After years of work, commitments, and 6 a.m. alarm clocks, that long-awaited moment arrives: retirement. But retiring doesn’t mean “stopping,” it means reinventing the rhythm of life. Today, modern retirement is about enjoying, exploring, and, why not, starting new chapters surrounded by beauty, culture, and comfort.
Here we tell you about the best places to retire, both in the United States and Latin America.
🇲🇽 San Miguel de Allende, Mexico: where art embraces tranquility
Few cities in the world manage to combine history, art, and quality of life like San Miguel de Allende. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this corner of the Mexican Bajío enchants retirees from all over the world with its cobblestone streets, colorful galleries, and an international community that celebrates life with coffee and social gatherings.
Here, life passes without haste. Sunsets are enjoyed on terraces overlooking the Parish Church of San Miguel Arcángel, and the mild climate throughout most of the year makes every day feel like spring. In addition, costs are much lower than in large U.S. cities, and private healthcare is of excellent quality.
Ideal for those seeking art, community, and well-being with a bohemian touch.
🇨🇷 Atenas, Costa Rica: the green paradise of “pura vida”
They say that Atenas has “the best climate in the world,” and although that may sound like an exaggeration, those who live there assure us that it’s true. Nestled between mountains and with quick access to the capital San José and the Pacific beaches, Atenas is a jewel of tranquility in Costa Rica.
What makes this destination so special is its balance: lush nature, safety, an excellent healthcare system, and a very active international community. Many retirees choose to live on small eco-friendly or sustainable residential farms surrounded by fruit trees, exotic birds, and endless views.
Perfect for those seeking contact with nature, healthy living, and inner peace.
🇪🇨 Cuenca, Ecuador: colonial charm with a modern heart
If there is a well-kept secret in South America, it is Cuenca. This Ecuadorian city combines colonial architecture, a first-rate medical system, and a cost of living so low it will make you smile. Walks along the Tomebamba River, flower markets, and the friendliness of its people make many foreign retirees feel at home from day one.
In addition, Ecuador offers special benefits for foreign retirees, such as discounts on transportation and entertainment. And the best part? You don’t have to sacrifice comfort: there are gourmet restaurants, specialty cafes, and vibrant cultural spaces.
Ideal for those seeking a rich cultural life without sacrificing comfort.
🇪🇸 Malaga, Spain: sun, sea, and Mediterranean style
Although not in America, Spain deserves a special mention. Malaga, on the Costa del Sol, has won the hearts of retirees from all over the world with its relaxed lifestyle, Mediterranean cuisine, and vibrant cultural life.
Here, the days are filled with light. From eating churros with chocolate for breakfast by the sea to visiting museums such as the Picasso or the Pompidou, every day has a special charm. In addition, the Spanish healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and access to direct flights to the rest of Europe makes it an ideal location for those who love to travel.
Perfect for those seeking affordable luxury and a quiet but sophisticated pace of life.
🇺🇸 Asheville, North Carolina: art, mountains, and Southern charm
For those who prefer to stay in the United States but with a bohemian vibe and nature in sight, Asheville is a hidden gem. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it combines a very active artistic community, excellent local cuisine, and dreamlike landscapes.
Retirees enjoy hiking, art festivals, and farmers’ markets on the weekends. In addition, the city has a growing reputation for its commitment to sustainability and holistic health.
Ideal for those seeking tranquility without sacrificing cultural vibrancy.
🇲🇽 Mérida, Mexico: history, culture, and safety in the heart of the Yucatán
Mérida has been called the “White City” not only for its gleaming facades, but also for its safety and quality of life. Its Mayan heritage, colonial architecture, and delicious cuisine make it one of the favorite retirement destinations in Latin America.
Access to high-quality medical services, proximity to beaches such as Progreso, and a cosmopolitan yet peaceful atmosphere make Mérida a place where days are lived with calm and warmth.
Perfect for those who want sun, history, and community.
🇵🇦 Boquete, Panama: tropical freshness and high-altitude coffee
Located in the Panamanian highlands, Boquete is a charming destination for those seeking a cool climate and a quiet life. Surrounded by mountains and coffee plantations, this small town has a very active expatriate community and quality services.
In addition, Panama offers one of the most attractive programs in the world for foreign retirees, the “Pensionado Program,” with benefits such as discounts on transportation, services, and entertainment.
Ideal for those seeking nature, comfort, and financial benefits.
🇺🇸 Sarasota, Florida: beaches, art, and an active lifestyle all year round
Florida is synonymous with retirement, but Sarasota stands out for its elegance, white sand beaches, and vibrant arts scene. With galleries, opera, ballet, and festivals, it’s a city where retirement is lived in style.
Plus, its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico offers picture-perfect scenery and warm temperatures year-round. Sarasota combines the best of both worlds: a relaxed life by the sea, but with all the modern conveniences.
Perfect for those who want a sunny, active, and cultural retirement.
A new stage, a new destination
Choosing where to retire is not just a geographical decision, but an emotional one. It’s about thinking about how you want to live your days, what pace makes you happy, and what environment inspires you. Some seek the serenity of a small town; others, the energy of a vibrant city.
The important thing is that your retirement reflects your essence: the desire to enjoy, connect, and rediscover life with calm and purpose.
So whether it’s among the colors of San Miguel, the mountains of Asheville, or the fresh air of Boquete… your next chapter can begin where your soul feels at home.