This Country Was Just Named the Best Place to Retire in 2025 for Its Safety, Affordable Living, Health Care & Warm Weather

I’m a bit excited about retirement. Not the end-of-work part, but the beginning-of-a-new-adventure part.

I picture a life where my days are filled with sunshine, not stress. Where I can afford to enjoy life without constantly checking my bank balance. And where I feel safe walking around my new neighborhood.

For a long time, it felt like just a dream. But a new report 2025 from Hoxton Wealth just confirmed that this place is very real.

Spain was just named the best place to retire for its amazing cost of living, safety, and sunny weather.

If you’re looking to retire in Spain, keep reading to learn why this sunny European nation is capturing the hearts of retirees everywhere.

Why Spain is the Best Place to Retire in 2025

Spain consistently delivers on the three things most retirees dream of: sun, safety, and savings. The Hoxton Wealth report called it “extremely attractive for pensioners,” and for good reason.

The country boasts a dry, sunny Mediterranean climate that’s perfect for an active, outdoor lifestyle. Imagine warm winters where you can still sit outside at a café.

Beyond the weather, Spain is incredibly safe. The report highlights its low crime rates and high safety statistics, giving you peace of mind.

It also received a perfect 10/10 score for travel connectivity, meaning it’s easy to travel back home or have family visit you.

When you combine this with an affordable cost of living and excellent healthcare, you have a winning formula. It’s this powerful combination that makes Spain the best place to retire.

A Closer Look at the Cost to Retire in Spain

So, what does it actually cost to live this dream? You might be surprised.

Spain’s cost of living is significantly lower than in the United States. On average, consumer prices and rent are about 38% lower than back home.

A retired couple can live a very comfortable life in a major Spanish city for around $2,850 a month. If you choose a smaller city or town, that budget can drop to as low as $1,700 a month. (Source: BrightTax)

Housing is your biggest expense, but it’s still very reasonable. A one-bedroom apartment in a city center averages around $1,005 per month. In beautiful and affordable coastal cities like Alicante or Valencia, you can find great places for even less.

Daily expenses are also much lower. A monthly grocery bill for two is typically between $250 and $400. A monthly public transport pass is only about $35.

These savings add up, allowing your retirement funds to go much further. This affordability is a huge reason why so many people choose to retire in Spain.

World-Class Healthcare That Won’t Break the Bank

For American retirees, healthcare costs can be a major source of stress. In Spain, it’s a source of relief. 

The country has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, and it’s accessible to expats. To get your residency visa, you’ll need to purchase private health insurance from a Spanish company. But don’t worry, this isn’t like US insurance.

Comprehensive private plans in Spain are incredibly affordable. Premiums often range from just $112 to $224 per month. These plans give you access to modern hospitals, English-speaking doctors, and short wait times for specialists.

After living in Spain for a few years, many residents become eligible to join the public healthcare system, the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS). This system provides excellent care at little to no cost.

Also Read: These 12 Countries Are Begging to Offer Americans the Retirement Dream in 2025

Your Path to Residency: The Non-Lucrative Visa

So how do you make the move? For most non-EU retirees, the path to legal residency is the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV).

This visa is specifically designed for people who can support themselves with passive income, like a pension or Social Security. It allows you to live in Spain, but not work for a Spanish company.

The main requirement is proving you have enough income. For 2025, you need to show a reliable monthly income of at least €2,400 (about $2,588).

If you’re bringing a spouse, you’ll need to add an extra €600 per month. You’ll also need that private health insurance policy, a clean criminal record, and proof of where you’ll be living.

The process can feel a bit bureaucratic, but it’s a clear and attainable path to your new life.

The Spanish Lifestyle: The Best Place to Retire and Relax

Beyond the practical benefits, it’s the quality of life that truly makes Spain special. With over 300 days of sunshine a year in the south, the climate encourages you to get outside and be active.

The culture is built around enjoying life. People take time for long lunches, evening strolls, and spending time with family and friends.

The pace of life is slower and more relaxed. You’ll find large, welcoming expat communities in coastal areas like the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca. These communities make it easy to find friends and get settled in.

At the same time, you can immerse yourself in Spain’s rich history, incredible food, and vibrant local festivals. This wonderful balance of comfort and culture makes it the best place to retire for those seeking a richer, more fulfilling life.

How Does Spain Compare to Other Hotspots?

Of course, Spain isn’t the only option. Its neighbor, Portugal, is also very popular. It offers a similarly low cost of living and great weather.

However, some reports note that its visa process can be slow and its bureaucracy opaque and inconsistent due to high demand.

France is another classic choice, offering amazing culture and food. You can find affordable pockets in regions like Normandy or the Dordogne.

But if you’re chasing year-round sunshine, these northern regions can’t compete with Spain’s Mediterranean coast.

While every country has its charms, Spain consistently delivers the best overall package of affordability, weather, safety, and accessibility.

Your New Chapter

Choosing where to spend your retirement is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. It’s about finding a place where you can not only live, but thrive.

With its unbeatable combination of a low cost of living, excellent healthcare, a safe environment, and a sun-drenched lifestyle, Spain has proven itself to be that place. For anyone dreaming of a better, more affordable, and more enjoyable retirement, the evidence is clear.

Spain isn’t just a great option; it might just be the best place to retire in the world right now.