26 Countries Where the Cost of Living Is Less Than Half of the U.S.

If you’ve ever looked at your rent, gas, and grocery bills and thought, “There has to be a better way,” you’re not alone. The United States, while brimming with opportunity, also boasts a sky-high cost of living in many places. But there are countries where your dollars stretch way further. Here are 26 countries where the cost of living is less than half what you’d expect in the U.S.

Vietnam

Vietnam is the undisputed champion of budget-friendly living. According to Numbeo, consumer prices in Vietnam are about 54% lower than in the U.S., while rent is up to 75% cheaper. A one-bedroom apartment in Ho Chi Minh City costs around $400–$600 per month, compared to $2,000+ in major U.S. cities. Healthcare is another factor; Vietnam offers high-quality private healthcare at a fraction of U.S. costs. An average doctor’s visit is $20–$40, versus hundreds in the U.S. Plus, transportation? A motorbike rental for $50 a month, and you’re all set.

Thailand

The Land of Smiles is also the land of savings. Whether you choose the bustling streets of Bangkok or the serene beaches of Chiang Mai, Thailand offers a cost of living of around 40% of the U.S. Groceries, transportation, and healthcare are also far more affordable. A meal at a local Thai restaurant costs $1.50–$3, compared to $12–$20 in the U.S. Public transportation, like the BTS Skytrain, costs around $1 per ride versus $2.75 in NYC. Plus, you can have a fantastic meal for just $3 and a Thai massage for less than $10.

Cambodia

If you dream of living like royalty on a shoestring budget, Cambodia is the place. Rent in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap is ridiculously cheap at around $250–$400 for a decent apartment. Healthcare is lower in cost but varies in quality, with expats often using private clinics. Utilities and internet are affordable, averaging $60–$100 monthly. Cambodia offers a low-cost lifestyle, attracting retirees and digital nomads alike. And, with $1 beers and $5 restaurant meals, your bank account will sigh in relief.

Mexico

Tacos, sunshine, and an ultra-affordable cost of living. In cities like Mérida or Oaxaca, rent is around $400–$600 monthly. A comfortable lifestyle in Mexico can be achieved for $1,500–$2,500 per month, whereas a similar standard in the U.S. often exceeds $5,000. Also, Public transportation is highly affordable, with bus fares averaging $0.50 compared to $2–$3 in the U.S. Add $1 street tacos and low healthcare costs, and you’ve got a retirement dream or a digital nomad paradise.

Colombia

Colombia has become one of the best places to live on a budget. Rent in Colombia is significantly lower, with a one-bedroom apartment in Medellín’s city center costing around $350–$600 monthly. Groceries and dining out are affordable, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing $4–$10. Public transport is cheap, with metro or bus rides costing $0.70–$1. Medellín, the “City of Eternal Spring,” offers modern apartments for $400–$700 a month, delicious coffee for cents, and incredible mountain views, all for less than half of what you’d spend in the U.S.

Peru

Ceviche lovers, rejoice! Lima and Cusco provide an affordable cost of living, with rent starting at $300 per month. Food? Dirt cheap. A full three-course menu at a local “menú” restaurant costs around $3–$5, while fresh produce at markets will make you forget supermarket price tags exist. Public transport? Buses and shared taxis rarely exceed 50 cents per ride. Plus, Machu Picchu is right there.

Ecuador

Ecuador is like that budget-friendly Airbnb with ocean views, mountain hikes, and a rainforest in the backyard—all for half the price of what you’d pay elsewhere. The cost of living here is significantly lower than in the U.S. or Europe. A couple can live comfortably on $1,500–$2,000 monthly, including rent, utilities, food, and occasional ceviche splurge. Bonus: The U.S. dollar is the official currency, so there are no pesky exchange rates to worry about!

Bolivia

One of South America’s most affordable destinations, Bolivia offers rent for as little as $250 per month. Even utilities are cheap: expect to pay $30–$50 per month for basics like electricity, water, and internet (though “fast” internet here is like a llama running: Steady, but not exactly Formula 1). Healthcare? Affordable, with essential doctor visits costing $10–$20. The catch? Imported goods are pricey, so if you’re addicted to brand-name snacks, expect to pay luxury prices. Otherwise, Bolivia is a dreamland for budget living!

