I live in Quito. The public (free) health care is a disaster, but outstanding private ins. is about $100/month per person. A must have if living in Ecuador.
Wow. I have many questions about life in Quito. How long have you lived there? And is the video correct about housing costs? Could i find a nice 1 bedroom apartment in a good, safe area?
In retired but still pay $250. A month for insurance. Would never depend on gov't health care. Shortage of low paid medical personnel. The are you when they can & the line is looong.
I visited Quito for a week in 2002. My group tried to stay in the hotel so I was able to practice lots of spanish. The city and people were very nice. I would love to return some day. 🇪🇨 🇺🇸
I live in Boston. Don't try it here, you will be towed. The river is valuable real estate. Rich kids like to row their little boats and pretend they're vikings instead of college students.
My wife and I did a month there and we loved it. T-shirt is soaked through by 7am was my only complaint. The cost of eating out is what really makes it nice. There's nice French cuisine as well as delish local fare. We got a bowl of pho in the heart of Ho Chi Min that was no joke, 65 cents.
@@diodelvino3048The South is more liberal and tolerant of foreigners. Lots of street crime like pick pockets. They even run up and snatch your phone out of your hands when you are distracted by talking on your phone or taking a photo. So carry a cheap phone and this won't happen. Power cuts are frequent and the weather is hot or hot and wet. I lived there for my job. Healthcare is hugely expensive so get good insurance. For complex issues the nearest health centers of excellence are in Thailand. Medical evacuation insurance is also a good idea.
I lived there 2 months. It was amazing. I never felt in danger walking the streets, day or night. Traffic is insane and you just have to learn how to flow with it. People were kind. I love it. @@diodelvino3048
I spent 2 years in Greece including several months on Crete (Heraclion's island). Are you ready to learn a language that has a completely different alphabet and a much more complex grammar than English? Because living in a place where you don't know the language can be pretty lonely. And picking up some Greek is not like picking up a little Spanish.
@@kostasjezuz4846 point is, that it cant be so cheap to live there with that kind of taxation.I also remember their "bail in" a few years back. they took money from peoples bank accounts to pay for the excessive gov spending AFTER they taxed them at a ridiculous rate.
Retired at 55 in South Florida when it was affordable. Great hospitals keep me here, free with Medicare and Tricare for life. Near cruise ports makes it the place to be for us. But thanks for making us evaluate those great areas. We have been in most but never considered as permanent places to move to, but free socialized health care sounds great until you need it! If you don’t know someone with health connections in those countries, watch out!
Depends on where in Ecuador plus President Naboa is handling it optimally plus all the people support him and much of it has been taken care of although that’s what like the western press likes to focus on
but what about the visa situation? You can't just pick and move to many of these places. Not sure China is a great option given the current climate and economic situation
Most of these places have rules that make you disappear from the country various amounts of time each year. Usually, year round living in a country (and not working) takes some cash and jumping through hoops for a more permanent status.
@@birbluv9595'Old people who can't work anymore'. Just wow. Most have Social Security which may very well be more than what the locals earn working full time. That being said, yes, many countries require a specific income level to become a legal resident.
How are you measuring healthcare; cost only, or including state of the art and cutting edge research and technology? What about how long it takes to get treatments?
And it's important to take into consideration, once you are no longer a US citizen, you also are no longer eligible to receive your monthly social security retirement funds. Social security monthly retirement funds are for permanent US citizens that are currently residing inside the United States Only.
It is pronounced Cheng-doo. It is also not as green as Kunming (which is south of Chengdu in Yunnan), which I think is a better option concerning weather (less humid) and air quality (a bit cleaner). It isn't very viable for Americans without Chinese roots or economic connections to just move to China yet. You should have covered some more of the SEA besides Hanoi, like Chiangmai or even more expensive (but still affordable) Bangkok, or Cebu, you'll find a lot more discount expats in those cities than in the PRC.
The only problem is that I would not wish to live in any of the places you talked about. One:they all have to many people and Two: none of those places appeal to me.
I've been to crete twice, it's beautiful, the people are friendly, and the food is fantastic. That would be my destination in retirement. I'd pic Chania or Rethymnon instead of Heraklion.
its actually insane that the younger side of the US is so damn expensive, guess the nature and climate is just that good. imma keep my ass on the eastcoast though, unless i get a cushy job offer.@@donnybrook5671
Yes there are beautiful places to live all over the world but I just don't think I can wrap my head around living anywhere else except here in the USA! I know I'm getting older but that's just me. 😎
The numbers for Panama are WAY off. 😂 Panama has gotten significantly more expensive than it was in the 90s. Still cheaper than the US, but you're going to need at least $1200m to live comfortably in the countryside in non-expat areas. You might as well be in the US for the cost of living in the city. Expats have caused prices to skyrocket.
Many countries with "free" health care offer euthanasia to older folks to free up healthcare beds to younger people. Also, Eduacor does not offer our style of postal service. Health care in China is very iffy. A friend there had emergency appendectomy and his hospital ward had two nurses taking care of 80 patients. His wife stayed with him as families have to provide food to them. Most Americans there travel to Thailand for their medical care.
