13 Affordable International Cities Expats Actually Love

Looking for a new place to call home without breaking the bank? Many cities around the world offer a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost you’d expect in major global hubs. From vibrant cultures and beautiful landscapes to affordable living expenses, these destinations have everything you need to start a new chapter. Whether you’re drawn to sunny beaches, bustling cities, or peaceful retreats, there’s a place that fits your lifestyle and budget.

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Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is known for its laid-back atmosphere and affordability, making it a popular destination for expats. With a low cost of living, typically around $800 a month, this northern Thai city offers a rich cultural experience without the high price tag. Housing, transportation, and daily expenses are affordable, allowing expats to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while exploring the city’s many temples, markets, and festivals.

The city is also surrounded by mountains and nature, making it perfect for those who want to balance urban living with outdoor adventures. Chiang Mai’s expat community is tight-knit, offering plenty of opportunities for networking and socializing. This combination of affordability, culture, and nature makes it an ideal place to live for those seeking a more relaxed pace of life.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok offers the energy and excitement of a major metropolis while maintaining an affordable cost of living. Rent can be as low as $500 a month for a modest apartment, and the city’s excellent public transportation system makes getting around both easy and cheap. Dining out is inexpensive, with street food being both delicious and affordable, which adds to the city’s appeal for expats on a budget.

Despite being a bustling city, Bangkok offers a range of experiences, from shopping malls and nightlife to quiet temples and parks. The expat community here is diverse, and the city is filled with international schools, healthcare options, and a variety of social activities. Expats enjoy a high quality of life without the high cost typically associated with large cities.

Cebu, Philippines

Cebu has become one of the top destinations for expats in the Philippines, thanks to its mix of urban conveniences and tropical beauty. With rent prices as low as $300 per month and affordable living expenses, Cebu offers excellent value for money. It’s a more relaxed alternative to Manila but still offers all the amenities expats might need, including modern shopping malls, great restaurants, and access to beautiful beaches and diving spots.

Cebu’s vibrant expat community and welcoming locals make it easy for newcomers to settle in. The city also enjoys a relatively mild climate, with sunny weather year-round, making it ideal for those seeking a warm, outdoor lifestyle. Its combination of affordability, natural beauty, and urban convenience continues to attract a growing number of expats.

Valencia, Spain

Valencia, located on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, offers a perfect balance of affordable living and a relaxed, coastal lifestyle. With rents starting around $600 a month, expats can enjoy spacious apartments in a city that boasts a warm climate, beautiful beaches, and a rich cultural scene. The cost of dining out is also reasonable, with plenty of tapas bars and local markets serving up fresh, affordable food.

Beyond affordability, Valencia is known for its historic architecture, festivals, and art scene. The city has an excellent public transportation network, making it easy to get around, and it offers a more laid-back pace compared to Spain’s larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Expats are drawn to Valencia’s high quality of life, strong community atmosphere, and affordable access to Spain’s vibrant culture.

Málaga, Spain

Málaga, located in southern Spain’s Costa del Sol, is a beloved destination for expats seeking sunshine, affordable living, and a relaxed lifestyle. The city’s cost of living is much lower than in major Spanish cities like Madrid or Barcelona, with rent often available for around $500 a month. Dining out is also inexpensive, and local markets offer fresh produce at reasonable prices.

Known for its pleasant climate and beautiful beaches, Málaga is perfect for those who love outdoor living. The city is rich in history, with attractions like the Alcazaba and Picasso Museum drawing both locals and tourists. Expats enjoy the city’s blend of modern amenities and historical charm, along with its easy access to the Mediterranean lifestyle.

Athens, Greece

Athens combines the allure of an ancient city with a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for expats. Rent in Athens can be found for as low as $400 a month, and everyday expenses like groceries and dining out are affordable. Despite its status as the capital, Athens remains surprisingly budget-friendly compared to other European capitals.

