Top 15+ Countries Where Housing Costs Less Than $200 a Month

Pakistan – The Ultimate Budget Haven

Pakistan consistently ranks as the cheapest country to live in worldwide, and housing costs reflect this reality. Pakistan is the cheapest place to live in the world according to Numbeo's 2024 Cost of Living Index, with the database assigning each country a cost of living number based on rent, grocery and restaurant prices, and local purchasing power.

Pakistan has low labour costs, resulting in cheaper services, and the value of the Pakistani rupee is low compared to currencies like the US dollar or the euro, making goods and services appear comparatively more affordable. In many Pakistani cities outside major centers like Islamabad and Lahore, you can find decent apartments for well under $200 monthly.

The country's large agricultural sector provides affordable, locally-produced food, while government subsidies on essential goods such as fuel, electricity, and food and low housing costs help lower consumers' cost of living.

India – A Massive Market with Micro Prices

With affordable housing and inexpensive groceries, India offers an average monthly living cost of $300–$500 in most cities, excluding luxury expenses. India's rental housing market has witnessed a substantial surge in recent years, with the market valued at USD 20.31 billion in 2024 and projected to grow to USD 26.78 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 4.56%.

However, in smaller cities and rural areas, housing costs drop dramatically. This growth highlights the increasing reliance on rental housing as a flexible and convenient option for urban dwellers, students, and professionals.

Cities like Varanasi, Lucknow, and Indore offer one-bedroom apartments for as low as $100-150 monthly, making India incredibly attractive for budget-conscious renters.

Bangladesh – Where Your Dollar Goes the Distance

Bangladesh offers low rental and grocery costs, with monthly living expenses for a single person averaging $200–$400. In 2021, Bangladesh surpassed both India and Pakistan in terms of per capita income.

The country's smaller cities and towns offer exceptional value, with basic housing available for $50-150 per month. The country achieved 100% electricity coverage for households in 2022.

Despite recent economic challenges, Bangladesh remains one of the most affordable countries for housing, especially in regions outside Dhaka.

Nepal – Mountain Living at Valley Prices

Nepal consistently appears on lists of the world's most affordable countries, and housing costs are remarkably low. Nepal's economic growth accelerated in the first half of FY25, with real GDP growing by 4.9 percent, up from 4.3 percent in H1FY24, primarily due to a pickup in agricultural and industrial sectors growth.

Headline inflation eased to 5 percent in H1FY25, down from 6.5 percent in H1FY24. Outside Kathmandu, you can find decent apartments for $80-180 monthly.

The country's stable inflation and growing economy make it an attractive destination for budget-conscious expats seeking affordable mountain living.

Nigeria – Africa's Hidden Gem

Nigeria appears on both Living Cost's and Numbeo's lists of the least expensive countries to live in. Nigeria is among the top five cheapest countries, alongside Pakistan, Libya, India and Afghanistan.

In cities like Kano, Ibadan, and Port Harcourt, you can secure comfortable housing for $100-200 monthly. The country's large population and economic diversity create numerous housing options at various price points.

Nigeria's growing tech sector and improving infrastructure make it increasingly attractive for remote workers and digital nomads seeking ultra-affordable living costs.

Tunisia – North Africa's Affordable Oasis

Known for its historical charm, Tunisia allows expats to live comfortably with costs as low as $400–$600 monthly. Tunisia is among the lowest cost of living countries, based on findings from Data Pandas.

Housing represents a significant portion of those costs, with many areas offering apartments for $150-200 monthly. The country's Mediterranean coastline and rich cultural heritage provide excellent quality of life at bargain prices.

Tunisia's stable political environment and growing expat community make it an increasingly popular choice for budget-conscious international residents.

Vietnam – Southeast Asia's Budget Champion

Vietnam combines affordability with modern amenities, with cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi serving as major expat hubs and average housing costs ranging from $250–$400 per month. A one-bedroom furnished apartment in Hanoi's Old Quarter costs $275 per month, including cleaning twice a week and all utilities except electricity.

The monthly rent for an 85 sq. m furnished apartment in a normal area is around $579.53 (14,128,800 ₫).

Vietnam's rapid economic growth and excellent infrastructure make it a prime destination for expats seeking affordable Asian living. Street food is cheap and abundant, costing less than $2 per meal.

Ukraine – Europe's Most Affordable Option

Despite challenges, Ukraine remains an affordable destination with living expenses averaging $400–$700. The cost of property varies significantly between European countries, with Ukraine being the cheapest country at £64,000 for a 2-bedroom flat.