Argentina

Despite economic ups and downs, Argentina remains affordable. Buenos Aires has a European feel but with rent prices of just $400 a month. Of course, locals feel the pinch due to inflation, but Argentina is the ultimate “live like a king” deal for outsiders. The only downside? Prices change faster than Messi dribbles, and the economy is as unpredictable as Maradona’s interviews. Still, if you want world-class wine, beef, and scenery without breaking the bank, Argentina is the place to be.

Philippines

The Philippines is a budget-friendly paradise where your dollar stretches further than a yoga instructor at sunrise. With an average monthly cost of living ranging from $500 to $1,500, depending on location and lifestyle, it’s a dream for expats, retirees, and digital nomads. Rent? A cozy apartment in Manila can be had for $300 to $800, while in the provinces, you can get a beachside bungalow for the price of a fancy dinner in New York. The only challenge? Deciding which of its 7,000+ islands to call home.

Indonesia

Bali is famous for digital nomads, and for good reason. Eating out? A delicious local meal like nasi goreng or soto a yam will set you back just $1–$3. Public transport? Dirt cheap! A ride on a Trans Jakarta bus costs about $0.30, and even fuel is affordable at around $0.70 per liter. Sure, imported goods and luxury items cost more (want cheese? Prepare to cry), but Indonesia is an affordable tropical paradise if you live like a local.

Malaysia

Malaysia is a hidden gem. Kuala Lumpur offers modern living at a fraction of U.S. prices, with rent at $400–$600. Even entertainment is affordable, and movie tickets cost around $3–$5. This, combined with friendly locals, world-class beaches, and tax-friendly policies for expats, makes Malaysia an absolute steal. If you want a tropical paradise where your dollar stretches like a rubber band, Malaysia is the place to be!

Sri Lanka

Beaches, tea plantations, and a low cost of living make Sri Lanka an attractive choice. Groceries are budget-friendly: Fresh tropical fruits, rice, and curries won’t burn a hole in your pocket. However, imported goods (cheese, wine, electronics) can be pricey. Also, healthcare is surprisingly good and affordable, with free government services and reasonable private options. But the real jackpot? The breathtaking beaches, lush mountains, and exotic wildlife are all free to enjoy!

India

From the mountains of Himachal Pradesh to the beaches of Goa, India is incredibly affordable. Even healthcare is budget-friendly, many medical procedures cost a fraction of what they do in the U.S. That’s why “medical tourism” is booming. Internet and mobile data? It is among the cheapest in the world, with 1GB costing as little as $0.10. For most, life is affordable, vibrant, and full of spicy street food that won’t break the bank!

Nepal

Have you ever dreamed of living near the Himalayas? Nepal is your new home. Internet? Around $10 per month. Even a cup of masala tea in a roadside stall is pocket change, literally less than $0.50. Compared to Western countries, you could live like a king on what would be considered “survival money” elsewhere. Just be prepared for occasional power cuts, chaotic traffic, and the sacred cow that refuses to move from the middle of the road.

Turkey

Turkey is one of those magical places where you can live like a king on a budget that wouldn’t even get you a studio apartment in New York. Rent? Dirt cheap outside major cities: Think $300–$500 for a decent place. Food? You can feast on kebabs, fresh veggies, and baklava for the price of a sad fast-food meal in the West. Public transport? A few bucks get you across town. Even utilities, healthcare, and mobile data are ridiculously affordable compared to Europe or the U.S.

Georgia

Thinking of moving to Georgia? Well, pack your bags and your sense of humor! Here’s a whirlwind tour of what your wallet can expect in this charming country. In Tbilisi, the capital, a one-bedroom apartment downtown averages around $760 monthly. Opting for the ‘burbs? That’ll be about $500. If you’re eyeing Batumi’s seaside vibes, expect $530 in the city center and $390 on the outskirts. And, Got kids? Private preschool runs about $220 per month, while international primary schools can set you back $4,895 annually.

