, sapphire blue waters, and 300 days a year of sun and warm weather. For retirees, the cost of living is remarkably reasonable; a couple can live here for under $2,700 a month. And if you ever find yourself getting island fever, you can simply take a three-hour ferry ride over to Sicily or hop on an inexpensive flight to Paris.