One Of The Best Places To Retire Outside Of The US Is An Affordable City In England

The average retirement savings needed by Americans has gone up every year. Inflation and healthcare costs are draining savings more rapidly than ever. As a result, more people are deciding to retire overseas because of it. According to the Social Security Administration, the number of U.S. retirees living internationally increased to a record 711,778 Americans in 2024. 

The United Kingdom has become a popular escape from rising U.S. costs and unpredictable medical bills. According to Numbeo's 2025 data, the overall cost of living in the U.K. was 8.1% lower than in the United States. Groceries cost 17.1% less. For retirees on fixed incomes, those differences really matter. That's where one northern English city stands out.

Manchester hasn't always been seen as a retirement spot. But this northern English city is turning into a surprisingly affordable option for Americans looking to retire overseas, with monthly costs running about £873 ($1,183) for one person, according to Numbeo. Known historically for its industrial heritage and world-famous football clubs (such as Manchester City and Manchester United), Manchester has in the last decade pivoted toward culture and livability. Greater Manchester's latest aging report shows over 780,000 residents were 55-plus in 2024. That's more than 27% of the region's population, and retiree numbers are climbing fast.

Housing cost is typically the critical factor when deciding on a city. According to the U.K. Office for National Statistics, the average one-bedroom rent in Manchester reached £961 ($1,302) monthly in June 2025. By comparison, according to Apartments.com, the U.S. average was $1,637 for the same apartment size. American retirees could save around $335 monthly by choosing Manchester, making a tangible difference in their budget.

While housing is a major factor, healthcare costs can catch you off guard if you're unprepared. American retirees who settle legally in the U.K. can get National Health Service (NHS) care by paying the immigration health surcharge – £1,035 per adult each year (about $1,400) — when they apply for long-term visas. The NHS states that by paying this surcharge, non-UK nationals, including Americans living abroad, receive full access to the same healthcare services as U.K. citizens, including primary care, emergencies, and hospital treatment. That removes a big financial worry for American expats. However, you still pay for dental, vision, and some private treatments.

Manchester's transport system is worth mentioning. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority runs the Bee Network, which kept fares at £2 ($2.71) for adults and £1 ($1.36) for children through 2025. They also offer a 60-minute 'hopper' window, allowing multiple bus journeys within an hour on a single fare.

Manchester eases retirement pressures with its wide range of free amenities. According to Manchester City Council, as of 2025, residents aged 60 or over can swim for free every day, year-round, at council pools, simply by registering with proof of age and a local address, like a utility bill or passport. The city's parks also have no entry fees. Heaton Park is one of Europe's biggest municipal parks; Alexandra Park and Fletcher Moss Park have walking paths, gardens, and sports courts. This works especially well for retirees interested in matching their retirement lifestyle for long-term financial success.

Manchester's libraries offer free membership to anyone living legally in the U.K. You get full borrowing rights, plus computer access and reading spaces. Many local museums offer free entry, including Manchester Museum, People's History Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, and Chetham's Library, which is Britain's oldest surviving free library. All of them welcome older visitors and work to engage the local community.

The city weaves social and cultural activities right into daily life. This saves retirees money without sacrificing quality of life. Age UK Manchester offers free clubs for older adults — think woodworking groups like Men in Sheds, book swaps, quizzes, and gentle exercise sessions. Finally, the Manchester Community Center often puts together coffee mornings, creative workshops, and movie nights for people 65 and up.