BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand has been ranked the ninth-best country in the world and the top retirement destination in Asia in the International Living Global Retirement Index 2026. The annual index, published by the U.S.-based magazine International Living, gave Thailand an overall score of 80.0. According to Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Perisvivatana, the ranking evaluates countries in seven categories: housing, visas and retirement benefits, cost of living, development and governance, climate, healthcare, and overall quality of life. The assessment is based on input from subject-matter experts, journalists, and expatriates living in each country.
Thailand earned its highest score in cost of living with 96 points, followed by development and governance at 84 points. It also received 79 points for healthcare, visas, and retirement benefits, underscoring Thailand’s appeal as a retirement destination, citing its affordability, quality healthcare, and favorable living conditions. Lalida said the ranking is evidence of the government’s efforts to promote Thailand as a global retirement destination through continued investment in healthcare, wellness tourism, elderly care, and modern infrastructure. (NNT)
