Vietnam: Southeast Asia’s Budget Champion
A one-bedroom furnished apartment in Hanoi’s Old Quarter costs $275 per month, including cleaning twice a week and all utilities except electricity. Vietnam consistently ranks among the most affordable countries globally, offering an unbeatable combination of modern amenities and rock-bottom prices. Vietnam is one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia with an average cost of living of $500-700 per month. Rent costs – $200-350 per month – make Vietnam extremely attractive for those looking to cut their expenses.
Fiber-optic internet costs about $10 per month in Vietnam, and a monthly prepaid plan on a cell phone, which includes calls and data, costs $4. Food, which costs between $1 and $3 per serving, is among the cheapest in the world, and transportation, at $0.15–0.50 per trip, is many times cheaper than in most Western countries. Overall, Vietnam offers the best value for money for budget travelers.
Thailand: The Digital Nomad Paradise
Thailand is one of the top-rated countries for the cheapest living, with an average cost of around $600–900 per month. This tropical destination has earned its reputation as a premier location for Americans seeking affordable living without sacrificing quality of life. With a tight budget and an affordable apartment, you could live in either Medellin, Colombia, or Chiang Mai, Thailand, for under $500 a month.
Rent in Thailand ranges from $200 to $400 per month, making it affordable even for budget travelers. In Thailand, a beer is ~70 THB (~$2.10). An unlimited data internet SIM card will cost $11 a month, and your water bill will be around $6 a month.
Indonesia: The Ultimate Budget Destination
Indonesia, with an average cost of living of around $340 per month, is expected to be the cheapest country to live in in 2026. This is almost three times cheaper than the global average, including major cities. Beyond Bali’s tourist hotspots, Indonesia offers incredible value for Americans willing to explore less commercialized areas. Jakarta is 60% cheaper than London, making it one of the most affordable capital cities in the world.
Rental costs vary hugely, but again, a couple can feasibly live on a $1,500 monthly budget, and again, you’ll find restaurant deals for as little as $4 per person.
Philippines: The English-Speaking Haven
Did you know as many as 600,000 Americans call the Philippines home? We can see why…The country is home to the most stunning beaches in Southeast Asia – and that’s not all. Renting a house on this paradise island will cost you 92% less than in New York. Even in Manila, which has the second-highest rent prices in SE Asia, the cost of rent here is still 60% less than in the US.
The Philippines is one of the cheapest English-speaking countries to live in, with its low cost of living, affordable healthcare, and widespread use of English. Even on a $1,500 a month budget, you’ll have lots of opportunities to eat out. The country’s status as a former US territory means many American brands and products remain widely available.
Mexico: America’s Neighbor With Big Savings
The Mexican peso fell ~14% against the U.S. dollar in 2024. US rents run roughly twice the level of Mexican rents, and similar multiples against Thailand. Mexico’s proximity to the United States makes it particularly attractive for Americans seeking affordable living. Mexico also has a very generous visa policy – six months on arrival for Americans, which helps keep total living costs low.
U.S. grocery prices run approximately 74% higher than in Mexico, while a three-course dinner for two in Spain or Mexico may come in under $30, compared to $50+ for the same in many Western cities. There are some lovely apartments along the beach for under $1000 and further away from the coast for $500 or less.
Argentina: Currency Devaluation Creates Opportunities
To illustrate, in January 2023, one US dollar bought 177 Argentine pesos. Argentina presents unique opportunities for Americans with stable dollar income, though focusing outside Buenos Aires provides the best value. When you add everything up – housing, utilities, food, transportation, healthcare – you can see that it’s possible to maintain a good life for around $1,072 in Mendoza.
Beyond the welcoming culture, Argentina is also a remarkably safe country when you compare it to other Latin American nations. Living there means you’ll be surrounded by world-class wineries, incredible mountain views, and a pace of life that many find refreshing.
Bulgaria: Europe’s Hidden Gem
In the EU, the most affordable state is Bulgaria; to live comfortably, a person needs $786 per month there. A 2024 report ranked Burgas as the second cheapest major city in Europe for rent, with Varna coming in at 5th place. Bulgaria offers an affordable European living experience with rich culture and history. For approximately €250 to €350 per month (roughly $270-$380 USD, depending on exchange rates), you can rent a one-bedroom apartment in Sarafovo.
Prices are between a quarter and half of the prices found in most of Europe and the city is beautiful, laidback and friendly. A meal for two with desserts and a bottle of wine can cost around $20-50, whereas a simple meal with a beer might even be less than $15. On average, you should be prepared to spend around $58 per day.
Egypt: Ancient Wonders, Modern Savings
Egypt has the highest quality of life among the cheapest countries, according to the Index of Social Progress. Egypt, with an average cost of living of $350 per month. Picking up groceries in Egypt will save you 77% more than in New York City. The country combines incredible historical attractions with exceptionally low living costs. The average cost of food in Egypt is $13 per day.
The hotel prices go from $17 for one-star hotels to $280 for five-star hotels per night. In cities like Cairo, you get affordable living with a mix of modern life and history. The warm weather all year means fewer extra costs for heating or cooling.
Malaysia: Modern Comfort at Budget Prices
In Kuala Lumpur and Penang, a three-bedroom apartment with modern amenities rents for between $600 and $1,200 per month, providing expats with spacious accommodations at a fraction of the cost in cities like New York or Toronto. With a monthly budget of $1,500 to $2,500, expats can experience a high quality of life, from exploring the country’s beautiful beaches to enjoying its vibrant urban culture.
Kuala Lumpur is a modern, affordable city with costs ranging from $700–$1,000 monthly. Malaysia’s Malaysia My Second Home program offers long-term residency options for expats, making it easy to settle down and enjoy the country’s blend of comfort, culture, and affordability.
Tunisia: Mediterranean Living on a Dime
The best quality of life among the cheapest countries is in Tunisia. The level of safety in the country is average, as is the quality of healthcare and education. Tunisia is a thriving, coastal country, and it just might be the most picturesque on the list. The country is located along the Mediterranean Sea, and it’s also one of the cheapest countries to live in. You can snag rent for nearly 94% cheaper than you can in New York.
The average cost of living in Bulgaria ($941) is 85% more expensive than in Tunisia ($507). For those seeking Mediterranean charm without European prices, Tunisia provides an attractive alternative. The lowest cost of living countries are Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Tunisia, and Sri Lanka, based on findings from Data Pandas.
Living well on a modest budget has never been more achievable for Americans willing to explore beyond their borders. These ten countries demonstrate that quality of life doesn’t always correlate with high expenses. Whether you’re drawn to Southeast Asia’s tropical vibes, Europe’s cultural richness, or Latin America’s vibrant communities, opportunities abound for those ready to embrace a more affordable lifestyle. What destination will you consider for your next chapter?