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These Countries Are Safer for Retirees Than the U.S. – What University of Missouri Employees Need to Know

'University of Missouri employees planning their retirement should consider the stability and peace of their chosen destination, as a tranquil environment not only enhances well-being but can also offer financial advantages, such as tax exemptions, making for a truly rewarding retirement experience.' – Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'University of Missouri employees looking to retire abroad should prioritize destinations that combine peace, low cost of living, and favorable tax incentives, as these factors contribute to a more relaxed and financially efficient retirement.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

The most peaceful countries for retirees in 2025, including Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica.
Key factors, such as the Global Peace Index and Global Retirement Index, influencing retirement destinations.
The lifestyle and financial benefits of retiring in these peaceful countries, specifically for University of Missouri employees.

Retirement should be a time of comfort, leisure, and, most importantly, well-being. After years of hard work at University of Missouri, the freedom to relax in a calm and tranquil setting becomes essential. According to a recent International Living study, the most peaceful countries for retirees in 2025 were identified using data from the Global Peace Index and the Global Retirement Index. This list features countries like Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica, all renowned for their low crime rates and peaceful environments, offering retirees an opportunity to live with less stress.

The research was compiled by International Living's team using their annual Global Retirement Index, which rates countries based on factors like health care, cost of living, infrastructure, and overall quality of life for seniors. The inclusion of the Global Peace Index, which measures political stability and crime rates, lends further depth to this list. These countries are ideal for those looking for a calm and serene retirement abroad, as they score highly on both indexes, making them particularly relevant for University of Missouri employees considering life after retirement.

Why These Nations Stand Out

The countries highlighted in International Living's 2025 list not only provide a peaceful and stable environment but also offer economic benefits such as affordable health care and low living costs. Portugal, for instance, consistently ranks highly for its tranquility and low crime rate. With its welcoming culture and excellent infrastructure, Portugal is an attractive option for those seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing comfort. It ranks 7th on the Global Peace Index and 2nd on the Global Retirement Index, making it a top choice for retirees, including University of Missouri employees.

One retiree interviewed by International Living, who has lived in Portugal for over seven years, shares that the country offers a 'sense of calm that wraps around you like a warm blanket—steady, comforting, and always present.' With its peaceful environment and high standard of living, Portugal may provide an ideal retreat for retirees, including University of Missouri employees looking to unwind after years of hard work.

Malaysia, ranked 7th on the Global Retirement Index and 10th on the Global Peace Index, is another top destination. Known for its blend of modernity and tradition, Malaysia is a peaceful, cosmopolitan country that boasts low crime rates and a laid-back lifestyle. Cities like Penang and Langkawi are especially popular with expatriates. An expat interviewed by International Living, a 16-year resident of Malaysia, emphasizes that the country’s cultural respect and harmonious cohabitation are key to its tranquility—ideal for those from University of Missouri looking for a calm place to retire.

Another favorite among retirees is Costa Rica, which ranks 3rd on the Global Retirement Index. Despite its lower ranking on the Global Peace Index (38th), Costa Rica is known for its natural beauty, stable democracy, and affordable health care. 'I'm grateful that my kids have grown up on the beach, surrounded by nature's playground,' says an International Living interviewee, who has lived in Costa Rica since 2013. Costa Rica offers retirees a lifestyle that is harmonious with nature, making it an appealing choice for those from University of Missouri looking for a peaceful retirement.

Other Noteworthy Retirement Locations

In addition to Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica, several other countries offer peaceful and tranquil retirement options. Ireland, ranked 2nd on the Global Peace Index and 15th on the Global Retirement Index, is another excellent option. With its stable political climate, low crime rate, and high-quality health care, Ireland provides a peaceful and enjoyable lifestyle for retirees, including those from University of Missouri, who are seeking relaxation in retirement.

Vietnam, ranked 16th on the Global Retirement Index and 41st on the Global Peace Index, is also gaining popularity among retirees. With its vibrant culture, affordable living, and stunning landscapes, Vietnam offers a cost-effective and tranquil retirement option for those, including University of Missouri employees, looking to settle in Southeast Asia.

