10 Cheapest Countries to Live Like a King on $1,000/Month

Looking for the cheapest countries where you can live comfortably without breaking the bank? These 10 destinations offer a luxurious lifestyle for a fraction of what you’d pay in the U.S. or Europe. Whether you’re drawn to the tropical beaches of Indonesia and Costa Rica, the vibrant cities of Vietnam and Mexico, or the charming landscapes of Bolivia and Argentina, you’ll find that $1,000 a month is more than enough to cover rent, food, and daily expenses while enjoying a high quality of life. With affordable housing, low-cost transportation, and thriving expat communities, these countries provide everything you need to settle down and enjoy life without financial stress.

From dining out for just $2 per meal to renting a comfortable apartment for a few hundred dollars per month, these destinations prove that luxury living doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Many of these places also offer top-notch healthcare, strong infrastructure, and welcoming locals, making it easier than ever to relocate. Thinking about making the move? Let us know which country appeals to you the most, and stay tuned for more in-depth guides on how to start your affordable life abroad!

10. Indonesia: Affordable Paradise with Stunning Beaches

Indonesia offers an affordable lifestyle, especially in cities like Jakarta and Bali. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the cost of living as of February 2025:

Cost of Living:

• Single Person: Approximately $600–$1,000 per month, depending on lifestyle choices. Bali Real Estate
• Family of Four: Around $2,100 per month, excluding rent.

Rent:

Jakarta:

• City Center: One-bedroom apartments range from IDR 8–12 million ($500–$750) per month.
• Suburbs: Similar accommodations cost between IDR 4–7 million ($250–$450) per month.

Bali:

• Budget-Friendly Areas (e.g., Canggu, Ubud): Rooms or studio apartments are available for $200–$400 monthly.
• Mid-Range Options: One-bedroom apartments in areas like Denpasar or Canggu cost $500–$1,000 per month, often including amenities like gyms or pools. Woods Bali

Food:

• Local Cuisine: Meals at local warungs (small eateries) cost between IDR 15,000–30,000 ($1–$2)
• Western Restaurants: Dining at Western establishments ranges from $10–$25 per meal
• Groceries: Monthly expenses for one person are approximately IDR 2–4 million ($125–$250), depending on the mix of local and imported products.

Transportation:

• Public Transport: In Jakarta, MRT fares range from IDR 3,000–14,000 ($0.20–$0.90) per trip.
• Ride-Hailing Services: Short trips using services like GoJek or Grab typically cost IDR 15,000–40,000 ($1–$2.50).
• Scooter Rentals (Bali): Monthly rentals are between $50–$100, with fuel costs around $1 per gallon.

Utilities:

Electricity: Monthly bills for a typical apartment range from IDR 500,000–1,500,000 ($30–$95), influenced by air conditioning usage.

Internet: High-speed connections (50–100 Mbps) cost IDR 400,000–800,000 ($25–$50) per month.

Healthcare:

• Private Hospital Consultation: Fees range from IDR 300,000–1,000,000 ($20–$65) per visit.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive plans cost between IDR 10–30 million ($625–$1,875) annually.

Recent Economic Updates:

• Inflation: As of January 2025, Indonesia’s annual inflation rate was 0.76%, the lowest in 24 years.
• VAT Increase: The government plans to raise the Value-Added Tax (VAT) from 11% to 12% starting January 2025, with measures in place to mitigate the impact on consumers.

9. Bolivia: Live Large on a Small Budget

Bolivia stands out as an affordable destination in South America, offering a comfortable lifestyle on a modest budget. Here’s an updated overview of the cost of living as of February 2025:

Cost of Living:

• Single Person: Estimated monthly expenses are approximately $483.70 (3,332.50 Bs.) excluding rent.
• Family of Four: Estimated monthly costs around $1,718.90 (11,842.50 Bs.) excluding rent.

Rent:

One-Bedroom Apartment:

• City Center: Approximately $300 per month.
• Outside City Center: Around $200 per month.

Three-Bedroom Luxury Condo:

• Ranges between $600–$800 per month, depending on location and amenities.

Food:

• Local Cuisine: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages 20 Bs. ($2.87).
• Groceries: Prices for common items include:
• Milk (1 gallon): Approximately 25.06 Bs. ($3.62)
• Eggs (1 dozen): Around 13.40 Bs. ($1.94)
• Chicken Breast (1 lb): About 10.69 Bs. ($1.55)
• Apples (1 lb): Roughly 6.59 Bs. ($0.95)
• Potatoes (1 lb): Close to 4.30 Bs. ($0.62)

Transportation:

• Taxi Rides: Starting fare is approximately 5 Bs. ($0.75), with an additional 1.86 Bs. ($0.27) per kilometer.
• Public Transport: Local bus tickets cost around 3 Bs. ($0.43) per ride.

