Tarragona ranked among the world's best cities for retirement in 2026

The Live and Invest Overseas index places the Catalan city sixth globally, citing its climate, UNESCO heritage, and affordable cost of living.

View of a historic street in Tarragona featuring Roman elements and people walking under the Mediterranean sun.
IA

View of a historic street in Tarragona featuring Roman elements and people walking under the Mediterranean sun.

The city of Tarragona has been ranked sixth globally by the Live and Invest Overseas index as one of the best places for North American retirees planning their retirement in 2026.

According to the latest index published by Live and Invest Overseas, which ranks the best cities to retire outside the United States, Tarragona is consolidating itself as a preferred destination for Americans due to its combination of history, pleasant climate, and a notably more affordable cost of living.

A retiree could cover their monthly budget in Tarragona with approximately 1,700 euros, compared to the more than 5,000 dollars they would need in the United States.

This economic difference is crucial for a growing demographic, as around 450,000 North American retirees already live abroad. Tarragona holds the sixth position in the ranking, placing it among the 10 most recommended destinations, surpassed only by locations such as Boquete (Panama), Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), or the Portuguese Algarve.
Beyond economics, Tarragona offers first-rate historical heritage, with Roman remains declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, golden sand beaches, and the convenience of being a medium-sized city. Its proximity to Barcelona also guarantees quick access to transport, leisure, and cultural offerings, essential factors for many expatriates.