Scotland
Retire in Scotland
Last updated on Feb 14, 2023
Summary: Retirees are often attracted to Scotland for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly people. Scotland is known for its rolling hills, lochs, and picturesque villages, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Additionally, Scotland is home to a variety of activities and attractions, such as golf courses, whisky distilleries, and historic castles, which can provide retirees with plenty of entertainment. The weather in Scotland is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit in the summer and the mid-20s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit in the winter.
What is it like to retire in Scotland?
"Retirees in Scotland and its surroundings enjoy a vibrant and active lifestyle. There is an active expat community, with many retirees from other countries choosing to settle in Scotland. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the many castles, museums, and galleries. There is also plenty of outdoor recreation to enjoy, such as hiking, fishing, and golfing. For those looking for a more active nightlife, there are plenty of pubs, clubs, and restaurants to explore," said a person in Scotland.
Now Health InternationalThe insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.
GET A QUOTE
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Scotland?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Scotland is the cost of living. Scotland has a higher cost of living than many other parts of the UK, and this can be difficult to manage on a fixed income. Additionally, the weather in Scotland can be unpredictable and harsh, which can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities. Furthermore, the healthcare system in Scotland is different from the rest of the UK, and navigating the system can be difficult for those who are unfamiliar with it. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who are not native Scots, as English is not always the primary language spoken in Scotland," commented one retiree living in Scotland.
AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world. Presently the AGS Group has over 141 locations in more than 95 countries and has one of the largest networks in the international removals industry. We relocate 85,000 families every year. Free moving quote!
AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world. Presently the AGS Group has over 141 locations in more than 95 countries and has one of the largest networks in the international removals industry. We relocate 85,000 families every year. Free moving quote!
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Scotland?
"Retiring in Scotland offers a wealth of opportunities to explore the country's stunning natural beauty, from its rugged mountains and lochs to its rolling hills and lush green valleys. Scotland is also home to a vibrant culture, with a rich history and a wide variety of attractions, from castles and museums to galleries and theatres. Retirees can also take advantage of Scotland's excellent healthcare system, as well as its low cost of living and generous pension system. Finally, Scotland is a great place to make new friends and build a strong social network, with plenty of activities and events to get involved in," said a person in Scotland.
What are healthcare services like in Scotland?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Scotland. They wrote:
"Scotland has a comprehensive healthcare system that is free at the point of use for all residents. The system is funded by the Scottish Government and managed by the National Health Service (NHS) Scotland. NHS Scotland provides a wide range of services, including general practice, hospital care, mental health services, and community health services. Patients can access these services through their local GP or hospital. Scotland also has a range of specialist services, such as cancer care, fertility services, and palliative care. In addition, Scotland has a number of private healthcare providers that offer a range of services," explained one retiree living in Scotland.
How do I meet people in Scotland?
When we asked people living in Scotland about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"American Women Of Aberdeen... The organization started out just for Americans, but the group has grown to members from France, Norway, Germany and quite a few other countries. The group has individual groups that meet for stichery,scrapbooking, hiking, side trips, and more," explained a retiree in Aberdeen.
Answer Question & View More Answers
What is life like in Scotland?
When we asked people living in Scotland what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Scotland is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live and work. The country offers a high quality of life, with a strong economy, excellent healthcare, and a vibrant culture. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the stunning scenery, from the rolling hills of the Highlands to the rugged coastline of the islands. The cities are full of life, with plenty of opportunities for socialising, shopping, and entertainment. Scotland is also a great place to learn English, with many language schools and universities offering courses. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad," commented one retiree living in Scotland.
"In comparing life in the suburbs of Houston to Banchory, Scotland, life rolls along at a much slower pace. From what I've experienced, family...mainly children, are the priority. In healthcare an adult appointment can be cancelled because an ill child needs to be seen. Additionally, community activites are available for children to participate in during school holidays," explained one retiree living in Banchory.
Answer Question & View More Answers
The insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.
The insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.
What do I need to know before retiring in Scotland?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Scotland, they said:
"I always describe Edinburgh as: As Boston is to New York, so is Edinburgh to London. In other words, Edinburgh is London's smaller, more genteel cousin. Most Americans would call it quaint. It's a compact city and you can walk almost anywhere. For Americans, the UK can be quite expensive. This can be exaggerated in Scotland, as they tend to pay about 10 - 15% less in salaries than in London," explained a retiree in Edinburgh.
"Don't bring your US car over and be prepared for just how much it really costs to live over here. It is almost 60% higher than the States," explained one retiree living in Aberdeen.
Answer Question & View More Answers
What type of recreational activities are there in Scotland?
"Scotland offers a wide variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. From outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing, to indoor activities such as bowling, swimming, and ice skating, there is something for everyone. Scotland also has a number of parks and gardens, as well as a variety of museums and galleries. For those looking for a more active experience, Scotland has a number of sports facilities, including golf courses, tennis courts, and football pitches. Additionally, Scotland is home to a number of historic sites, castles, and monuments, providing a unique cultural experience," said one retiree in Scotland.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Scotland?
"People living in Scotland typically buy groceries from supermarkets such as Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, and Aldi. Other shopping can be done at department stores such as John Lewis, Debenhams, and House of Fraser, as well as smaller independent shops. Shopping centres such as the Buchanan Galleries in Glasgow and the St. James Centre in Edinburgh are also popular places to shop," explained one retiree living in Scotland.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Scotland?
- How do I find a place to live in Scotland?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Scotland?
- What is the average cost of housing in Scotland?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Scotland?
- What should I pack when moving to Scotland?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Scotland?
- Why do people move to Scotland?
- How are healthcare services Scotland?
- What are medical services in Scotland like?
- What are typical rents in Scotland?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
