How to retire on Social Security abroad
Many retirees live mostly on a Social Security check. If that check feels tight at home, living abroad can make it go further. This guide shows how to think about it with real numbers from the SlowRetire calculator, so you can see whether you could retire on Social Security abroad.
Start with your freedom number
Your freedom number is simple: monthly income minus housing minus everyday living costs. A positive number means room to breathe. Our calculator lets you enter any income from $800 to $6,000 a month and compares places side by side.
What a month costs abroad
Durrës, Albania: a $500 room plus an estimated $500 to $700 for living, about $1,000 to $1,200 total. Yunnan, China: $900 with 3 meals a day plus about $200 to $350, roughly $1,100 to $1,250. Chiang Mai, Thailand: a typical one-bedroom of $400 to $700 plus $500 to $800. Lisbon, Portugal: $1,100 to $1,600 rent plus $800 to $1,100.
Chiang Mai and Lisbon are benchmark estimates only; we do not host them. Durrës and Yunnan are homes we offer, with current asking prices that may change.
Things to check before you go
Rules for receiving benefits outside the US, health coverage such as Medicare, taxes and visas all depend on your situation. Check with the Social Security Administration, official government sources, and a qualified professional. SlowRetire gives estimates, not financial advice.
A simple way to compare
The calculator takes three steps. First, slide to your monthly income, anywhere from $800 to $6,000. Second, pick your must-haves: warm weather, beach, quiet nature, city access, near family in the US, abroad OK, faith community, or medical access. Third, enter your current rent or mortgage.
You will then see your freedom number for each place, a bar chart comparing your current housing cost with each option, and a shareable picture card you can send to family. If you are not ready to move abroad, the results also include US options like Comanche, Texas.
See your own freedom number
Enter your monthly income and compare places in three quick steps. Free, no sign-up needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I retire abroad on $1,500 a month?
Using our estimates, $1,500 covers a simple month in Durrës or Yunnan with some left over. Try the calculator with your own income.
Which places abroad are in the calculator?
Durrës, Albania and Yunnan, China (our homes), plus Lisbon and Chiang Mai as benchmark estimates.
Will my Social Security still be paid abroad?
That depends on official rules and your situation. Please check directly with the Social Security Administration.
Is this financial advice?
No. SlowRetire offers estimates only. Talk with a qualified professional before big decisions.
More guides
Not financial advice. Estimates only.