Making the move to Asia is appealing to people of any age – from digital nomads to young families and professionals keen to get amongst the business buzz of Singapore, Hong Kong and Asia’s other leading city hubs. And it turns out, two Asian countries are also among the most desirable destinations for the older generation, too, with Bali and Thailand catching the eyes of American retirees ready to swap suburban lawns for tropical landscapes. According to a 2025 article in Forbes, Thailand and Bali have made the cut on the magazine’s list of The Best Places to Retire Abroad, and it’s easy to see why.
Thailand, with its lush jungles, palm-fringed beaches, and vibrant cities, offers retirees a lifestyle that’s both affordable and surprisingly comfortable. From the cultural charms of Chiang Mai to the bustling streets of Bangkok, or the sun-soaked islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, the cost of living is reportedly less than half of U.S. averages, while healthcare is not only excellent but inexpensive. According to Forbes, Thailand’s O-X retirement visa is straightforward for those showing about $24,000 annual income per couple, and a tax treaty prevents double taxation on Social Security and pensions. Add low crime rates, political stability, and a culture that warmly welcomes foreigners, and it’s no wonder Americans are packing their bags for the Land of Smiles.
The island destination of Bali offers a different sort of tropical retirement idyll. Popular destinations include Ubud, Seminyak and Uluwatu, where living costs are low, healthcare is adequate, and the crime rate is minimal. According to Forbes, retiring here requires a bit more paperwork – the Retirement KITAS visa, for instance, requires proof of annual income, and engagement with a local agent is necessary – but the payoff is clear: rich culture, scenic beaches, and an enviably slow pace of life that many Americans find irresistible.
The Forbes 2025 list comes amid growing interest in retiring abroad. For some, it’s about economics: lower housing costs, cheaper healthcare, and the chance to travel easily around new regions. For others, it’s about culture and lifestyle – escaping political tensions, seeking more accepting communities, or simply living in a place where the sun is almost always shining.
Whether it’s the beaches and jungles of Thailand, the Indonesian archipelago, or European cities like Lisbon, Forbes’ 2025 roundup of 96 places across 24 countries is a roadmap for retirees seeking adventure, affordability, and a fresh take on life after work. You can check out the full report over here.
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