12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than $1,000 a Month

If you’ve always dreamt of living abroad, now’s your best chance. The cost of living continues to rise, so you’re less likely to buy your dream home. Therefore, it makes perfect sense to move to somewhere more affordable. While some countries also have a high cost of living, others are surprisingly affordable.

For example, did you know you can live in many countries for less than $1,000 a month? If not, you’ve come to the perfect place. We’ve compiled a list of 12 places you can live for less than $1,000 monthly. We’ve selected these places based on their beauty, value, and things to do.

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12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than $1,500 a Month

Bali, Indonesia 1/5

12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than 1000 a Month Goa India © lena serditova Adobe Stock 77002615 - 12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than $1,000 a Month

Goa, India 2/5

12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than 1000 a Month Phuket Thailand © preto perola Adobe Stock 270948659 - 12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than $1,000 a Month

Phuket, Thailand 3/5

12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than 1000 a Month Penang Malaysia © markhall70 Adobe Stock 58621086 - 12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than $1,000 a Month

Penang, Malaysia 4/5

12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than 1000 a Month Varna Bulgaria © dechevm Adobe Stock 802232499 - 12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than $1,000 a Month

Varna, Bulgaria 5/5

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Varna, Bulgaria

Let’s kickstart our list with a beach destination that offers a beautiful stretch of golden-sand beach, access to many amenities, and a charming city jam-packed with things to do. Varna is a port city and seaside resort on Bulgaria’s Black Sea. Aside from being a popular beach resort, the city is also an important center for entertainment, transportation, and healthcare.

However, you likely only care about the exciting things. Varna’s most popular attractions include the Archaeological Museum Varna, Sea Garden, Rappongi Beach, and Varna Zoo. From a financial standpoint, Expatistan reports that a single person can live in Varna for approximately $898 monthly.

Archaeological Museum Varna: The entry costs 5 BGN (2.77 USD) and it’s open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays). I recommend spending about 2 hours here to see the Varna Gold Treasure, one of the oldest gold artifacts in the world.
Sea Garden (Primorski Park): Entrance to this vast park is free, and it’s a great place for a stroll. Stop by local cafes within the park for coffee or ice cream.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali isn’t one of the largest islands in Indonesia, but it’s by far the most popular. Famous worldwide, Bali is much loved for its lush rice terraces, pristine beaches, rugged volcanic landscapes, and rich cultures. When you’re not eating nasi goreng beachside or exploring iconic temples, you’ll find yourself racing through the forests on ATVs or learning to surf in Uluwatu.

In Bali, you can find affordable homestays for around $300 to $400. Food, transportation, and utilities cost much less than in the United States. According to Numbeo, a single person’s estimated monthly costs in Bali without rent are $563. Including rent, that’s only $863 or $963. Popular areas to live on the island include Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak.

Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu): Entry costs 155,676 IDR (9.43 USD) per adult. Visit around 5:30 PM to enjoy the Kecak Fire Dance performance, which starts at 6:00 PM (additional 150,000 IDR (~$10 USD) per person).
Nasi Goreng at Warung Biah Biah (Ubud): This local eatery serves affordable and delicious Indonesian dishes. A plate of Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng costs around 30,000–40,000 IDR (~$2–$3 USD). Be ready to share a table as seating is limited during busy hours.

Penang, Malaysia

The island of Penang is a fascinating destination, offering impressive natural landscapes, historic architecture, and an affordable way of life. You’ll find affordable accommodation, cheap or free transportation, and low food and energy prices on the island.

You’ll spend most of your time in Penang exploring Penang National Park, relaxing on Batu Ferringhi Beach, and discovering George Town’s incredible 19th-century colonial architecture.

Popular places to live in Penang include George Town and Batu Ferringhi. Both of these places are beautiful and affordable. With a low cost of living, you could comfortably live off approximately $800, including rent and utilities. What’s not to like about that?

Street Food at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre: This food court is a must-visit for trying local dishes like Char Kway Teow and Penang Laksa. Meals cost around RM 5–15 (1–3 USD).
Penang National Park: Entry is free, but you’ll need to register at the visitor center. Hike the Penang National Park trails to destinations like Monkey Beach (3 km hike). Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the heat and humidity can be intense.

Phuket, Thailand

If you prefer a party atmosphere and beautiful beaches as opposed to cultural experiences and hiking trails, Phuket is a better Thailand destination for you. Phuket is a lively city on Phuket Island, the capital of Thailand’s Phuket Province. Here, you’ll find several party streets with vibrant nightclubs, cheap bars, and noisy street food markets.

