Two Southeast Asian countries named among world's 10 best places to retire in 2026

Malaysia secured the 10th spot, down three places from last year while Thailand ranked 9th, up one place in the 2026 Annual Global Retirement Index, which evaluates factors such as housing, visas and benefits, cost of living, healthcare, climate, development, governance, and affinity rating.

According to the report, Malaysia's Penang is an ideal destination for retirees thanks to affordable food, cheap rental prices and quality of healthcare services.

"Eating out is both affordable and excellent. A plate of char kway teow or mee goreng costs less than 10 ringgit (US$2.43). The food here isn't just cheap, it's amazing, cooked by people who care," the report said.

Penang offers a wide range of housing. You can rent a modern apartment with a pool and ocean view or you can choose a restored heritage townhouse with high ceilings, wooden floors, and a mango tree in the back.

Rental prices vary depending on location and style. In places like Pulau Tikus, Tanjong Tokong, or George Town, monthly rent usually falls between 1,500 and 3,500 ringgit.

Healthcare in Penang is reliable and affordable. Private hospitals such as Island, Gleneagles, and Adventist are modern and well-equipped. Doctors are often trained in the U.K. or Australia. A specialist consultation usually costs between 100 and 250 ringgit.

For long-term stays, the country offers several visa options tailored for retirees and digital nomads.

For Thailand, the report also found it attracts retirees thanks to cheap cost of living and tropical climate.

High-speed internet in Thailand clocks nearly one gigabit per second for under $20 a month, while a weekly maid service costs $15. A two-hour deep-tissue massage runs about $12, and a manicure-pedicure with a cappuccino is $22.

Thailand spans two distinct climate zones, subtropical and tropical, offering something for every taste.

A single retiree living on $1,200 a month can rent a $300 studio in Chiang Mai, eat Thai food for about $10 a day, and still have money left for a few $2 Chang beers during happy hour, the report estimates.

A couple living on two average Social Security checks, roughly $3,800 a month, can live comfortably: a beachside two-bedroom bungalow in Pattaya or Hua Hin for under $1,000, groceries costing $300–$400 a month, and meals out whenever they like, it calculates further.

It adds that private health insurance in Thailand is a fraction of U.S. costs, and Thailand’s hospitals are world-class.

Thailand is ranked as having the best healthcare system in Southeast Asia according to Numbeo's 2025 rankings. The country is ranked 9th in the world with an index of 77.5, equal to that of Finland, and 4th in Asia.

The country also has one of the world's most retiree-friendly visa policies, offering stays of up to 10 years for eligible foreigners.

Greece was ranked the best retirement destination, followed by Panama and Costa Rica.