Vietnam

Vietnam is making waves as one of Asia’s most budget-friendly countries. In 2024, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in cities like Da Nang or Nha Trang ranges from $200 to $350, according to Numbeo’s latest data.

Daily meals at local eateries cost just $1 to $2, and monthly groceries average under $150. Utilities, transport, and internet together rarely exceed $100 each month.

With healthcare costs low—doctor visits often under $30—many expats find their total monthly spending comfortably below $1,000. The country’s warm climate and vibrant street life offer a high quality of life for little money.

Philippines

The Philippines continues to be a favorite among expats seeking affordable living in 2025. The cost of living index from Expatistan shows that cities like Cebu and Dumaguete offer rentals for $250 to $400 per month.

Eating out remains cheap, with full meals at local restaurants for less than $3. Utilities and internet combined are typically around $60 monthly.

Public transport is highly affordable, with most rides costing under $0.50. Medical care is accessible and reasonably priced, with routine check-ups averaging $20.

Many expats report living very comfortably on a $1,000 monthly budget.

Mexico

Mexico’s popularity has surged in recent years, especially among digital nomads and retirees. In 2024, the average rent for a centrally located apartment in cities like Mérida or Oaxaca is about $300 to $500, as reported by Numbeo.

Fresh food at local markets is inexpensive, and meals at local restaurants are usually $3 to $5. Utilities, including high-speed internet, cost around $70 per month.

Transportation via buses or collectivos rarely exceeds $30 per month. Private healthcare is affordable, with basic doctor visits costing $25 to $40.

Living on less than $1,000 a month is realistic and comfortable for many.

Georgia

Georgia, nestled between Europe and Asia, stands out for its extremely low living costs. In Tbilisi, monthly rent for a modern apartment is around $250, based on 2025 listings on real estate platforms.

Monthly groceries can be kept under $120, and dining out averages $4 per meal. Utilities and internet together are typically about $50 monthly.

Public transportation is efficient and costs less than $10 for a monthly pass. Medical services are both high quality and affordable, with visits to private clinics often under $30.

The country’s friendly visa policies add to its appeal for budget-conscious expats.

Colombia

Colombia has transformed into a hotspot for affordable living, with Medellín and Bucaramanga leading the way. According to 2024 data from Expatistan, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a good neighborhood is around $300 to $400.

Groceries cost approximately $130 per month, and eating out is often $2 to $4 per meal. Utilities and internet are about $70 monthly.

Public transport, including the modern metro in Medellín, is under $25 per month. Quality healthcare is a major draw, with visits to private doctors averaging $25.

Many expats cite Colombia as a place where $1,000 goes a long way.

Portugal

Portugal’s smaller cities, like Coimbra and Braga, offer European charm at surprisingly low prices. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $400, according to 2024 housing reports.

Groceries and dining out are also affordable, with the average restaurant meal costing $8. Utilities and internet cost about $80 each month.

Public transportation is efficient and costs less than $40 per month. Basic healthcare is accessible, with private consultations often under $50.

Portugal’s safe streets and Mediterranean climate make it a top choice for affordable European living.

Cambodia

Cambodia remains one of Southeast Asia’s cheapest destinations for expats. In Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, rents are consistently below $300 for a modern apartment, as shown in 2025 rental reports.

Street food is everywhere, with meals as low as $1. Groceries average $100 per month.

Utilities, including fast internet, total about $60. Healthcare costs are modest, with private clinic visits often $20 or less.

Public transport is developing but remains inexpensive, with tuk-tuks and buses under $1 per ride. Cambodia’s relaxed visa rules make it easy for foreigners to settle in.

Bolivia

Bolivia stands out in South America for its ultra-low cost of living. In cities like Sucre and Santa Cruz, rent for a central apartment is $200 to $300, according to 2024 property listings.

Grocery bills hover around $100 per month, and meals at local restaurants are just $2 to $3. Utilities and internet together are about $50.

Public transportation is very cheap, often costing less than $15 a month. Healthcare is affordable, with basic doctor visits under $20.

Bolivia’s blend of stunning landscapes and affordable living makes it ideal for budget-minded expats.

Turkey

Turkey’s cities, especially Antalya and Izmir, offer Mediterranean living at bargain prices. In 2025, rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages $250 to $400, based on recent market data.

Groceries and meals out are inexpensive, with restaurant meals for $5 and groceries around $120 monthly. Utilities and fast internet together are about $60 per month.

Public transportation is extensive and cheap, with monthly passes around $30. Private healthcare is accessible, with consultations typically under $30.

The country’s vibrant culture and low living costs attract thousands of new residents each year.

Ukraine

Ukraine, despite its challenges, still offers some of Europe’s lowest living costs for those who choose cities like Lviv or Kharkiv. Recent 2025 rental listings show one-bedroom apartments for $200 to $300.

Groceries average $80 per month, and meals at local spots are $3 to $5. Utilities and internet are usually less than $50.

Public transport is reliable and costs under $10 monthly. Healthcare remains affordable, with private doctor visits around $15.

Many expats and digital nomads report living well below $1,000 a month while enjoying the country’s rich culture and history.

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