Top 5 Destinations for Scots Retiring Abroad
Retirement marks the start of a new chapter for anyone, and for many Scots, this new chapter will involve a move abroad. Whether it’s the promise (or hope) of better weather, a lower cost of living, a more relaxed lifestyle, or simply a quieter way a life, retiring abroad is an attractive option. As we head into 2025, we’ve gathered all of our moving data and retirement trends to reveal the top 5 most popular destinations for Scots retiring abroad. Read on to find out more, or get in touch for a free moving quote.
1. Spain
Sunshine, Culture, and a Familiar Community
At the top of our list of countries for Scottish people to retire to is Spain and it’s associated islands. With year-round sunshine, affordable living costs, and strong Scottish and British expat communities, Spain is your home away from home. Places like Tenerife, Costa del Sol, Alicante and even the Balearic Islands are retirement hotspots that offer a great quality of life.
Cost of Living
Compared to Scotland, day to day living in Spain is considerably cheaper. A couple can comfortably live on between 1500-2000 Euros per month.
Healthcare
Spain boasts one of Europe's best healthcare systems. If you have a UK state pension you can access all of Spain's healthcare using an S1 form (Post Brexit requirement)
Climate & Lifestyle
If you compare Scotland's winters to Spain's, it's a no brainer. With much milder winters and warm summers, you'll forget snow and ice ever existed! Don't forget the outdoor-living and fresh Mediterranean food paired with a rich culture to make retiring to Spain an easy choice!
Top Locations:
• Costa Blanca (Alicante)
• Malaga (Costa del Sol)
• Mallorca
• Tenerife
• Lanzarote
*BONUS* – With frequent flights to Spain from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, family visits are easy, straightforward and relatively cheap.
2. Portugal
Affordable Living and Golden Visas
Portugal is rapidly rising through the ranks as a retirement haven. It combines affordable living with stunning landscapes, no forgetting the tax benefits on offer through it’s Non-habitual Residency (NHR) program. Taken up golf during retirement? Then consider the Algarve, known for it’s pristine beaches, it’s home to some fantastic World renowned golf courses too!
Cost of Living
Living in Portugal is around 30% cheaper than living in the UK and Scotland. A married couple can comfortably live off between 1400 and 1800 Euros per month.
Healthcare
Portugal has an excellent healthcare system. Retirees from Scotland can access this state care with the proper residency.
Climate & Lifestyle
Similar to Spain, Portugal offers mild winters and even hotter summers. The ideal climate for anyone who likes outdoor living.
Top Locations:
• The Algarve (Lagos & Faro)
• Lisbon
• Madeira
*BONUS* – For retirees looking to invest in property, Portugal has a Golden Visa scheme which offer residency in you invest more than 280,000 Euros into the country.
3. France
Sophistication and Scenic Living
France is proving more and more popular with retirees from the British Isles. With a perfect balance of relaxed countryside living and cultural sophistication, France is a strong contender for anyone considering retirement abroad.
Cost of Living
If you choose to live in one of France's major cities, like Paris, then expect to pay a premium over and above what it costs in Scotland and the UK. However, some regions like Dordogne, Brittany and Provence offer affordable living. A retired couple can live comfortably in these regions for about 2,000 Euros a month.
Healthcare
Regarded as one of the best healthcare systems in the world, you needn't worry about healthcare in France. As with other European countries, you can have access to the healthcare system through the Carte Vitale and the UK's S1 scheme.
Climate & Lifestyle
France has a climate for all tastes. From the far North, where the temperature and climate is mildly better than the UK, to the South where it rains a lot less than the UK! When it comes to French living, be prepared to indulge heavily in rich food and wine.
Top Locations:
- Dordogne (southwest France)
- Brittany (northern France)
- Languedoc-Roussillon
*BONUS* – Direct ferries and flights keep travel between Scotland and France convenient.
4. Australia
A Longstanding Favorite for Sun and Family
A long time favourite among Scottish ex-pats, Australia is a great choice for those looking to retire abroad. With stunning weather, non existent winters and a relaxed lifestyle, it offers something for everyone. Cities like Perth an Brisbane offer beautiful climates, excellent amenities and large Scottish communities.
Cost of Living
Australia can be expensive in the bigger cities like Sydney, however smaller cities and coastal regions are much more affordable. Look to budget between $2000-$3000 Australian dollars for a comfortable retired lifestyle.
Healthcare
Fortunately, the Australian healthcare system is world class. Retirees on long-term visas will have access to Medicare, Australia's Universal healthcare scheme.
Climate & Lifestyle
Known for it's stunning beaches and outdoor living, Australia boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year. With a welcoming and friendly culture, Australia delivers a high quality of life for all of it's residents.
Top Locations:
- Perth (Western Australia)
- Brisbane (Queensland)
- Adelaide (South Australia)
*BONUS* – Struggling to get a VISA? Try Subclass 804 or 864 visas for those with children in Australia.
5. Canada
Natural Beauty and Friendly Communities
If you’re not a fan of the all year round sun, then why not consider Canada as your ideal location to retiree too? With natural beauty, plenty of space and a high standard of living, Scots moving to Canada can have everything they had in Scotland and more. Canada’s shared history, strong Scottish communities, and English-speaking population make it an attractive options for any retirees. Cities like Nova Scotia and Vancouver Island are especially popular among Scots.
Cost of Living
Similar to other countries on this list, living in Canada's big cities can be costly. However, smaller towns offer a lower cost of living and a quieter atmosphere. Aim to spend around $2,500 to $3,500 Canadian dollar a month to live comfortably.
Healthcare
Although Canada's Medicare system is world class, it can be difficult to obtain private health insurance until your residency is fully confirmed. So we'd advise purchasing a private health insurance policy for the first 6 month of your move.
Climate & Lifestyle
Unlike the other countries on this list, Canada has some pretty harsh winters, with proper 4 season living. If you like outdoor activities like hiking, skiing and fishing, then the Canadian lifestyle will suit you down to a T!
Top Locations:
- Nova Scotia (Halifax and Cape Breton)
- Vancouver Island (British Columbia)
- Quebec (for a European vibe in North America)
*BONUS* – While winters can be harsh, areas like Vancouver Island offer milder climates year-round.
Key Factors When Retiring Abroad
When considering a move abroad for retirement, Scots typically weigh the following factors:
- Cost of Living: Can they live comfortably on their pension?
- Healthcare Access: Is quality healthcare available, and what are the residency requirements?
- Climate: Does the destination offer the right balance of warmth and comfort?
- Cultural Fit: Language, lifestyle, and ease of integration into the community.
- Accessibility: How easy is it for family and friends to visit?
Want to Know More?
Retiring abroad in 2025 offers any Scot a wealth of options for better weather, affordable living, and fulfilling lifestyles. Whether it’s the sunny coasts of Spain and Portugal, the sophistication of France, the warmth of Australia, or the natural beauty of Canada, these destinations provide everything you would ever need for a happy and stress-free retirement.
By working with trusted international removals companies, like Euromovers, Scots can make the move abroad seamless, taking their belongings—and dreams—anywhere in the world!
Ready to make your dream retirement a reality, or just want to know more?
Reach out to our team to discuss your international move today!