Have you ever dreamed of the possibility of simply forgetting about things here, packing your bags and moving to another country? Well, this is a dream that many people have, and even better, they imagine moving to a country where the cost of living is extremely affordable and allows you to live and work even on a slightly lower income , without sacrificing your quality of life. .
In today’s globalized world, this idea is not only possible, but is also becoming increasingly popular among young professionals, retirees and even entire families looking for new opportunities.
This article is a guide for anyone who wants to take the big step into a more economical country. We present a list of the seven cheapest countries to live and work in, taking into account various factors such as cost of living, quality of services and employment opportunities. Get ready for a trip that will not only lighten your wallet but also enrich your life in ways you could never have imagined.
1.Vietnam
If you want to live and work in a place full of charm and cultural richness without breaking the bank, Vietnam seems like an accessible and fascinating option. The country remains underexplored in terms of value for money for expatriates and offers a variety of experiences ranging from lush natural landscapes to authentic cuisine that is a great delight for foodies. In addition, Vietnam has gained importance as a destination for adventure seekers.
In terms of employment opportunities, the most promising cities are Ho Chi Minh in the south; Hanoi, the capital in the north; and Da Nang, located in the central region. Teaching English is one of the most common activities for foreigners, with salaries tending to be competitive compared to other countries in the region.
The local currency, the Vietnamese dong, currently has a favorable exchange rate against the dollar, increasing purchasing power. The cost of living varies by location: While larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi require a larger budget, it’s still possible to find rents starting around $250 per month and meals from $1 to $3 if you want locations of the companies. Transportation, another important factor, is surprisingly affordable, making exploring this fascinating country even easier.
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a true treasure of Central America and impresses not only with its financial accessibility, but also with its spectacular natural landscapes and the charisma of the locals. The dense forests, tropical coasts and “pura vida” culture of this country enchant at first sight.
While it may not be the cheapest option compared to neighbors like Guatemala or Nicaragua, the cost of living is still reasonable, especially for Americans, and is offset by generally higher salaries. Its proximity to the United States also means cheap flights are possible, making Costa Rica an even more attractive choice.
When it comes to employment opportunities, English teaching, tourism and diving activities are among the most popular areas for immigrants. The cost of living is quite manageable: a meal at a local eatery averages between $3 and $6, while rent for an apartment can range from $300 to $800 per month, depending on the location and size of the property. Transportation is also economical: local fares start at around $0.70 per trip.
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3. Bulgaria
If you think living and working in Europe is a distant dream due to the high costs in countries like France and Italy, it may be time to consider alternatives in Eastern Europe. Bulgaria, for example, appears to be an attractive and affordable option.
Not only does this country offer a significantly lower cost of living, but it is also a strategic starting point for exploring neighboring countries such as Greece, Turkey and Romania. Additionally, Bulgaria is a country with a rich historical history spanning over 8,000 years, so you will never be short of places and cultures to explore in your free time.
When it comes to employment opportunities, English teaching and tourism are among the most soughtafter options for expatriates. In financial terms, Bulgaria is much cheaper: rent for a onebedroom apartment starts at around $230 per month, while a meal at a cheaper restaurant can cost around $5.
Even public transportation is surprisingly affordable, with fares starting at just $1. Therefore, Bulgaria can provide a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
4. South Africa
South Africa is a place that is still little talked about and that perhaps deserves a closer look. Not only are South African cities one of the most affordable countries where English is one of the official languages, but they also offer a standard of living comparable to that of many Western metropolises. This makes adaptation much easier and makes the country an attractive option for those looking for quality of life without sacrificing their budget.
But South Africa isn’t just affordable; It is also a melting pot of cultural diversity and natural beauty. From exciting safaris to whale watching to adventures like rafting and ziplining, the range of activities on offer is extensive. In the professional sector, language lessons are in high demand despite the country having 11 official languages.
There are also a variety of opportunities in the tourism sector and with international companies. As for costs, renting a onebedroom apartment can range from $350 to $500 per month, while a meal at a local restaurant can cost upwards of $8. This makes South Africa a remarkable choice for anyone looking to live and work abroad without breaking the bank.
5.Thailand
Thailand is a destination that captured the hearts of travelers long before it became the setting for the movie “The Beach.” With an affordable cost of living, even in metropolises like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the country is a paradise for those seeking quality of life without emptying their wallets. Although beach resorts may be slightly more expensive, they are still a bargain compared to other beach destinations around the world.
The country is a mosaic full of charms: from its clear and transparent waters to the rich cultural and culinary offer that delights the palate. In addition, Thailand is considered one of the safest and most economical places to live in the world. When it comes to employment, the hotel industry offers a wide range of opportunities.
As for the cost of living, in cities like Chiang Mai it is possible to live comfortably on just $600 per month. Meals at popular spots like markets and food courts can cost as little as $1, and renting a studio in a condominium with Western amenities can cost up to $150 a month. Public transport is also easily accessible; bus tickets cost around 30 cents.
6.Peru
If you’re looking for a unique experience that fits your budget, consider Peru as your next stop. Aside from being one of the most economical countries to live and work in, the purchasing power of your dollar is significantly higher here than in many other places in South America.
Although the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are mustsee tourist attractions, the country offers other, less explored gems that you can discover during your stay there. Living in Peru not only offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich Inca heritage, but also to explore the desert landscapes of Ica.
With a view to the job market, working in nongovernmental organizations and environmental protection projects is an option. Marketing and tourism are also industries with interesting opportunities. As far as daily expenses go, the cost of living is quite affordable: rent for a onebedroom apartment costs about $250 a month, and a meal at a local market usually costs no more than $1 to $3.
7. Poland
If you want to pursue a life and career in a European country without completely emptying your wallet, Poland appears as a remarkable and economical alternative. Still underrated compared to neighboring Germany, Poland has gradually attracted the attention of expats and tourists from all over the world.
Urban centers such as Warsaw and Krakow offer all modern amenities at a significantly lower cost than in many Western European countries. In addition to teaching opportunities, the Polish market also offers a variety of jobs in professional sectors with attractive salaries.
For people with dual citizenship in European Union countries, Poland becomes even more attractive as it is part of the Schengen area and therefore does not require a visa to enter. Customer service positions are particularly common here. As for the cost of living, you can rent a onebedroom apartment for about $350 and enjoy a meal at a restaurant for about $5.