International Living has identified 13 locations around the world where a couple can live for as little as $1,500 a month, covering housing, healthcare, food, and entertainment expenses. The list includes places in the Americas, Asia, and Europe, offering a variety of settings and amenities for expats looking to save money without sacrificing their quality of life.
In the Americas, Arenal, Costa Rica, stands out for its breathtaking views, outdoor activities, and affordable real estate options. Expats can live comfortably on $1,500 or less per month, with rents starting as low as $400 for chic apartments or cozy homes. Armenia, Colombia, offers a vibrant coffee culture and year-round warm weather, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a mid-sized city with access to colonial towns and parks.
Cozumel and Isla Mujeres in Mexico are popular choices for their laid-back island vibe, stunning natural beauty, and affordable living options. Renting in these locations typically ranges from $450 to $700 a month, with dining out and entertainment options to suit every taste and budget. Querétaro, also in Mexico, blends historic charm with modern amenities, offering expats a high quality of life at an affordable cost.
Moving further east to Asia, expats can explore the ancient city of Chiang Mai, Thailand, known for its historical and cultural richness, affordable lifestyle, and temperate mountain climate. Hoi An, Vietnam, a World Heritage Site, offers a pedestrian-friendly environment and idyllic setting along the Thu Bon River. Kuching, Malaysia, founded in 1839 along the Sarawak River, is a bustling city with a vibrant café culture and proximity to national parks.
Penang, Malaysia, known for its history, golden beaches, and diverse population, provides cost-effective living options and first-rate healthcare services. Phnom Penh, Cambodia, blends ancient Khmer heritage with French colonial charm, offering affordability and a high quality of life for retirees and expatriates. Expats can expect to spend around $1,400 per month for a couple, excluding housing costs, in this vibrant capital city.
In Europe, Alicante, Spain, on the Costa Blanca, offers a relaxed seaside living with a warm, sunny climate, wealth of dining options, and easy accessibility. Bergerac, France, in the Périgord region, provides quintessential French charm with picturesque villages and pastoral landscapes. Granada, Spain, at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, combines Moorish heritage with Spanish charm, offering a culturally rich yet relaxed lifestyle for expats on a budget.
Overall, these 13 locations provide expats with the opportunity to live comfortably and affordably, exploring new cultures and experiences without breaking the bank. Whether in the Americas, Asia, or Europe, these destinations offer a range of amenities and attractions for expats looking to make a fresh start in a more budget-friendly location.
