Sub-Saharan Africa
Retire in Namibia
Namibia offers a striking combination of low cost of living—roughly 41% of US price levels—stable English-speaking governance, and mild, temperate weather year-round. It is a country of wide open spaces and established expat communities, particularly suited to those seeking an unhurried pace without the intensity of tropical heat.
- Currency
- NAD
- Main language
- English
- Population
- 3M
At a glance
Cost of living
~59% cheaper than the US
national price level vs the US · World Bank (PPP ÷ FX rate), 2025
The five-factor profile
Each axis is a 0–100 score derived from the sourced indicators above and the climate normals below — nothing is hand-set. See the methodology for the exact formulas.
- Affordability73
- Healthcare66
- Climate comfort93
- Longevity43
- Prosperity43
Climate
Long-term climate normals for 3 representative cities. Annual mean 19.4°C · warmest month 24.1°C · coolest 12.3°C.
| City | Annual mean | January | July | Rain / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windhoek | 19.4°C | 24.1°C | 12.3°C | 442 mm |
| Swakopmund | 17.7°C | 19.2°C | 17.1°C | 111 mm |
| Walvis Bay | 17.4°C | 19.1°C | 16.7°C | 79 mm |
Source: NASA POWER (MERRA-2 climatology), long-term climatology.
Retirement-visa path
Namibia does not operate a dedicated retirement visa programme. Most long-stay residents enter on a Residence Permit, which typically requires proof of financial self-sufficiency (such as pension income or savings), though the exact threshold varies by individual case and consular discretion. You will need to contact the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs or your nearest Namibian embassy or high commission to clarify current requirements and application procedures, as these may change.
Official source: mha.gov.na
AI-drafted from official sources · pending human review · drafted 2026-07-06
Taxes, briefly
Namibia taxes worldwide income for residents; consult a tax professional in both your home country and Namibia to understand your obligations and any treaty benefits.
Safety & advisories
Consult your government's official travel and safety advisory for Namibia before committing to a move.
Who it tends to suit
Retirees who value solitude, outdoor exploration, and stretching a fixed income while living in a politically stable, English-speaking environment.