The 2023 Annual Global Retirement Index compiled by International Living ranked Greece 7th among the top ten countries to retire and settle down in 2023.
The magazine ranks countries against factors such as healthcare, cost of living, visas, housing and climate.
Greece earned 7th place because of the country’s, “stunning natural beauty, warm hospitality, an affordable cost of living, some of the best food in the world, and a rich, deep history.”
The country is the spot for any history lovers, as it is the birthplace of democracy, was home to revered philosophers like Aristotle, Socrates and Plato, and features archaeological sites that date back thousands of years.
There are also over 300 national and private museums across the country.
International Living said, “the small country with big history” is coupled with stunning islands which keep anyone endlessly exploring.
The country’s weather offers the best of both worlds, averaging 250 sunny days with hot summers and snowy, rainy, cold winters – depending on where you live.
According to International Living, it is also a place where “hospitality is a real thing” referencing Greece as an “emotionally driven” country operating with its heart.
The larger older population also gives the country character as older men play cards at ‘kafenios‘ and elderly women sit outside storefronts gossiping and sharing their recipes.
Greece scored high in regards to their cost of living, the standard of living and medical treatment with basic needs such as food and transportation 20 percent cheaper than the United States.
But finally, one factor that won Greece a spot in the top 10 places to retire and settle down in 2023, is the country’s food.
Noted as “healthy, affordable, and delicious food” by International Living, Greece’s stuffed roasted tomatoes, spinach and feta cheese pies, and mouth-watering fish to creamy, honey-drizzled yogurt will keep you in Greece forever!