China puts a strange value in life. Not sure if trust that one. I was there for 3 years. Hard to explain in one comment. I love the people. The government is ruthless.
Hey Briggs, when you talk about other counties could you add if they speak English there. It would be helpful for those of us who are too lazy to look it up ourselves. Thanks
Almost every travel site will tell you about the local folks command of the English language. You increase your ability to enjoy a country if you can learn a few basic phrases!
Thanks for admitting the laziness. People speak Greek in Crete. Many do not speak English. In Buenos Aires people speak Spanish and the second language is Italian. Asuncion, Paraguay speak Spanish only. Etc etc
In the Philippines most everyone speaks English and they are 98% Christian.. you can find a nice little Beach Town away from the big city and live on $1,000 a month really good.. also in the Philippines you can stay 3 years on a tourist visa before you have to leave and just crossed the border and come back and start your 3 years over again..😊😊
Brigg, medical insurance in China isn't free. You have to have insurance from the place you work. There are lots of ppl don't have insurance and can't afford the expensive medical treatment.
@@kemi707 But I went to Chengdu and couldn't find Kung Pao Chicken, and no 成都小吃 like in Beijing (so I guess I was used to Beijing-style Sichuan cuisine). It is also a furnace city in the summer, not as forgiving as kunming.
@seanmcdirmid Kung pao chicken is pronounced gong bao ji ding. It's hard to recognize the American way of calling certain dishes. Also, be prepared for the dish to taste different in China. Also, Chengdu is the gastronomic capital of Sichuan, China. Its dishes are the definition of Sichuan cuisine. Naturally you will find that to be different from Beijing style Sichuan dishes. Chengdu has so much variety in foods that the Food Ranger literally went there several times to depict different foods there.
Great job as always. The city in Bulgaria sounds interesting. Buenos Aires is close second. I don't mean to nitpick but I believe La Paz, Bolivia is higher than Quito. La Paz is 11,975 feet above sea level. That's higher than My. Hood Lol.
What a nice surprise Chengdu ranked #1! Yes, the lifestyle is more relaxing and laid back compare with Beijing and Shanghai, Chengdu is popular for Sichuan cuisine in the world, it's my hometown, living here in the US for years, but I still miss authentic hot pot every now and then. 😊
We just retired in Hawaii. Yes, it is very expensive, but waking up every morning in a lush, green tropical paradise filled with rainbows, mountains, and sunshine is worth every single penny! There's one catch, though; you must work your ass off for 40+ years to earn it. There are no shortcuts. Retiring early is for lucky, successful entrepreneurs and kids with trust funds.
You can retire to Bali or lots of places in Thailand (or the Philippines) for cheaper and access to more jungle and monkeys. Nothing beats a luxury beach bungalow by the water (erm, it might get washed away if another 2006 typhoon hits), and waking up to the farm animals in the morning. I lived and travelled in Asia already, and now in my 40s have a real job with kids and responsibility. I don't think I missed out doing it the opposite way.
If you don’t mind, where in Hawaii? I’m trying to convince myself to move there. Already retired. Been to all 4 main islands with half dozen times to Oahu. Last visit was 5 yrs ago. How was your search for housing? Thanks.
Retirement is 7-8 years down the road fer me, then I'm off to rural Italy! #2 healthcare system in the world, loaded with natural beauty and history, some of the best food on the planet, and a great home base to explore all of Europe! See ya! :=8D
Quito, Ecuador is NOT the highest capital in the world. That privilege belongs to La Paz, Bolivia. Since there are expats who tap-out in Quito because of the altitude I don't imagine many foreigners could move to La Paz and live there for very long.
I mo,ved with my car to Baja Mexico 2 years ago on the beach . My rent is $400 and I have free healthcare here at the clinic, and medicare is 90 miles north
@@FromTheBigginingYou can drive with US plates in Baja peninsula with a short or long term Mexican visa: it is the ONLY part of Mexico that Americans WITH the LONG TERM multi-year residency visas are allowed drive their cars . In the rest of Mexico you can only drive with American plates if you have the shorter 1 year residency visa. But don’t take a nice new car down there or you could get targeted and put yourself in danger by gangs or gang members. Take an older car that’s not a model they tend to target and doesn’t attract attention.
Surprised to see Ecuador on this list since thousands of their people are trying to come to USA every day. Interesting list I think the only one I personally would consider would be Panama City. Thanks for the information it was great.
I am living the nomadic nomadic lifestyle now, part of that is to save money. The day will come that I will no longer be able to drive. This video will help me when I need a good place to live.
I have chosen Mexico City and I spend under $2000 / month which is considerably less than my social security. My pension from teaching remains untouched. I have had surgery (privately) and it cost me 1/3 of what I was quoted in USA. I realize this is somewhat more than you were aiming at with this video. I love Quito and did considered it, as well as Montevideo.
Can i retire to one of these with multiple serious health conditions, requiring expensive tests and surgeries? For me, it’s not just a matter of low doctor-visit copays and cheaper prescription costs. My Medicare and Medigap policies are not going to travel overseas with me.
