10 Best Places In The World To Live Comfortably Without Much Money
Living comfortably without spending a fortune is possible in many places worldwide. Some cities and towns offer a high quality of life with affordable housing, food, and entertainment. These destinations provide everything needed for a fulfilling life without breaking the bank.
Choosing the right place means balancing cost, comfort, and lifestyle. Some locations make it easy to enjoy life on a budget, whether it’s a quiet beach town, a historic city, or a peaceful countryside. Here are 10 places where living well doesn’t require deep pockets.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
This northern Thai city is famous for its low cost of living, friendly locals, and beautiful temples. Rent for a small apartment can be as little as $300 per month, and street food meals cost just a few dollars. With a thriving digital nomad community and plenty of cultural events, it’s a great place to stretch a dollar.
Medellín, Colombia
Once known for its troubled past, Medellín has transformed into a vibrant and affordable city. The weather is springlike year-round, public transportation is cheap and efficient, and fresh produce is incredibly inexpensive. Many expats can live well on less than $1,500 a month, including rent.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Vietnam’s largest city is packed with energy, delicious street food, and a low cost of living. Rent is cheap, with many comfortable apartments available for under $500 a month. A bowl of pho costs around $2, and getting around on a motorbike taxi is convenient and affordable.
Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal’s capital offers a rich culture, scenic views, and a relaxed lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of other Western European cities. While rent can be higher in the city center, moving outside can cut expenses significantly. The food scene is fantastic, with fresh seafood and local wine that won’t drain your wallet.
Bucharest, Romania
Romania’s capital is an underrated gem with affordable housing, excellent internet, and a lively arts scene. A one-bedroom apartment in a good neighborhood can be rented for $400 monthly. Dining out is inexpensive, and public transport makes getting around easy.
Oaxaca, Mexico
This charming colonial city offers an affordable and culturally rich lifestyle. Local markets sell fresh produce for a fraction of U.S. prices, and street food is delicious and cheap. Rent is reasonable, and the slower pace of life makes it a great place to settle down.
Sofia, Bulgaria
One of Europe’s most affordable capitals, Sofia has a growing expat community and a mix of modern and traditional influences. Rent is low, utilities are inexpensive, and eating out won’t dent the budget. The nearby mountains offer an easy escape into nature.
Cebu, Philippines
Cebu is a tropical paradise with low living costs and a laid-back lifestyle. The beaches are stunning, the locals are friendly, and fresh seafood is incredibly cheap. A comfortable life here can be had for under $1,200 a month, including rent.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Georgia’s capital is a historic yet modern city with an incredibly low cost of living. Rent is cheap, local wine is excellent, and the country offers a visa-free, long-term stay for many nationalities. The city’s café culture and stunning landscapes make it a hidden treasure.
Kraków, Poland
Kraków combines history, charm, and affordability. Housing is reasonable, public transport is cheap, and there’s always something happening in the city’s lively squares. With a strong expat presence, meeting people while enjoying an affordable lifestyle is easy.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.