You’ll be pleased to hear that the food and drink in these areas are usually incredibly affordable, so you can enjoy a good night out for very little. Famous party streets include Soi Bangla Road and Beach Road, Patong. After a heavy night of partying, spend the next day recovering on Patong Beach. According to Nomad List, living in Phuket for less than $900 is possible.

Banzaan Fresh Market (Patong): This street food market is perfect for trying local Thai dishes on a budget. Meals like Pad Thai or Mango Sticky Rice cost 60–120 THB (2–4 USD). It’s located near Jungceylon Mall and is busiest in the evening, so go early to grab a seat.
Soi Bangla Road (Patong): This is the epicenter of Phuket’s party scene. Most bars don’t require a cover charge, but expect drinks to cost around 100–200 THB (3–6 USD). Many bars offer happy hour deals before 9:00 PM, so head out early to save on drinks.

Goa, India

The next destination on our list is Goa, a state in Western India famed for its scenic coastlines, lush forests, and laid-back fishing villages. The state was once a Portuguese colony, evident in the beautifully preserved 17th-century churches and tropical spice plantations.

In Goa, you’ll most likely spend your time tucking into local cuisines, sunbathing on the many beaches, and discovering countless waterfalls. Significant points of interest in the state include Dudhsagar Falls, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Candolim Beach, and Shree Shantadurga Temple. In Goa, you’ll find many affordable accommodation options that’ll help you keep your monthly costs below $1,000. Popular places to live include Agonda, Candolim, Baga, and Calangute.

Basilica of Bom Jesus (Old Goa): Entry is free, and it’s open from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains relics of St. Francis Xavier and is a must-see for history enthusiasts. Allocate about an hour to explore the church and surrounding area.
Candolim Beach: This quieter alternative to Baga and Calangute offers beach shacks serving fresh seafood. Try a Fish Thali for around 300–400 INR (4–5 USD) while enjoying the scenic views. Sun loungers and umbrellas are typically free if you order food or drinks from the shacks.

Toruń, Poland

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning European city combines charm, culture, and beauty. With a population of less than 200,000, you can expect a tranquil experience, too. Aside from being an utterly fascinating place to live, Toruń is also safe and affordable.

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The city has a low crime rate, and travelers can live comfortably off approximately $971 a month. That includes rent, utilities, and groceries. During your time in Toruń, you must make the most of your breathtaking surroundings. Explore the city daily, discovering impressive landmarks like the Leaning Tower in Toruń, the Old Town Hall, and the Teutonic Castle Ruins.

Gingerbread Museum (Muzeum Piernika): Toruń is famous for its gingerbread! Entry is 39 PLN (10.06 USD), and the interactive exhibit allows you to make your own traditional gingerbread. Book tickets in advance as this is a popular attraction, especially for families.
Old Town Hall (Ratusz Staromiejski): Entry to climb the tower costs 30 PLN (7.74 USD) and offers fantastic panoramic views of Toruń’s historic Old Town.

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Medellín, Colombia

Medellín, the capital of Colombia’s mountainous Antioquia province, is a beautiful city best known for its delicious coffee. A big hit with expats, it’s a great place to live if you want to experience Colombian culture, enjoy the great outdoors, and enjoy temperate weather. Medellín also has a low cost of living.

According to International Living, expats can live in the city for $1,070 monthly. However, you can reduce this cost by eating out less and finding accommodation that includes gas and electricity costs. Worth mentioning destinations in Medellín include the Museum of Antioquia, El Castillo Museum and Gardens, Jardín Botánico de Medellín, and Parque Arví.

Museum of Antioquia: Entry costs COP 24,000 (6 USD) and includes access to exhibits featuring works by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The museum is conveniently located next to Plaza Botero, so you can admire Botero’s outdoor sculptures for free after your visit. Plan for 1–2 hours here.
El Castillo Museum and Gardens: Entry costs COP 27,000 (6.49 USD) and includes a guided tour of this European-inspired mansion. Walk through the lush gardens while enjoying views of the Aburrá Valley. It’s a quieter spot, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Pretoria, South Africa

Pretoria, also known as Tshwane, is the capital of South Africa. It’s an excellent option if you want to experience a big city lifestyle combined with the great outdoors and Africa’s incredible wildlife. This vibrant city has a city center packed with attractions, lush surroundings, and nearby game reserves ready to explore.

Make sure you visit Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, the Voortrekker Monument, and the Union Buildings in the city. Outside, spend your time at Mongena Private Game Reserve or Rietvlei Nature Reserve, looking for African wildlife. Regarding finances, a single person’s estimated monthly costs are $605 without rent. You can then rent a comfortable apartment for less than $400 to stick to your budget of $1,000.