Hi. It always amazes me how beautiful earth is. I also think it is a shame how people mess it up and some places you don't even want to visit because of dangerous people. The U.S. included. Wish people would wake up and stop the stupid. Just think how incredible earth would be. Have a nice day everyone.
I love your videos! I have been eyeing Lisbon Portugal and Merida Mexico. I have family in Thailand and they love it. My Spanish tutor is from Argentina so that is now on my list. Thank you !
I lived in Panama City from 2009 to 2014 and from 2017 to 2022; your quotes are way off. Reasonable housing would be in the $1,500 per month and if you want AC you will be paying huge electricity bills. Transport is just as expensive as in the USA and PC is not a very walkable city. Groceries are about the same as the US. You should research this issue some more.
@@Michaelw777.52 no, I used Google Images to search where the picture is and it shows Cordoba, Argentina, not Asuncion, Paraguay. (I live in Canada since immigrating with my family from Egypt in 2013)
Yeah the lack of communication is a big downside.You'll be charged far more for daily items because you're a foreigner. It helps to be able to speak the language,but you'll still pay a lot more then the natives.
I guess I'll just keep hoping to one day win the megamillion (that I never play - lol) and would move to New Zealand. No language barrier and the biggest hurdle would be learning to drive on the wrong side of the road.
I love how I’m entertained and always learning something new from all your videos. Thanks Briggs. I appreciate your stuff getting closer to retirement and staying in the us might mean not retiring ever when adding in inflationary rates and having to restart financially at 48. Considering several different countries and have ruled out some already as well. Got to do our due diligence. Peace ✌️
@@chasedirtbike4155do seniors really have it better in first world countries?🤔 Sure, one can get care at a reasonable amount of time. Minus specialists (those take more time). However, just know that the BIG bill is coming. A nice portion lose their houses, cars, and pride. On top of that, they can't afford their medications.💰🙄
Of the cities you featured, only Panama City and Hanoi were places I would consider. Herkalon just missed the cut. Unsurprisingly, no city in the Philippines was on your list.
Recently met an American retiree living in a small modern studio in Laureles area of Medellin, Colombia. Said she was paying under $600/no including WiFi and utilities.
Great Video. The thing to remember is that the details matter in determining the cost to live. Every place has nuances that can cost you. For example, tax's. Some countries dont tax Social Security or retirement money and some do. Some will allow a certain amount and some will tax you if you have been in that country for a period of time. Do a ton of research of a place you are interested in and be sure to look some years down the road in case your financial burden might change. Also know all the rules to any banking in a country like how much money you can deposit into your bank account before a report is sent back to the IRS in the USA.
Only if you live in a tent on the street! I have been retired for 13 years so I have a lot of experience. If my wife and I only had SS to live on which is twice what you are quoting, we would be living in a tent on the street.
But you’d still need to pay taxes in the States, correct? That’s the main reason I never thought about leaving. I don’t want to pay taxes in two countries
Agrée. It’s a nightmare preparing 2 tax returns each year as Uncle Sam will never be forgotten. Currency exchange is a nightmare too as it will end up costing you even more.
Very few, except maybe Panama City, and to a lesser degree Quito and Buenos Aires. Kenya was once a British colony, so Nairobi may have some English speakers.
The majority of Americans now live in a coastal community causing those areas housing and other costs to explode . Yet Middle America has a very low density . And a much lower cost of living . Instead of looking at a dangerous Foreign Country or a Condo in Florida . Try looking at Middle America .
I stopped watching u after ur video on Nneww Jerseey but this one looked.interesting. good job ,I may have to move to China,I've actually heard good things about it from friends. Thx
Well, China seemingly has free Medicare....but a lot of people went bankrupt at hospitals ...yes, cost of living is super low and getting lower due to the deflation.
Universal healthcare in China means something different from Europe. Most of your lower end costs are covered, but hospitals still need money for surgeries and stuff (and they don't get it from the government), so you or someone has to pay. Many middle class jobs in China offer medical insurance, but they are also capped at $100k/year, which is fine unless something really goes bad, and then you need money again. Also, no nurse at the bed/nurse aids, so if your family goes to the hospital, you need to hire an ayi to take care of them or do it yourself.
@@seanmcdirmideven lower cost treatments, doctor has to pick from aproved procedure list and drugs, anything better, patients need to pay. The same in all the universal care in Canada and Europe... people have to purchase private insurance to subsidize due to the long wait. Also people paid for the care also through higher taxes(not free anyway) I traveled a lot of places, US medicare is not that bad,... Provided you have money or a decent job.
I've visited both Greece and Italy while only speaking English. Both countries were easy and pleasure. But, living there is a different story and too far from family. I'm sad that this may become a reality for people due to cost.
Yet another great video! I feel like Americans really don’t understand how bad our health system is and the have such a high misconception of other countries.
I wish youd make a video for people starting over after heartbreak or divorce, maybe one for people with children and without. I dont know what factors youd have to consider but youre the expert lol.
Argentina under Milei is going to change. i would wait before going there. But Buenos Aires is so beautiful and the night life is so cool. No fight no cutthroat places, everyone is smiling.
