Thinking about ditching the 9-to-5 grind and starting fresh somewhere sunnier (and cheaper)? You’re not alone. More and more people are packing their bags—not because they’re rich, but because they’ve figured out a simple truth: life abroad can actually cost less and feel richer.

Whether it’s sipping coffee in a plaza in Spain, working remotely from a beach in Thailand, or shopping for fresh veggies in a Mexican street market, affordable living overseas isn’t just possible—it’s happening right now, for thousands of expats around the world.

And guess what? You can do it too.

This guide will walk you through how to live well abroad without blowing your savings—real tips, real destinations, and a fresh look at what it actually takes to make the leap.

1. Choose Your Country Wisely

Where you live is the biggest factor in how much you’ll spend. A latte in Switzerland might cost you €5, while in Vietnam, it’s less than €1—and just as delicious.

Some top budget-friendly destinations for expats include:

• Spain –  A relaxed lifestyle, sunny climate, and affordable daily expenses make it a favorite among expats. 
• Portugal – With excellent healthcare and a laid-back vibe, places like Porto or Coimbra are perfect for affordable living.
• Thailand – Beach towns, rich culture, and street food galore. Cities like Chiang Mai are digital nomad favourites for a reason.
• Mexico – Vibrant, affordable, and full of character. Explore cities like Mérida or San Miguel de Allende.
• Colombia – Medellín has transformed into a safe, welcoming, and budget-friendly home for many expats.
  

Pro Tip: Avoid major tourist hotspots. Second-tier cities often offer better value, more authenticity, and fewer crowds.

2. Housing: Save Big by Thinking Local

Rent is usually your biggest monthly expense, but it doesn’t have to eat up your entire budget.

Here’s how to rent smart:

• Skip the tourist zones. They’re always overpriced.
  
• Share housing when starting out. It helps you save and meet people.
  
• Negotiate for long-term stays. Many landlords will lower the price if you commit to a few months.
  
• Use local rental platforms like Idealista (Spain) and OLX (Latin America), or join Facebook expat groups.
  

Pro tip: Once you arrive, take a day or two to walk around, check community boards, and talk to locals. You’ll often spot hidden gems that aren’t listed online.

3. Food: Eat Local, Eat Well

Eating out every day in the U.S. or the U.K.? Not cheap. Abroad? It might save you money.

• Street food in countries like Vietnam, Thailand, or Mexico is delicious, authentic, and ridiculously affordable.
  
• Shop local markets. Avoid imported goods and stick to local produce—you’ll spend less and eat better.
  
• Look for daily lunch specials (“menú del día” in Spain is a three-course steal for €12 to €17).

Pro Tip: Cooking at home isn’t always cheaper than cooking abroad. In many places, local eateries cost less than your weekly grocery haul.

4. Healthcare: High Quality, Low Cost

No, you don’t need to give up healthcare to live cheaply abroad. Quite the opposite.

• Many countries offer excellent public healthcare, even for expats.
  
• Private care is often far more affordable than what you’re used to.
  
• International insurance options like SafetyWing or IMG can provide coverage while you get settled.
  

Tip to try: Ask local expats which clinics or hospitals they trust—you’ll get honest feedback and possibly a few life-saving recommendations.

5. Get Around Like a Local

Forget the car. Public transport, scooters, or good old-fashioned walking are the way to go.

• Cities like Prague, Lisbon, or Medellín have efficient, budget-friendly metro systems.
  
• In smaller cities, a bike or scooter can get you everywhere for pennies.
  
• Walkability is a major plus—save money and stay healthy.
  

Smart move: Learn the public transport routes early on. It’ll save you money, reduce stress, and give you a true feel of daily life in your new city.

6. Learn the Language (At Least a Bit)

You don’t need to be fluent, but speaking the basics can save you money and help you blend in.

• Locals often offer better deals to those who make the effort.
  
• You’ll avoid overpriced “tourist traps.”
  
• Language meetups and exchanges are fun and free.
  

