For those of our fellow citizens who have sharpened their “emigration skis,” not all of the cheapest countries for living may be suitable. Some are attracted by the modern Western model of civilization with its comfort, skyscrapers, high salaries and career prospects; such emigrants strive to go to the most developed countries of Europe, North America or Australia. But there are also those among Russians for whom it is enough to enjoy a simple, quiet life, while spending very little. This option of emigration in English is called “downshifting”, however, only people who have passive income that allows them to get by abroad without work can afford it. Some, for example, rent out their Moscow apartments, and live abroad with this money.
1. India
This South Asian country can be called the cheapest in the world. To have a hearty lunch for two at an Indian restaurant, it is enough to have only 10 dollars in your pocket. Taxi drivers here are very polite; they will wait for at least an hour for a client going about his business, then they will drive around the city with him, and at the end of the journey they will ask him for no more than a couple of dollars.
Renting an apartment in India will cost about $100 a month, and in the south of the peninsula you can find housing for as little as 20 bucks and live almost like a king. Life in Indian cities, as elsewhere, is more expensive than in rural areas, and in some cases the prices are exorbitant. But there are quiet towns on the coast, not spoiled by the attention of tourists, where you can rent a house for 30-40 dollars and have to spend about the same on food. This, as they say, is the minimum, and everything above is determined by a person’s desire and wallet.
But the almost rosy picture described also has a less attractive side - in India there is still strict casteism and associated social inequality. Here it is easy to encounter terrible poverty, terrible diseases, and you can be subjected to violence. Add to this the difficult relationship with the former piece of India, now called Pakistan, which may make some wonder whether it is worth moving here to live?
Many women prefer shopping tourism as the best option to relax, have fun, and enjoy shopping. What could be nice...
2. Thailand
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Next from India you need to head east to the kingdom of Thailand - the next inexpensive country. But you need to immediately take into account that you can live cheaply here, not where crowds of tourists go. An ordinary holiday in this country has an average price, and in the most popular tourist centers it is quite substantial. To try to meet the same monthly living expenses as in India, you will need to get into the Thai outback.
Those Russians who dream of moving to live in warmer places can turn their attention to this country. Such a move will seem especially comfortable for freelancers working via the Internet, which operates reliably in this country. Here you can spend no more than 140 dollars in a month, of which only 30 will go to pay for housing, and the rest will be on the table in the form of vegetables, fruits, chicken with rice or noodles. True, gasoline is not cheap here - about 100 rubles per liter.
3. Indonesia
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Next from Thailand you need to head southeast to get to another cheap country - Indonesia. Sunny beaches and a sea of tropical fruits can attract people here. The cost of living here is about the same as in Thailand, but it is much more difficult to find a part-time job here, since the country is confidently in first place in the world in terms of unemployment. The only option left is to work via the Internet. The prices for accommodation here are very low, only 150 dollars is enough to live without unnecessary luxury. You can have a filling lunch in Indonesia for just $1.
4. Laos
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Another Southeast Asian country is Laos, which has become attractive to downshifters. There is beautiful unspoiled nature here, charming mountains, clean air, very friendly people - why not a paradise to live? Laos has a peaceful Buddhist culture, and outdoor enthusiasts can raft down mountain rivers on rubber floats. You can even rent a luxurious home here for just $20 a day, and if you need a budget option, then $9 is enough. A comfortable one-room apartment in a residential area for 150-200 bucks will be at your disposal for a month. In a nearby cafe you can eat your fill for 2-4 dollars. For 10 bucks a day you can rent a moped and ride it around the country.
5. Albania
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The next point of inexpensive living awaits a potential emigrant in Europe, namely Albania. In the south of this small Balkan country, you can lead a decent, quiet life and at the same time much cheaper than your closest neighbors. For 100-200 dollars you can rent a decent apartment here, have a delicious lunch for 6 dollars and wash it down with a bottle of beer for 90 cents.
6. Vietnam
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And again Southeast Asia, now Vietnam, which is beginning to attract more and more tourists, especially in its southeast. There are also lush tropical forests and coral reefs. But since tourism is just beginning here, even during the season there is not a large influx of multilingual crowds of vacationers. Therefore, you can still rent decent housing here for 150-200 dollars. But you need to be prepared to share public beaches with local residents.
7. Nepal
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From Vietnam again to the west, towards India, to its neighboring Nepal. This country is almost mystical, it has become an important spiritual center of Asia. Travelers who love to philosophize and are looking for their path in life go here. But for poor tourists, Nepal, first of all, is home to a huge number of attractions, temples, and it also attracts here with its fantastically beautiful nature. You can get to know all this very cheaply if you rent a one-room apartment in Kathmandu for no more than $200. And lunch in a restaurant here is not a luxury; the most expensive dish costs no more than $8.
