5 Retirement Hot Spots Offering Luxury for Pennies on the Dollar - Top 5 Retirement Hubs

Occupying pride of place at the tip of the peninsula, this Malaysian retirement haven is the ideal option for those who wish to spend their last years in the Straits of Johor. Ideally located within close range of Singapore, Johor Bahru connects one to both Malaysia and the Lion City with ease. Home to Anantara Desaru Coast Residences and some of the top pool villas in Malaysia, Johor Bahru is known for its low cost of living and luxury amenities that are available at a fraction of the cost of what the same facilities would incur in the West. With a city atmosphere, one can shop at KSL City Mall and frequent the many gyms, parks, and restaurants located in this popular tourist haven while living in an affordably luxurious condo.

As the capital of the country, Panama City is another option for retirees in search of an inexpensive city with cosmopolitan facilities. Lined with art galleries, beachside promenades, high-end restaurants, and public parks, Panama City is surprisingly affordable and accessible to those who can spend USD 1100 a month on rent. The central metro line provides an efficient means of transport around the city while the conveniences available in Panama City are no less impressive than those of Miami and other coastal cities in the USA. The city is also known for reliable hired help for both cleaning and gardening services that do not cost as much like most major cities elsewhere.

Located in the heart of the Andes Mountains, Medellin, also known as the City of Flowers, is another attractive retirement city for those looking to spend less on a luxurious retirement lifestyle. The spring-like weather conditions that prevail throughout the year is what makes the City of Flowers a top choice for most as well as the fact that one can get around the neighbourhood with relative ease without the use of a car. As a people-oriented city, the community feeling is another plus for potential residents. Retirees hailing from the U.S find Medellin a good option as relatives and friends are able to visit them more frequently thanks to the city's proximity to the U.S.

Although Chiang Mai is smaller than Bangkok in terms of size, it is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the Thai capital. The lush, mountainous region that's home to a hundred temples is a pastoral paradise for retirees.

Situated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, this charming fishing village is a tourist hotspot as well as a popular retirement hub for those in search of warmer climates. Ocean-front condos and properties in Olon are affordable to retirees without excessive means, which makes these bamboo forest laden landscapes the perfect retirement option for most.