While most people think that living in Europe is out of their budget, the compact country of Portugal may surprise you.

Below you’ll find the most affordable expat havens we’ve found, places where your dollars will get you further than in the U.S. While an affordable location can mean more pocket money for leisure activities, it can also ensure peace of mind knowing you are financially secure and can live comfortably on a modest retirement fund. We’ve sent detailed surveys to our correspondents spread out around the world to get verified, specific costs for things like groceries rent utilities household help eating out gym membership transport and travel and the unexpected costs that come with living overseas.

After all, who wants to spend their golden years counting pennies and wondering how far the next Social Security check will stretch? That’s the beauty of travel, and International Living’s Retirement Index-you have the power to choose a country with a cost of living that suits your budget.

Affordability is often the single-most influential factor in choosing an overseas retirement destination.

Affordable global cities ranking