The aging of the world's population is accelerating. According to forecasts by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), by 2050, approximately 30 percent of the world's population will be people aged 65 and over. This makes the issue of a comfortable and safe life during retirement increasingly important not only for individuals but also for states as a whole. One of the rankings prepared in this area is the “Global Retirement Index”.
Modern.az reports that in the study presented by “Visit World”, 44 countries were evaluated across 18 indicators. The indicators were grouped into four main categories: healthcare, quality of life, material well-being, and financial sustainability.
These criteria allow for the assessment of people's living conditions after retirement, including access to medical services, income levels, and economic stability.
1. Norway – the best country for retirement life
Norway took first place in the “Global Retirement Index” ranking with a result of 81 percent. The country, which has been in the top three for several years, has once again risen to leadership.
Norway shows high results across all main categories. It is the only country to be in the top ten for each of the four indicators of the ranking. The combination of these factors makes Norway one of the most favorable countries to live in during retirement.
One of the country's main advantages is its developed healthcare system and an average life expectancy exceeding 80 years. In addition, the revenues from the state oil fund and the low level of public debt significantly contribute to the sustainability of the pension system.
2. Switzerland – economic stability and high standard of living
Switzerland ranked second in the rating with a result of 80 percent. The country lags slightly behind Norway in this indicator.
Switzerland's high position is associated with economic stability, high incomes of the population, and the development of the healthcare system. Although a certain decline was recorded in the indicator of financial sustainability, the country's overall result is among the best in the ranking.
In addition, Switzerland is among the leading countries in terms of population satisfaction with life and the state of the environment.
However, one of the country's significant drawbacks is the high cost of living. Switzerland remains one of the most expensive countries to live in Europe.
3. Iceland – high quality of life and social protection
Iceland took third place in the ranking with a result of 79 percent.
The country has high indicators in terms of quality of life, especially in terms of population satisfaction with life, the state of the environment, and the development of the social support system.
Another advantage of Iceland is the relatively low inequality in incomes. This factor helps older people to have more stable living conditions.
4. Ireland – high incomes and stable economy
Ireland took fourth place in the ranking with a result of 76 percent. Although there was a decline in some indicators compared to previous years, the country maintained its position in the group of leaders.
The decline in results is mainly associated with indicators in the categories of financial sustainability and material well-being.
Nevertheless, Ireland remains one of the most developed countries in Europe in terms of per capita income and overall economic stability.
5. Australia – quality healthcare and longevity
Australia ranked fifth in the world ranking thanks to its stable economy and high standard of living.
The country also has good indicators in terms of air quality and the state of the environment. These factors are especially important for the health and comfortable living of older people.
One of Australia's main advantages is its developed healthcare system, which provides access to quality medical services. This also contributes to the average life expectancy in the country exceeding 80 years.
Thus, in the Global Retirement Index for 2026, Norway, Switzerland, and Iceland are in the top three. The ranking shows that not only high incomes but also healthcare, social protection, the environment, and economic stability play an important role for a comfortable life during retirement.