Serbia

Living in Serbia is like finding a hidden gem in Europe’s treasure chest, affordable yet sparkling with charm. Imagine renting a cozy one-bedroom apartment in Belgrade’s city center for about €521 per month or opting for the suburbs at around €349. Foodies, rejoice, too! A hearty meal at a local eatery costs just €4, while a three-course dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant sets you back about €16. With an average monthly salary of around €430, Serbia offers a cost-effective lifestyle without skimping on the good stuff.

Ukraine (pre-war)

Ukraine, pre-war, was a paradise for budget-conscious expats and locals alike. Rent? A cozy one-bedroom in Kyiv’s center could be yours for $500, or snag one in Lviv for $300, cheaper than a fancy gym membership in New York. Groceries? A loaf of bread sets you back 50 cents, while a hearty meal at a mid-range restaurant costs $5–$7 (yes, including borscht). The ability to live comfortably on $1,000/month? Absolutely. It was cheap, fun, and full of surprises.

Albania

Albania is where your wallet breathes easy, but your diet might revolve around raki and byrek. Living costs here are refreshingly low: Monthly expenses for a single person, excluding rent, hover around €500-€700, while a one-bedroom in Tirana can set you back €300-€500. Public transport costs €0.40 per ride but be prepared for buses with personalities. Salaries are modest, averaging €400-€700, so digital nomads and retirees thrive here. Just don’t expect credit cards everywhere. Cash is still king.

Montenegro

Montenegro offers stunning Adriatic views with rent averaging $400 a month. Its coastal towns provide a Mediterranean lifestyle without the hefty price tag. Salaries though? Let’s just say you don’t expect Monaco-level wages. Montenegro is a great place for budget-conscious expats, digital nomads, and anyone who enjoys stunning scenery without hemorrhaging cash. But beware: rakija flows freely, and so does your sense of time!

Bosnia & Herzegovina

Bosnia & Herzegovina is where your wallet breathes easier unless you develop a cevapi addiction. Utility bills? Roughly $100-$150 monthly, unless winter turns your apartment into an ice cave. Healthcare is budget-friendly but might test your patience. Overall, Bosnia can be wonderfully affordable if you avoid luxury imports and embrace local life. Just be ready for the occasional bureaucratic adventure.

Romania

Romania’s cost of living is like a budget-friendly rollercoaster: Mostly fun, occasionally surprising. Utilities for a small apartment? Around €100–€150, though winter heating can sneak up on you like an overenthusiastic Dracula. Internet is lightning-fast and ridiculously cheap at €7–€10 per month. Salaries vary wildly, but the average hovers around €900 net. If you don’t mind the occasional pothole and bureaucracy tango, Romania is a great place to live well on a budget.

Hungary

Hungary is like the U.S.’s budget-friendly cousin—the same modern conveniences, half the price. Rent? A one-bedroom in Budapest costs about $500; in New York, that gets you a closet (if you’re lucky). A full meal with wine? $10. In the U.S., that barely covers a sad sandwich. Public transport? $30/month for unlimited rides; meanwhile, Americans are still debating gas prices. And the cherry on top? Hungary has thermal baths, medieval castles, and goulash that could make you cry tears of joy.

Bulgaria

Bulgaria is like the Costco of countries: Half the price and essentials. The cost of living here is roughly 50% of what you’d spend in the U.S., with rent in Sofia (the capital) averaging $500 for a one-bedroom, while in New York, you’d cry yourself to sleep over a $3,000 shoebox. A beer? About $1.50. A full meal? $7. Plus, you get charming cobblestone streets, mountain views, and seaside towns—none of which charge a premium for existing.

Moldova

Moldova, the land of budget-friendly bliss, is where your dollar stretches like homemade noodle dough. With the cost of living nearly 50% lower than in the U.S., you can rent a decent apartment in Chișinău for about $300 while your American counterpart cries over their $2,000 shoebox. A full meal? $5 gets you a feast, including mamaliga (cornmeal porridge) that sticks to your soul. Plus, public transport? Just 25 cents—meanwhile, Americans are taking out loans for gas.

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