Top 5 Cheapest Countries to Live and Visit
Many factors go into deciding which country to move to, including cost of living, safety, and visa requirements. The good news is that your money goes far abroad.
Known for its stunning beaches, jungle temples and Buddha statues, Thailand lures travellers with its tropical landscapes, delicious food and inexpensive prices. The locals are friendly, too.
1. China
GOBankingRates used data from Numbeo and International Living to rank the top 10 Cheapest Countries to Live and Visit, and the results are sure to surprise you. While some of the world’s most renowned destinations appear on this list, others are hidden gems that offer a safe and comfortable lifestyle for less than half of what you’d pay back home.
China has long been a favorite for travelers, and it’s no surprise why: The Forbidden City, the Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an, and Shanghai’s skyscraper forest are just some of the country’s great man-made attractions. But China also boasts a wealth of natural wonders, from the karst mountains in Yunnan to the serene landscape of Hongcun Village.
The average cost of living in China is 45% lower than the U.S, but this depends on where you’re located and what you’re buying. For instance, rent is a fraction of what it costs in the U.S, but the price of things like cars and private school tuition is higher in China than the U.S.
South Korea isn’t exactly known for its cheap living, but it makes this list because salaries are so competitive. Teaching English here pays well, and many programs include free accommodation or transportation — making it an ideal location for digital nomads to work and travel at the same time.
If you’re looking to make your money stretch a bit farther, check out our full list of the Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Live and Work in 2023. And, before you move abroad, make sure to hire a company that can help you with all of the background checks and travel paperwork you’ll need to get started.
2. Portugal
Portugal is a gorgeous coastal destination with year-round warm weather, sandy beaches, and tasty seafood. It is also one of the cheapest countries in Europe. A single person with a moderate lifestyle can live comfortably here for $1,000-$1,100 per month. The country is home to a vibrant expat community, fast wi-fi, and plenty of fun activities and attractions.
The country has a rich cultural heritage and a beautiful natural endowment of mountains, deep forests, and stunning coastline. It is also an ideal destination for hikers and nature lovers. Its cities have a cosmopolitan feel and are filled with delicious restaurants and bars.
One of the best places to visit in Portugal is Aveiro, which is a charming seaside city that offers tranquility and friendly locals. It is also known for its secluded beaches, great surfing, and scenic sea-carved cliffs. During your stay, you can visit the Cascais Castle and enjoy traditional Portuguese desserts at Salpoente, a Michelin-starred restaurant.
In the north of the country, you can explore the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Geres, a rugged wilderness of dramatic peaks and frozen-in-time stone villages. This vast park offers a variety of hiking trails that take you past old Roman roads and gushing waterfalls.
The country is one of the fastest growing economies in the European Union and is highly accommodating to expats. It is also a popular choice for retirees, as it has an excellent healthcare system and low cost of living. In addition, the country is home to several world-class ski resorts. The country is also a top choice for digital nomads, as it has an abundance of high-speed internet access and a large and vibrant expat community. It is also a member of the Schengen zone, which makes it an ideal travel destination for those looking to explore Europe.
3. Bulgaria
The tiny Balkan country of Bulgaria is a hidden gem for expats, with a laidback lifestyle and welcoming locals that make it easy to settle in. It is also one of the cheapest countries in Europe, and it has an abundance of attractions that will keep you captivated by its natural beauty, stunning cities, and quaint villages.
The capital of Sofia is small enough to feel intimate and friendly, with a diverse population that makes it a great place for solo travelers. The city is renowned for its numerous mineral springs and has several health spas that offer treatments to boost your wellbeing, as well as improve your appearance. You can enjoy the beauty of Bulgaria’s nature by taking a hike through the mountainous region near Varna, or learn about its rich history by visiting the National Museum of History, which has a wide array of archaeological artifacts, icons, and old printed books.
Located on the Black Sea coast, Varna is a popular summer destination. Its beaches are beautiful and its seaside promenade offers a variety of bars, restaurants, and shops to browse. The Medical University of Varna is a prestigious training center, and there are plenty of places to explore the town’s rich culture. The colossal Belogradchik fortress, the citadel of Baba Vida, and the mysterious pre-historic wall art at the Magura Cave are just some of the highlights to see in the town.
Located on the banks of the Danube River, Ruse is a city with a regal look and feels like an old-world European capital. The area is steeped in history, with various invading cultures leaving their mark on the architecture here. There is a lot to discover in this city, including the rock-hewn churches of Ivanovo, which are UNESCO-listed and an absolute delight to see.
4. Albania
If you want to live abroad but are worried about how much it will cost, then Albania is the best place for you. This beautiful country is one of the cheapest countries to live in Europe, and it’s also a great place for travelers to visit. The food, accommodation, and drinks are all very affordable, making it easy to enjoy all the sights and sounds of this fascinating country.
The Albanian cuisine is a melting pot of flavors and textures that will please any palate. It is heavily influenced by Italian, Greek, and Turkish cuisines, and many dishes include fish and seafood as well as lots of vegetables and herbs. One dish you shouldn’t miss is burek, a savory pie filled with spinach, feta cheese, meat, or any other combination of ingredients.
In addition to being one of the cheapest places to live in the world, Albania is also home to stunning natural beauty and a rich history. Visitors will find plenty to see and do, from exploring ancient Roman ruins to hiking through the untouched mountains of the Balkans. Albania also has a wide variety of festivals and celebrations, including Flag Day, which is held on November 28th to honor the country’s independence from the Ottoman Empire.
In terms of quality of life, Albania ranks 18th on the WJP’s list. However, it’s important to note that the country is prone to political and economic instability, which can have a negative impact on your lifestyle. Before moving to any foreign country, it’s crucial that you get all the necessary background checks and travel documents from National Background Check, Inc., so you can start your new adventure in the best possible way!
5. Georgia
Located on the fringes of Asia and Europe, Georgia is just as fascinating as it is cheap. Its low costs rival those of Southeast Asian countries.
The country is a hotspot for digital nomads, and its visa rules help make it an attractive destination for foreign workers. A single person can live comfortably in the country for less than $1,000 a month, including rent and food.
A trip to Georgia isn't complete without tasting the nation's signature dish, khachapuri. This leavened bread is shaped like a canoe and stuffed with gooey, melted sulgani cheese. It's available at hole-in-the-wall bakeries and restaurants throughout the country. And if you're craving a sweet treat, try churchkhela—strings of nuts dipped in grape juice syrup.
One of the safest countries in the world, Romania also ranks among the top 10 cheapest countries to live and visit. It's the only EU member on this list, and its citizens enjoy the benefits of living in the larger bloc—such as access to high-quality education and healthcare. Romania is also home to medieval towns and castles, including the Dracula castle in Transylvania.
The cheapest countries to live and travel are filled with stunning natural wonders and untouched historical treasures that are waiting to be discovered. And while some of these countries may be unfamiliar to Americans, they are definitely worth exploring. GOBankingRates used data from Numbeo and International Living to determine which countries offer the best value for your money. To qualify, a country had to meet at least one of the following criteria:
