Retire in Latvia
Last updated on Apr 04, 2023
Summary: Retirees are attracted to Latvia for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and low cost of living. Latvia also offers a high quality of life, with excellent healthcare and a wide range of leisure activities. The weather in Latvia is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit in the summer, and from the mid-teens to the mid-30s Fahrenheit in the winter.
What is it like to retire in Latvia?
"Latvia is a great place for retirees to enjoy their golden years. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. There is an active expat community in Latvia, with many retirees from other countries choosing to settle here. Cultural attractions abound, with a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. There is also plenty of nightlife to enjoy, with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Retirees in Latvia can also take advantage of the country's excellent healthcare system and low cost of living," remarked one retiree in Latvia.
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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Latvia?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Latvia is the cost of living, which is higher than in many other countries. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Latvian, as English is not widely spoken. Furthermore, the healthcare system in Latvia is not as comprehensive as in other countries, and there may be limited access to medical care. Finally, the pension system in Latvia is not as generous as in other countries, and retirees may find it difficult to make ends meet," explained a retiree in Latvia.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Latvia?
"Retiring in Latvia offers a number of rewarding aspects. One of the most attractive benefits is the low cost of living, which allows retirees to stretch their retirement savings further. Additionally, Latvia is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage, offering retirees plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the outdoors. The country also has a strong healthcare system, providing retirees with access to quality medical care. Finally, Latvia is a safe and welcoming place to live, with a friendly and diverse population," remarked one retiree in Latvia.
What are healthcare services like in Latvia?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Latvia. They wrote:
"Latvia has a public healthcare system that provides free or low-cost medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, and specialized care. Latvia also has a number of private healthcare providers that offer more specialized services. The country has a well-developed system of health insurance, which covers most of the population. In addition, Latvia has a number of health promotion and disease prevention programs, such as immunization campaigns and health education initiatives," said a retiree who moved to Latvia.
How do I meet people in Latvia?
When we asked people living in Latvia about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Latvia often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals in Latvia," explained one retiree living in Latvia.
What is life like in Latvia?
When we asked people living in Latvia what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Latvia is an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads due to its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and excellent infrastructure. Expats and digital nomads in Latvia can enjoy a high quality of life, with plenty of opportunities to explore the country's stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. The country is also home to a diverse range of international communities, making it easy to find like-minded people and make new friends. Latvia is also a great place to work remotely, with reliable internet access and a range of coworking spaces available. Overall, Latvia is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an affordable and exciting place to live and work," explained a retiree in Latvia.
What do I need to know before retiring in Latvia?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Latvia, they said:
"Expats considering retiring in Latvia should be aware that the official language is Latvian, although English is widely spoken in the capital city of Riga. It is important to research the cost of living in Latvia, as prices can vary significantly depending on the city or region. Expats should also be aware of the local laws and regulations, and make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before moving to Latvia. Additionally, it is important to research the healthcare system in Latvia, as well as the availability of international health insurance. Finally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the climate and weather in Latvia," said one retiree in living in Latvia.
What type of recreational activities are there in Latvia?
"In Latvia, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, forests, and lakes. There are also many outdoor activities available, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are plenty of museums, galleries, and theatres to explore. Additionally, Latvia is home to a number of sports facilities, including swimming pools, ice rinks, and tennis courts. Finally, there are a variety of cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the year, providing residents with plenty of entertainment and fun," explained one retiree living in Latvia.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Latvia?
"People living in Latvia typically buy groceries from supermarkets, convenience stores, and farmers' markets. Other shopping can be done at department stores, specialty stores, and online retailers. Additionally, there are many flea markets and bazaars throughout Latvia where people can find unique items," explained one retiree living in Latvia.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.