# International retirement destination trends > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/international-retirement-destination-trends > Updated: 2026-09-10T11:04:34.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. Retirees are increasingly seeking international destinations to manage living expenses. Early reports highlight Portugal and Panama as leading options due to significantly lower costs compared to the United States. Portugal offers the D7 passive income visa for those with steady monthly income, while Panama provides the Pensionado visa for lifetime pensioners. As the focus shifts toward seasonal needs, southern European countries are being identified as preferred destinations for retirees seeking winter sun. Spain has emerged as a primary destination, with locations such as Rosquetas de Mar and Torrevieja offering mild climates and monthly living costs estimated between approximately 1,200 and 1,750 euros. Other popular options include the coastal town of Tavira in Portugal, where monthly expenses are estimated between 1,450 and 1,950 euros, and Rethymno in Crete, Greece, which provides more budget-friendly alternatives. For those traveling via motorhome, Spain is noted for its infrastructure, including access to water and numerous free parking areas in cities like Valencia, Denia, and Benidorm. To manage costs during these stays, experts recommend renting furnished apartments rather than booking hotels and using private kitchens. Data indicates a growing trend of international pension usage, with over 1.7 million pensions paid abroad in 2024. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-10: Southern Europe emerges as top winter destination for retirees Retirees are increasingly migrating to Southern Europe, particularly Spain, Portugal, and Greece, seeking milder climates and lower living costs for their winter months. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/european-destinations-for-retirees-seeking-winter-sun ### 2026-08-16: Portugal and Panama emerge as top budget retirement destinations Retirees are increasingly relocating to countries like Portugal and Panama, where monthly budgets of $1,700 to $2,000 can provide a comfortable or even luxurious lifestyle compared to high-cost nations. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/portugal-and-panama-emerge-as-top-budget-retirement-destinations --- Cite as: International retirement destination trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/international-retirement-destination-trends