The one place on this list I would consider is Heraklion. I've been to Greece, and it's got to be among the loveliest countries in the world. Great food, too. As to the healthcare: Less expensive is nice, but it would be good to also know the quality of the care people get in these countries.
Medical is a nightmare. Not quite there, but at 49 years old, I'm paying $600/mo. for a $7,000 deductible HMO. It's either a somewhat ok Blue Cross plan or a garbage plan that nobody accepts on the exchanges.
Yes, and if you happen to get cancer, they drop you like a rock when you cannot work, and insurance runs out. I refuse to go to the VA except bare minimum- horrible “care”- and I did not qualify for Medicaid mostly. US is a profit based, inhumane system.
I live in Quito. The public (free) health care is a disaster, but outstanding private ins. is about $100/month per person. A must have if living in Ecuador.
How safe is it?
@@zechariahsmith1764 Very safe in you stay out of the well known dangerous areas (where no retiree would ever need to go anyway).
Wow. I have many questions about life in Quito. How long have you lived there? And is the video correct about housing costs? Could i find a nice 1 bedroom apartment in a good, safe area?
In retired but still pay $250. A month for insurance. Would never depend on gov't health care. Shortage of low paid medical personnel. The are you when they can & the line is looong.
I visited Quito for a week in 2002. My group tried to stay in the hotel so I was able to practice lots of spanish. The city and people were very nice. I would love to return some day.
🇪🇨 🇺🇸
Don't sell the farm untill you've spent at least a few months in whatever country you think you'd like to live.
I know a place where I can retire for $1000/ month…
In a van … down by the river… where is that Chris Farley skit from SNL when you need it ???
RIP Chris.
I love it
It's really beyond my expectations, dude!
I live in Boston. Don't try it here, you will be towed. The river is valuable real estate. Rich kids like to row their little boats and pretend they're vikings instead of college students.
A VAN DOWN THE RIVER
Vietnam is legit. One of my favorite places I’ve been in SE Asia. Currently in Thailand, also great, but everywhere has its flaws.
How's Hanoi?? Vietnam looks interesting and beautiful, the nature there seems pretty rare
My wife and I did a month there and we loved it. T-shirt is soaked through by 7am was my only complaint. The cost of eating out is what really makes it nice. There's nice French cuisine as well as delish local fare. We got a bowl of pho in the heart of Ho Chi Min that was no joke, 65 cents.
@@diodelvino3048The South is more liberal and tolerant of foreigners. Lots of street crime like pick pockets. They even run up and snatch your phone out of your hands when you are distracted by talking on your phone or taking a photo. So carry a cheap phone and this won't happen. Power cuts are frequent and the weather is hot or hot and wet. I lived there for my job. Healthcare is hugely expensive so get good insurance. For complex issues the nearest health centers of excellence are in Thailand. Medical evacuation insurance is also a good idea.
I lived there 2 months. It was amazing. I never felt in danger walking the streets, day or night. Traffic is insane and you just have to learn how to flow with it. People were kind. I love it. @@diodelvino3048
No retirement visa viet Nam
Only not like Thai
No Thailand? Unlike many of the countries listed, they do have a retirement visa with quite reasonable and quality healthcare.
Move to Brigg's house. It's cheap and u'll save a ton.😮
And you get to spend time with Miss McMuffin! 🩷🐖
I love that you did a global video! I'm moving abroad this year and always appreciate learning about cool places around the world 🛩️
Good luck to you. I'll be retiring abroad in 2030 (if I live long enough🙏🏽)
Of the places on this list, I suspect Panama would be the wisest choice for most normal Americans. Although I have read good things about Argintina.
Glad you enjoyed it.
Congrats!!!!!
@@youtubeuserzzzzwishing you good health and fortune 💛
I spent 2 years in Greece including several months on Crete (Heraclion's island). Are you ready to learn a language that has a completely different alphabet and a much more complex grammar than English? Because living in a place where you don't know the language can be pretty lonely. And picking up some Greek is not like picking up a little Spanish.
Did u visit Takis' dog shelter in Crete?
Last i heard Greece has extreme tax rates. People were camouflaging their pools so the state wouldnt levy a massive "Luxury Tax" on them.
Spanish is probably the easiest language to learn in the world, Greek, not so much. However, most Greeks speak a bit of English, some are very fluent.
@@maddhatter3564 that's true! Pools are a luxury item in Greece, but there are beaches everywhere, so...
@@kostasjezuz4846 point is, that it cant be so cheap to live there with that kind of taxation.I also remember their "bail in" a few years back. they took money from peoples bank accounts to pay for the excessive gov spending AFTER they taxed them at a ridiculous rate.
I love this type of video! Been really interested in the international ones recently!
Hearing of places I didn't know existed. Love international info, thanks, Briggs! Hope you did your train ride!
Next week.
Retired at 55 in South Florida when it was affordable. Great hospitals keep me here, free with Medicare and Tricare for life. Near cruise ports makes it the place to be for us. But thanks for making us evaluate those great areas. We have been in most but never considered as permanent places to move to, but free socialized health care sounds great until you need it! If you don’t know someone with health connections in those countries, watch out!