Ukraine is among the cheapest countries to live in Europe, though both Ukraine and Russia are at war as of 2024. In peaceful regions and smaller cities, housing costs can be exceptionally low, often under $200 monthly.

The country's well-educated population and growing IT sector create opportunities for remote workers.

Guatemala – Central America's Hidden Treasure

Guatemala offers some of the most affordable housing in Central America, with beautiful colonial cities like Antigua and Quetzaltenango providing excellent value. Monthly apartment rentals in smaller cities can range from $150-200, while offering access to stunning natural beauty and rich Mayan culture.

The country's favorable exchange rate and low local wages keep housing costs minimal. Guatemala's growing expat community and improving internet infrastructure make it increasingly attractive for digital nomads and retirees seeking affordable tropical living.

Ecuador – Andean Affordability

Ecuador is a country that has slipped under the radar in terms of expat locations, offering the chance of authentic life in a country that has remained largely unaffected by globalization. The property market in Loja is still cheap, with a four-bedroom house in an exclusive area likely to set you back around US$115,000.

Ecuador is known for its low property prices and pleasant climate, popular with retirees and investors, offering affordable housing options in different regions. Cities like Cuenca and Loja offer apartments for $150-200 monthly, with year-round spring-like weather and no heating or cooling costs required.

Indonesia – Island Living on a Shoestring

Bali and Jakarta are expat hubs where monthly living expenses start from $600. However, outside these tourist centers, housing costs drop dramatically.

Cities like Yogyakarta, Surabaya, and Medan offer comfortable apartments for $100-180 monthly. Indonesia's thousands of islands provide endless opportunities for affordable tropical living.

The country's growing economy and improving infrastructure make it an attractive destination for budget-conscious expats seeking island paradise without the premium price tag.

Thailand – The Digital Nomad Paradise

It's quite easy to find a nice 1-bedroom place in Chiang Mai for $200 / month or less including all bills, which is why Chiang Mai is on the list of the cheapest places to live. Popular cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok offer vibrant lifestyles, with average monthly living costs of $800.

Chiang Mai has seen significant population growth over the last twenty years due to its affordable cost of living, with the city's population growing from 571,716 in 2004 to 1,228,773 in 2024 — a 114% increase! Outside Bangkok and tourist areas, housing costs remain remarkably affordable, with many options under $200 monthly.

Bulgaria – European Union's Budget Gateway

Bulgaria stands out in the EU for low living costs, with Sofia offering rental rates of $300–$500, and groceries costing about $200 monthly. Rent in Sofia averages around $400 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, while in smaller cities like Plovdiv, it can be as low as $200.

Expats can enjoy an average salary of $600 to $1,200, and Bulgaria provides modern amenities, including good healthcare, especially in urban areas. As an EU member, Bulgaria offers the added benefit of European residency opportunities while maintaining exceptionally low housing costs.

Mexico – Vibrant Culture, Tiny Rent

Living in Mexico City and Guadalajara presents a more affordable cost of living compared to the United States, with monthly expenses for a single person without rent ranging from $706 – $750. Accommodation costs vary, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranging from $588 – $1,469 (10,000 to 25,000 MXN) in Mexico City.

However, in smaller cities like Mérida, Oaxaca, and Puebla, housing costs drop significantly. Mexico is popular for its affordable properties, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, with coastal areas often offering excellent investment opportunities.

Many areas offer comfortable apartments for $150-200 monthly, combined with excellent food, culture, and climate.

Libya – Mediterranean Bargains

Libya appears on both Living Cost's and Numbeo's lists of the least expensive countries to live in. Libya is among the top five cheapest countries, alongside Pakistan, Nigeria, India and Afghanistan.

Despite ongoing challenges, certain regions of Libya offer extremely affordable housing options, with some areas providing accommodation for well under $200 monthly. The country's oil wealth historically kept living costs low, and housing remains remarkably affordable compared to other Mediterranean nations.

However, political stability remains a consideration for potential residents. Living affordably doesn't mean sacrificing quality of life.

These fifteen countries prove that with the right research and flexibility, you can find comfortable, safe housing for less than $200 monthly. From Pakistan's ultra-low costs to Thailand's digital nomad paradise, each destination offers unique advantages for budget-conscious residents.

Whether you're seeking mountain views in Nepal, beach life in Indonesia, or European amenities in Bulgaria, affordable housing options exist worldwide for those willing to explore beyond traditional expensive destinations.

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