Thailand and Malaysia Among Top Ten Global Retirement Destinations in 2026
Annual Global Retirement Index highlights the appeal of Southeast Asia with low costs, quality healthcare and expat amenities
Thailand and Malaysia have been named among the world’s ten best places to retire in two thousand twenty-six, reflecting their growing appeal to international retirees seeking affordability, healthcare quality and comfortable lifestyles.
The latest annual Global Retirement Index, compiled by a leading international publication, evaluated destinations worldwide on factors including cost of living, healthcare, visa policies, climate and quality of life.
Thailand climbed in the rankings to secure the ninth position, boosted by its low cost of living, tropical climate and robust expatriate infrastructure.
The report noted that a retiree living modestly on around one thousand two hundred U.S. dollars a month can cover housing, food and local transport costs comfortably, with high-speed internet, affordable services and quality private healthcare enhancing the country’s attractiveness.
The publication also highlighted Thailand’s retiree-friendly long-stay visas, which can extend up to ten years for eligible foreigners, adding to its appeal as a long-term retirement base.
Malaysia also featured among the top ten, earning the tenth spot on the index.
Penang and Kuala Lumpur were cited as particularly desirable areas due to their combination of affordable housing, excellent medical services and vibrant urban life.
Monthly rents for modern apartments in popular districts were noted to range between relatively low figures, while private healthcare and everyday services remain accessible compared with Western standards.
The country’s visa options tailored to retirees and digital nomads further reinforced its position as an attractive choice for post-career living.
Both countries’ inclusion underscores Southeast Asia’s growing reputation as a region where retirees can enjoy comfortable lifestyles without excessive expenditure.
Factors such as warm climates, welcoming communities and well-established expatriate networks contributed to their strong performance in the index.
With Thailand and Malaysia recognised alongside other global destinations, the region continues to gain recognition as a retirement hub that combines affordability with quality of life.
The latest annual Global Retirement Index, compiled by a leading international publication, evaluated destinations worldwide on factors including cost of living, healthcare, visa policies, climate and quality of life.
Thailand climbed in the rankings to secure the ninth position, boosted by its low cost of living, tropical climate and robust expatriate infrastructure.
The report noted that a retiree living modestly on around one thousand two hundred U.S. dollars a month can cover housing, food and local transport costs comfortably, with high-speed internet, affordable services and quality private healthcare enhancing the country’s attractiveness.
The publication also highlighted Thailand’s retiree-friendly long-stay visas, which can extend up to ten years for eligible foreigners, adding to its appeal as a long-term retirement base.
Malaysia also featured among the top ten, earning the tenth spot on the index.
Penang and Kuala Lumpur were cited as particularly desirable areas due to their combination of affordable housing, excellent medical services and vibrant urban life.
Monthly rents for modern apartments in popular districts were noted to range between relatively low figures, while private healthcare and everyday services remain accessible compared with Western standards.
The country’s visa options tailored to retirees and digital nomads further reinforced its position as an attractive choice for post-career living.
Both countries’ inclusion underscores Southeast Asia’s growing reputation as a region where retirees can enjoy comfortable lifestyles without excessive expenditure.
Factors such as warm climates, welcoming communities and well-established expatriate networks contributed to their strong performance in the index.
With Thailand and Malaysia recognised alongside other global destinations, the region continues to gain recognition as a retirement hub that combines affordability with quality of life.