8. Guatemala
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From Nepal there is a long journey ahead to the opposite side of the globe - to Guatemala, where it is quite possible to live for a whole month on 300-500 dollars. This Central American country has a mountainous landscape and a rich history of ancient Indian civilizations. The nature here is very beautiful and there is an abundance of exotic fruits. For just 200 bucks you can find a comfortable one-room apartment with a full range of amenities, and about 120 more dollars need to be prepared for food. With such modest expenses you can live a wonderful month in this wonderful country. The only thing that makes you worry is the not very stable political situation in Guatemala itself and in neighboring countries - you will have to look for a calmer place.
9. Cambodia
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Once again Southeast Asia, but now Cambodia, which, like its neighbors, demands very little to live there. It is quite difficult to become a citizen of this country, but here you can live at least your whole life on a tourist visa, and if you have only 300-350 dollars a month in income, then this life will be quite carefree if you close your eyes to its terrible recent history. Crime, fortunately, is not very developed in this country, and rather poisonous snakes pose a greater threat. Sun-kissed Cambodia has a lot of Asian flavor, ancient temples and cults unusual for Europeans. People who are looking for a place to live quietly and peacefully without spending too much are eager to come here.
The cost of renting a comfortable two-room apartment here starts from 300 bucks, and for 550 greenbacks you can rent a two-story mansion with a front garden, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. You can eat at a local cafe for $3, and even a visit to a European restaurant will cost no more than $5. But not everything is so wonderful in Cambodia. No one cleans the wild beaches here, so wild animals and stray dogs can roam there.
10. Philippines
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You can finish your tour of the most inexpensive countries nearby - in the Philippines, where you can live well for a month for $350. The only expensive place here is the capital, Manila, which is full of tourists. It is most convenient and profitable to rent an apartment in the province of Cebu, which is quite developed, but not expensive. A house with amenities can be rented here for $300, and a night’s stay in a double hotel room will cost 1,200 rubles. You can have a hearty and tasty meal here for around 100-150 local pesos. To enjoy fresh exotic fruits for almost nothing, you need to visit one of the local markets.
Many Russian tourists travel abroad expecting to save significantly on costs associated with renting housing, buying food and using basic city services. How justified can such expectations be considered? In which countries are prices significantly lower than in Russia?
Low cost criteria
If we are interested in the cheapest country to live in, what matters is the context in which we can examine this economic characteristic. The fact is that a single state may have inexpensive real estate, goods and services relative to its own citizens, but be too expensive for foreigners, and vice versa.
Tourism or immigration?
That is, one should look at the “cheapness” of a state in two aspects: if there is a source of income within it (this could be employment or, for example, renting out real estate) or if a person has a financial resource of external origin. The first aspect will likely correspond to immigration, and the second to a person's temporary visit to the country: as a visitor or as a tourist.
Thus, if we find out that the cheapest country to live in is such and such (when comparing prices within it with Russian salaries), then by moving there and getting a local job, we may feel that local income allows us to feel too comfortable. And vice versa: a state with unaffordable prices and a Russian salary may turn out to be quite acceptable for living, provided that a person finds a job in a local company.
Purchasing power aspect
In the article we will characterize the cheapest countries to live in relation to Russian salaries. That is, we will study the relevant economic characteristics of states, implying expenses on behalf of a tourist or a person who has come to visit, and not for the purpose of immigration.
Let's look at the cheapest countries to live in - in relation to the income of a Russian tourist - in different parts of the world. The main thing we will pay attention to is prices for real estate, basic goods and services supplied by local companies. Let's agree that the dollar exchange rate will correspond to 50 rubles. Based on this, we will indicate prices immediately in Russian currency.
Asia
This region contains both economically developed and developing countries. From the point of view of the cheapness of real estate, goods and services, we will be interested in the latter.
Among the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia is Cambodia. It should be noted that this colorful, culturally rich and hospitable state is becoming increasingly popular among tourists. Therefore, given its current classification as cheap, we note that prices still tend to gradually rise in price.
Renting housing in large settlements in Cambodia with developed infrastructure will cost approximately 10 thousand rubles. per month. In principle, it can be noted that for that kind of money you can rent a small apartment in a medium-sized city in Russia, including some settlements in the Moscow region.
Monthly food expenses in Cambodia will be about 2 thousand rubles. per person. In Russia, of course, much more is spent on this. And in this sense, a tourist from the Russian Federation will be able to significantly save on the corresponding expense item. According to many tourism industry experts, Cambodia is the cheapest country in the region to live in terms of food costs.
Comparable prices are also typical for the neighboring country - Thailand. The Philippines is located nearby. Renting housing here is a little more expensive - about 15 thousand rubles. per month, but the service is very cheap. For example, a taxi ride will cost about 10 rubles, and hairdressing services will cost about 40 rubles.
In Indonesia, which is also located in Southeast Asia, prices are more than comfortable for the Russian budget. Renting a home will cost approximately 5 thousand rubles. per month. The price of a good hotel room is about 1000 rubles. per day. Food expenses will also be about 1000 rubles. per month.
Laos is located in Southeast Asia. Apartment rental prices here are probably among the lowest in the macroregion - about 3 thousand rubles. per month. But food costs will be slightly higher than in Indonesia - about 1,500 rubles. per month.