Which town are you in? Seems houses are out of reach , they are so expensive
Ecuador is seriously dangerous right now. 😢
People trying to get the United States
Depends on where in Ecuador plus President Naboa is handling it optimally plus all the people support him and much of it has been taken care of although that’s what like the western press likes to focus on
@@rosezaz6607 Exactly that's not Quito. Western media likes to make it sound like it's the entire country.
Countries change all the time
but what about the visa situation? You can't just pick and move to many of these places. Not sure China is a great option given the current climate and economic situation
Exactly. I don’t think most of these countries want old people who can’t work any more and have high medical expenses.
wouldnt recommend living there, but highly recommend visiting. Its very rare that youll see cities like Shanghai or Chongqing, its on another level
Most of these places have rules that make you disappear from the country various amounts of time each year. Usually, year round living in a country (and not working) takes some cash and jumping through hoops for a more permanent status.
-300,000 social credits
@@birbluv9595'Old people who can't work anymore'. Just wow. Most have Social Security which may very well be more than what the locals earn working full time.
That being said, yes, many countries require a specific income level to become a legal resident.
We moved to Arizona in 2020, WOW have costs gone up since then!!!!!
I grew up in here and it's insane how expensive it has become since the pandemic.
There are sections in Nairobi that have poverty worse than anything you can imagine.
Couldn't be worse than Makoko Island (in Nigeria)
Don't forget that movie eye in the sky illustrates the poverty situation
Worse than Detroit????? Baltimore????? Camden???????
@@dudedude949 You bet your sweet ass it's worse
Would love to hear more about healthcare and leisure activities in these cities. Thanks for the helpful tips on early retirement planning!
I love your videos. Great info about cities i’ve never heard of or would never have considered before. Keep up the good work!
Some great choices here. Will there be a Part 2?
My Yiayia (Gramma) was from Crete. My dream always to live there ❤ Holy cow! I'm goin!!
Do it!
How are you measuring healthcare; cost only, or including state of the art and cutting edge research and technology? What about how long it takes to get treatments?
This is your best video. Great research!
Gotta say this was very interesting and gives some "soon to be retirees" something to think about.
And it's important to take into consideration, once you are no longer a US citizen, you also are no longer eligible to receive your monthly social security retirement funds. Social security monthly retirement funds are for permanent US citizens that are currently residing inside the United States Only.
@@BobbieNick Don't you have to renounce your citizenship? If not, how long do you have to be outside of the US before you are no longer a citizen?
@@BobbieNickyou can stay a United States citizen and live somewhere else and still receive your social security benefits
Just always have to renew your visa
It is pronounced Cheng-doo. It is also not as green as Kunming (which is south of Chengdu in Yunnan), which I think is a better option concerning weather (less humid) and air quality (a bit cleaner).
It isn't very viable for Americans without Chinese roots or economic connections to just move to China yet. You should have covered some more of the SEA besides Hanoi, like Chiangmai or even more expensive (but still affordable) Bangkok, or Cebu, you'll find a lot more discount expats in those cities than in the PRC.
The only problem is that I would not wish to live in any of the places you talked about. One:they all have to many people and Two: none of those places appeal to me.
I've been to crete twice, it's beautiful, the people are friendly, and the food is fantastic. That would be my destination in retirement. I'd pic Chania or Rethymnon instead of Heraklion.
Do A USA one of these videos. Thank You.
Hard to find I am sure
It's hard to live on $5000 a month in the western USA
Very True.@@donnybrook5671
its actually insane that the younger side of the US is so damn expensive, guess the nature and climate is just that good. imma keep my ass on the eastcoast though, unless i get a cushy job offer.@@donnybrook5671
Yes there are beautiful places to live all over the world but I just don't think I can wrap my head around living anywhere else except here in the USA! I know I'm getting older but that's just me. 😎
The numbers for Panama are WAY off. 😂 Panama has gotten significantly more expensive than it was in the 90s. Still cheaper than the US, but you're going to need at least $1200m to live comfortably in the countryside in non-expat areas. You might as well be in the US for the cost of living in the city. Expats have caused prices to skyrocket.
Many countries with "free" health care offer euthanasia to older folks to free up healthcare beds to younger people. Also, Eduacor does not offer our style of postal service. Health care in China is very iffy. A friend there had emergency appendectomy and his hospital ward had two nurses taking care of 80 patients. His wife stayed with him as families have to provide food to them. Most Americans there travel to Thailand for their medical care.
China puts a strange value in life. Not sure if trust that one. I was there for 3 years. Hard to explain in one comment. I love the people. The government is ruthless.
Hey Briggs, when you talk about other counties could you add if they speak English there. It would be helpful for those of us who are too lazy to look it up ourselves. Thanks
Almost every travel site will tell you about the local folks command of the English language. You increase your ability to enjoy a country if you can learn a few basic phrases!
Thanks for admitting the laziness. People speak Greek in Crete. Many do not speak English. In Buenos Aires people speak Spanish and the second language is Italian. Asuncion, Paraguay speak Spanish only. Etc etc
How about visa and crime???
