Living in the United States can be expensive, especially if you’re a single person with only your income to rely on. Finding an inexpensive, safe place to live in the U.S. seems like a growing impossibility with no sign of affordable housing in sight. 

Fortunately, there are countries abroad where you can move to that are so affordable and offer such a nice quality of life, that you can live like royalty for a relatively small amount of money. If you’re a retiree or remote worker, your income can go a long way living in any of these places. 

1. Nepal

Many adventurers visit Nepal to challenge themselves on Mount Everest, but there’s more to the country than the world’s most famous mountain. The provinces and towns that make up the country have some of the most affordable places.

The Madhesh province is a center for culture, religion, and business interests, and the Kathmandu Valley is home to the famous ancient city of Kathmandu. Living in Nepal, including rent, costs an astonishing $380 a month. 

2. India

The idea of living abroad has more appeal when you consider India. Its attractions only hint at the country’s natural beauty, culture, and history. The waterfalls of Sohra will take your breath away, and the beaches at Chandra Tal are bordered by teal-blue waters. 

Landmarks like the Golden Temple and the Jama Masjid are spirituality centers, and the Stone Chariot and Mysuru Palace are just a few examples of the grand architecture around India. These experiences and more can be had for $440 a month. 

3. Indonesia

Traveling to Indonesia on vacation gives visitors a taste of what it’s like to live there full-time. The friendly, hospitable people and vibrant events will have you ready to pack your belongings. The $608 monthly cost of living can make that a reality. 

The vibrant city of Pekalongan is a Javanese cultural and artistic hub. In Bali, to celebrate New Year’s, the annual Ogoh-ogoh parade ends in a fire that cleanses negative energy. The next morning, Nyepi Day is observed nationwide with 24 hours of complete silence. 

4. Philippines

Beach dreams are made from the countless ones found in the Philippine islands. Whether you want to catch some fierce waves, take a stroll, or just relax and rejuvenate, you can live the beach life for only $615 a month. 

The clear-as-glass waters of Bawbawon Island, coupled with its white sands, are the perfect escape from all of the touristy beach areas. If you enjoy diving and snorkeling, you’ll have the opportunity to get a firsthand look at the diverse marine life. 

5. Vietnam

A $624 monthly cost of living provides expats with an immense amount of culture, nature, and things to do in Vietnam, such as dining at renowned restaurants. If you’ve never eaten Vietnamese food, you’ll wonder what took you so long. 

Both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have Michelin-star eateries, but amazing cuisine is practically everywhere you go. From street food like goi cuon (fresh spring rolls) to banh mi (a Vietnamese sandwich) to formal meals, the food alone will have you booking a one-way flight.  

6. Morocco

Morocco is a popular tourist destination for good reason. There are so many things to do, that a vacation isn’t enough. If you relocate there, $665 a month gives you all the time you want to explore and experience the diverse geography. 

You can take a cruise from Tangier through Casablanca to see the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. To experience the country’s arid wonder known as the Sahara, you can live in the city of Marrakech, a gateway to the desert.

7. Bolivia

There are several South American destinations that are incredibly affordable places you can call home, and Bolivia is one of them. The many colorful attractions Bolivia has to offer have tourist appeal, but permanent residents can also appreciate them. 

The pure white Uyuni Salt Flats used to be an inland ocean until the water dried up. Today, you can drive across the flats. The Red Lagoon and Green Lagoon each have water that matches the colors in their names. $683 a month gives you the chance to see all of that and more.

8. Malaysia

If you’ve visited Malaysia even once, the thought may have crossed your mind about relocating there. If it has, you’re in luck. Its $687 per month cost of living makes it hard to resist the urge to move. Malaysia has everything you could want as an expat.

The state of Terengganu has a cuisine that would impress the most avid foodies, and Perlis state offers shopping options, including flea markets and bazaars. Georgetown, whose history dates back to 1786, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with Eastern and Western architecture to take in.  

9. Argentina

As one of the southernmost places in the world, it’s understandable that it may not be the first country that comes to mind for aspiring expats, but the quality of life, combined with the $702 monthly cost of living, will catch your interest. 

Tango to your heart’s content in the capital city of Buenos Aires, or hike the Glaciar Perito Moreno to the majestic ice fields that must be seen. Don’t worry about the language barrier: English is one of many languages spoken, especially in larger cities. 

10. Brazil

One of the more affordable places to move to is Brazil, with its $705-a-month cost of living. The country may be best known for its love and talent for soccer, beautiful beaches, and Carnival, but there’s so much more to discover, like the city of Recife, a hub of cultural diversity. 

Architectural Digest named Recife’s Bom Jesus Street as one of the most beautiful streets in the world, due in large part to its pastel color buildings. Historically speaking, the first synagogue in the Americas was built there and is still open to visitors. 

11. Colombia

Imagine living somewhere for only $735 a month at the current time. It’s more than possible in the country of Colombia. There are six different regions of Colombia with varying climates and landscapes to choose from. 

The Colombian Amazon-Orinoco is a rural area with forests dating back to ancient times, while the Greater Colombian Caribbean has a mix of beaches, deserts, and snowy regions. The Colombian Massif is teeming with mountains, volcanoes, and moors. 

12. Cambodia

Geographically speaking, it may not be the largest place in the world, but Cambodia is big on history, culture, and hospitality, all for $770 a month. Cambodia’s history goes back 40,000 years, and Khmer artifacts from throughout the centuries still exist. 

The Cambodian people are known for their hospitality to visitors and welcoming of expats. Their culture is also multilingual, with Khmer as the primary language; Chinese, French, and English are also spoken there, making it easy to navigate the country. 

Cost of living figures are sourced from: https://livingcost.org/cost