If we talk about another macro-region, we can note that the cheapest countries for Russians are located here. Among these is India. Monthly rent in this beautiful country will cost approximately 1,500 rubles. Costs for food and basic services will be approximately 2 thousand rubles.
South America
Among the inexpensive countries to live in this region, when compared with Russian salaries, is Costa Rica. Renting housing in this small state will cost approximately 20 thousand rubles. In principle, for the same price you can rent an apartment on the outskirts of Moscow or in St. Petersburg. But food costs will be minimal - about 30 rubles. in a day. But this is subject to cooking at home. Prices for lunch in a restaurant are comparable to Russian prices - about 200 rubles.
In Guatemala, another Latin American country, renting a home will cost about 10 thousand rubles. per month. Food expenses will be comparable to Russian ones - about 7 thousand rubles. per month.
Among the most economically developed but accessible in terms of financial capabilities of Russians is Argentina. Renting housing here will cost about 7 thousand rubles. per month. Food costs, however, will be about 10 thousand rubles, which is even higher than in many Russian cities.
Many Russians in the above Latin American countries are attracted not only by low prices, but also by the fact that they do not require a visa to visit them.
The South American country Belize, which requires an appropriate permit for entry, but is very remarkable from the point of view of low living costs. Prices for accommodation and food are generally comparable to those found in Costa Rica.
Oceania
Among the countries that are exotic for Russian tourists, but very attractive in economic terms, is Nauru, located in Oceania. In general, expenses for accommodation, food and basic services here will be about 10 thousand rubles. per month. Please note that for a short visit to Nauru - within 2 weeks - a Russian tourist does not need a visa.
Caribbean
Many Russians are attracted by Cuba, located in this macroregion. In this state, prices are quite comfortable for the Russian budget. At the same time, the country has a developed infrastructure - most of the services familiar to tourists from the Russian Federation will be available. Low prices in Cuba are largely due to the special structure of the economy with a strong socialist bias.
It probably cannot be said that this is the cheapest country available to Russians to live in. Monthly rent for an apartment in Cuba will cost about 7 thousand rubles, and about 10 thousand rubles will be spent on food. per month. However, the availability of a large amount of entertainment and the development of infrastructure encourage many travelers who want to save money to come here. Another additional factor that makes Cuba attractive for tourists from the Russian Federation is that you do not need to obtain a visa.
Europe
Now let's try to determine the cheapest ones for the Russian traveler. Among these is Romania. You can rent an apartment here for about 7 thousand rubles, which is much cheaper than in Russia. But food prices are generally comparable to what Russians see at home.
If we consider the cheapest countries in Europe, we should mention Albania. A tourist who comes here can rent a good hotel room for about 1000 rubles. per day. Public transport can be called relatively inexpensive - about 15 rubles. for the trip. Taxi prices are comparable to Russian prices - about 150 rubles. per call, usually more expensive at night. Lunch at a budget restaurant will cost about 200 rubles, food expenses per month are about 7 thousand rubles.
Perhaps the cheapest destination for Russian tourists is Bulgaria. Renting a hotel room will cost approximately 700 rubles. per day. Costs for public transport are comparable to Russian ones - about 30 rubles. per trip (by the way, this is more than in many medium-sized cities of the Russian Federation). Taxi prices are about 30 rubles. per kilometer. Lunch at a restaurant will cost about 200 rubles. Food expenses will be about 7 thousand rubles. per month.
The prices are quite comfortable for a Russian tourist in Lithuania. Rent a hotel room will cost approximately 700 rubles. per day. Taxi prices are about 30 rubles. per kilometer, a trip on intracity public transport - about 40 rubles. Lunch in a good restaurant will cost about 500 rubles.
Cheap - in the West
The cheapest European country in the western part of the continent is probably Portugal. Prices here, of course, are higher than in Eastern Europe, but nevertheless they are quite acceptable for a Russian tourist. So, a good hotel room here will cost about 2 thousand rubles. A trip by public transport costs about 70 rubles. A taxi will cost about 200 rubles. for the trip. Lunch at a budget Portuguese restaurant will cost about 500 rubles.
What is the cheapest European country that is ready to host Russians without a visa? Perhaps Serbia is one of them. Prices here are, in principle, similar to those observed in neighboring Bulgaria. It can be noted that in those located in the Balkans, prices are comparable. Except that in Montenegro, costs will probably be a little higher, since the main currency here is the euro, and the local tourism market is at the stage of active growth, which causes an increase in the price of a number of goods and services.
Balkan specificity
It can also be noted that among the states of the former Yugoslavia, Slovenia cannot be considered cheap. This is largely due to the relatively high salary of local residents - about 1000 euros, which is approximately twice as high as, for example, in Bulgaria and Serbia.
It can be noted that Croatia occupies a middle economic position between the expensive Slovenia and the budget Balkan countries - Serbia, Bulgaria, Macedonia. This, as in the case of Montenegro, is largely due to the steady tourist flow, as well as proximity to one of the most developed countries in Europe - Italy.
