If you’re dreaming of a lifestyle filled with vibrant culture, good food, safety, and comfort—but without sky-high living costs—you’re not alone. Many people are looking beyond major urban centers in search of cities where the cost of living is low, but the quality of life is high.
You don’t have to sacrifice comfort, safety, or culture to stick to a reasonable budget. The world is full of places where you can live well for less—and feel truly at home while doing it.
Whether you’re a remote worker, digital nomad, retiree, or simply a smart traveler, here are affordable cities around the world where your dollars (or euros, or pesos) go further—without sacrificing what matters most.
Read Here European Things that terrify Americans and American Habits that make Europeans Cringe
Read here how to pack for Europe and Best eSIM for Europe
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Tips for Living Well on Less
Cook local meals and shop at markets
Use public transportation instead of renting a car
Live like a local, not a tourist
Negotiate longer-term rentals for better deals
Connect with expat and local communities for tips and support
What We Considered
Cost of housing
Healthcare access
Safety and cleanliness
Walkability and public transportation
Cultural richness and local experiences
Access to nature or coastlines
One ongoing debate is whether promoting “affordable” cities risks driving up their cost of living. Some argue that highlighting these destinations encourages remote workers and expats to move in, potentially raising rents and pushing out locals. Others say cities benefit from new residents who contribute economically and bring fresh energy—suggesting that growth doesn’t always have to lead to displacement.
Another point of tension is the idea that quality of life can be measured at all. What feels “high quality” to one person—quiet streets, slow pace, smaller communities—may feel limiting to someone who prefers big-city stimulation or nightlife. Critics argue that affordability lists oversimplify personal needs and ignore the cultural differences that shape what makes a place enjoyable.
A final controversy involves expectations versus reality. Many people relocate hoping an affordable city will magically fix stress, finances, or loneliness. But no place is perfect, and every city has trade-offs—job markets, healthcare access, language barriers, or cultural adjustments. The conversation isn’t just about affordability; it’s about understanding that a great life depends on more than cheap rent.
1. Porto, Portugal
Why it stands out: Stunning riverside views, excellent food, and relaxed vibes
Rent for a one-bedroom: $700–$1,000
Rich history, port wine, and ocean access
Slower pace than Lisbon, with growing expat support
Public healthcare access for legal residents
2. Da Nang, Vietnam
Why it stands out: Coastal living with modern comforts
Rent: $350–$600 for a furnished apartment
Clean beaches, vibrant markets, and affordable healthcare
Great internet and digital nomad communities
Low cost of living without the chaos of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City
3. Mérida, Mexico
Why it stands out: Safest city in Mexico with rich Mayan heritage
Rent: $400–$700
Near the Gulf Coast, with great colonial architecture
Excellent healthcare, large expat community
Very walkable and bike-friendly
4. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Why it stands out: Clean, green, and peaceful
Rent: $600–$900
Access to both mountains and the Adriatic Sea
Efficient public transport and a compact, walkable capital
Great air quality and low crime rate
5. Medellín, Colombia
Why it stands out: “City of Eternal Spring” with cosmopolitan flair
Rent: $500–$800 in trendy neighborhoods like El Poblado
Excellent public transport (Metro + cable cars)
Affordable healthcare and fresh produce year-round
Thriving arts, culture, and food scenes
6. Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Why it stands out: Europe’s hidden historical treasure
Rent: $300–$500
One of the oldest cities in Europe with Roman ruins and lively cafes
Incredibly affordable, even by Eastern European standards
Mild climate and friendly locals
7. Penang, Malaysia
Why it stands out: Island life with urban comforts
Rent: $400–$700
Delicious food, excellent medical care, and multicultural influence
Strong expat presence and English widely spoken
A great base for Southeast Asia travel
8. Arequipa, Peru
Why it stands out: A mountain city full of charm and sunshine
Rent: $300–$500
Surrounded by volcanoes with colonial beauty and local markets
Affordable local cuisine and peaceful pace of life
Close to nature, hiking, and Peru’s top destinations
9. Tbilisi, Georgia
Why it stands out: Old World charm meets modern energy
Rent: $300–$600
Delicious food and wine culture, low cost of living
Visa-free stay up to 1 year for many nationalities
Unique architecture, rich history, and warm hospitality
10. Split, Croatia
Why it stands out: Adriatic beauty with old-town atmosphere
Rent: $600–$900
Access to stunning beaches, islands, and national parks
Walkable city center and modern amenities
Great for slow travelers and remote workers
Final Thoughts
Finding a place where life feels good without draining your bank account isn’t just luck—it’s the result of looking beyond the usual big-name cities and exploring destinations where affordability and quality of life actually coexist. These cities prove that you don’t need sky-high rent or a stressful cost of living to enjoy safety, culture, community, and comfort. In fact, many of the best places to live are the ones most people overlook.
What makes these affordable cities stand out is the balance they offer. You get access to great food, walkable neighborhoods, enjoyable weather, and solid public services without sacrificing your financial stability. Instead of living paycheck to paycheck, you can build savings, travel more, or simply enjoy life with less pressure. A good life becomes something you can actually feel, not just chase.
At the end of the day, choosing an affordable, high-quality city is about giving yourself space to breathe. When your expenses are manageable and your surroundings feel welcoming, your entire rhythm changes. Life becomes calmer, clearer, and more enjoyable. And that’s something worth chasing.
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.