Work in the United States, retire in Greece. American workers who have spent their careers on the other side of the Atlantic are discovering that Greece offers the paradise they always dreamed of for their golden years. As retirees increasingly seek a more affordable yet higher-quality life after leaving the workforce, Greece has emerged as one of Forbes‘ standout destinations for 2026, consistently ranking in the top ten globally. According to the magazine’s data, approximately 712,000 American retirees were receiving Social Security benefits while living outside the United States at the end of 2024 — a figure that represents a 20% increase over the past 13 years. Data from the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) further reveals that by the end of 2025, 13,251 American retirees were residing in Greece.
Forbes evaluated 96 destinations across 24 countries and five continents, assessing not only the cost of living but also healthcare costs, taxation, safety, political stability, long-term residency options, ease of travel back to the United States, language accessibility, and each country’s exposure to climate change and natural disasters. Greece holds a particularly prominent place on the list, with Forbes describing it as an “ancient cultural gem in the sunny Mediterranean.” The four Greek destinations recommended for American retirees are Athens, Corfu, Kalamata, and Thessaloniki. Among the country’s most significant advantages highlighted in the feature is its cost of living, which is substantially lower than the U.S. average. The healthcare sector also receives a positive assessment, with Forbes characterizing Greece’s medical services as good and affordable — while noting that American retirees will need to obtain private health insurance. On the topic of safety, the report records a low rate of serious crime. However, there is one area where the American business magazine identifies elevated risk: climate change and natural disasters are flagged as factors that prospective residents should carefully consider.
As the feature states: “With its 6,000 Mediterranean islands off the sunny Balkan Peninsula, Greece offers retirees a culturally rich environment. The cost of living in most areas, particularly outside Athens, is at least one-third lower than the U.S. average. Healthcare is considered good and affordable, though private health insurance is required. Some knowledge of Greek is helpful. Serious crime levels are low.” The report also includes practical guidance for Americans considering a move to Greece, noting that “a tax treaty with the United States prevents double taxation.”