Benefits for neighbors
To some extent, a relationship of economic characteristics similar to the Yugoslav model can be observed in the example of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. In the first, the salary is higher, and so are the prices. Slovakia, in turn, can easily be classified as comfortable for Russian tourists from an economic point of view. For example, you can rent a good hotel room for 1,500 rubles. A trip by public transport costs about 40 rubles. Taxi prices are about 70 rubles. per kilometer. Lunch at a budget restaurant will cost about 300 rubles.
In Poland, prices are comparable to those in Slovakia. You can rent a room in a budget hotel for about 1,000 rubles. The cost of traveling by public transport and taxi is approximately the same as in Slovakia. But prices in restaurants are slightly higher - lunch will cost about 500 rubles.
European salary standard
In general, it can be noted that in Eastern Europe and the Balkans a Russian tourist can afford approximately the same as at home. Thus, moving here in order to save money is probably not a very justified decision. But for tourists with similar aspirations, for example, some countries in Southeast Asia are quite suitable.
Where to go and save money?
If we try to determine the cheapest countries for tourists from Russia, then - without strict ranking - we can form a list approximately like this:
Thailand.
Cambodia.
Philippines.
Indonesia.
What can be said about Europe, where prices are higher than in the mentioned countries?
European benefit
We can include the following states as the most attractive in terms of finances for Russians:
Albania.
Bulgaria.
Romania...
Slovakia.
Please note that from this list only Serbia can currently be traveled without a visa.
Of course, it is difficult to single out, for example, the 5 cheapest countries. It is much more useful to consider them in groups in the context of one macro-region - for example, Southeast Asia.
Prices and real estate
It can also be noted that developing countries are, as a rule, countries with the cheapest real estate. However, regarding this aspect, much, as in Russia, depends on the specific region. If, for example, prices for food and services are more or less the same everywhere, then the cost per square meter of real estate in different parts of the state can vary quite significantly.
Greetings! Real estate is traditionally considered one of the most reliable investments. Apartments on the sea coast and... away from Russia are especially valued. How much will such a purchase cost? Today I will write about where the cheapest real estate in the world is (based on last year’s results).
Albania was once a country almost closed to tourists. But over the last twenty years, resorts have been growing here like mushrooms after rain.
For example, Shengjin used to be just a run-down village for fishermen. And today it is a promising resort on the Adriatic coast: warm climate, pine forests, sandy beaches and picturesque views.
The area is actively being developed along the beach line. By the way, in 2015 the price of real estate in this area was the lowest on the Adriatic coast.
The price per square meter in luxury apartments a couple of meters from the beach starts from €700. Residential complexes of this level include the entire resort infrastructure: restaurants, cafes, parking, outdoor swimming pools, children's playgrounds.
The cost of cheaper apartments (2nd and 3rd line) starts from €500 per sq.m. True, apartments in Albania are built “on a grand scale” (the footage here starts from 40 sq.m).
Bulgaria
Experts call Sunny Beach one of the most promising Bulgarian resorts. The nearest major city (Burgas) is only 35 km away. For most of the summer, this part of the coast enjoys wonderful weather, and the golden sandy beaches of Bulgaria are famous throughout the world.
Now the area is being actively developed - and investors have plenty to choose from. The average price per square meter here is €1,300. But if you want, you can find a cheaper option.
A miniature house by the sea can be bought for €30,000 (this is exactly the kind of property that Russians often rent out).
On the secondary market, the price of one-room apartments starts from €20,000, two-room apartments – from €22,000. And in this country, tiny studio apartments in a multi-storey building a few kilometers from the sea are sold inexpensively.
By the way, in 2015, sales of Bulgarian real estate increased by 20%. And the profitability of such investments is estimated at 5-7% per year.
Italy
In the Italian region of Calabria (the southern part of the Apennine Peninsula) is the cozy resort of Scalea. In Italy, this quiet place is considered a deep province. Therefore, prices for local real estate are not too high.
The cost per square meter “floats” in a fairly wide range from €500 to €1500. The price, as usual, is influenced by the apartment’s distance from the sea or city center, the prestige of the area and the view from the window.
You can buy a good apartment for €25,000. However, you will have to walk 15-20 minutes to the sea, and the apartments themselves will be tiny. But even such a budget option is fully furnished with furniture and appliances before sale.
Türkiye
Despite the fact that today we have, to put it mildly, ambiguous relations with Turkey, no one prohibits Russians from buying real estate in this country. The investment attractiveness of Turkish resorts is one of the highest in Europe. If, of course, we focus on the budget segment.
The cheapest option in Turkey is the town of Alanya (120 km from Antalya). Well-groomed sandy beaches, clear sea, a lot of attractions in the city and surrounding areas - and very affordable prices. And thanks to its favorable location, the “high season” in Alanya lasts until November.
The cost per square meter in luxury apartments starts from €1,050. Cheaper real estate, as usual, can be found on the secondary market. Moreover, unlike Russian resales, houses in Alanya are rarely older than ten years.
An apartment on the outskirts of the city in a five-story building can be bought for €25,000. Let me clarify that “outskirts of the city” here means a 20-minute walk to the sea and 8 kilometers to the center. As a rule, such “non-prestigious” properties are sold with furniture and appliances (the cost of the “stuffing” is already included in the price of the property).
Spain
The largest city in the province, Torrvieja, is located on the Spanish Costa Blanca. You've probably heard it often referred to in the media as the “Russian capital of Spain.” Every second property owner in this city has foreign citizenship. True, not only Russian, but also German, British and even Swedish.
The beaches here are excellent, the climate is excellent, and there are also unique salt lakes. But compared to Bulgaria, Albania and Turkey, real estate in Torrvieja “bites”. But it still turns out cheaper than in Moscow or Sochi.
A good house here can be purchased for €30,000 (without a pool and a couple of hundred meters from the sea). A studio apartment on the outskirts or a property from a bank will cost approximately the same amount (but you will most likely have to make repairs there).
The price of cottages starts from €45,000 (with a swimming pool), comfortable villas – from €75,000.
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Migration is an opportunity to move to better working conditions, see the world, experience better infrastructure and a mild climate.
There are a lot of places on the planet where you can live cheaply, beautifully and interestingly. This ranking presents the cheapest countries to live in, where you can move on a permanent basis, expand your career prospects and increase your level of personal comfort.
1. Vietnam
Vietnam is not only a great destination for the budget traveler. Prices for housing and food in this country allow you to stay here for a long time as a freelancer. And with knowledge of English, there is a chance to find a decent position in local companies (IT, teaching, service).
Mountains, sea, exotic forests and lakes - Vietnam is rich in a variety of recreational resources. So anyone can, after a couple of days off, find a hobby they like.
In Ho Chi Minh, one month of living costs about $1,000. In small towns near the ocean or in the north it is cheaper.
It is not difficult to find a studio apartment in the range of $200-400. Lunch in a cafe, on average, costs $1-3, and a cup of good coffee costs $1.5. Despite the exotic nature of the local cuisine, there are plenty of restaurants serving Western cuisine.
2. Bulgaria
This country, although considered one of the budget ones in Europe, offers a good standard of living and great work opportunities. In Bulgaria, popular vacancies are in the field of tourism, education in English, and IT. Sofia is a beautiful city with history and low demands on the wallet. For a one-room apartment in the center, the normal price tag is $350. Living on the outskirts or in a smaller city (Burgas, Plovdiv, Varna) is even cheaper.
As usual in Europe, Bulgaria pleases with good medicine, well-established transport infrastructure and a peaceful situation within the country. From the Black Sea to the Balkan Mountains there are plenty of locations for a variety of recreation.
For a Russian expat, it will not be a problem to adapt to Bulgarian society thanks to the similar language, familiar cuisine and friendly relations between peoples.
In terms of costs, Asian cheap countries to live, of course, differ from cheap European ones. But speaking about moving to such a large country as China, one must understand that the standard of living and financial requirements in Hong Kong are much more serious than in the so-called Haikou (a large city on the island of Hainan). Salaries in China are higher than in most neighboring countries, and there is a strong demand for foreign specialists in some industries. The most popular job among Western immigrants is teaching English. There are also many au pair vacancies.
Au pair is a program in which a person lives with a foreign family (in their home) to learn the culture and language, and in return provides a service. Most often this refers to child care.
In large cities in China, it is easy to rent a one-room apartment for $300. In Haikou or Nanying these would be excellent apartments in the center. It is worth considering that outside of Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong there are few people with good English. And finding culinary places without Asian recipes can be difficult.
South Korean cities are inferior in terms of cost of living to the capitals of Vietnam or Thailand, but they provide the opportunity to work in one of the largest economies in the world. Employment in sales, IT, education (English again) or tourism can provide a good income.
There is no need to collect high price tags when traveling to Seoul. Busan, Suwon, Daegu, Daejeon are suitable for permanent residence. It’s easy to find a decent apartment there for $300-400 a month and a local restaurant with lunch for $5.
5. Thailand
The cheapest countries to live in would not be complete without this Asian state. For many, Thailand needs no introduction as a place where you can work and relax inexpensively. The economy is not well prepared for anything other than tourism, but the level of cost of housing and food allows you to easily engage in freelancing. Businesses in the service sector or teaching English have good prospects.
Chiang Mai is one of the most popular (read expensive) places in the country, but even here, renting a one-room apartment in the city center costs $200-300. In Bangkok, for the same money there are options near the business center. In both cases, it refers to living in a modern, Western-style neighborhood. Having a day off, it will be easy to get to a quiet place and relax your soul on the seashore.
A $3 seafood lunch is not uncommon. True, people with strong culinary habits will have to undergo adaptation - Western cuisine penetrates into the Land of Smiles slowly and uncertainly.
6. Poland
The Polish Republic is a great place to live, which combines a low cost (for EU countries) of living with decent social infrastructure, wages and entertainment. Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw, Lodz, Poznan, Gdansk are beautiful cities with a rich history and ample employment opportunities. Ignorance of the Polish language is not a problem if you speak English. Large global companies continue to expand in Eastern Europe, so there is a demand for specialists in the banking sector, finance, education, IT, and the service sector.