Utilities:

• Basic Services: For an 85m² apartment, utilities including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage average 400 Bs. ($58) per month.
• Internet: High-speed internet (60 Mbps or more) costs about 250 Bs. ($36) monthly.

Economic Considerations:

As of late 2024, Bolivia has been experiencing economic challenges, including fuel shortages and rising food prices, which may impact the cost of living.

8. Nepal: Simple, Affordable, and Peaceful

Nepal offers an affordable and peaceful lifestyle, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious individuals. Here’s an updated overview of the cost of living as of February 2025:

Cost of Living:

• Single Person: Estimated monthly expenses are approximately ₨115,276 ($870), excluding rent.
• Family of Four: Estimated monthly costs around ₨279,881 ($2,110), excluding rent.

Rent:

One-Bedroom Apartment:

• City Center: Approximately ₨11,596 ($87) per month.
• Outside City Center: Around ₨7,293 ($55) per month.

Food:

• Local Cuisine: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages ₨217 ($1.57).
• Fine Dining: A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs approximately ₨1,500 ($11).
• Groceries: Prices for common items include:
• Milk (1 gallon): Approximately ₨389 ($2.81)
• Eggs (1 dozen): Around ₨207 ($1.50)
• Chicken Breast (1 lb): About ₨195 ($1.41)
• Apples (1 lb): Roughly ₨136 ($0.99)
• Potatoes (1 lb): Close to ₨26 ($0.18)

Transportation:

• Taxi Rides: Starting fare is approximately ₨120 ($0.90), with an additional ₨30 ($0.22) per kilometer.
• Public Transport: Local bus tickets cost around ₨30 ($0.22) per ride.

Utilities:

• Basic Services: For a 700 sq ft apartment, utilities including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage average ₨2,866 ($21) per month.
• Internet: High-speed internet (50 Mbps or more) costs about ₨1,286 ($9) monthly.

Additional Considerations:

• Household Help: Hiring a full-time housekeeper is affordable, with monthly salaries averaging around ₨15,000 ($113).
• Healthcare: Medical services are relatively inexpensive, with routine doctor visits costing between ₨500–1,000 ($4–$8).

Economic Indicators:

• Inflation Rate: As of December 2024, Nepal’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) growth was measured at 6.1% year-over-year.

7. Vietnam: A Hidden Gem with a Low Cost of Living

Vietnam offers a vibrant lifestyle with a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious individuals. Here’s an updated overview of the cost of living as of February 2025:

Cost of Living:

• Single Person: Estimated monthly expenses are approximately $458 (₫11,628,298.7), excluding rent.
• Family of Four: Estimated monthly costs around $1,610.80 (₫40,899,751.3), excluding rent.

Rent:

One-Bedroom Apartment:

• City Center: Approximately $400–$900 per month.
• Outside City Center: Around $250–$400 per month.

Food:

• Local Cuisine: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages ₫50,000 ($2.15).
• Fine Dining: A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs approximately ₫600,000 ($25.80).
• Groceries: Monthly expenses for one person are approximately $100, depending on dietary habits.

Transportation:

• Public Transport: Local bus tickets cost around ₫7,000 ($0.30) per ride.
• Taxi Rides: Starting fare is approximately ₫15,000 ($0.64), with an additional ₫11,500 ($0.49) per kilometer.
• Monthly Commuting: Estimated at $50–$100, depending on distance and mode of transport.

Utilities:

• Basic Services: For an 85m² apartment, utilities including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage average ₫2,265,110 ($96) per month.
• Internet: High-speed internet (8 Mbps or more) costs about ₫150,000 ($6.35) monthly.

Economic Indicators:

• Inflation Rate: As of December 2024, Vietnam’s annual inflation rate was 2.94%, with consumer prices increasing by 0.29% month-over-month.

6. Argentina: European Charm at a Fraction of the Cost

Argentina offers a blend of European charm and affordability, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a high quality of life at a lower cost. Here’s an updated overview of the cost of living as of February 2025:

Cost of Living:

• Single Person: Estimated monthly expenses are approximately $652.70, excluding rent.
• Family of Four: Estimated monthly costs around $2,356.60, excluding rent.

Rent:

Three-Bedroom Apartment:

• City Center: Approximately $400 per month.
• Outside City Center: Around $300 per month.

Food:

Dining Out:

• Inexpensive Restaurant: A meal averages $8.
• Mid-Range Restaurant: A three-course meal for two costs approximately $30.

