Bangkok: Thailand ranks 9th in the world and 1st in Asia as the best country for retirement. The government is moving forward with developing Thailand into a destination for retirees from around the world.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that International Living, a leading US-based media outlet specializing in lifestyle and retirement abroad, has published the results of its 35th annual Global Retirement Index 2026. Thailand was ranked 9th globally and 1st in Asia as a suitable country for retirement, with a total score of 80.0 points. This reflects Thailand's potential as a destination for retirees from around the world, considering factors such as quality of life, healthcare system, cost of living, and a conducive living environment.
The deputy spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office stated that the index is assessed based on seven key factors: housing, visas and retirement benefits, cost of living, development and governance, climate, healthcare system, and affinity rating, using data from experts, journalists, and expatriates actually residing in each country.
Thailand received outstanding scores in the Cost of Living category, scoring 96 points, reflecting the value of its quality of life. Development and Governance scored 84 points, demonstrating readiness in infrastructure and public sector management. Healthcare received 79 points, reflecting internationally recognized standards of medical care. Finally, visas and retirement benefits also scored 79 points, promoting Thailand as an attractive destination for retirees worldwide.
Ms. Lalida stated that the ranking results align with the government's policy under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, which aims to elevate Thailand to become a global Medical and Wellness Hub. This involves developing the medical and health industry, promoting health tourism, elderly care, and high-value medical services, coupled with upgrading the quality of public health services, developing infrastructure, and creating a livable environment to accommodate both Thai and foreign citizens. The ultimate goal is to position Thailand as a regional health economic center.
"International Living's ranking of Thailand as the 9th best country in the world and 1st in Asia for retirement reflects Thailand's potential in terms of cost of living, quality of life, healthcare system, and internationally recognized national development. The government will continue to upgrade healthcare services, develop the wellness and elderly care industries, and create an ecosystem conducive to the lives of senior citizens. This will propel Thailand towards becoming a world-class retirement destination, generating income from tourism and healthcare services, increasing investment, and distributing sustainable economic opportunities to the people," Ms. Lalida said.