You’ve spent a lifetime dedicated to your career, diligently squirreling away money in your 401k, an IRA, and maybe even a savings account, so you could live it up in retirement. And now, the time has come to say goodbye to your 9-5 grind and enter your golden years era. And there’s perhaps no better place to do that than Portugal, which International Living named one of the best places to retire in 2024 thanks to a host of factors, including its utterly amazing year-round climate.  

“Since I’ve moved here, I feel like I’m at adult summer camp — I play tennis, I go swimming, we go out to eat. But even doing the day-to-day chores like shopping, when you’re in a place that is so beautiful, it is inspiring,” a retired expat shared with International Living for its annual survey, which analyzes destinations around the world to determine the best places to retire each year. 

As I’ve mentioned before in other articles proclaiming Portugal as a top contender for best nations to retire in, I too know first-hand about its pronounced perks. Though I didn’t move here to retire (yet), I have come to know and love its beautiful natural spaces made all the better by the year-round pleasant weather, making it entirely possible to have a beach day in the middle of winter (here are my 11 favorite beaches in the nation if you need a little guidance), and, on the longest day of the year, experience nearly 15 hours of sunshine.

Beyond the spectacular weather, International Living noted that those who immigrate to Portugal for retirement will also get to take part in its fantastic healthcare system, which combines public access to hospitals and care centers with private insurance for those who can afford it.

The country also has a low cost of living, which the publication noted can be as low as $2,494 per month for couples. This, of course, entirely depends on location and what you consider to be living comfortably. Idealista, the nation’s largest rental website, noted in May 2023 that a one-bedroom in Lisbon is now going for an average of 2,005 euros ($2,197), making it the third-most expensive city in Europe for rent. However, in Porto, a one-bedroom costs an average of 1,200 euros ($1,314).

“What you’ll find in [this country] can be pure magic,” another expat shared with International Living, adding Portugal is home to “great weather, stunning beaches, charming architecture, scrumptious food, a phenomenally friendly expat community, a vibrant multi-national culture, welcoming locals, and a focus on living life and spending time with friends and family.” 

Learn more about life in Portugal, and all the best nations to retire in for 2024 at internationalliving.com.