That's why its cheap, there is language barrier
In the Philippines most everyone speaks English and they are 98% Christian.. you can find a nice little Beach Town away from the big city and live on $1,000 a month really good.. also in the Philippines you can stay 3 years on a tourist visa before you have to leave and just crossed the border and come back and start your 3 years over again..😊😊
Great information! Thank you for the video!
A new Briggs video is a good way to make a (rare) day off even better. Thanks buddy. 🍻
Living in a country with great quality Healthcare is useless if you can't afford to use it.
I was just thinking of you today! Glad to see you posting about affordable housing for seniors.
Do you have anything for seniors in the U.S. 2024?
Brigg, medical insurance in China isn't free. You have to have insurance from the place you work. There are lots of ppl don't have insurance and can't afford the expensive medical treatment.
Chengdu is a really nice city, it's a culinary heaven if you like spicy food. The perfect blend of history and modernity.
@@kemi707 But I went to Chengdu and couldn't find Kung Pao Chicken, and no 成都小吃 like in Beijing (so I guess I was used to Beijing-style Sichuan cuisine). It is also a furnace city in the summer, not as forgiving as kunming.
@seanmcdirmid Kung pao chicken is pronounced gong bao ji ding. It's hard to recognize the American way of calling certain dishes. Also, be prepared for the dish to taste different in China.
Also, Chengdu is the gastronomic capital of Sichuan, China. Its dishes are the definition of Sichuan cuisine. Naturally you will find that to be different from Beijing style Sichuan dishes. Chengdu has so much variety in foods that the Food Ranger literally went there several times to depict different foods there.
Great job as always. The city in Bulgaria sounds interesting. Buenos Aires is close second. I don't mean to nitpick but I believe La Paz, Bolivia is higher than Quito. La Paz is 11,975 feet above sea level. That's higher than My. Hood Lol.
Can you share more about healthcare options and recreational activities in these cities? Thanks for the valuable tips on early retirement!
What a nice surprise Chengdu ranked #1! Yes, the lifestyle is more relaxing and laid back compare with Beijing and Shanghai, Chengdu is popular for Sichuan cuisine in the world, it's my hometown, living here in the US for years, but I still miss authentic hot pot every now and then. 😊
What's relaxing and laid back about lies, propaganda and revisionist history ?
We just retired in Hawaii. Yes, it is very expensive, but waking up every morning in a lush, green tropical paradise filled with rainbows, mountains, and sunshine is worth every single penny!
There's one catch, though; you must work your ass off for 40+ years to earn it.
There are no shortcuts. Retiring early is for lucky, successful entrepreneurs and kids with trust funds.
You can retire to Bali or lots of places in Thailand (or the Philippines) for cheaper and access to more jungle and monkeys. Nothing beats a luxury beach bungalow by the water (erm, it might get washed away if another 2006 typhoon hits), and waking up to the farm animals in the morning.
I lived and travelled in Asia already, and now in my 40s have a real job with kids and responsibility. I don't think I missed out doing it the opposite way.
If you only worked 40 years, you did retire early.
If you don’t mind, where in Hawaii? I’m trying to convince myself to move there. Already retired. Been to all 4 main islands with half dozen times to Oahu. Last visit was 5 yrs ago. How was your search for housing? Thanks.
Great video Briggs. ❤❤Thank you for your work. 👍😊
Thank you for watching.
@@WorldAccordingToBriggs You are so welcome. Always enjoy your videos. ❤️👌
Interesting! $1000 a month sounds doable. Excited to learn about affordable options. Thanks for the helpful tips!
Retirement is 7-8 years down the road fer me, then I'm off to rural Italy! #2 healthcare system in the world, loaded with natural beauty and history, some of the best food on the planet, and a great home base to explore all of Europe! See ya!
:=8D
It’s nice to see Bulgaria getting a shout out❤
Quito, Ecuador is NOT the highest capital in the world. That privilege belongs to La Paz, Bolivia. Since there are expats who tap-out in Quito because of the altitude I don't imagine many foreigners could move to La Paz and live there for very long.
For me Greece, Bulgaria, Panama City. Not necessarily in that order.
Panama is a war staging zone right now by NGOs orchestrating the invasion of the US. You sound clueless
I mo,ved with my car to Baja Mexico 2 years ago on the beach . My rent is $400 and I have free healthcare here at the clinic, and medicare is 90 miles north
Do they allow you to drive thru with an American vehicle?
Tell us more!
@@FromTheBigginingYou can drive with US plates in Baja peninsula with a short or long term Mexican visa: it is the ONLY part of Mexico that Americans WITH the LONG TERM multi-year residency visas are allowed drive their cars .
In the rest of Mexico you can only drive with American plates if you have the shorter 1 year residency visa.
But don’t take a nice new car down there or you could get targeted and put yourself in danger by gangs or gang members. Take an older car that’s not a model they tend to target and doesn’t attract attention.
Yes tell us more please
Surprised to see Ecuador on this list since thousands of their people are trying to come to USA every day. Interesting list I think the only one I personally would consider would be Panama City. Thanks for the information it was great.
Thanks for watching.
@@WorldAccordingToBriggsgreat video
I am living the nomadic nomadic lifestyle now, part of that is to save money. The day will come that I will no longer be able to drive. This video will help me when I need a good place to live.