Use apps like Duolingo, Memrise, or Tandem to practise before and after you arrive.

7. Work Remotely or Earn Abroad

Just because you’re living affordably doesn’t mean you shouldn’t earn. Many expats support themselves with:

• Remote work – Freelancing in writing, design, coding, or consulting.
  
• Teaching English – Still a popular gig in Asia and Latin America.
  
• Local jobs or small businesses – Cafés, tour services, or creative ventures.
  
• Work-trade – Volunteer in exchange for accommodation through platforms like Workaway.

8. Shift Your Lifestyle, Not Just Your Location

Living overseas affordably is about embracing a new way of life, not trying to replicate your old one.

• Spend on experiences, not things.
  
• Trade Netflix binges for local festivals, hikes, or language meetups.
  
• Embrace the simpler joys: fresh air, good food, meaningful conversations.
  

“Abroad, I learned I didn’t need a new pair of shoes every month. I needed sunshine, community, and a good meal.” – A real expat

9. Budget Like a Pro

Start tracking your expenses from day one. Here’s a general guide:

• Housing: 30–40%
  
• Food: 20–25%
  
• Transport: 5–10%
  
• Healthcare: 10%
  
• Fun/extras: 10–15%
  
• Savings: 10% (or more)
  

Tools like YNAB, Revolut, or even Google Sheets make tracking easy.

10. Tap Into the Expat Community

You’re not alone. There’s a whole network of expats out there ready to help you navigate the journey.

• Join Facebook groups specific to your country or city.
  
• Attend language exchanges, meetups, or co-working sessions.
  
• Use Internations, Meetup, and Couchsurfing to connect.
  

You’ll find tips on housing, healthcare, events, and even job leads—plus, a few lifelong friends.

11. Sort Out Your Visa Early

Don’t rely on tourist visas. Many countries offer long-term visa options for retirees, freelancers, or remote workers.

Popular options:

• Portugal D7 Visa – Ideal for passive income earners.
  
• Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa – Great for retirees or those with savings.
  
• Thailand Long-Stay Visas – Perfect for digital nomads and retirees.
  
• Colombia Digital Nomad Visa – Easy, flexible, and low-cost.
  

Always double-check the latest rules—or hire a local lawyer to guide you.

12. Understand the Tax Game

Yes, even abroad, Uncle Sam (or your own tax agency) might still want a slice of your pie.

• Some countries tax worldwide income, others don’t.
  
• U.S. citizens can use the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) to avoid double taxation.
  
• Hire an expat-friendly accountant—it’s worth it.

Final Thoughts: Freedom Over Finances

Living abroad isn’t just about saving money—it’s about living with intention. It’s about trading stress for simplicity, rush hour for sunsets, and credit card bills for afternoon siestas. Affordable living overseas doesn’t mean giving up quality. It means dropping the stuff that doesn’t matter and making room for what does.

FAQs

How Can I Find Cheap Housing Abroad?

Avoid tourist areas, look for shared housing, negotiate long-term rents, and use local rental sites or Facebook expat groups. Once you’re on the ground, check bulletin boards and ask locals.

What’s the Key to Living Affordably Overseas?

It’s not just location—it’s mindset. Live like a local, spend on experiences, avoid unnecessary luxuries, and embrace the simplicity of a new lifestyle.

What If I Get Sick Abroad? Will Healthcare Be Okay?

In many countries, healthcare is not only high-quality—it’s much cheaper than in the U.S. or UK. You can opt for public healthcare (sometimes even as an expat), or choose affordable private clinics.

Can families or couples live affordably abroad too?

Yes! Many families are homeschooling abroad or enrolling their kids in local or international schools. Couples often find they can save more and stress less living abroad than they did back home.

Will I feel lonely or isolated living overseas?

Only if you stay in your bubble. Most cities have strong expat communities, meetups, language exchanges, and social clubs. You’ll likely meet friends faster than you expect—especially if you’re open-minded and say yes to invitations.