Groceries:

A typical shopping trip costs under $20, with prices for common items including:

Milk (1 liter): $1.20

• Eggs (12): $2.50
• Chicken Breast (1 kg): $5.00
• Apples (1 kg): $2.00
• Potatoes (1 kg): $1.50

Transportation:

• Taxi Rides: Fares average under $1 per mile.
• Public Transport: Bus rides cost between $0.25 and $0.50 per trip.

Economic Indicators:

• Inflation Rate: As of January 2025, Argentina’s monthly inflation rate decreased to 2.2%, the lowest in over four years.
• Currency Strength: The Argentine peso has appreciated by over 40% since mid-2023, enhancing purchasing power for residents.

5. Peru: Low-Cost Living with Amazing Scenery

Peru offers a blend of rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, all at an affordable cost of living. Here’s an updated overview as of February 2025:

Cost of Living:

• Single Person: Estimated monthly expenses are approximately $1,059 (S/. 3,931), excluding rent.
• Family of Four: Estimated monthly costs around $2,318 (S/. 8,608), excluding rent.

Rent:

One-Bedroom Apartment:

• City Center: Approximately $360 per month.
• Outside City Center: Around $250 per month.

Three-Bedroom Apartment:

• City Center: Approximately $700 per month.
• Outside City Center: Around $500 per month.

Food:

• Local Cuisine: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages $3.
• Three-Course Meal: At a mid-range restaurant, a three-course meal for two costs approximately $10.
• Groceries: A typical shopping trip costs under $20, with prices for common items including:
  • Milk (1 liter): $1.20
  • Eggs (12): $2.50
  • Chicken Breast (1 kg): $5.00
  • Apples (1 kg): $2.00
  • Potatoes (1 kg): $1.50

Transportation:

• Public Transport: Bus rides cost between $0.38 per trip, with a monthly pass available for approximately $15.
• Taxi Rides: Fares average under $1 per mile.

Utilities:

• Basic Services: For an 85m² apartment, utilities including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage average $50 per month.
• Internet: High-speed internet (60 Mbps or more) costs about $30 monthly.

Economic Indicators:

• Inflation Rate: As of November 2024, Peru’s inflation rate increased by 0.09%, influenced by rising costs in housing, utilities, and fuel.
• Minimum Wage: Effective January 2025, the minimum wage in Peru increased by 10% to 1,130 soles (approximately $301.90) per month, reflecting the country’s economic recovery.

4. Mexico: A Top Destination for Affordable Living

Mexico offers a rich cultural experience combined with a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious individuals. Here’s an updated overview as of February 2025:

Cost of Living:

• Single Person: Estimated monthly expenses are approximately $620.70 (12,605.20 MXN), excluding rent.
• Family of Four: Estimated monthly costs around $2,246.70 (45,623.10 MXN), excluding rent.

Rent:

Quality Apartment:

• City Center: A one-bedroom apartment averages $375 per month.
• Outside City Center: Similar accommodations cost approximately $250 per month.

Food:

• Local Meals: Inexpensive restaurants offer meals for under $3.
• Monthly Dining Budget: Regular dining out can total around $300 per month.
• Groceries: Monthly grocery expenses are approximately $200, depending on dietary habits.

Transportation:

• Public Transport: Monthly passes are available for about $20, offering access to buses and metro services.
• Taxi Rides: Fares start at approximately $1, with additional costs per mile.

Utilities:

• Basic Services: For an average apartment, utilities including electricity, water, and gas total around $100 per month.
• Internet: High-speed internet services cost about $30 monthly.

Economic Indicators:

• Inflation Rate: As of January 2025, Mexico’s annual inflation rate decreased to 3.69%, the lowest since February 2021, aligning within the central bank’s target range.
• Minimum Wage: Effective January 1, 2025, the daily minimum wage increased by 12% to 279 pesos (approximately $13.75)

3. Malaysia: The Ideal Expat Destination

Malaysia offers a high quality of life at an affordable cost, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and retirees. Here’s an updated overview of the cost of living as of February 2025:

Cost of Living:

• Single Person: Estimated monthly expenses are approximately RM4,835 ($1,160), excluding rent.
• Family of Four: Estimated monthly costs around RM10,393 ($2,500), excluding rent.

Rent:

One-Bedroom Apartment:

• City Center: Monthly rent ranges from RM1,800 to RM3,100 ($430 to $740).
• Suburban Areas: Monthly rent ranges from RM1,130 to RM1,750 ($270 to $420).

Transportation:

• Public Transport: Monthly expenses are approximately RM50 ($12).
• Commuting Costs: Daily commuting costs can vary; for instance, some individuals find it more economical to commute by air between cities due to regional housing cost disparities.

