Moving abroad isn’t just a dream for retirees or digital nomads — it’s a lifestyle choice more people are considering, especially with the rising cost of living in many Western countries. But finding a destination where you can maintain a high quality of life without draining your savings isn’t always easy. That’s where knowing the world’s most affordable countries for expats comes in.
These destinations offer more than just low costs. They boast vibrant cultures, friendly communities, and the kind of daily comforts that make living abroad genuinely enjoyable. Whether it’s Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or Latin America, there are countries where your dollar stretches further — not at the expense of lifestyle, but because of favorable living costs and local economies.
In this post, we’ll explore thirteen countries where expats can live comfortably on modest budgets while still enjoying rich cultural experiences, good healthcare, and plenty of travel opportunities. If you’ve ever dreamed of living abroad without constant financial stress, this list is a great place to start.
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Quick & Easy Tips for Affordable Expat Living
Research Visa Options and Residency Rules — Some countries offer easy long-term visas or digital nomad programs that make relocating smoother.
Factor in Healthcare and Insurance Costs — Affordable living isn’t just about rent; make sure local healthcare fits your budget and needs.
Consider the Currency Exchange Rate — A favorable exchange rate can make your income stretch significantly further.
Look Beyond the Capital Cities — Smaller towns or secondary cities often offer lower costs with a similar quality of life.
Join Local Expat Groups Online Before Moving — They can offer insights on cost of living, neighborhoods, and local services.
One common misconception is that cheaper countries mean a lower quality of life. In reality, many of the most affordable countries offer excellent healthcare, modern infrastructure, and vibrant communities — you’re not sacrificing comfort; you’re often escaping inflated costs found elsewhere.
Another debated belief is that you must move to remote or underdeveloped areas to find affordable living. In fact, many expat-friendly cities offer a blend of modern amenities and low costs, especially in countries with favorable exchange rates or local economies geared toward expat communities.
Perhaps most surprising is the idea that living abroad cheaply is only for the young or adventurous. More retirees, families, and professionals are discovering that affordable living abroad isn’t about “roughing it” — it’s about making smart financial choices in places that offer more for less.
Affordable Countries for Expats
1. Vietnam
Location: Southeast Asia
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Language: Vietnamese (English widely spoken in urban areas)
Cost of Living:
Rent: $300 – $600 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
Food: $1 – $3 for street food; $10 – $20 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
Utilities: $50 – $100 per month.
Transportation: $0.30 per bus ride; $50 – $100 per month for a motorbike rental.
Highlights:
Vibrant Cities: Explore bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Natural Beauty: Enjoy stunning landscapes such as Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta.
Expat Community: Growing expat community with plenty of networking opportunities.
Tips for Vietnam:
Learn Basic Vietnamese: While many locals speak English, learning basic Vietnamese can enhance your experience.
Health Insurance: Invest in a good health insurance plan as the quality of healthcare varies.
2. Thailand
Location: Southeast Asia
Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
Language: Thai (English widely spoken in urban and tourist areas)
Cost of Living:
Rent: $300 – $700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
Food: $1 – $3 for street food; $10 – $20 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
Utilities: $50 – $100 per month.
Transportation: $0.30 – $1 per bus or metro ride; $100 – $150 per month for a motorbike rental.
Highlights:
Cultural Richness: Visit ancient temples, vibrant markets, and cultural festivals.
Beach Destinations: Relax on beautiful beaches in places like Phuket and Koh Samui.
Friendly Locals: Enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the Thai people.
Tips for Thailand:
Visa: Research visa options and requirements as they can vary.
Health and Safety: Get vaccinations and take precautions against tropical diseases.
3. Portugal
Location: Southern Europe
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Portuguese (English widely spoken in urban areas)
Cost of Living:
Rent: $500 – $1,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
Food: $10 – $15 for a meal at a local restaurant; $30 – $50 at a mid-range restaurant.
Utilities: $100 – $150 per month.
Transportation: $1.50 per metro or bus ride; $40 – $60 per month for a public transport pass.
Highlights:
Historic Cities: Explore Lisbon, Porto, and the charming towns of the Algarve.
Mild Climate: Enjoy a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters.
Quality of Life: High quality of life with excellent healthcare and education systems.
Tips:
Learn Portuguese: While many people speak English, knowing Portuguese can be beneficial.
Healthcare: Consider the public healthcare system, which is highly regarded and affordable.
4. Mexico
Location: North America
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)
Language: Spanish (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
Cost of Living:
Rent: $300 – $800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
Food: $2 – $5 for street food; $10 – $20 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
Utilities: $50 – $100 per month.
Transportation: $0.30 per bus ride; $30 – $50 per month for a public transport pass.
Highlights:
Diverse Landscapes: From beaches to mountains to vibrant cities.
Rich Culture: Experience colorful festivals, historic sites, and diverse cuisine.
Proximity to the U.S.: Easy travel to and from the United States.
Tips:
Safety: Research safe neighborhoods and cities, as safety can vary.
Learn Spanish: Knowing Spanish can greatly enhance your experience and integration.
