Looking for cheap places to live in 2025? Two new reports from International Living highlight 11 places with low living costs and a good quality of life.
Are you looking for the cheapest places to live? Or even better—how about the best places to live in the world that are so affordable, you might not need to work?
For the last nine years, I’ve started each new year with an article about how to live the dream by moving to a country where living costs are much lower than in the United States. Over time, this article has become a trusted source for people who want a more adventurous and affordable lifestyle.
For 2025, I’ve turned to the experts at International Living, who have just released two new reports. One report highlights the five most affordable places to live, and the other focuses on six up-and-coming places for retirement. These reports are part of the company’s Annual Global Retirement Index, which was released early due to higher interest after the recent presidential election.
Together, these reports suggest 11 places where living costs are so low that you might choose not to work, rather than needing to. “Our goal is to provide a useful, reliable tool for people looking to live internationally,” Jennifer Stevens, executive editor at International Living, told me in an interview. “Whether motivated by politics, economics, or adventure—or a mix of all three—there are communities abroad where life moves slower, feels kinder, is richer, and costs less than staying at home.”
Another benefit: “Many people are worried about making enough money or having to work forever. Looking at affordable places abroad where expats can become permanent residents might offer many possibilities,” says Stevens.
You can compare this year’s list with past reports from 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, and 2017, where I covered various affordable places to live. While cost is still important, this year’s list also looks at why more people are leaving the U.S. to find a better work-life balance, better healthcare, and a simpler, more enjoyable lifestyle.
However, it’s important to consider the issue of gentrification when Americans move into new areas. “Expats should understand how they affect local communities and aim to be positive, respectful members of their new homes,” says Stevens. “Being aware of your impact on the community is key to living in harmony with others.”
If you dream of living by the beach, in the mountains, or in a busy city, keep reading to discover 11 places where you can start a new chapter in 2025. You’ll also find more details about these and other locations.
Most Affordable Places to Live: Colombia
Why: “Colombia is known for being very affordable, while also offering a rich cultural experience,” says Stevens. “Expats here can enjoy a high quality of life at a much lower cost than in their home countries. With low-cost healthcare and affordable dining, Colombia provides a great mix of low cost, comfort, and sophistication.”
Where to Move: International Living suggests Medellín, also called the “City of Eternal Spring,” which has perfect weather and a lively, modern atmosphere. In the Coffee Triangle, Pereira and Manizales offer peace and stunning views, while coastal cities like Cartagena are perfect for beach living.
Cost: International Living says that a couple’s monthly living expenses start at $1,500. Renting a two-bedroom apartment in a good area of Medellín can cost about $800 per month. In smaller cities like Pereira, rents can be $500 or less. Utilities, like water, electricity, and internet, usually cost around $100 per month. Eating out is affordable, with lunch specials costing $4 and fancy meals around $20. Healthcare is cheap too, with doctor visits averaging $30.
Most Affordable Places to Live: Vietnam
Why: Vietnam is very affordable, says Stevens. You can get street food for just $3, and rent modern apartments for under $300 a month. This makes it a popular choice for people looking to live on a budget. Plus, you get to enjoy beautiful landscapes and a culture full of history.
Where to Move: According to International Living, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are great for those who want city life. If you prefer a quieter, small-town vibe near the beach, Da Nang and Hoi An are perfect.
Cost: For a couple, monthly living expenses start at $1,200. In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a one-bedroom apartment with furniture and most utilities included costs around $275 a month. Eating out is cheap too, with fancy meals costing around $10 and street food like pho costing only $3. Healthcare is affordable, with doctor visits costing $20 or less.
Most Affordable Places To Live: Bali, Indonesia
Why: Bali is a great place for those who want a tropical lifestyle that doesn’t cost too much, according to Stevens. You can enjoy things like spa treatments, renting a nice villa, or eating out for very little money. In Bali, the cost of living is low, so you can enjoy life without worrying about money.
Where to Move: International Living suggests Seminyak for a more upscale beach town feel. If you love yoga, Ubud is the perfect spot. For a quieter place, smaller villages like Canggu are a good choice.
Cost: International Living says you can rent a one-bedroom villa near the beach for about $1,325 a month, including utilities and cleaning. A nice meal for two at a good restaurant costs around $40, while local warungs offer meals for as low as $4. Healthcare is also affordable, with doctor visits costing about $13, and wellness treatments like massages starting at $20.
Most Affordable Places to Live: Thailand
Why: “Many expats choose to live in Thailand, and for good reasons. You can enjoy fresh seafood for just $4, and healthcare is much cheaper than in the U.S.,” says Stevens. “Thailand offers tropical beaches, cooler mountain areas, big cities, and a mix of traditional culture with modern comforts.”
Where to Move: On International Living’s list: Bangkok for city lovers, Chiang Mai for cooler mountain climates, and Phuket for some of the best beach living in the world.
Cost: According to International Living, you can rent a luxury condo near the beach in Phuket for about $600 per month. A high-end meal for two costs around $25. Healthcare is affordable and top-quality, with routine check-ups under $50 and surgeries costing one-third of U.S. prices.