Healthcare:

• Public Healthcare: Malaysia provides subsidized public healthcare, with a visit to a general practitioner costing approximately $10 or less.
• Private Healthcare: Medical insurance premiums have been rising, with a 10% annual cap on increases imposed by the government.

Additional Considerations:

• Utilities: Monthly utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, average RM250 to RM286 ($60 to $70) for a single person.
• Internet: High-speed internet services cost about RM100 ($24) monthly.

Malaysia actively encourages foreigners to retire and reside in the country affordably, offering various programs to facilitate this. While the cost of living is generally low, expenses can vary based on lifestyle choices and location within the country.

2. Costa Rica: Budget-Friendly Tropical Paradise

Costa Rica is renowned for its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and affordable living, making it a popular destination for those seeking a budget-friendly lifestyle. Here’s an updated overview of the cost of living as of February 2025:

Cost of Living:

• Single Person: Estimated monthly expenses are approximately $892.50 (₡451,237.50), excluding rent.
• Family of Four: Estimated monthly costs around $3,259.00 (₡1,647,737.90), excluding rent.

Rent:

Two-Bedroom Furnished Apartment:

• City Center: Approximately $800 per month.
• Outside City Center: Around $600 per month.

Food:

• Groceries: Monthly expenses are approximately $400, including items like fresh produce, dairy, and meat.
• Dining Out:
• Inexpensive Restaurant: A meal averages $8.
• Mid-Range Restaurant: A three-course meal for two costs approximately $40.

Transportation:

• Public Transit: Monthly expenses are approximately $40, with local bus fares costing less than $1 per ride.
• Taxi Rides: Starting fare is approximately $1.80, with an additional $1.97 per kilometer.

Utilities:

• Basic Services: For an average apartment, utilities including electricity, water, and garbage collection total around $60 per month.
• Internet: High-speed internet services cost about $50 monthly.

Healthcare:

• Public Healthcare: Costa Rica offers a universal healthcare system (Caja), with monthly costs averaging $150 for a couple.
• Private Healthcare: Costs vary based on services and insurance plans, but are generally more affordable than in many Western countries.

Additional Considerations:

• Entertainment: Dining out and other leisure activities can add approximately $250 to monthly expenses.
• Miscellaneous: Unexpected expenses may account for an additional $100 per month.

While Costa Rica offers a relatively affordable lifestyle, actual expenses can vary based on individual preferences and chosen location within the country. Urban centers and tourist-heavy areas may have higher costs compared to rural regions.

1. Cambodia: The Most Affordable Country for a Luxurious Lifestyle

Cambodia offers an affordable and comfortable lifestyle, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and retirees. Here’s an updated overview of the cost of living as of February 2025:

Cost of Living:

• Single Person: Estimated monthly expenses are approximately $577.20, excluding rent.
• Family of Four: Estimated monthly costs around $2,032.90, excluding rent.

Rent:

One-Bedroom Apartment:

• Prime Areas in Phnom Penh: Monthly rent ranges from $500 to $800.
• Local Neighborhoods in Phnom Penh: Approximately $250 to $400 per month.
• Siem Reap: Ranges from $300 to $500 monthly.

Food:

Dining Out:

• Local Restaurants: Meals typically cost $2 to $4.
• Western Restaurants: Main courses range from $8 to $15.
• Street Food: Available for as little as $1 to $2 per meal.

Groceries:

Monthly expenses vary based on preferences:

• Local Products: $200 to $300.
• Imported Goods: Up to $400 to $600 or more.

Transportation:

• Public Transport: Extremely affordable, with local bus fares costing less than $1 per ride.
• Taxis and Tuk-Tuks: Short rides typically cost around $1 to $3.

Utilities:

• Basic Services: For an average apartment, utilities including electricity, water, and garbage collection total around $60 per month.
• Internet: High-speed internet services cost about $50 monthly.

Healthcare:

• Private Healthcare: Affordable, with private insurance premiums averaging $300 per month for a couple.

Additional Considerations:

• Entertainment and Leisure: Dining out and other leisure activities can add approximately $250 to monthly expenses.
• Miscellaneous: Unexpected expenses may account for an additional $100 per month.

While Cambodia offers a low cost of living, actual expenses can vary based on individual lifestyle choices and location within the country. Urban centers like Phnom Penh may have higher costs compared to rural areas.

Final Thoughts: Which Country Will You Choose?

From South America to Southeast Asia, there are plenty of places where you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle for just $1,000 per month. If you’re curious about affordable living in Bali, check out our guide on Can You Still Live in Bali for Under $600 Per Month? and see how far your budget can stretch! Which destination would you choose? Let us know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions: