This Country Was Just Named the Best Place in the World to Retire in 2025 for Its Health Care, Equality, and Quality of Life

""Norway has regained the top position in the 2025 Natixis Global Retirement Index, driven by its strong performance in health outcomes, low unemployment, and high income equality," the Global Retirement Index revealed, adding that the country has ranked in the top three every year since 2012. The Nordic country had a strong showing in multiple categories; it was first in material wellbeing, second in quality of life, and fourth in health."

""Finances in Retirement is the only sub-index where Norway loses ground, falling from 12th to 16th following a one-percentage point score decline," the report stated. "Norway's score in this sub-index remains hindered by a relatively high tax burden to support expansive public support systems for citizens, as well as associated challenges tied to its aging population.""

"While the benefits of retiring in Norway are many, relocating there long-term can be challenging for U.S. citizens. A residence permit can only be obtained under specific circumstances, such as family reunification or employment, according to the Norwegian Embassy. Earlier this year, Norway was also ranked as a top retirement destination by Everly Life. In that report, analysts found the country's "superior health care systems and social infrastructure" as key reasons for its success among seniors."

The 2025 Global Retirement Index evaluated 44 developed states on affordability, healthcare, and overall retirement security. Norway regained the top position based on strong health outcomes, low unemployment, and high income equality. The country ranked first in material wellbeing, second in quality of life, and fourth in health, and placed among the top five for air quality, water, and sanitation. Finances in Retirement fell from 12th to 16th, influenced by a relatively high tax burden and challenges tied to an aging population. Long-term relocation to Norway can be difficult for U.S. citizens because residence permits are granted only for specific circumstances such as family reunification or employment. External rankings also cite Norway's superior health care systems and social infrastructure as major draws for retirees, with Ireland, Switzerland, and Iceland following Norway in the 2025 index.

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