I have chosen Mexico City and I spend under $2000 / month which is considerably less than my social security. My pension from teaching remains untouched. I have had surgery (privately) and it cost me 1/3 of what I was quoted in USA. I realize this is somewhat more than you were aiming at with this video.
I love Quito and did considered it, as well as Montevideo.
Can i retire to one of these with multiple serious health conditions, requiring expensive tests and surgeries? For me, it’s not just a matter of low doctor-visit copays and cheaper prescription costs. My Medicare and Medigap policies are not going to travel overseas with me.
No. Stay in the USA.
Hi. It always amazes me how beautiful earth is. I also think it is a shame how people mess it up and some places you don't even want to visit because of dangerous people. The U.S. included. Wish people would wake up and stop the stupid. Just think how incredible earth would be. Have a nice day everyone.
Great job Briggs ❤❤❤😮😮😮😊😊😊
Thank you!! 😁
I love your videos! I have been eyeing Lisbon Portugal and Merida Mexico. I have family in Thailand and they love it. My Spanish tutor is from Argentina so that is now on my list. Thank you !
I lived in Panama City from 2009 to 2014 and from 2017 to 2022; your quotes are way off. Reasonable housing would be in the $1,500 per month and if you want AC you will be paying huge electricity bills. Transport is just as expensive as in the USA and PC is not a very walkable city. Groceries are about the same as the US. You should research this issue some more.
Panama and Vietnam would be my first choice. I would need to visit them both before deciding.
Vietnam doesn't have a retirement visa.
Got a visa to Panama but could not stand the poverty there. You can’t park your car without being forced to pay the multitude to watch over it.
@@ParisianThinkerThanks for the Info>
5:33 this photo is from Cordoba, Argentina, but it has a cathedral that has the word Asuncion in its title
Do you live there? Cordoba is a place I've seriously considered. Very much under the radar which appeals to me.
@@Michaelw777.52 no, I used Google Images to search where the picture is and it shows Cordoba, Argentina, not Asuncion, Paraguay. (I live in Canada since immigrating with my family from Egypt in 2013)
8:40 - La Paz, Bolivia is the highest national capital in the world at over 12,000’.
I meant to say continent.
Same continent.
Sorry got turned around. I had Baku (the lowest) in my head when I responded. I know la paz is the highest. Not sure why I said that.
Thank you for sharing this with us 😊
Briggs Int'l. Can you do a vid on Costa Rica? My wife and I are looking to buy a chunk of dirt over there.
I would move to any of these in a heartbeat if the language barrier didn't exist.
Yeah the lack of communication is a big downside.You'll be charged far more for daily items because you're a foreigner. It helps to be able to speak the language,but you'll still pay a lot more then the natives.
I guess I'll just keep hoping to one day win the megamillion (that I never play - lol) and would move to New Zealand. No language barrier and the biggest hurdle would be learning to drive on the wrong side of the road.
I have heard that Vietnam is great. Friendly and cheap. Wasn't that way the last time I was there in 1969.
I love how I’m entertained and always learning something new from all your videos. Thanks Briggs. I appreciate your stuff getting closer to retirement and staying in the us might mean not retiring ever when adding in inflationary rates and having to restart financially at 48. Considering several different countries and have ruled out some already as well. Got to do our due diligence. Peace ✌️
If this is true, I can retire already based on my savings and house value 🤩
Until the value of money keeps going up and u get screwed lol
Dont do this, it's a trap, I've seen seniors do this and they were basically trapped in these 3rd world countries
And healthcare is free (aka paid by taxes) but don’t get in a hurry to see a doctor because it could take months even if you could be dying.
I would say to keep your house at home. Rent it out so that it is there for you if you need it and rent while abroad.
@@chasedirtbike4155do seniors really have it better in first world countries?🤔
Sure, one can get care at a reasonable amount of time. Minus specialists (those take more time). However, just know that the BIG bill is coming.
A nice portion lose their houses, cars, and pride. On top of that, they can't afford their medications.💰🙄
Nice selection. Greetings from Switzerland, which did not make it into this list.
Of the cities you featured, only Panama City and Hanoi were places I would consider. Herkalon just missed the cut. Unsurprisingly, no city in the Philippines was on your list.
My wanderlust substantially grows every time I watch your videos! Thank you for sharing fun highlights of areas I am not as familiar with - like Baku!
Recently met an American retiree living in a small modern studio in Laureles area of Medellin, Colombia. Said she was paying under $600/no including WiFi and utilities.
Great Video. The thing to remember is that the details matter in determining the cost to live. Every place has nuances that can cost you. For example, tax's. Some countries dont tax Social Security or retirement money and some do. Some will allow a certain amount and some will tax you if you have been in that country for a period of time. Do a ton of research of a place you are interested in and be sure to look some years down the road in case your financial burden might change. Also know all the rules to any banking in a country like how much money you can deposit into your bank account before a report is sent back to the IRS in the USA.
Only if you live in a tent on the street! I have been retired for 13 years so I have a lot of experience. If my wife and I only had SS to live on which is twice what you are quoting, we would be living in a tent on the street.
