Pinpointing the “best” place to retire can be challenging, given the wide range of personal preferences.
While some retirees want all-out luxury, others prize affordability above all.
Whatever you’re seeking in an island retirement home, it’s wise to do your homework.
Credit: Massimiliano Pappalardo / EyeEm / Getty Images
Medicare is accepted, and healthcare is widely available, especially in or near major cities.
As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico allows property ownership with no restrictions, and no visa is required.
The weather is warm and sunny, although hurricanes and high humidity are part of living in the tropics.
Dado Daniela/Getty Images
Spanish is the primary language, but English is widely spoken as well.
Rentals are available in a variety of price ranges, and home ownership is permitted.
Private medical insurance is required, and there are pharmacies, doctors, and a hospital on the island.
Getty Images
Nearby Cancun offers more extensive options for medical care.
Barbados
Once a British colony, Barbados has retained Commonwealth status since gaining independence in 1966.
After five years, retirees can also apply for permanent residence.
Larissa Sakhnenko / EyeEm / Getty Images
There are expat groups in the major towns, including a large population of British retirees.
Catalan is the official language here, but Spanish is spoken as well.
Beaches, sunny weather, mountain scenery, and delicious food attract tourists as well as retirees.
Outdoor activities are abundant year-round, and cultural events, shopping, and museums offer plenty to do.
Healthcare is of an excellent quality, and the cost of living is lower than in most U.S. cities.
Long-term visas are available, entitling holders to reside, work, study, or conduct research in Spain.
Getty Images
Foreigners are permitted to purchase property, and there are also abundant rentals.
Hilo, on the island’s rainier windward side, is a great home base for seniors.
Since most tourists spend their time on the opposite coast, real estate prices are lower here.
Getty Images/Robert Harding World Imagery
Across Hawaii, property and sales taxes tend to be low.
There’s much to explore in Malaysia, including rivers, mountains, and jungles.
Once you secure residency, though, pensions and investment income are not subject to Malaysian tax.
Mark Daffey/Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images
Another perk: English is spoken in most places, as Malaysia was formerly a British colony.
Thomasis the most populated of the islands, with resorts, shops, and nightlife.
The other islands also offer entertainment and shopping, but are generally more low-key.
Getty Images/Tetra images RF
English is widely spoken, the U.S. dollar is the currency, and Medicare is accepted.
Still, it’s worth considering for retirees in search of the island life.
A pensioners' visa makes retirees eligible for long-term residency by meeting a fairly modest set of financial requirements.
Walter Bibikow/Getty Images
Residents face no income taxes, VAT taxes, or levies on capital gains or inheritance.
Anguilla is relatively remote, and residents generally travel by ferry to St. Maarten to stock up on supplies.
Foreigners are permitted to purchase real estate on Anguilla with a special license, and rentals are available.
Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure
English is spoken along with Creole.
The weather is relatively dry with year-round temperatures in the 80s.
Resorts add to the entertainment options with golf, tennis, and shows.
Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Housing costs vary by island, and there are no restrictions on property ownership by foreigners.
Modern medical facilities are available, but private insurance is advisable, including coverage for transportation.
Getty Images