Union Buildings: Entry to the Union Buildings and gardens is free. Walk through the beautiful grounds and visit the towering Nelson Mandela statue, the largest in the world. It’s a great spot for photos and panoramic views of the city. Plan for about an hour here.
Hazel Food Market: For a local foodie experience, visit this vibrant market every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Here, you can sample a variety of dishes, from traditional South African biltong to international cuisines.

Murska Sobota, Slovenia

According to Living Cost, a single person can live in Murska Sobota for approximately $929 monthly. This includes an average of $421 for rent and utilities and $507 for everything else, including transport and food. Murska Sobota is a quiet town in Northeastern Slovenia. It’s well known for its breathtaking landscapes, charming countryside, and peaceful community.

Admittedly, the town isn’t packed with attractions, but that only adds to its beauty. Because of this, you can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. You’ll spend most of your time walking in the countryside, enjoying local food and drink, and admiring local architecture. Notable sights include Pavilion EXPANO, Murska Sobota Castle, and Murska Sobota Cathedral.

Gostilna Rajh: For traditional Slovenian cuisine, you’ll love this family-run restaurant. Try their bograč, a hearty regional goulash, or prekmurska gibanica, a layered pastry unique to the area.
Murska Sobota Cathedral: Entry to this neo-Gothic cathedral is free, and it’s worth stopping by for its stunning stained glass windows and serene atmosphere. Combine this visit with a walk around the nearby city square.

Timișoara, Romania

The penultimate destination on our list is the beautiful Timișoara, a picturesque city in Western Romania best known for its beautiful neoclassical architecture. This city is a fantastic place to live if you love history and culture, as there are many things to see and experience. Most of the action is centered around the central square, Piața Victoriei.

You’ll find baroque buildings, the Metropolitan Orthodox Cathedral, and the Castle of Huniade. Other places you don’t want to miss include Piața Unirii, the Memorial Museum of the 1989 Revolution, and the Old Town of Timișoara. Regarding the cost of living, Living Cost reports that living in the city costs roughly $807 monthly.

Piața Unirii (Union Square): Entry is free, and this colorful square is surrounded by stunning baroque buildings and the St. George’s Cathedral. Grab a drink at one of the local cafés, like Café No. 12. Plan to spend at least an hour soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Timișoara Orthodox Cathedral: Entry is free, and the intricate interior of this massive cathedral, with its mosaic decorations, is a must-see. The cathedral is located at the end of Piața Victoriei, making it an ideal stop while exploring the square.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, Thailand, is one of our absolute favorite places to live abroad. Founded in 1296, this historic city is in Thailand’s mountainous northern region. The combination of beautiful natural surroundings and ancient history results in many things to see and do. The city boasts a rich culture, world-famous temples, picturesque hiking trails, and one-of-a-kind animal experiences.

According to Expatistan, the average cost of living in Chiang Mai is just $934 monthly, including rent, groceries, personal care, and utilities. With the savings you make, you can visit the city’s best attractions. This includes the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man, and Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary: Tickets for a day visit start at 2,000 THB (~$60 USD) per person. You’ll get to feed and bathe rescued elephants in an ethical, humane environment.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: Located on Chang Klan Road, the market is free to enter and operates nightly from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Shop for unique souvenirs and eat local street food like khao soi (curry noodles) or mango sticky rice.

Đà Lạt, Vietnam

The final place we have for you is Đà Lạt in Southern Vietnam. Đà Lạt is the capital of Vietnam’s Lâm Đồng Province. It’s tucked away in the Central Highlands, surrounded by lush hills, pine forests, lakes, and waterfalls, making it a top choice if you want to be at one with nature.

When not exploring the great outdoors, check out what the city offers. You should visit the Crazy House, Linh Phuoc Pagoda, and Truc Lam Buddhist Monastery. In Đà Lạt, travelers can find accommodation extremely cheap. Furthermore, food, drink, and utilities are also affordable. In fact, you could live like a king for less than $800 monthly.

Truc Lam Buddhist Monastery: Perched above Tuyen Lam Lake, this serene monastery is surrounded by pine forests and gardens. Entry is free, but maintain respectful behavior as it is an active sacred site.
Linh Phuoc Pagoda: Entry is free, and this stunning pagoda is decorated with mosaics made from shattered glass and ceramic. Don’t miss the giant statue of Quan Âm (Bodhisattva of Compassion) and the impressive underground Buddha shrine.