New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

SkyWest Employees Take on the World: Exploring the Best Overseas Retirement Spots for 2025

'SkyWest employees exploring international retirement can enhance their lifestyle by planning carefully around healthcare, tax considerations, and residency requirements abroad.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'SkyWest employees nearing retirement should view overseas living as a strategic lifestyle choice that combines financial efficiency with rich cultural experiences—when approached with thoughtful planning.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

The growing trend of retiring abroad and its increasing allure among Americans.
Top international retirement destinations and their unique attractions, as highlighted in the 2025 Retirement Overseas Index.
Key considerations for transitioning to an overseas lifestyle, including residency visas, tax benefits, and healthcare options.

For SkyWest employees seeking a meaningful vacation or a permanent change of scenery after retirement, the idea of retiring abroad might be enticing. Recent trends show more Americans interested in international living. According to a Gallup poll, interest grew to 21% by 2024 from 10% in 2011. Improved global connectivity and broader social acceptance globally are contributing to this rising curiosity.

The 2025 Retirement Overseas Index by Live & Invest Overseas shows why people move abroad. This index rates retirement destinations on cost of living, healthcare quality, local regulations, tax considerations, and proximity to beaches, museums, and nature trails. Such factors are essential for retirement security.

The index considers some cities as good retirement spots. Valencia in Spain has an expat community and a Mediterranean climate for leisure and culture. And Medellin, Colombia, meanwhile, is an active urban area with a varied culinary and cultural scene for retirees looking for a dynamic lifestyle.

Transitioning to an overseas lifestyle takes planning. From choosing the right travel insurance to learning from current expats, SkyWest retirees can prepare for life abroad. Those efforts enable informed decision-making and realistic expectations for those prepared to live internationally.

Understanding residency is also important for retirees moving. For example, Portugal offers the D7 retirement visa, which has accessible income requirements and offers great healthcare and tax advantages. The historical richness, relaxed lifestyle, and beautiful landscape of Portugal are highlighted in the 2025 Retirement Overseas Index.

Find out where to retire abroad in 2025. Explore top options like Valencia and Medellin - both known for their cultural vibrancy, quality healthcare, affordability, and friendly environments. Taxes, residency visas, and leisure tips for retiring Americans abroad. Ideal for SkyWest workers looking for a beachy experience after work.

From Valencia's old-world charm to Medellin's cultural capital, each destination offers something different - like picking a wine for retirement. So, whether it's the soft familiarity of Valencia or the wild energy of Medellin, retirees can choose where to retire by weighing costs of living, healthcare, and local community - like choosing a wine by vineyard, vintage, and flavor profile.

Retiring abroad offers lower cost of living, affordable healthcare, and exposure to other cultures. The five sources that support these points are listed below with brief explanations of how they benefit retirees and strengthen the case for international retirement.

Articles you may find interesting:

Source:

1. Investopedia Staff. 'Is Retiring Abroad Right for You? Key Factors to Consider Now.' Investopedia , Nov. 2024, www.investopedia.com/is-retiring-abroad-right-for-you-key-factors-to-consider-now-8415232 .

2. Tubongbanua, Rachelle. 'Retiring Abroad: Financial Factors to Consider.' U.S. Bank , Oct. 2024, www.usbank.com/financialiq/inspire/retirement/retiring-abroad-financial-factors-to-consider.html .

3. Ingrim, Alex. 'The Pros and Cons of Retiring Abroad.' Kiplinger , July 2023, www.kiplinger.com/retirement/retiring-abroad/the-pros-and-cons-of-retiring-abroad .

4. U.S. News Staff. 'Best Places to Retire Overseas in 2025.' U.S. News & World Report , Jan. 2025, www.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/best-places-to-retire-overseas-in-2025 .

5. Investopedia Staff. 'Retirees Flock to These Countries for Unmatched Benefits—Is Yours on the List?' Investopedia , Oct. 2024, www.investopedia.com/retirees-flock-to-these-countries-for-unmatched-benefits-8421893 .

What is the 401(k) plan offered by SkyWest?

The 401(k) plan at SkyWest is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

How does SkyWest match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

SkyWest offers a company match on employee contributions, typically matching a percentage of what employees contribute up to a certain limit.

When can employees at SkyWest start contributing to the 401(k) plan?

Employees at SkyWest can begin contributing to the 401(k) plan after completing their initial onboarding period.

Is there a vesting schedule for SkyWest's 401(k) match?

Yes, SkyWest has a vesting schedule for the company match, meaning employees must work for a certain number of years before they fully own the matched funds.

What investment options are available in SkyWest's 401(k) plan?

SkyWest's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

Can employees at SkyWest take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, SkyWest allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

How can employees at SkyWest change their 401(k) contribution percentage?

Employees at SkyWest can change their 401(k) contribution percentage by accessing their account online or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does SkyWest offer financial education resources for employees regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, SkyWest provides financial education resources, including workshops and online tools, to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

What happens to the 401(k) savings if an employee leaves SkyWest?

If an employee leaves SkyWest, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) savings into another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the SkyWest plan, depending on the plan's rules.

Are there any fees associated with SkyWest's 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with managing the 401(k) plan at SkyWest, which are typically disclosed in the plan documents.