The city’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and Mediterranean climate make it a great place to call home. Expats can enjoy the city’s ancient landmarks, cafes, and local markets, while also taking advantage of nearby beaches and islands. Athens offers a dynamic cultural scene combined with a relatively low cost of living, making it a top choice for expats seeking a fulfilling lifestyle.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, offers a mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences at an affordable price. With rent prices starting around $600 a month, Lisbon provides excellent value compared to other Western European capitals. The city’s cost of living is relatively low, with fresh seafood, local wine, and dining out being inexpensive.

Expats are drawn to Lisbon for its sunny climate, relaxed lifestyle, and vibrant culture. The city is known for its colorful architecture, historic neighborhoods, and a growing tech scene. With excellent public transportation and a strong expat community, Lisbon is becoming an increasingly popular destination for those looking to enjoy European living without the high price tag.

Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, offers a high standard of living at a fraction of the cost of cities in Western Europe. With monthly rent starting at $400, expats can enjoy spacious apartments in a city that’s rapidly modernizing. Dining out is very affordable, with local restaurants offering hearty, delicious meals at low prices.

Bucharest combines the charm of old-world Europe with the conveniences of modern living. The city has a growing expat community and offers plenty of parks, cafes, and cultural attractions. Romania’s strong economy, low cost of living, and friendly locals make Bucharest a top choice for expats looking for a European experience without breaking the bank.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a city known for its affordable living, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Rent in Prague can be as low as $500 per month, making it an attractive destination for expats looking to stretch their budget. The city’s public transport system is highly efficient and inexpensive, and dining out is affordable, with many international restaurants and Czech pubs offering great value.

The Czech capital is rich in history, with its medieval old town, castles, and museums attracting expats and tourists alike. The city also offers a strong job market, especially in tech and education, and is home to a growing community of young professionals. Prague’s combination of affordability, culture, and quality of life makes it a top pick for expats.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City offers a unique combination of culture, modern amenities, and affordability. With rent prices starting around $400 a month, expats can find comfortable apartments in neighborhoods with plenty of amenities. The city’s public transportation system is vast and affordable, and there is a wide variety of affordable dining options, from street food to upscale restaurants.

Mexico City is known for its lively atmosphere, offering something for everyone, from historical landmarks and museums to bustling markets and vibrant nightlife. Expats love the city for its warm climate, friendly locals, and high quality of life at a relatively low cost. Whether you’re a foodie, culture enthusiast, or nature lover, Mexico City has something to offer.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is a modern, fast-growing city that’s incredibly affordable for expats. With rent starting at around $500 a month, expats can find spacious apartments in city-center locations. Dining out is cheap, and public transport is both convenient and inexpensive, making it an ideal place for those looking to save money while enjoying a cosmopolitan lifestyle.

The city’s multicultural environment provides an exciting atmosphere for expats, with a variety of cuisines, markets, and festivals to enjoy. Kuala Lumpur also boasts excellent healthcare and modern infrastructure. Its low cost of living, coupled with a high standard of living, makes Kuala Lumpur a top destination for expats looking to live well on a budget.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a bustling metropolis that offers a low cost of living. Rent can be found for as little as $300 a month, and dining out is incredibly cheap, especially if you enjoy the local Vietnamese cuisine. The city has an expanding job market, particularly in the teaching and technology sectors, making it a great place for expats seeking affordable work opportunities.

Despite being one of the busiest cities in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City maintains a charm with its mix of traditional culture and modern development. Expats are drawn to the friendly locals, thriving expat community, and vibrant street life. The city’s affordability, combined with its growing infrastructure, makes it a great base for expats.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is known for its affordability, particularly in comparison to other European cities. With rent starting around $400 a month, expats can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The city is home to a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and festivals, as well as a wide range of dining options.

Hungary’s capital offers a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, from its iconic architecture to the relaxing thermal baths. The city is also known for its strong expat community and affordable healthcare. With its low cost of living and rich cultural heritage, Budapest is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expats.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.