Feeling like you just work to live, with one vacation a year to break up the monotony? There’s a growing global movement of people, especially Americans, packing their bags and leaving the 9-to-5 grind behind for a better, more affordable life abroad. This isn’t just a fantasy; it’s a real trend. Over 35 million people now identify as digital nomads, and a whopping 34% of expats say they might just stay in their new country forever, according to a statistical report by Everki.
But where do you even start? The options can feel overwhelming. That’s where this guide comes in. Think of it as your escape plan. We’ve done the hard work—crunched the numbers, deciphered the visa rules, and checked the safety reports for ten incredible, English-speaking countries that won’t drain your bank account. This is your data-backed roadmap to a life with less financial stress and a lot more adventure.
Portugal: Europe’s Coastal Darling Without the Crazy Price Tag
Portugal is effortlessly cool. It’s where you get that classic European lifestyle—cobblestone streets, incredible food, and centuries of history—but with a laid-back, sun-drenched coastal vibe that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of London or Paris. The culture here genuinely values a healthy work-life balance, which is a massive draw for anyone feeling burned out. It’s a place where you can slow down and enjoy life. Living in Portugal is remarkably affordable compared to other Western European countries. A single person can live a comfortable life for around €1,773 a month, though many manage on a budget between €1,200 and €2,500, depending on their lifestyle. To put that in perspective, living costs are 35.5% cheaper than in the USA.
Rent is your most significant expense, but it’s manageable. A one-bedroom apartment in the heart of Lisbon might cost you about €930 to €1,388 per month. However, if you venture to smaller, charming cities like Évora, that cost can drop to around €700. Utilities, including electricity, water, and high-speed internet, will cost you approximately €144 to €171 per month. Food is where you can save. Groceries are a steal, costing 30-60% less than in the US. A beautiful three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant? Expect to pay around €45.
The D7 Visa is the golden ticket for many expats. It’s specifically designed for retirees and remote workers who have a passive income stream, meaning you don’t need a job in Portugal to qualify. The financial bar is surprisingly low: you just need to prove a stable, recurring income of at least €870 per month—the national minimum wage for 2025. This makes it one of the most accessible long-stay visas in Europe. To seal the deal, you’ll need to secure accommodation (a 12-month lease is the standard), obtain a Portuguese tax number (NIF), and open a local bank account with a minimum deposit of at least €10,440 (which is 12 times the monthly minimum wage). After living in Portugal for five years, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship, which requires passing a basic Portuguese language test.
Malaysia: High-Tech Living on a Low-Cost Budget
Malaysia is a true cultural crossroads, a vibrant fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences that creates a dynamic and welcoming society. You can experience sleek, modern city life in the high-tech hub of Kuala Lumpur, with its stunning skyscrapers and world-class infrastructure, and then escape to breathtaking rainforests and tropical islands just a short trip away. Thanks to its British colonial history, English is widely spoken, making it incredibly easy for expats to navigate daily life. The affordability here is simply staggering. Living Cost reports that the average cost of living for an expat is around $652 per month, which is a mind-boggling 79% cheaper than in nearby Singapore.
Housing is the biggest win. You can rent a luxury condo in Kuala Lumpur for less than what you’d pay for a tiny room in many Western capitals. In prime expat neighborhoods like Mont Kiara or KLCC, a modern one-bedroom apartment rents for about RM 1,500-2,500 ($320-$530) a month. Daily expenses are just as friendly on the wallet. A delicious, complete meal at a local eatery will only set you back about RM 10 ($2). High-speed fiber internet is a bargain at around RM 100-200 ($21-$42) per month, and even little luxuries are within reach—a two-hour facial at a high-end spa costs around $40, compared to $250 for a similar treatment back home.
The primary pathway for long-term stays is the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, which underwent significant updates in 2025. It now operates on a three-tiered system—Silver, Gold, and Platinum—based on your level of investment. For those not ready for that level of investment, the DE Rantau Digital Nomad Visa is a fantastic alternative. It’s designed for remote workers and requires a minimum annual income of at least $24,000.
