10 Countries Where Rent Is Cheaper Than a Car Payment

In the U.S., the average monthly car payment is now over $700—sometimes pushing close to $1,000 depending on the loan. Imagine paying less than that for your entire rent abroad. In many countries, you can snag a decent apartment for less than what you’d pay to keep a car on the road back home. Here are 10 places where your rent won’t break the bank.

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1. Thailand

In cities like Chiang Mai, a furnished one-bedroom can go for $300–$400 a month. Even in Bangkok, if you stay outside the tourist zones, rent often hovers under $600. That’s less than most U.S. car payments, and you’ll get tropical weather and amazing food as a bonus.

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2. Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang offer modern studios for $250–$400, often with amenities like pools and gyms included. Utilities are cheap, and local landlords are used to working with expats. For less than a car loan, you’ll live in a vibrant, energetic city with unbeatable street food.

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3. Mexico

Outside pricey areas like Condesa in Mexico City or Tulum’s tourist scene, you can rent a one-bedroom apartment for $400–$500 in many cities. Oaxaca, Guadalajara, and Puebla offer affordable housing plus culture, food, and history—all for less than a new Honda Civic payment.

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4. Colombia

In Medellín, rent for a nice apartment in safe neighborhoods runs about $400–$500. With great weather, mountain views, and affordable health care, Colombia gives you a lot more than just cheap rent for your dollar.

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5. Georgia

Tbilisi has become a hot spot for digital nomads and long-term expats, but it’s still affordable. One-bedrooms in central areas rent for $300–$400, and long-stay visas make it easy for Americans to stick around.

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6. Indonesia

Bali’s tourist villas can get expensive, but in less-saturated areas like Sanur or Lombok, a private home with a yard can run under $500 a month. Even in Canggu, locals often rent out studio apartments for around $400.

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7. Bulgaria

In Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, you can find apartments for $350–$450. It’s not just cheap—it’s Europe, so you’ll also have easy access to other countries for travel. Rent being cheaper than a car note is just the icing on the cake.

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8. Romania

Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca are both under the radar but affordable, with rents averaging $400–$500. Romania also offers vibrant culture, mountains, and castles—making it an underrated gem for budget-conscious expats.

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9. Turkey

In cities like Izmir or Antalya, apartments can be had for $300–$500 per month. Even in Istanbul, you can still find options under $600 if you’re willing to live outside the very center. For less than a U.S. car loan, you’ll get seaside views and rich history.

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10. Egypt

Cairo is one of the cheapest big cities for housing. A one-bedroom apartment in a decent neighborhood can cost $200–$400 per month. Pair that with ultra-cheap food and transport, and your total living expenses can be less than what many Americans pay just to drive to work.

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