Poland is part of the Schengen zone, which means there will be no difficulties organizing a European tour from East to West during your vacation. Or a trip to Berlin for the weekend.
You can find an apartment for $300-400 near the center with good transportation and a couple of establishments nearby that are ready to become your favorites. Lunch - $5, coffee - $1-1.5, beer - $1.5-2. The bonus will be: Warsaw nightclubs, medieval architecture, castles, picturesque lakes, as well as ski and even sea resorts.
7. India
India is rightfully included in this ranking of the cheapest countries to live. This is a state where a few hundred dollars a month is enough for a comfortable stay. Depending on the state and size of the city, you can rent a 1 BHK apartment in the range of $50 to $250 (in central Delhi).
The country is developing industry, the service sector and innovative areas, so the demand for foreign specialists is high. There is no need to learn the local language - in the former British colony, all Indians speak English.
Freelancers who dream of working from a laptop while lying in a hammock should pay attention to Goa. There are many options for permanent residence here for $150-200. Fresh fruit, ocean, exotic nature and lunch for $2-3 are included.
If you are planning to live in India, remember that the country has poor healthcare, areas with high crime, and poor internet.
8. Czech Republic
In terms of costs, the Czech Republic is not as budget-friendly as other cheap countries to live in Europe. But with successful employment, it provides stability, a high level of comfort, security and healthcare. There are in-demand professions in the banking sector, IT, services and tourism.
It is better to move with knowledge of English - English-speaking positions pay more. However, the Czech language is not difficult to learn, because it is vaguely similar to Russian.
The Czech Republic means free movement within the Schengen area. True, you don’t have to go somewhere to have quality leisure time. The country has world-famous ski resorts, lakes, and national parks. Cities that preserve hundreds of traces of history are of considerable interest.
Rent of a 1-room apartment in the center of Prague - $700, in Brno - $469. Lunch at the establishment will cost $6-7 or $4-5, respectively. A mug of beer - $1.5-2, coffee - $2-2.5. In smaller cities (Pilsen, Ostrava, Liberec, Olomouc, Hradec Králové, Ceske Budejovice) the price tags are lower. Moreover, they are no less charming in appearance, and the road to Prague, if necessary, takes several hours.
9. Bosnia and Herzegovina
By European standards, all the states formed after the collapse of Yugoslavia are cheap countries to live in. Bosnia is no exception. Due to the split of the republic, Bosnia has some economic and geopolitical problems, but the situation inside is calm and stable.
On the one hand, without knowing the language, finding a job in local companies will be difficult. On the other hand, prices for food and housing make it an option for freelancers.
As a holiday destination, Bosnia and Herzegovina is best known to lovers of mountain hiking and skiing on snowy slopes. But the country also has access to the Adriatic Sea with excellent beaches. If you wish, it is not difficult to travel to neighboring Montenegro or Croatia. The country has preserved a lot of monuments from antiquity, the Middle Ages, Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian periods.
For remote work, it is better to choose Mostar, not Sarajevo. Prices are more affordable and closer to the sea. A one-room apartment in the center will cost $200-250 (in the capital it is $150-200 more expensive).
10. Serbia
For a Russian immigrant, there are several reasons to choose Serbia as a country to live in: good relations between peoples, easy to learn the language, familiar culture and cuisine. In addition, she herself is very beautiful and interesting. Belgrade is an inexpensive European capital, but accommodation in Zemun (suburb), Novi Sad, Pancevo or Subotica is much more affordable.
For comparison, renting a one-room apartment in the center of Novi Sad (the second largest and most important city) is $150-200 per month, in Belgrade - $250-300. Lunch or dinner at a place near home in both cases costs $4-5. Drink coffee or beer in the evening - $1-2.
11. Greece
The Hellenic Republic is a collection of all the options you can imagine for a comfortable stay and pleasant leisure time. Excellent beach holidays, amazing historical locations, mild climate and a common customs space with the European Union are just some of them. With or without knowledge of English, you can find a job in tourism - the demand for this area among foreigners (including from the CIS) is not decreasing.
Greece has low prices for accommodation by Mediterranean standards. In the center of Athens there are options for long-term rental of a 1-room apartment for $250-300. In order to save money, it is better not to go to restaurants - the average price of lunch is $10-12.
12. Romania
This country is rightly included in the list of the cheapest countries to live. An abundance of inexpensive and tasty food, good internet, a safe environment in cities, a lot of beautiful areas for walking - all this is Romania. The greatest activity is in Bucharest. Other cities: Timisoara, Constanta or Ploiesti are inferior to the capital only in the intensity of nightlife. In Romania you can have an inexpensive holiday at a ski resort (Sinaia, Poiana Brasov, Predeal) or near the Black Sea.
Positions for those who speak English, French or Italian are well paid because they are opened by large companies in the financial, banking, heavy industry, and IT sectors. The shortage of qualified specialists is felt in medicine and engineering fields.
