Key Takeaways
- A new global retirement index ranks the best destination outside Europe, yet six European nations stay in the top ten
- The EU’s pension portability and upcoming "Silver Economy" strategy are central to retaining retirees within the bloc
- Policy reviews on tax treatment and pension mobility are expected later in 2027, influencing future retiree choices
Euronews reports that a newly published global retirement ranking released on 4 October 2026 places the best destination for retirees outside Europe, while six European countries still feature in the top ten. The index, compiled by an undisclosed research group, evaluates factors such as tax burden, cost of living, health‑care quality, safety, climate and overall lifestyle. Euronews notes that the top‑ranked non‑European location offers a favourable mix of low taxes and high quality of life, though the report does not name it explicitly. The results arrive as the European Union grapples with an ageing population and seeks to retain and attract pensioners across its single market. EU directives on pension portability and the European Health Insurance Card already facilitate cross‑border retirement, while the European Commission’s upcoming "Silver Economy" strategy aims to boost services for older citizens. The ranking underscores competition from non‑EU destinations that combine affordable living with robust health infrastructure, prompting EU policymakers to consider whether existing tax incentives and social‑security arrangements are sufficient to keep Europe attractive for retirees. For Europeans contemplating retirement abroad, the ranking suggests that quality‑of‑life considerations can outweigh higher tax rates in some EU states. Governments of the six highlighted countries may seek to enhance pension‑friendly policies to preserve their standing. The European Commission is slated to publish a detailed analysis of pension mobility and fiscal incentives in June 2027, which could shape future reforms and guide retirees in their decision‑making process.
Source: Euronews. Read the original report ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Which non-European country topped the retirement ranking?
The Euronews article indicates that the number one position belongs to a non‑European country, but it does not disclose the specific name.
How might the ranking affect EU retirees considering moving abroad?
The ranking highlights that while some EU states have higher taxes, many still offer a high quality of life; retirees will weigh fiscal costs against benefits such as health‑care access and lifestyle when deciding where to settle, and upcoming EU policy reviews may modify the fiscal landscape.