These are countries where Americans are now choosing to retire!  Almost half of the 77 million baby boomers do not have the money to retire in the U.S. so they are looking overseas for a cheaper lifestyle.  A place where their money goes further!  Right now, 1,000,000 expatriate retirees live in Mexico.  Moneywatch.com/retirees suggests living in these top 8 locations:

1. Panama– the currency is tied to the US dollar, they have US hospital affiliations, retiree discounts, and a great range of climates and geography to choose from.
2. Ecuador– the currency is tied to the US dollar and it is a super cheap country to live in.
3. Uruguay– great beaches and a European feeling.
4. Mexico– good affordable health care and easy access to the US.
5. Costa Rica– good economy, retirement and real estate are untaxed, gated communities, excellent beaches and bird watching.  This country is a little more expensive than other Central American Countries.
6. France– great food and lifestyle.
7. Argentina– European vibe, low housing prices, great wine and English is spoken freely.
8. Italy– speaks for itself!  Great food, wine and bargains mostly in the south.

Dominical, Costa Rica

Would you consider living in one of these countries?  My feeling is that you do not have to retire to save money and live a great lifestyle!  At 30 and unmarried with no kids, I am considering living in another country.  I feel that your money can go a lot further. Most of these countries have private schools for American kids to get a great education and companies are in demand for Americans to come live and work in their country.

Bocas del Toro, Panama

Last year I went backpacking in Costa Rica and Panama for a month.  It was the trip of a lifetime!

Both countries are stunning and friendly.  Using the US dollar in Panama was definitely a plus and I noticed a big drop in prices as soon as we crossed the border into Panama.  I recommend taking an extended vacation to both countries and really getting a feel for the lifestyle if you are considering moving to the area.

My cousin and I while backpacking in Panama

Why not live on a beautiful beach and save some money?

Nikki