5. Colombia
Location: South America
Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
Language: Spanish
Cost of Living:
Rent: $300 – $700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
Food: $2 – $5 for local food; $10 – $20 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
Utilities: $50 – $100 per month.
Transportation: $0.70 per bus or metro ride.
Highlights:
Natural Beauty: Enjoy diverse landscapes from beaches to coffee plantations to Amazon rainforests.
Vibrant Cities: Explore Medellín, Bogotá, and Cartagena.
Friendly People: Colombians are known for their warmth and hospitality.
Tips:
Learn Spanish: Essential for daily life and better integration.
Safety: Be aware of the areas to avoid and stay informed about local safety advisories.
6. Ecuador
Location: South America
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Language: Spanish
Cost of Living:
Rent: $300 – $600 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
Food: $2 – $5 for local food; $10 – $20 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
Utilities: $50 – $100 per month.
Transportation: $0.25 per bus ride; $1 for a taxi ride within the city.
Highlights:
Diverse Ecosystems: From the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains to the Galápagos Islands.
Affordable Healthcare: High-quality, affordable healthcare system.
Friendly Expats: A growing expat community in cities like Cuenca and Quito.
Tips:
Learn Spanish: Essential for communication and daily life.
Altitude: Be aware of high altitudes in cities like Quito and acclimate accordingly.
7. Malaysia
Location: Southeast Asia
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Language: Malay (English widely spoken)
Cost of Living:
Rent: $300 – $700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
Food: $2 – $5 for local food; $10 – $20 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
Utilities: $50 – $100 per month.
Transportation: $0.30 – $1 per bus or metro ride.
Highlights:
Modern Cities: Experience the bustling capital Kuala Lumpur with its iconic skyline.
Natural Beauty: Explore the beaches of Langkawi and the rainforests of Borneo.
Cultural Diversity: A mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures.
Tips:
Expat Communities: Join local expat communities for support and networking.
Health Insurance: Ensure you have good health insurance, as private healthcare can be costly.
8. Indonesia
Why It’s Affordable:
Indonesia, particularly Bali, offers low living costs and a laid-back lifestyle for expats.
Average Monthly Cost for Expats:
$800–$1,300 for a single person, including rent.
Top Cities for Expats:
Bali: Affordable villas, yoga culture, and tropical living.
Yogyakarta: A less touristy but affordable option for culture lovers.
Highlights:
Stunning beaches, affordable villas, and a relaxed atmosphere.
9. Bulgaria
Why It’s Affordable:
Bulgaria is Europe’s hidden gem for budget living, with a low cost of living and beautiful scenery.
Average Monthly Cost for Expats:
$1,000–$1,500 for a single person, including rent.
Top Cities for Expats:
Sofia: Affordable European capital with modern amenities.
Plovdiv: Ancient charm and low rent costs.
Highlights:
Low taxes, affordable food, and proximity to other European countries.
10. Nicaragua
Why It’s Affordable:
Nicaragua is one of Central America’s most budget-friendly destinations with a laid-back lifestyle.
Average Monthly Cost for Expats:
$800–$1,200 for a single person, including rent.
Top Cities for Expats:
Granada: Colonial beauty and low living costs.
San Juan del Sur: Affordable beach living.
Highlights:
Warm climate, affordable healthcare, and beautiful beaches.
11. Morocco
Why It’s Affordable:
Morocco offers a mix of rich culture, affordability, and stunning landscapes.
Average Monthly Cost for Expats:
$900–$1,200 for a single person, including rent.
Top Cities for Expats:
Marrakesh: Affordable living with vibrant markets and culture.
Tangier: Coastal living with Mediterranean views.
Highlights:
Low cost of living, colorful culture, and delicious food.
12. Peru
Why It’s Affordable:
Peru combines low living costs with breathtaking scenery and great food.
Average Monthly Cost for Expats:
$900–$1,300 for a single person, including rent.
Top Cities for Expats:
Lima: A bustling city with affordable food and housing.
Arequipa: Beautiful landscapes and lower costs than Lima.
Highlights:
Delicious cuisine, cultural experiences, and affordable healthcare.
13. Philippines
The Philippines offers stunning tropical islands, a low cost of living, and a welcoming expat community.
Average Monthly Cost for Expats:
$800–$1,200 for a single person, including rent.
Top Cities for Expats:
Cebu: Affordable living with beaches nearby.
Dumaguete: Small-town charm and very low costs.
Final Thoughts
The idea of living abroad comfortably without stretching your budget is more realistic than many people think. By choosing the right destination, doing thorough research, and preparing for the local culture, expats can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle in countries where everyday living is genuinely affordable.
It’s not just about saving money — it’s about unlocking opportunities to travel more, experience different cultures, and build a life that’s rich in experiences rather than expenses. The countries on this list aren’t just budget-friendly; they’re places where people can thrive, not just survive.
So if moving abroad has been on your mind, consider stepping beyond the usual expensive expat hotspots. The world is full of affordable destinations where your money — and your quality of life — can go a lot further than you ever imagined.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.