Belize: The Caribbean Vibe in Central America
Belize is where the laid-back rhythm of the Caribbean meets the wild, untamed beauty of the Central American jungle. As the only English-speaking country in the region, it offers a uniquely seamless transition for North Americans. The culture is unpretentious, valuing personal freedom and privacy. With a low population density, it never feels crowded, making it a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Life in Belize can be very affordable, with some estimates suggesting it’s at least 50% cheaper than in the USA. A couple can live comfortably on a budget of $1,500 to $3,000 a month, particularly if they own their home and adopt a local lifestyle.
Rent is a perfect example of how much location matters. If you settle inland in a town like San Ignacio, you can find a two-bedroom house for as little as $600 per month. If your dream is to live by the sea on an island like Ambergris Caye or in a coastal town like Placencia, expect to pay closer to $1,200 for a one-bedroom condo. The key to living affordably is to embrace the local lifestyle, including eating fresh produce from the markets and enjoying local dishes, as imported goods are subject to taxes as high as 45%.
Belize’s Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) is one of the most attractive and accessible residency programs in the world, and it’s not just for individuals aged 65 and over. The minimum age to apply has been lowered to 40 years old. To qualify, you must prove a monthly income of at least $2,000 from a foreign source. This can include a pension, Social Security, an annuity, or income from savings or investments. The funds must be deposited into a registered bank account in Belize.
Here’s the best part: being a QRP holder makes you exempt from all Belizean taxes on your foreign-sourced income. That means no income tax, no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax. As if that weren’t enough, in your first year, you can import all your household goods, a car, a boat, and even a light aircraft, completely duty-free. To maintain your QRP status, you only need to spend 30 consecutive days in Belize each year, giving you incredible flexibility.
The Philippines: Tropical Island Living at a Fraction of the Cost
Imagine an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, each offering a different slice of paradise. That’s the Philippines. You can find yourself in the heart of a bustling megacity like Manila one day and relaxing on a pristine, white-sand beach the next. The culture is famously warm, and Filipinos are known for their hospitality. Importantly for expats, English is an official language and is spoken widely, which makes everything from making friends to navigating daily errands incredibly smooth. The affordability of the Philippines is one of its biggest draws. A single person can live comfortably on about $600 per month, excluding rent. For a family of four, a monthly budget of approximately $2,000 is realistic.
Rent offers massive savings. In Manila’s prime business districts, such as Bonifacio Global City (BGC) or Makati, you can get a modern, secure condo with a pool and gym for $800–$1,800 a month. If you venture outside the capital to cities like Davao, a similar apartment can be found for as little as $300 a month. Daily life is just as affordable. Groceries are a bargain—a kilogram of rice costs around $1, and a dozen eggs are about $2. Eating out is a way of life, with a meal at a casual local restaurant costing about $4. Even what would be considered luxuries back home are everyday possibilities here. A one-hour in-home massage costs about $8.50, and weekly house cleaning services are also very affordable.
The primary pathway for retirees is the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV), which is administered by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA). It’s known for its flexibility. For applicants aged 50 and over who have a documented pension, the requirements are very accessible. You need to show a monthly pension of at least $800 for a single person or $1,000 for a couple. Additionally, the required time deposit in a PRA-accredited bank is only $10,000.
Don’t have a pension? You can still qualify. Applicants aged 50 and above can get the SRRV with a $20,000 deposit. Younger applicants, between 35 and 49 years old, can also be eligible with a $50,000 deposit. Once granted, the SRRV gives you the right to live in the Philippines indefinitely and allows for multiple entries and exits.
Malta: Mediterranean Island Life with EU Perks
Malta is a gem in the middle of the Mediterranean. It’s a compact, sun-drenched archipelago that offers a unique mix of sophisticated European living, thousands of years of history, and a modern, pro-business energy. The island nation is incredibly safe, well-organized, and has become a top destination for expats from all over the world in 2025. While still more affordable than most of Western Europe, Malta’s popularity means prices have been on the rise. A single person can expect to spend around €860 per month, not including rent. A family of four would need a budget of about €3,100 per month to live comfortably.