Uruguay, often overlooked, ranks 14th on the Global Retirement Index and 52nd on the Global Peace Index. Known for its low crime rates and political stability, Uruguay provides retirees with a peaceful lifestyle and a friendly, welcoming community. With easy access to both the beach and countryside, Uruguay offers a relaxed and affordable way of life—perfect for those from University of Missouri seeking a laid-back retirement.

Retirement Planning and Global Peace Index

When considering potential retirement destinations, the Global Peace Index is an important factor. In 2024, the United States ranked 132nd on the Global Peace Index, which is much lower than many of the countries listed by International Living. For University of Missouri employees seeking peace of mind, it's important to consider not only the cost of living but also the stability and tranquility of the country.

For those planning to retire abroad, the level of stability should be a key consideration. Retirees who settle in countries with high Global Peace Index scores are more likely to feel at ease, allowing them to enjoy their retirement without the concerns of living in an unstable region. Whether it’s the peaceful streets of Portugal, the cultural harmony of Malaysia, or the natural beauty of Costa Rica, these countries offer retirees, including those from University of Missouri, the ideal setting for a worry-free life.

In Conclusion

Retirement is a time to enjoy the fruits of years of hard work and planning, and choosing the right location is essential for a fulfilling future. According to International Living, the most peaceful retirement locations offer a blend of affordability, stability, and tranquility, making them perfect for those seeking a calm and enjoyable lifestyle. By considering both the Global Retirement Index and the Global Peace Index, University of Missouri employees can make informed decisions about where to spend their golden years, helping them enjoy a high quality of life and stability.

Many of the countries on this list, including Portugal and Malaysia, also provide retirees with significant financial advantages. Portugal, for example, offers a tax structure for non-habitual residents that allows retirees to enjoy tax exemptions on certain types of income for up to ten years. Malaysia also offers tax breaks, including exemptions on foreign pension income. These tax benefits can help reduce the overall cost of retirement abroad, which may be particularly appealing for University of Missouri employees looking to stretch their retirement savings.

For University of Missouri employees planning their retirement, exploring these countries may provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy a tranquil and affordable retirement. Consider retiring in a place that offers both financial incentives and a calm, tranquil environment where you can truly unwind.

Selecting the right retirement destination is like choosing a second home. The United States, while offering many benefits, can be like living in a bustling city where the constant activity may detract from the tranquility you desire. Countries like Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica offer a quieter, more peaceful environment—much like a relaxing retreat—where you can enjoy the calm and serenity of retirement, making them the perfect destination for University of Missouri employees seeking a less stressful future.

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Sources:

1. International Living Editorial Team. 'The 2025 Annual Global Retirement Index.' International Living , Apr. 2025, https://internationalliving.com/the-best-places-to-retire/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

2. Institute for Economics & Peace. 'Global Peace Index 2024.' Vision of Humanity , June 2024, https://www.economicsandpeace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GPI-2024-web.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

3. Travel + Leisure Editorial Team. 'These Countries Were Just Named Safer for Retirees Than the U.S.' Travel + Leisure , May 2025, https://www.travelandleisure.com/countries-safer-for-retirement-than-usa-11739864?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

4. Kiplinger Editorial Team. 'Retire in Costa Rica for Expat Heaven.' Kiplinger , May 2025, https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/happy-retirement/retire-in-costa-rica-for-expat-heaven?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

5. SeniorLiving.org Editorial Team. 'Best Places to Retire for Seniors in 2025.' SeniorLiving.org , Mar. 2025, https://www.seniorliving.org/retirement/best-places/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

How does the eligibility criteria for the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan at the University of Missouri System differ for Level One and Level Two members, particularly in regard to their hire or rehire dates?

Eligibility Criteria for Level One and Level Two Members: Level One members are employees hired before October 1, 2012, or those rehired before October 1, 2019, who had earned a vested benefit but did not receive a lump sum. Level Two members are those hired or rehired between October 1, 2012, and October 1, 2019, without eligibility for Level One benefits. Employees hired after October 1, 2019, do not accrue service credit under the DB Plan(University of Missouri …).