Most Affordable Places to Live: Malaysia
Why: Malaysia offers a great mix of modern living and low costs, says Stevens. “It’s hard to beat Malaysia for getting the most value for your money.”
Where to Move: “You can choose between living in modern condos in Kuala Lumpur or by the sea in Penang. Expats can enjoy a city lifestyle at a very low cost,” says Stevens. Nature lovers might prefer smaller towns like Ipoh, where you can enjoy peace and quiet with modern amenities.
Cost: International Living says that living costs for expats start at $1,500 per month for a couple. You can rent a three-bedroom apartment for $600 to $1,200 per month. Eating out can cost as little as $2 at local food stalls. Healthcare is also affordable, with routine visits averaging $10 to $30.
Most Affordable Places To Live: Azuero Peninsula, Panama
Why: “The Azuero Peninsula is Panama’s hidden gem—a place where life moves at a slower pace, living costs are low, and the beaches are beautiful,” says Stevens. “If you enjoy discovering quieter spots before they get crowded, this area should be on your list.”
Where to Move: “Whether it’s the expat-friendly town of Pedasí or the culturally rich city of Chitré, this place is perfect for those who want a simple life with some charm,” says Stevens.
Cost: According to International Living, rental homes start at $600 per month, and buying property near the beach is still affordable compared to other tropical places. Dining out is cheap, with meals costing $5 to $10. Healthcare is also inexpensive, with doctor visits averaging $25.
Most Affordable Places to Live: Green Spain
Why: “Northern Spain is a place where locals go for vacations—it’s not yet popular with most tourists,” says Stevens. “It offers a simple way of life—rolling hills, charming fishing villages, and affordable living. It’s great for people who enjoy peace, quiet, and a real small-town European lifestyle.”
Where to Move: For beautiful landscapes and seaside living, consider Galicia, Asturias, and Cantabria. If you prefer city life and great food, try San Sebastián and Bilbao in the Basque Country.
Cost: Monthly living expenses start at around $1,500 for a couple, depending on the area. Rent in smaller towns like Santander costs about $750 a month. Utilities, food, and dining out are affordable, and healthcare is either free or cheap through Spain’s public or private systems.
Most Affordable Places To Live: Coastal Montenegro
Why: “Montenegro’s beautiful Adriatic coastline has a mix of natural beauty, low costs, and rich history. While nearby Croatia is popular, Montenegro is often overlooked, even though it’s just as amazing,” says Stevens. “You can enjoy fresh seafood by the sea or hike its scenic trails, all at a fraction of the cost of living in Western Europe.”
Where to Move: International Living suggests the coastal towns of Tivat and Kotor, while Bar is a quieter and cheaper option.
Cost: International Living says that a couple’s monthly living costs are around $1,800. In seaside towns, rentals start at $450 a month. Fresh seafood meals are just $10, and doctor visits are about $30.
Most Affordable Places to Live: Northern Portugal
Why: “Northern Portugal is a hidden gem where you can enjoy real Portuguese culture in towns that aren’t crowded with tourists,” says Stevens. “People say prices have gone up in Portugal, but that’s not true in this northern area.”
Where to Move: “From the medieval town of Caminha to the beautiful seaside town of Esposende, this area is a great value for retirees,” says Stevens. Another good place is Viana do Castelo, which has both city conveniences and a small-town feel.
Cost: According to International Living, a couple can live comfortably for $2,000 a month or less. Rent ranges from $530 to $750 per month. Eating out is affordable, with meals at local restaurants costing about $15 per person.
Most Affordable Places to Live: Southern Zone, Costa Rica
Why: The Southern Zone of Costa Rica is where many expats go to enjoy nature, says Stevens. It has green mountains, a friendly community, and affordable living. This area is great for both adventure and peace. It’s also known for its great food, with many high-quality international restaurants.
Where to Move: Some good places to live in Costa Rica’s Southern Zone are San Isidro del General, a cool mountain city, and beach towns like Dominical and Ojochal, which have many expats.
Cost: According to International Living, you can find furnished homes starting at $700 a month, depending on where you live and what’s included. Eating out costs about $10 to $15. Healthcare is very good, and residents can join Costa Rica’s public healthcare system.
Most Affordable Places to Live: The Peloponnese, Greece
Why: The Peloponnese is just a short drive from Athens and is known for its beautiful beaches and ancient villages. “If you want a retirement with sun, sea, and history, the Peloponnese is a great choice,” says Stevens. “It offers a Mediterranean lifestyle for much less than on most islands.” Another advantage: “Since it’s on the mainland, it’s easy to travel to and live there all year round.”
Where to Move: International Living suggests Nafplio, a lovely town with Venetian buildings. Kalamata is a busy city near great beaches. If you prefer a quieter, more traditional Greek village, consider the Mani Peninsula.
The Cost: Rentals are between $320 in smaller towns and $750 in bigger cities like Kalamata. Eating out costs about $16 per person.
Published: 3rd January 2025
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