Where Should I Retire in Europe?

The most important decision when making such a significant life change is to determine where to move. There are various places across Europe that would be suitable for retirement. Some may be more ideal than others depending on one’s financial circumstances and, of course, their own particular preferences.   

When choosing a country to move to, some of the top factors one may want to consider are:

• The cost of living. Housing will likely be your biggest expense. The cost of groceries, healthcare, taxes, etc. will all contribute to one’s regular expenses. 
• If you want to live in a small town, coastal city, or metropolis. Choosing what type of area you will relocate to depends on what you are looking for in your retirement. If you have spent most of your life in amongst the hustle and bustle of London, you may want a more relaxed life by the sea. Contrastingly, if you have previously lived somewhat of a quiet life, you may desire more opportunities for cultural experiences and entertainment. This is all dependent on the individual.
• What the climate is like. For many, the weather is the most important factor. By the time Britons reach old age, they are often tired of the gloomy weather and want to settle somewhere with more sun. Therefore, the rainier cities in Europe may not be a viable option for such a demographic.
• Whether the residents have a similar mindset to you. It is important to some for their interests and values to be aligned with those of the residents in the place they retire. Therefore, it would be beneficial to learn about the cultural and political attitudes of the region, along with the lifestyles of those who inhabit it.