Dreaming of a life abroad without breaking the bank? Whether you’re looking to retire, work remotely, or simply explore a new culture, there are plenty of countries where your dollar stretches further.
From Southeast Asia to South America, these 17 affordable countries offer breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and low costs of living.
In this guide, you’ll discover destinations that combine dreamy experiences with budget-friendly lifestyles. Ideal for digital nomads, expats, and adventurers alike, these locations provide excellent value for money.
Ready to trade high expenses for a richer life abroad? Let’s explore the world’s most affordable and desirable places to live.
1: Thailand
Thailand came out on top as the most affordable country in the world, according to the survey. Its name translates to “land of the free”.
From delicious cuisine and friendly faces, the popular destination ranked high in the adventure, quality of life, and cultural influence categories.
Tourists love it, and it happens to be economical. Considering a move abroad to save money? Thailand is an option.
2: Vietnam
Vietnam is an ideal place to live for anyone pinching pennies due to its low cost of living. It offers plenty of picturesque landscapes to explore, along with delicious food and adventurous activities.
Rent, public transportation, and street food are significantly cheaper there, especially compared to the US.
Looking to save a significant amount of money by living abroad? Vietnam presents a compelling option.
3: Philippines
Comprised of thousands of islands in the South China Sea, the Philippines is listed as one of the most affordable countries in which to reside.
It ranks high in adventure and adaptability. It’s considered a great environment to start a business, noting cheap manufacturing costs. This cluster of islands offers a vibrant way of life for less cash.
4: Indonesia
Indonesia is another cluster of islands offering a vibrant way of life for less cash. Expats can enjoy the country’s tropical climate, natural beauty, and diverse cultures with a relatively low cost of living.
Are you searching for economical destinations that are also great travel spots? Indonesia fits this description. It is truly as dreamy as it is inexpensive.
5: India
India, home to the world’s largest democracy and birthplace of multiple religions, rounds out the top five most affordable countries.
Its fast-growing, diverse economy opens opportunities for newcomers. Dense populations in some areas might lead expats to choose countryside settings.
India is an affordable place to live, eat, and explore. It ranks among the cheapest countries globally.
6: Malaysia
Malaysia may be a small country, but its rapidly growing economy makes it an appealing place to live.
Retirees may want to consider settling down there, as it received high marks for providing folks with a comfortable retirement.
Seeking an inexpensive country noted for retiree comfort? Malaysia is worth exploring. It is one of the places tourists love that is also economical.
7: Turkey
Acting as a bridge between Asia and Europe, Turkey is a unique and affordable country. It ranked number eight on U.S. News and World Report’s Best Countries for Heritage list.
Turkey received high marks for being culturally accessible, featuring delectable food and many cultural and geographic attractions. It is among the most affordable countries in the world.
8: China
Second only to the United States in size of economy, China is home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations.
While it’s an affordable place to live, eat, and explore, political freedom remains tightly controlled.
You may want to consider the restrictions you’ll face, especially on internet usage. China ranks among the globe’s most affordable places.
9: Mexico
Neighboring the US, Mexico is a popular vacation spot and also an affordable place to live. It’s home to the world’s largest Spanish-speaking population and one of the largest expat populations globally.
Several places there allow living under $1,250 a month, including rent, groceries, transportation, clothing, utilities, and leisure. Mexico is an inexpensive country to call home.
10: Cambodia
Cambodia is predominantly rural and has an affordable cost of living compared to Western countries.
Its tropical climate and growing economy make it an enjoyable place to live. There’s also a strong sense of community support for newcomers.
If you’re looking for a place where tourists love to travel that is also economical, Cambodia is included on this list.
11: Bangladesh
The People’s Republic of Bangladesh ranked among the most affordable countries in the world. While offering a vibrant experience and lush greenery, challenges like dense populations and natural disasters pose issues for some prospective expats.
If you’re considering moving abroad to save money, Bangladesh is highlighted as one of the inexpensive options.
12: Argentina
Ranking highly in the adventure and heritage categories, Argentina is known as an affordable country to call home.
The cost of living is 62% lower than in the US. Rent is 85% lower than in the US. Looking for a dreamy yet inexpensive place with significant cost savings? Argentina offers this potential.
13: Morocco
Located in North Africa, Morocco is another country that won’t break the bank. Its enchanting mountain scenery, open-air marketplaces, and recent economic progress make it a fascinating place to live.
If you’re searching for an affordable destination that is also a great travel spot, Morocco is featured. It presents a vibrant way of life for less cash.
14: Brazil
If you’re searching for a thrilling and affordable place to live, consider Brazil. It ranked number one overall on U.S. News & World Report’s Best Countries for Adventure list.
It occupies a significant South American land mass and is one of the top ten countries to start a business in. Brazil is both exciting and affordable.
15: Chile
Anyone who is outdoorsy would love living in Chile with its stunning natural landscape. On top of having a stable economy and decent healthcare, it’s one of the most affordable countries to call home.
Their culture is generally welcoming to newcomers. Chile is featured as an inexpensive place for those who love the outdoors.
16: Sri Lanka
Located near India, Sri Lanka is notably affordable. Rent in Sri Lanka is, on average, 87.5% lower than in the States.
The cost of living is just over half less than in the US. Are you hoping to find an inexpensive country where your money goes much further? Sri Lanka offers significant cost savings compared to the US.
17: Peru
Peru is an exciting and affordable destination in South America. From mountains to jungles and coastal beaches, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with nature.
Plus, low taxes and inexpensive daily living will treat your wallet well. Peru ranks among the most affordable countries globally and offers a vibrant way of life for less cash.
Alicia Richards