Dreaming of a peaceful retirement surrounded by stunning landscapes and a high quality of life? According to a new report, Norway might be the ultimate destination for retirees in 2025.

The 2025 Global Retirement Index ranked Norway as the top country in the world for retirement, outshining 43 other developed nations. The annual index measures factors such as cost of living, healthcare, and overall financial security for older adults.

“Norway has reclaimed the number one spot in the 2025 Natixis Global Retirement Index thanks to strong health outcomes, low unemployment, and high income equality,” the report noted. The Scandinavian nation has remained in the top three every year since the index began in 2012.

Norway excelled across several categories, taking first place in material well-being, second in quality of life, and fourth in health. It also earned top marks for air and water quality, sanitation, and other environmental standards — not surprising for a country often listed among the world’s happiest.

Photo: unsplash.com/@onesixtieth

The only area where Norway slipped slightly was in the “Finances in Retirement” category, dropping from 12th to 16th place. Analysts attribute this to the nation’s higher tax rates, which fund its generous public welfare programs and help sustain an aging population.

For Americans dreaming of retiring in Norway, it’s worth noting that relocating there permanently isn’t simple. The Norwegian Embassy specifies that residence permits are typically granted only under certain conditions, such as family ties or employment.

Still, Norway continues to shine in global comparisons. Earlier this year, Everly Life also highlighted the country for its excellent healthcare system and strong social infrastructure — key factors that make it so appealing to retirees.

Other countries rounding out the top five in the 2025 Global Retirement Index include Ireland, Switzerland, Iceland, and Denmark. Australia was the only non-European nation to make the top 10, while the United States ranked 21st.

The report also highlighted five major concerns among seniors worldwide: insufficient savings, inflation, shrinking pension benefits, and rising long-term healthcare costs.

In a world where retirement dreams often include comfort, stability, and beauty, Norway delivers all three.