**Forbes Names Cyprus Among Best Places to Retire Abroad in 2026**
In a recent announcement, Forbes has recognized Cyprus as one of the best destinations for retirement abroad in its 2026 listing. The prestigious US magazine highlighted four specific locations within Cyprus—Limassol, Paphos, Pyrgos, and Larnaca—each noted for their affordability and high quality of life for retirees.
Forbes evaluated a total of 96 destinations across 24 countries and five continents, focusing on various factors that contribute to a favorable retirement experience. These factors included the cost of living, healthcare expenses, taxation, safety, political stability, long-term residency options, accessibility to the United States, language considerations, and the countries’ vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters.
The appeal of retiring abroad has seen a significant increase, with approximately 712,000 American retirees receiving Social Security benefits while living outside the United States by the end of 2024. This number reflects a 20% increase over the past 13 years, with many retirees seeking locations that offer a lower cost of living compared to the US. Forbes noted that housing, daily expenses, and healthcare are considerably more affordable in several countries, making them attractive options for those looking to stretch their retirement savings.
Cyprus stands out in the Forbes report, not only for its beautiful landscapes and Mediterranean climate but also for its vibrant culture and welcoming community. The inclusion of Limassol, Paphos, Pyrgos, and Larnaca underscores the island's diverse offerings, catering to various preferences among retirees. Limassol, known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and bustling marina, contrasts with the historical charm of Paphos, famous for its archaeological sites. Pyrgos, a smaller town, offers a quieter lifestyle, while Larnaca combines beach access with cultural attractions.
In addition to Cyprus, Greece also made the list, with cities such as Athens, Corfu, Kalamata, and Thessaloniki being highlighted as ideal retirement spots. Forbes described Greece as an "ancient cultural gem in the sunny Mediterranean," further emphasizing the appeal of the region for retirees seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
The complete list of recommended retirement destinations by Forbes for 2026 includes a diverse array of countries and cities, showcasing global options for retirees. The list is as follows:
- **Albania**: Tirana, Durres, Saranda, Vlore
- **Argentina**: Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Mendoza, Rosario
- **Austria**: Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, Salzburg
- **Belize**: Ambergris Caye, Corozal, Caye Caulker, Placencia
- **Canada**: Calgary, Moncton, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Victoria
- **Colombia**: Bogota, Cartagena, Medellin, Pereira
- **Costa Rica**: San Jose, Central Valley, Atenas, Santa Cruz
- **Cyprus**: Limassol, Paphos, Pyrgos, Larnaca
- **France**: Paris, Lyon, Nice, Pau
- **Greece**: Athens, Corfu, Kalamata, Thessaloniki
- **Ireland**: Dublin, Cork, Killarney, Waterford
- **Italy**: Florence, Bologna, Marche, Lombardy
- **Malaysia**: Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Ipoh, Melaka
- **Malta**: Valletta, Gozo, St Paul’s Bay, Qawra
- **Mauritius**: Port Louis, Grand Baie, Flic-en-Flac, Tamarin
- **Mexico**: Merida, Oaxaca, Puerto Vallarta, San Miguel de Allende
- **Montenegro**: Podgorica, Bar, Perast, Tivat
- **Panama**: Panama City, Boquete, Coronado, David
- **Portugal**: Lisbon, the Algarve, Cascais, Porto
- **Slovenia**: Ljubljana, Bled, Piran, Celje
- **Spain**: Barcelona, Bilbao, the Canary Islands, Seville
- **Thailand**: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Phuket
- **Uruguay**: Montevideo, Atlantida, Colonia, Punta del Este
- **Vietnam**: Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An
As the trend of retiring abroad continues to grow, Cyprus's inclusion in this prestigious list is likely to attract more retirees looking for a blend of affordability, quality of life, and cultural richness in their post-work years. The island's strategic location, pleasant climate, and friendly environment further enhance its appeal as a retirement destination.