Relocating abroad can be a great way to experience new cultures and adventures, particularly for retirees.
The new 2025 Global Retirement Index Norway was highlighted as the best retirement country. The report evaluated 44 developed countries on a number of factors including affordability, healthcare and overall retirement security.
“Norway regained its top position in 2025 Natixis Global Retirement Index. This is due to the strong performance of the country in terms of health outcomes and low unemployment. It also has high income equality,” revealed the Global Retirement Index. The index added that Norway had ranked in top three each year since 2012.
The Nordic region had an impressive showing in many categories. It was first for material wellbeing, second for quality of life and fourth for health. In the report, Norway was also ranked among the top five countries for air quality and water. Norway consistently ranks high among the happiest countries in the world.
The report said that “Finances for Retirement is the only subindex where Norway has lost ground. It fell from 12th place to 16th after a 1-percentage-point score decline.” Norway’s performance in this subindex is still hindered by its relatively high tax burden, which supports extensive public support programs for citizens. It also faces challenges related to an aging population.
Relocating to Norway long-term is not easy for U.S. Citizens. While there are many advantages of retiring in Norway, the process can be complicated. According to the Norwegian government, a residence permit is only granted in certain circumstances. For example, if you are reuniting with family or working. Norwegian Embassy.
Norway was ranked by Forbes as the top retirement destination earlier this year. Everly Life. The report cited the country’s superior health care systems and social structure as being key factors for its success in attracting seniors.
Norway was ranked second in the 2025 Global Retirement Index. Ireland, Switzerland, Iceland, and Denmark rounded out the top five. Australia is the only non European country to make the top 10. The United States occupied the 21st position.
The report identified five other factors seniors worry about that could prevent them from having a secure retirement. This includes not having enough money to retire, inflation and the possibility of reduced benefits.
