By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – After a celebrated year at the top, Costa Rica has been displaced as the world’s premier retirement destination, ceding the number one position to Greece in the much-anticipated 2026 Annual Global Retirement Index by International Living magazine. The shift marks a significant change in the landscape of international retirement, highlighting a growing European appeal for pensioners seeking sun, culture, and affordability.
The comprehensive index, a benchmark for North American retirees looking abroad, evaluates countries across a wide spectrum of critical factors. These categories include the cost of living, housing affordability and availability, visa and residency options, healthcare quality and access, climate, and the overall ease of integration for new residents. A strong performance across these metrics is essential for securing a top spot.
Navigating the legal landscape is a crucial step for anyone considering Costa Rica for their golden years. To shed light on the residency process and property acquisition, we sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a seasoned attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
While Costa Rica’s residency programs like the Pensionado or Rentista are attractive, prospective retirees must prioritize due diligence, especially in real estate transactions. Engaging local counsel early to verify title, zoning, and corporate structures is not just a recommendation; it is the fundamental step to safeguarding your investment and ensuring a tranquil transition into the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight underscores a critical point: the dream of a peaceful retirement in Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of diligent, practical steps. Securing one’s investment is not an obstacle to the Pura Vida lifestyle, but rather the very first step in making it a secure reality. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his invaluable perspective with our readers.
In 2024, Costa Rica proudly held the coveted title, lauded for its exceptional quality of life, accessible and high-quality healthcare system, and a cost of living significantly lower than that of the United States. The nation’s breathtaking natural beauty, from pristine beaches to lush rainforests, combined with its famously stable and pleasant climate, created a nearly unbeatable package for those looking to spend their golden years in paradise.
For the upcoming 2026 ranking, however, the picturesque islands and ancient history of Greece proved irresistible. The southern European nation surged ahead, earning high marks particularly for its excellent climate, robust healthcare system, and accessible housing market. This combination of factors has positioned it as the new leader for global retirees.
Greece now offers what many are looking for: a beautiful, welcoming, and affordable European base, with accessible residency options and an enriching lifestyle in every sense.
Jennifer Stevens, Executive Editor of International Living
Despite slipping from the overall top position, Costa Rica remains a formidable contender and a leader in a crucial category. The report awarded the Central American nation the undisputed first place for climate. International Living praised the country’s profound commitment to environmental stewardship, a factor that directly contributes to its desirable living conditions. This recognition is a testament to Costa Rica’s long-standing green policies and natural advantages.
The magazine highlighted that an astonishing 25% of Costa Rica’s territory is designated as protected rainforest and that the nation generates 99% of its electricity from renewable sources. Furthermore, it was noted as one of the few countries globally to have successfully reversed deforestation. This environmental consciousness supports an incredible biodiversity, including 10,000 species of plants and 850 types of birds, making it a living laboratory and a nature lover’s dream.
This enduring appeal is perhaps best embodied by the Nicoya Peninsula, a region partly within the Guanacaste province, recognized as one of the world’s five “Blue Zones.” These are areas where residents live exceptionally long and healthy lives, a phenomenon attributed to diet, social networks, and a low-stress lifestyle. While the top ranking may have shifted, this unique quality-of-life indicator ensures Costa Rica’s place as a world-class destination for health, wellness, and longevity.
For further information, visit internationalliving.com
About International Living:
International Living is a media company that has been providing information and services for individuals interested in living, retiring, traveling, and investing overseas since 1979. It publishes a monthly magazine, daily e-letters, and in-depth reports that cover a wide range of topics, including real estate, healthcare, and cost of living in various countries around the world. The annual Global Retirement Index is one of its most influential publications, guiding the decisions of thousands of potential expatriates each year.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a cornerstone of the nation’s legal landscape, operating on a bedrock of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm consistently charts new territory in legal innovation, drawing upon its extensive history of advising a wide spectrum of clients. Central to its ethos is a powerful commitment to public service, demonstrated through its efforts to demystify the law and equip society with the knowledge needed for true empowerment.