13. Montenegro
Montenegro, popular among Russian tourists, located on the Adriatic coast, can be considered as an option for permanent residence. Great tourist demand supports the development of the state. Despite the fact that visitors are still the main source of income, industry, banking and IT are growing in Montenegro.
Unlike hotels, rental housing is inexpensive. Especially if you don’t live right by the sea. In the capital Podgorica, it is not a problem to find one-room apartments for $200-300. And the road to the sea by car will take no more than two hours.
14. Albania
According to various estimates, Albania is the most accessible country in Europe (although local residents are unlikely to agree with this). Developing on the remains of the totalitarian communist regime, it tries to use all recreational resources. Therefore, Albanians are actively involved in tourism on the shores of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Renting housing in one of the resorts for a long time makes sense only for remote workers. And “office” professions are in demand in Tirana, the capital and economic center of the country.
15. Armenia
Cheap countries to live in and the final position is Armenia. The advantages in comparison with most states on this list are obvious. There is inexpensive housing, cheap and tasty food, beautiful places to relax and a friendly attitude towards guests (especially Russians). Almost 80% of the population knows Russian at a native level, which is also an important aspect. The demand for qualified specialists is high in IT, medicine, mining industry, and pharmaceuticals.
In the center of Yerevan, apartments are rented for $200-300 per month. For lunch in the city center, $8-11 is enough. The price of a cup of coffee or a glass of beer is $1-1.5. There is almost no point in considering other cities for living. Yes, they are cheaper, but there are practically no high-paying jobs in them.
TIMES magazine published a list of the 50 cheapest countries to live. The rating was provided by GoBankingRates based on 4 target indicators: purchasing power index, rental index, food purchase index and consumer prices.
50. Belarus
You will have to pay $440 to rent a two-room apartment located in the very center of Minsk. One person can live comfortably on less than $1000 per month.
49. Peru
The monthly expenses of one Peruvian average about $490. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is $427. Located on the west coast of South America, Peru has a population of 30.4 million and is bordered by Brazil, Bolivia, Ecuador and Colombia.
48. Lithuania
Another Eastern European country that borders Belarus, Poland and Latvia and is rated as one of the cheapest countries to live in.
47. Croatia
Croatia has decent local purchasing power. What is noteworthy is that housing rent in Croatia is one of the lowest on this list. For example, in the capital Zagreb, renting a one-bedroom apartment costs just $356 per month.
46. Morocco
Morocco is a North African country that borders Algeria and, across the Strait of Gibraltar, Spain. In the capital Rabat, total monthly expenses average $750 per person.
45. Latvia
Purchasing power is 37% below the world average. Rent is 87% cheaper than average. Approximately 32% of the population is aged 55 or older. Accommodation in Latvia costs half as much as in New York.
44. Portugal
Portugal is a Western European country with a population of 10.8 million, ranked in the ranking due to its high wages and relatively cheap products.
43. Egypt
Egypt has a high population of 88.5 million. Tourism is perhaps Egypt's most developed industry, along with the textile and food industries. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Cairo costs just $350 per month.
42. Armenia
Armenia is located in the Middle East between Turkey and Azerbaijan. The largest industry is diamond processing. Residents of Armenia receive cheaper products and pay less for consumer goods compared to other countries.
41. Philippines
Rent and consumer goods in the Philippines are quite cheap, which is why this country took 41st place on the list. An island state in Southeast Asia with a tropical climate. Its main industries include the creation of electronics, clothing, footwear and pharmaceuticals.
40. Bangladesh
Known for its cotton and paper industries, Bangladesh has a population of 169 million. The country is also known for having mild winters from October to May and hot, humid summers from March to June. Bangladesh has relatively low purchasing power, which is likely tied to the country's declining GDP per capita ($1,087 in 2014).
39. Russia
Russia is average in terms of indicators. Life in Russian megacities is relatively expensive, however, in Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk the price level is much lower.
38. Hungary
With a population of 9.9 million people, Hungary is an Eastern European country with a strong mining industry. Rent of a standard one-room apartment in Budapest $363 per month.
37. Syria
Syria is a country torn by civil war and radical Muslim sects. This crisis is having a profound impact on the Syrian economy, which has the lowest local purchasing power of any of the 50 cheapest countries listed here.
36. Slovenia
European state bordering Croatia and Austria. Slovenia has higher local purchasing power than most of the 50 countries considered.
35. Germany
Germany is among the top 10 countries for expats, according to a survey conducted by HSBC. For those looking for a cheap country with the opportunity to earn a good living, Germany is an excellent choice. Local incomes are high enough that Germans can save 50% more of their earnings than New Yorkers.
34. Tunisia
Tunisia is a coastal North African country that borders the Mediterranean Sea and has a population of 11 million people. The country offers a low cost of living, particularly rent of $280 per month.
33. Spain
With a population of 48.1 million, Spain's main industries are textiles, clothing, food and beverages. However, in some cities in Spain, rents are on par with typical American prices.