I have never heard Buenos Aires is safe. I heard the opposite many times
OK Briggs ...........Garrison, Iowa's got this one nailed down.
But you’d still need to pay taxes in the States, correct? That’s the main reason I never thought about leaving. I don’t want to pay taxes in two countries
Hanoi is fascinating and welcoming. The food is very cheap and very delicious. I loved my visit there.
Good luck with the foreigner tax. You will absolutely get taken advantage of at every turn.
Agrée. It’s a nightmare preparing 2 tax returns each year as Uncle Sam will never be forgotten. Currency exchange is a nightmare too as it will end up costing you even more.
@ParisianThinker wait what? Even if we don't live in the US we still get taxed?
@@Rubio_Ericyou’ll have to file US taxes but you won’t get double taxed. There are agreements between most countries to make sure that doesn’t happen.
Great info, maybe you can include the percentage of people in those countries speak English.
Very few, except maybe Panama City, and to a lesser degree Quito and Buenos Aires. Kenya was once a British colony, so Nairobi may have some English speakers.
The majority of Americans now live in a coastal community causing those areas housing and other costs to explode . Yet Middle America has a very low density . And a much lower cost of living . Instead of looking at a dangerous Foreign Country or a Condo in Florida . Try looking at Middle America .
Thanks, Briggs!
I stopped watching u after ur video on Nneww Jerseey but this one looked.interesting. good job ,I may have to move to China,I've actually heard good things about it from friends. Thx
You'll probably get a lot of comments on why Thailand in the Philippines wasn't on list. You can get apartments there in city center for under $300
Dog! I would move to Greece and many of these countries. Thank you, Briggs! 😊
Dog?
@@penniprater5571😂
Well, China seemingly has free Medicare....but a lot of people went bankrupt at hospitals ...yes, cost of living is super low and getting lower due to the deflation.
Universal healthcare in China means something different from Europe. Most of your lower end costs are covered, but hospitals still need money for surgeries and stuff (and they don't get it from the government), so you or someone has to pay. Many middle class jobs in China offer medical insurance, but they are also capped at $100k/year, which is fine unless something really goes bad, and then you need money again. Also, no nurse at the bed/nurse aids, so if your family goes to the hospital, you need to hire an ayi to take care of them or do it yourself.
@@seanmcdirmideven lower cost treatments, doctor has to pick from aproved procedure list and drugs, anything better, patients need to pay. The same in all the universal care in Canada and Europe... people have to purchase private insurance to subsidize due to the long wait. Also people paid for the care also through higher taxes(not free anyway) I traveled a lot of places, US medicare is not that bad,... Provided you have money or a decent job.
Would love to see a deep dive video into each of these locations
Got me spinning the globe on Google maps. So cool! Thanks.
This was interesting Briggsy!
Asuncion, Paraguay seems to make a lot of sense with the way the world is going right now.
I've visited both Greece and Italy while only speaking English. Both countries were easy and pleasure. But, living there is a different story and too far from family. I'm sad that this may become a reality for people due to cost.
If I had to pick between Italy and Greece, would choose Italy
Free. You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means.
I love Ecuador! Spent 3 months there. My first choice for sure. Also, there’s a first class medical center in Nairobi called Tenwek.
Yet another great video! I feel like Americans really don’t understand how bad our health system is and the have such a high misconception of other countries.
I wish youd make a video for people starting over after heartbreak or divorce, maybe one for people with children and without. I dont know what factors youd have to consider but youre the expert lol.
@1:54 baby Briggs!!!😂😂
I lived in Panama 1984-1986. My picks would be Buenos Aries or Panama City. Maybe Greece, but I'm doing Europe, I'd prefer Spain or Portugal.
I would choose between Panama City or italy
Argentina under Milei is going to change. i would wait before going there. But Buenos Aires is so beautiful and the night life is so cool. No fight no cutthroat places, everyone is smiling.
5:37 that's not the flag of Paraguay, it's Argentina's flag. After doing Google Lens it says that it's Córdoba, Argentina
great video !
Thanks!
The one place on this list I would consider is Heraklion. I've been to Greece, and it's got to be among the loveliest countries in the world. Great food, too. As to the healthcare: Less expensive is nice, but it would be good to also know the quality of the care people get in these countries.
Speaking of Torrance... Briggs, tell me you have seen The Stoned Age!
yes i have
Vietnam may be appealing, but each place offers its own unique experiences. Thailand has its charm too, despite imperfections.
I can't make up my mind....it's a toss-up between Greece, Buenos Aires, Bulgaria, Panama City
For me I would choose between Italy and Panama, I do have and Aunt who lives in Panama
Medical is a nightmare. Not quite there, but at 49 years old, I'm paying $600/mo. for a $7,000 deductible HMO. It's either a somewhat ok Blue Cross plan or a garbage plan that nobody accepts on the exchanges.
Yes, and if you happen to get cancer, they drop you like a rock when you cannot work, and insurance runs out. I refuse to go to the VA except bare minimum- horrible “care”- and I did not qualify for Medicaid mostly. US is a profit based, inhumane system.
I am leaving the US for this reason. And the astronomical cost of housing.