10 Cheapest Places to Move Abroad Right Now
If you’re dreaming of living overseas without spending a fortune, you’re in luck. There are plenty of countries where you can enjoy a high quality of life for a fraction of what it costs in the U.S. or Western Europe. Whether you’re looking for a bustling city, a laid-back beach town, or a charming mountain retreat, these destinations offer affordability without sacrificing comfort. Here are 10 of the cheapest places to move abroad right now.
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1. Vietnam
Vietnam consistently ranks as one of the most budget-friendly countries for expats. Rent in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi is incredibly cheap, with modern apartments available for under $500 a month. Street food costs just a few dollars per meal, and transportation is affordable. With a growing expat scene, strong Wi-Fi, and easy visa options, Vietnam is a top pick for digital nomads and retirees alike.
2. Mexico
Mexico is a favorite for expats looking for an affordable, culturally rich country with easy access to the U.S. Cities like Mérida, Oaxaca, and Guadalajara offer a low cost of living, delicious food, and warm weather year-round. Rent can be as low as $400 a month, and local markets make groceries dirt cheap. Plus, Mexico has various visa options that allow long-term stays.
3. Georgia
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, has become an expat hotspot thanks to its affordability, delicious food, and welcoming visa policies. You can live comfortably for under $1,200 a month, with rent averaging around $400-$600 for a modern apartment. Georgia also offers a one-year visa-free stay for many nationalities, making it a hassle-free option for relocation.
4. Portugal
While Western Europe is generally expensive, Portugal is the exception. Cities like Porto and Lisbon are cheaper than most other European capitals, and smaller towns like Braga or Coimbra offer even better deals. Rent can be as low as $600-$800 per month, and the country’s digital nomad and retirement visas make it easier to stay long-term.
5. Colombia
Colombia’s low cost of living, great weather, and vibrant culture make it an attractive destination for expats. Cities like Medellín and Pereira offer modern apartments for under $500 a month, and dining out is incredibly cheap. The country’s retirement visa is easy to obtain, and remote workers can take advantage of Colombia’s growing digital nomad community.
6. Ecuador
Ecuador is one of the most affordable places to live in South America. Cities like Cuenca and Loja offer a relaxed lifestyle with rent as low as $300 a month. Public transportation is cheap, groceries are affordable, and the country has a retiree-friendly visa program. Plus, the stunning landscapes—from beaches to mountains—are a bonus.
7. Thailand
Thailand has long been a budget-friendly expat destination, with cities like Chiang Mai offering an excellent quality of life for under $1,200 a month. Rent in smaller towns can be as low as $300-$500, and the street food scene makes eating out ridiculously affordable. While visa options can be tricky, long-term solutions like the Education Visa or Elite Visa make it possible to stay longer.
8. Albania
A rising star among budget-friendly destinations, Albania is a hidden gem in Europe. The coastal city of Saranda offers Mediterranean beaches without the high price tag of neighboring Greece or Italy. Rent is as low as $300-$500, and Albania has relaxed visa policies that allow some nationalities to stay for up to a year without needing a special visa.
9. Philippines
The Philippines offers an incredibly low cost of living, especially in cities like Dumaguete and Davao. Rent can be as low as $200-$400, and everyday expenses like food, transportation, and entertainment are budget-friendly. The country also has a special retirement visa that makes it easy for foreigners to stay long-term.
10. Turkey
Turkey is an underrated yet highly affordable country for expats. Cities like Antalya and Izmir offer Mediterranean coastal living at a fraction of the cost of other European destinations. Rent is around $300-$600 per month, and Turkish food is both delicious and cheap. Turkey also has a relatively easy residence permit process for expats.