In what ways do service credits accumulated at the University of Missouri System impact an employee's retirement benefits, and how can employees ensure that they effectively maximize their service credit over the years?

Impact of Service Credits on Retirement Benefits: Service credits are critical in calculating retirement benefits at the University of Missouri System. Employees accumulate service credits based on their years of service, which directly affect their pension calculations. Maximizing service credits involves consistent full-time employment without breaks, as any leave of absence or part-time status may impact the total service credits earned(University of Missouri …)(University of Missouri …).

What are the various options available to employees at the University of Missouri System for receiving their retirement benefits upon reaching normal retirement age, and how do these options influence long-term financial planning for retirement?

Retirement Benefit Options: Upon reaching normal retirement age, employees can choose between a Single Life Annuity or a Joint and Survivor Annuity, both with options for lump-sum payments of 10%, 20%, or 30% of the actuarial present value. These choices influence monthly payout amounts, and selecting a lump sum reduces future monthly benefits proportionally(University of Missouri …).

With respect to the University of Missouri System's Defined Benefit Plan, how are employees' contributions structured, and what implications does this have for their overall retirement savings strategy?

Employee Contributions: Employees contribute 1% of their salary up to $50,000 and 2% for earnings beyond that threshold. This structure helps fund the DB Plan, with the University covering the majority of the cost. Employees need to factor in these contributions as part of their overall retirement savings strategy(University of Missouri …).

How can employees at the University of Missouri System assess their eligibility for early retirement benefits, and what considerations should be taken into account when planning for an early retirement?

Early Retirement Eligibility: Employees may retire early if they meet specific criteria: at least 10 years of service credit for ages 55–60 or at least 5 years of service credit for ages 60–65. Early retirees will receive a reduced benefit to account for the longer payout period(University of Missouri …).

What tax implications should employees of the University of Missouri System be aware of when it comes to distributions from their retirement plans, and how can they effectively navigate these implications?

Tax Implications of Retirement Plan Distributions: Distributions from the University of Missouri System’s DB Plan are subject to federal taxes. Employees can mitigate tax burdens by electing to roll over lump-sum distributions to a qualified retirement account, such as an IRA, to avoid immediate tax liability(University of Missouri …).

What are the policies regarding the continuation of benefits for employees who leave the University of Missouri System, particularly for those who are not vested or are classified as non-vested members?

Non-Vested Employee Policies: Employees who leave the University before vesting in the DB Plan (fewer than 5 years of service) are not eligible for retirement benefits but can receive a refund of their contributions. These non-vested employees must decide whether to receive their refunded contributions as a lump sum or through a rollover to another retirement account(University of Missouri …).

How might changes in employment status, such as taking a leave of absence or returning to work after a break, affect the service credit calculation for an employee at the University of Missouri System?

Impact of Employment Status Changes on Service Credit: Employees who take leaves of absence or return after breaks in employment may experience reductions in service credit. However, certain types of leave, such as military service or medical leave, may allow employees to continue earning service credit(University of Missouri …)(University of Missouri …).

In the event of an employee's death prior to retirement, what benefits are available to their survivors under the University of Missouri System's Defined Benefit Plan, and how can members ensure their wishes are respected?

Survivor Benefits: In the event of an employee’s death before retirement, survivors may be eligible for either a lump sum or monthly payments. Employees can designate beneficiaries to ensure that their wishes are honored, providing financial protection for dependents(University of Missouri …).

How can an employee at the University of Missouri System contact the Human Resources Service Center to obtain personalized assistance regarding their retirement options and any inquiries related to their retirement plan details? These questions require detailed answers and are designed to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of retirement processes and options for employees of the University of Missouri System.

Contacting HR for Assistance: Employees can contact the Human Resources Service Center for personalized assistance regarding their retirement options by emailing hrservicecenter@umsystem.edu or visiting the myHR portal for further details(University of Missouri …).