RJ and Makay

Because the cost of living is so high in the U.S. compared with many other parts of the world, older Americans are increasingly likely to look for someplace else to retire. Currently, an estimated half million retired Americans reside abroad, and that number is expected to rise significantly over the next ten years as Baby Boomers retire en masse.

Once they've done the upfront research, picked where they want to live, and made the move, retirees often don't look back. Many say the lifestyle in their adopted countries is as good if not better than what they were used to in the U.S., depending on the country. Currently, the most popular retirement destinations abroad are Central American countries such as Nicaragua, Panama, and Costa Rica. Belize in the Caribbean is also a top choice.