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Over 450,000Social Security recipientslive outside of the United States.
In a2024 Monmouth poll, Americans are more interested in settling abroad than fifty years ago.
Its important to write down all of the dealbreakers of living in an area.
Staying in touch with family is at the top of the list for many retirees.
Our family lives on the East Coast of the United States, Cynthia said.
We wanted to be able to come back regularly to visit our family.
Dont just depend on the internet research, Edd said.
You have to show up.
Staying for a while in an area can give you a sense of what the day-to-day looks like.
The time spent there helps determine if the area aligns with your list.
If you want a temperate climate like we have, were at 8,400 feet.
You may come and check it out and realize you dont do well at high altitudes.
Rent, groceries, transportation, healthcare all factors should be considered.
This process helps to narrow down affordable places to live.
Depending on whats on the wishlist, utilities could eat up a huge part of the budget.
If you live in a warm climate, youre going to want air conditioning, Cynthia said.
Well, youre going to have to pay for that.
Using a car means paying for insurance and gas, but walkable towns are less expensive.
Depending on the country, citizenship might be necessary, but thats what immigration attorneys are for.
But when youre talking about legal issues, its best to have somebody thats your ally.
A local attorney will know the ins and outs of the immigration process in that country.
The Statons recommend reaching out to ex-pats living there as well.
There are tons of these groups on Facebook, Cynthia said.
You really cant be shy about getting help from people that are already living there.
At the end of the day, some people and resources help make the search and transition easier.
The process doesnt need to be overwhelming; take one step at a time and always ask for help.
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