Living abroad can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be costly depending on where you choose to settle. In this article, we will explore five of the cheapest countries to live in, based on factors such as rent, food, transportation, health care, and entertainment. We will also provide some tips on how to make the most of your budget in each country.
Ecuador
Ecuador is a small country in South America that boasts a diverse landscape of mountains, rainforests, beaches, and islands. It is also home to the Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a natural wonder. Ecuador has a mild climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in most regions. The country uses the US dollar as its currency, which makes it easy for foreigners to manage their finances.
The cost of living in Ecuador is very low compared to other countries in the region. According to Numbeo , the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is $316, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs $20. A monthly pass for public transportation costs $15, and a liter of gasoline costs $0.39. Health care is also affordable and accessible, with many public and private hospitals and clinics available. A doctor’s visit costs around $30, and a basic health insurance plan costs around $70 per month.
Some of the best places to live in Ecuador are Quito , the capital and cultural hub of the country; Cuenca , a colonial city with a rich history and architecture; and Salinas , a coastal town with beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife. To save money in Ecuador, you can shop at local markets for fresh produce and seafood, cook your own meals at home, use public transportation or bike instead of driving, and take advantage of free or low-cost activities such as hiking, surfing, or visiting museums.
Mexico
Mexico is a large country in North America that offers a variety of landscapes, cultures, cuisines, and attractions. It has a warm and sunny climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) in most areas. Mexico has a rich and colorful history that blends indigenous, European, African, and Asian influences. It is also known for its vibrant festivals, music, art, and literature.
The cost of living in Mexico is very reasonable compared to other countries in the region. According to Numbeo , the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is $268, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs $23. A monthly pass for public transportation costs $16, and a liter of gasoline costs $0.88. Health care is also inexpensive and high-quality, with many public and private hospitals and doctors available. A doctor’s visit costs around $25, and a basic health insurance plan costs around $40 per month.
Some of the best places to live in Mexico are Mexico City , the capital and largest city of the country with endless entertainment and cultural options; Guadalajara , the second-largest city and the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila; and Playa del Carmen , a coastal town with stunning beaches and a laid-back lifestyle. To save money in Mexico, you can shop at local markets for fresh fruits and vegetables, eat street food or local dishes instead of international cuisine, use public transportation or walk instead of driving or taking taxis, and enjoy free or cheap activities such as visiting historical sites, parks, or beaches.
South Africa
South Africa is a country in southern Africa that has a diverse geography that includes mountains, deserts, savannas, forests, and coasts. It is also home to some of the most iconic wildlife in the world, such as lions, elephants, rhinos, and penguins. South Africa has a multicultural society that reflects its history of colonialism, apartheid, and democracy. It is also known for its sports, music, wine, and cuisine.
The cost of living in South Africa is very affordable compared to other countries in the region. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is $372, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs $28. A monthly pass for public transportation costs $32, and a liter of gasoline costs $0.96. Health care is also cheap and decent, with many public and private hospitals and clinics available. A doctor’s visit costs around $20, and a basic health insurance plan costs around $50 per month.
Some of the best places to live in South Africa are Cape Town , the legislative capital and a coastal city with stunning views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean; Johannesburg , the economic hub and the largest city of the country with a vibrant urban culture; and Durban , a subtropical city with golden beaches and a diverse population. To save money in South Africa, you can shop at local markets for fresh meat and produce, use public transportation or carpool instead of driving alone, and explore free or low-cost activities such as hiking, safari, or visiting museums.
Peru
Peru is a country in South America that has a rich and ancient heritage that spans from the Inca Empire to the Spanish conquest. It has a varied terrain that includes mountains, jungles, deserts, and coasts. It is also home to Machu Picchu , one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The cost of living in Peru is very low compared to other countries in the region. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is $284, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs $18. A monthly pass for public transportation costs $12, and a liter of gasoline costs $0.94. Health care is also inexpensive and adequate, with many public and private hospitals and doctors available. A doctor’s visit costs around $15, and a basic health insurance plan costs around $30 per month.
The best places to live in Peru are Lima , the capital and largest city of the country with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and a rich culinary scene; Cusco , the former capital of the Inca Empire and a gateway to Machu Picchu; and Arequipa , a colonial city surrounded by volcanoes and known as the White City for its architecture. To save money in Peru, you can shop at local markets for fresh fruits and vegetables, eat ceviche or lomo saltado instead of international cuisine, use public transportation or bike instead of driving or taking taxis, and enjoy free or cheap activities such as visiting archaeological sites, parks, or beaches.
Poland
Poland is a country in Central Europe that has a long and turbulent history that shaped its culture and identity. It has a diverse landscape that includes mountains, lakes, forests, and plains. It is also home to some of the most beautiful cities in Europe, such as Warsaw , Krakow , Gdansk , and Wroclaw . Poland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 25°C (23°F to 77°F) throughout the year.
The cost of living in Poland is very reasonable compared to other countries in Europe. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is $453, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs $27. A monthly pass for public transportation costs $26, and a liter of gasoline costs $1.31. Health care is also affordable and good quality, with many public and private hospitals and doctors available. A doctor’s visit costs around $20, and a basic health insurance plan costs around $60 per month.
Some of the best places to live in Poland are Warsaw , the capital and largest city of the country with a modern skyline and a vibrant nightlife; Krakow , the former royal capital and a cultural and historical center; Gdansk , a port city on the Baltic Sea with a maritime charm and a solidary spirit; and Wroclaw , a city of islands and bridges with a colorful architecture and a lively student population. To save money in Poland, you can shop at local markets for fresh bread and cheese, eat pierogi or bigos instead of western food, use public transportation or tram instead of driving or taking taxis, and enjoy free or cheap activities such as visiting museums, castles, or churches.
These are some of the cheapest countries to live in, but they are not the only ones. There are many other places in the world that offer a low cost of living and a high quality of life, depending on your preferences and needs. The best way to find out which country suits you best is to do your own research, compare different options, and visit the places you are interested in. Living abroad can be an amazing adventure, but it also requires planning, preparation, and adaptation. If you are ready to take the leap, you will surely find a country that will welcome you with open arms and make you feel at home.