According to writer Jennifer Stevens: “If we don’t believe a place is truly safe for the day-to-day life of an average person, we don’t include it on our list,” as cited by the Daily Mail.

Here are the ten safest destinations for retirees:

1. Portugal

With its calm everyday life, Portugal is considered a “reassuring haven,” according to International Living.
American expat Terry Coles, who has lived there for seven years, says: “The feeling of safety here wraps around you like a warm blanket.” He adds that elderly people are active in public life, which enhances the sense of security.

2. Malaysia

Keith Hockton, who has lived in Penang for 16 years, says he has “never felt safer.”
He notes that the safety comes from a culture of respect, kindness, and willingness to help. He enjoys evening strolls through night markets and quiet coffee breaks.

3. Ireland

Ranked second on the Global Peace Index, Ireland offers low crime rates, stable governance, and vibrant communities.
“The people are friendly, eager to help, and make you feel like you belong,” say the editors of International Living.

4. Spain

American expat Marsha Scarborough says she feels completely safe in Spain.
“My friends assured me it’s safe to walk alone at night—and they were right.” Strict gun laws and a friendly atmosphere add to the sense of safety. Spain ranks 23rd globally in terms of security.

5. Italy

Chip Steidt has lived in Italy for eight years. Despite losing his wallet three times, he got it back intact each time.
“People are proud of their communities and focused on relationships and culture,” he says. Italy has 12 times fewer homicides than the U.S. and twice the police presence.

6. Greece

Lynn Roulou, who moved from San Francisco to Athens, says she feels safer in the Greek capital.
Though she experienced a burglary, her daily life is “peaceful.” She especially appreciates Greek hospitality.

7. Vietnam

Sharon Nielsen, living in Ho Chi Minh City since 2011, enjoys the city’s sense of security.
“We’ve never been robbed or threatened. We even walk in parks at night,” she says. Locals often warn strangers to guard their phones—a sign of attentiveness and solidarity.

8. Costa Rica

Single mother Becca Bottone raised her two children on the beaches of Costa Rica and never looked back.
“Life here is relaxed, happy, and connected to nature,” she says. Safety and a strong relationship with nature shape an ideal childhood environment.

9. Uruguay

David Hammond has lived in Montevideo for almost two decades and sees Uruguay as a low-stress, highly safe country.
“You don’t need a car—everything is close by,” he says, comparing it to life in the U.S.

10. Bali

Roland Dalton, with over 40 years in Bali, describes the island as one of the safest and most welcoming places for foreigners.
“In villages, it’s common to leave your car or home unlocked,” he says. Tourism has fostered a culture of care and respect for visitors.