If you’re looking to explore a distant land in-depth, work remotely, or retire in comfort, moving abroad can be a great way to accomplish that. While other factors (like visas, culture, and amenities) are important, cost is often one of the most important considerations. Here are 16 countries that are so cheap to live in that you might not have to work at all.
Vietnam
International Living reveals, “Vietnam is an inexpensive country to live in. Most items cost less than half of what you would pay in the West.” As if that wasn’t enough, the country boasts some spectacular landscapes, delicious food, and friendly people. In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, expats can enjoy a comfortable urban lifestyle on a modest budget.
Thailand
Another affordable Asian gem, Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine. Remote Year claims living costs are around 37% lower than in the U.S. and that comfortable living costs approximately $1,500 a month. Mainland locations, like Chiang Mai and Pattaya, are the cheapest, with island locations costing more.
Mexico
A bit closer to home, Mexico offers affordable living, a rich culture, and spicy cuisine just south of the U.S. border. Forbes says cities like Aguascalientes, Saltillo, and Veracruz are particularly affordable, with access to high-quality healthcare (that won’t break the bank) and vibrant local communities.
Portugal
According to Portugal Residency Advisors, the consumer living index is 42.65% lower in Portugal than in the U.S. It is one of Western Europe’s most affordable countries, offering stunning beaches, a pleasant climate, and easy access to other countries in Europe, like France and Spain. Places like Porto and Coimbra have the lowest living costs.
Philippines
The cost of sustaining a family of four, including all bills (except rent), is approximately $1,923 a month in the Philippines. With several tropical islands to choose from and big, vibrant cities like Cebu, expats can enjoy a comfortable life with low housing costs, cheap local food, and beautiful natural surroundings.
Malaysia
Malaysia is a multicultural country, offering a high quality of life at a comparatively low cost, especially compared to the West. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, provides modern amenities, advanced technology, and clean streets at a fraction of the cost found in American cities of the same size.
Indonesia
Bali is Indonesia’s most renowned island for expats seeking a tropical beach lifestyle on a budget, but there are Indonesian locations offering even cheaper lifestyles. BFI Finance says cities like Yogyakarta and Banyuwangi offer the lowest living costs, with a rich culture, friendly people, beautiful landscapes, and affordable cuisine.
Ecuador
This Central American country offers a diverse range of climates and landscapes, from tropical beaches to green mountains, all of which come with a very affordable cost of living. Livingcost.org puts the cost of living below the world average and recommends cities such as Cuenca and Quito for inexpensive urban housing, food, and healthcare.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria, one of the cheapest countries in the European Union, boasts affordable housing, groceries, transportation, and recreation, with many low-cost entertainment and cultural options. Cities like Sofia and Plovdiv aren’t as cheap as the countryside, but they offer a blend of history, culture, and modern amenities at a fraction of the cost of other Western European cities.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua is also one of Central America’s most affordable countries, offering a variety of interesting scenery, from lakes to volcanoes. Places like Granada and León provide cheap housing and utilities, with the added benefit of busy, vibrant, and welcoming local communities.
Georgia
Educations claims the living costs for one person in Georgia’s capital city, Tbilisi, are only $415 a month without rent, which is also very affordable. The Georgian people are known for their hospitality and delicious Middle Eastern-style foods. The country is becoming an increasingly popular choice for expats seeking cheaper alternatives to the nearby UAE and Dubai.
Peru
Peru may be famous for the ancient site of Machu Picchu, but it has a lot more to offer. The cost of living is low, particularly in cities like Arequipa and Cusco, where housing, food, and transportation are all affordable. With a subtropical northern climate and a more temperate southern region, it’s perfect for anyone who dislikes tropical heat and humidity.
Romania
Romanian cities like Bacau and Pitesti offer many of the benefits of other European cities without the higher price tags found in Berlin and Rome. Even in bigger cities like Bucharest, lifestyles are affordable, with cheaper housing, transportation, and utilities amid a vibrant city with plenty of historical and cultural charm.
Guatemala
Rich in Mayan culture, volcanic landscapes, and historic colonial cities like Antigua, Guatemala has very low living costs, particularly for the basics like rent, food, clothing, and transportation. The country’s natural beauty is also a draw, with sites like Lake Atitlán and the Tikal ruins providing a backdrop to a comfortable life on a budget.
Turkey
Turkey’s unique position, straddling Europe and Asia, makes it a melting pot of different cultures and home to many historical sites. Although the capital, Istanbul, isn’t the cheapest, other areas (that aren’t tourist hotspots) provide very low living costs. Antalya and Fethiye offer coastal living in a mild climate at a fraction of the cost you’d pay in California.
Nepal
Nepal is not just for trekkers and mountaineers; it’s also a great place to live if you don’t want to spend a lot of money. The cost of living in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara is very low, particularly if you enjoy local cuisine and accommodation styles. It’s also the perfect place for anyone who values culture and spirituality.
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