32. Estonia
Estonia is located to the west of Russia and has a population of 1.3 million people. The largest sectors of the Estonian economy are mechanical engineering, electronics and wood products. High production levels are a sign of a strong economy, which gives Estonian residents greater purchasing power than many other countries.
31. Türkiye
With a population of 79.4 million, Turkey's largest industries are textiles, food processing and automobiles, which helps this Middle Eastern nation maintain its high local purchasing power.
30. Brazil
This country offers decently cheap consumer goods and housing. In Rio de Janeiro, for example, a one-bedroom apartment will cost you just $540.
29. Georgia
In the capital of Georgia, monthly expenses per person are about $360 per month. These are small costs, if you do not take into account the low level of income of the population.
28. Nepal
Nepal has the lowest rental rates - only $109 per month. The cost of food and consumer goods is also low.
27. Albania
Albania's largest industries are food, tobacco, textiles and clothing. Albania offers low prices on food, rent and consumer goods, with an average total cost of around $630.
26. Montenegro
Prices in Montenegro are among the lowest among the countries surveyed, in particular for groceries.
25. Algeria
North African country with a population of 39.5 million people. Not including rent, monthly expenses for one person are just under $400.
24. Ukraine
23. Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is a Middle Eastern country, bordered by Iran, Armenia and Georgia, and has a population of 9.8 million people. The biggest drivers of the country's economy are its rich resources, including oil, petroleum products and natural gas. This country has some of the lowest prices for food and consumer goods, making it one of the cheapest places to live. For example, Baku, its capital, has a cost of living that is 70% lower than in New York.
22. Mexico
Mexico ranks as the 22nd cheapest country due to its low costs relative to income. For example, monthly expenses add up to just over $400.
21. Romania
Romania is an Eastern European country with a population of 21.7 million. Basic rent in the capital is about $364 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Consumer goods and products are also low in cost.
20. Bulgaria
The most important factor that puts Bulgaria in 20th place in the ranking is cheap housing rentals. In Varna, one of the largest cities in Bulgaria, rent is $232 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Major industries include electricity, gas, food, beverages and tobacco.
19. Greece
When traveling around Greece, you can easily rent a two-room apartment in Patras for $240 per month.
18. Serbia
Serbia has inexpensive food and consumer goods, but still low local purchasing power.
17. Malaysia
- Rent is 88.1% cheaper
16. Chile
Chileans, with their high purchasing power, are not far removed from New Yorkers.
15. Moldova
Moldova is a fairly cheap country with affordable prices for consumer products. In Chisinau, average monthly expenses per person are about $330 per month, and rent is $200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
14. Pakistan
Pakistan is located in western India and southern Afghanistan. Population: about 200 million people. Life in Pakistan is quite affordable, especially if you come to the city of Lahore. Typical expenses for rent, food and other items are $530 per month.
13. Colombia
Colombia has low costs across the board, from rent to food prices. A standard one-bedroom home in Medellin costs about $140 per month; Colombians save about $350 per month for other expenses.
12. Poland
- Local purchasing power is 26% lower
- Rent is 88.1% cheaper
- Food products are 69.4% cheaper
- Local goods and services are 61.3% cheaper
11. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina has decent local purchasing power, as well as low prices for rent, food and consumer goods. In the capital Sarajevo, for example, combined monthly costs for rent and other expenses are only about $600-$700.
10. Macedonia
Macedonia completes the top 10 cheapest countries to live. Groceries and consumer goods are low despite mediocre purchasing power.
9. Czech Republic
Living in the Czech Republic is affordable thanks to the balance between low costs and high local purchasing power.
8. Paraguay
The capital of Paraguay will delight you not only with its attractions, but also with the rental price of housing for $250.
7. Oman
Oman is rich in oil and gas resources, which creates a high level of consumer power among the population.
6. Zambia
- Local purchasing power is 50% higher
- Rent 68.1% cheaper
- Food products are 59.1% cheaper
- Local goods and services are 44.6% cheaper
5. Kazakhstan
The local economy relies on Kazakhstan's natural resources. Costs for food and consumer goods in Kazakhstan are lower than in most of the 50 cheapest countries.
4. Saudi Arabia
- Local purchasing power is 33.6% higher
- Rent is 85.9% cheaper
- Food products are 56.4% cheaper
- Local goods and services are 49.4% cheaperPurchasing power in Saudi Arabia is higher than in New York.
3. Kosovo
- Local purchasing power is 33.8% lower,
- Rent 91.5% lower,
- Food products are 75.8% cheaper
- Local goods and services are 72.6% cheaper
In the capital Pristina, expenses per person are only $324 per month. Rent is $275 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
2. India
The country of contrasts is home to 1.25 billion inhabitants. Living in India can be cheap, with the typical cost for an Indian living in Kolkata being around $285 per month.
1. South Africa
The cheapest country to live in 2015 was South Africa. The production of platinum, gold and chromium enriched the economy and increased the purchasing power of the population. South Africa also offers lower prices on consumer goods and groceries. In the major city of Cape Town, for example, monthly costs will be just under $400.
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