The cheapest places to live in 2025 around the world
There are many factors to consider when choosing a country to move to, but one of the most important is the cost of living. Find out which countries in the world have the cheapest months to live in 2025
More and more people around the world are thinking about moving abroad. This trend is especially popular with digital nomads and retirees who are looking to increase their savings without sacrificing quality of life.
Experts from International Living conducted a study and identified the places that can be safely called the cheapest places to live in 2025, and importantly, despite the low average cost of living here, its quality remains excellent.
The top 5 cheapest places to live in 2025 are below.
5th place - Bali
Bali is a tropical paradise that combines affordability, scenic beauty and a warm climate, making it an extremely attractive option for expats.
Renting a one-bedroom villa near the beach in Seminyak will cost $ 1,325 per month, which includes utilities, internet, cable TV and a maid service every two weeks. However, you can also find more budget options on the island, even for half the price. For example, small hotels and guesthouses cost only $15 per night. In addition, you can rent clean, comfortable housing for only $600 per month.
The healthcare system in Bali is modern, high-quality and inexpensive. For example, a doctor's consultation costs about $13, and a visit to a specialist costs from $30 to $55. A tooth filling costs about $30, which is much cheaper than in Western Europe or the USA. The cost of spa treatments and wellness services with massage starts from $20.
Lunch in one of the local cafes costs only $4, while dinner for two in an elite international restaurant will cost $40. Bali's diverse food options include Indonesian, Italian, Thai and Japanese cuisine, allowing expats to enjoy a variety of tastes without spending too much money.
For those who love to travel, flights from Bali to neighboring countries such as Singapore start at just $110, making Bali an ideal base from which to explore the region.
Gym memberships are affordable, averaging $45 per month, and open-air gyms along the beach are free.
On average, a family of two needs $1,600 to live comfortably in Bali.
4th place – Malaysia
Malaysia combines modern amenities with an affordable cost of living, making it a popular choice for expats. Compared to the US and Canada, daily expenses in Malaysia are extremely low, allowing you to save a lot without sacrificing any comfort.
In Kuala Lumpur and Penang, a three-bedroom apartment with modern amenities costs between $600 and $1,200 per month. For those who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle, smaller cities offer even better deals.
Food at street vendors costs as little as $2, while upscale restaurants are reasonably priced, with meals for two rarely exceeding $25. Local markets offer fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood at low prices, while imported goods are also available for those seeking Western comfort.
Public transport is affordable and reliable, with buses, trains and ride-sharing services all available at low prices. A one-way bus ticket costs around $0.80, while a monthly pass is around $20.
With a monthly budget of between $1,500 and $2,500, expats can experience a high quality of life in Malaysia.
In order to safely move, travel or work in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can issue an extended policy on our website using the link.
3rd place – Vietnam
Vietnam has one of the lowest costs of living in the world, but the lifestyle can be as comfortable as in any developed country.
Renting a furnished one-bedroom apartment in Hanoi’s Old Quarter costs $275 per month, including twice-weekly cleaning and all utilities except electricity. The electricity bill, with air conditioning on during the day and night if necessary, is around $50 per month during the summer. Fiber internet in Vietnam will cost around $10 per month, and a monthly prepaid mobile plan that includes calls and data costs $4.
Food and nutrition are also very affordable, especially when it comes to local produce. A meal at a high-end restaurant in Hanoi costs an average of $10, while street food like pho or rice dishes can cost as little as $3. For a special occasion, a premium seafood, sushi, and grilled meat buffet costs around $50.
For those who prefer public transportation, bus fares are around 30 cents per trip.
It’s safe to say that most expats will be able to get a high quality of life in Vietnam without worrying about the price.
2nd place – Thailand
Thailand offers options for every lifestyle and budget: Bangkok’s cosmopolitan vibe is perfect for city-lovers, while Chiang Mai’s mountainous scenery attracts those seeking tranquility, and Phuket offers the ultimate beach life.
Rent for a fully furnished 65 square meter apartment, located a short walk from the beach, is just under $600.
Food is also inexpensive. Fresh produce, including tropical fruits and seafood, is inexpensive, and lunch at a local cafe costs just $4. Street food is a cultural staple, with dishes like noodles and curries costing just $2. For those looking for a more sophisticated dining experience, high-end restaurants remain affordable, with dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant costing around $25.
Transportation in Thailand is efficient and budget-friendly. Bangkok’s BTS Skytrain and MRT metro systems make getting around the city convenient, and a monthly pass costs less than $50. Thailand’s intercity buses and trains are reliable and inexpensive for regional travel.
1st place – Colombia
Colombia is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable destinations in Latin America for expats. Despite occasional political upheaval, the country is a safe and welcoming place to live.
In the cities of the country, expats can expect to budget between $1,000 and $2,000 per month to cover the costs of living comfortably.
Utilities are around $75. Groceries for a family of four typically cost around $500 per month. Fresh organic milk is only $3 per liter, and you can buy a huge variety of fresh fruits and vegetables at the local market for $15.
A meal out, which includes soup, a main course, a drink, and maybe a small dessert, costs around $5 on average. Breakfast can be even cheaper.
If you want to treat yourself to a fine meal, you can dine at the best restaurants in Manizales or Pereira for $20 or less.
Cities like Manizales have buses and cable cars that make getting around easy and affordable. For longer trips, it is common to hire a taxi, which costs between $5 and $7 per hour.
With its scenic landscapes, rich culture, and affordable amenities, Colombia offers an exceptional quality of life for expats.
In each of these destinations, foreigners will feel at their best, as the above-mentioned countries offer low prices and a high quality of life.
Reminder! Buying property abroad is a great opportunity to protect your money, get a stable passive income, and additional income. We have already told you which places in the world, according to experts, will be the best for buying property in 2025.
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