Rent will be your most significant monthly expense. In the popular central areas like Sliema and St. Julian’s, a one-bedroom apartment typically costs between €900 and €1,500 per month. For more affordable options, many expats look to the sister island of Gozo or the southern parts of Malta, where prices are considerably lower. Utilities are quite reasonable, usually totaling €80 to €150 a month for electricity, water, and internet. Dining out is also accessible, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing about €20 per person. One of the best perks of living here is the public transportation. With a resident’s Tallinja Card, bus travel across the island is completely free.
For retirees, the Malta Retirement Programme (MRP) is a special tax residency scheme available to both EU and non-EU citizens. Its main attraction is a favorable tax structure, with a key benefit being a flat 15% tax rate on any foreign pension income brought into Malta. A minimum annual tax payment of €7,500 applies, plus an additional €500 for each dependent.
To qualify, you must prove that your pension makes up at least 75% of your total taxable income. You also have to either buy or rent a property in Malta that meets certain minimum value thresholds. You must purchase a property for at least €275,000 (in Malta) or €220,000 (in Gozo/South Malta), or sign a rental lease for at least €9,600 per year (in Malta) or €8,750 per year (in Gozo/South Malta). Finally, you’ll need to have comprehensive health insurance that covers you across the EU.
Grenada: The Safe and Spicy Gem of the Caribbean
Known as the “Isle of Spice,” Grenada is a lush, mountainous island in the southern Caribbean that feels like a world away from the more crowded tourist hotspots. It’s incredibly safe, friendly, and offers a peaceful, community-oriented environment. It’s a place where you can enjoy stunning beaches, hike through rainforests to hidden waterfalls, and live a relaxed island life with favorable financial perks. Grenada offers a surprisingly affordable Caribbean lifestyle. A single retiree can live comfortably on a monthly budget of $1,500 to $2,000, which covers rent, groceries, and entertainment. Overall, the cost of living is significantly lower than in the US, with savings of 30-70% on things like housing and dining out.
Rent is very reasonable. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center of the capital, St. George’s, costs around $780 per month, but if you live just outside the center, that price drops to about $435. A three-bedroom home outside the city center can be rented for as little as $660 per month. Dining out is also a bargain compared to the US. A meal at an inexpensive local restaurant costs around $7.40, and a three-course meal for two at a mid-range spot is about $50. Groceries can be a mixed bag; local produce is very affordable, but imported items, especially dairy products, can be more expensive than back home. A gallon of milk, for instance, is quite pricey at over $14.
Grenada doesn’t have a specific “retirement visa” in the traditional sense. Instead, many long-term residents and retirees opt for its well-regarded Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. This is a more significant financial commitment, but it comes with the huge perk of a second passport.
There are two main pathways to citizenship:
- A non-refundable donation to the National Transformation Fund (NTF), starting at $235,000 for a single applicant.
- An investment in government-approved real estate, with a minimum investment of $270,000 (as part of a joint investment) or $350,000 (as a sole investor).
The process is secure and typically takes 9-12 months. A Grenadian passport provides visa-free travel to numerous countries, including the UK and the Schengen Area, and uniquely, it allows holders to apply for the US E-2 investor visa. For those not pursuing citizenship, you can stay for up to three months on a tourist visa and apply for extensions, or apply for permanent residency after living in the country for two years.
Jamaica: Vibrant Culture and an Affordable Caribbean Beat
Jamaica is an island of vibrant culture, pulsating with the rhythms of reggae music, the scent of jerk chicken, and the energy of its warm and lively people. It offers stunning natural beauty, from its world-famous beaches to the lush Blue Mountains. This is a place with a strong personality and a rhythm all its own, attracting those who want a truly immersive and dynamic Caribbean experience. One of the main reasons retirees and expats flock to Jamaica is its affordability. The cost of living is approximately 22% lower than in the U.S., with housing being a significant factor in those savings. According to SmartAsset, a single person can live reasonably well on a monthly budget of around $913, excluding rent.
You can find a wide range of housing options. In the capital, Kingston, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for approximately $900 per month. However, across the island, rental prices can range from as low as $190 to $1,200 per month, depending on the location and size. While you can find multi-million-dollar villas in resort areas like Montego Bay, property in coastal towns like Ocho Rios or Port Antonio is much more affordable, often priced under $200 per square foot. Groceries are generally inexpensive, but like other islands, imported goods can be expensive.
For Americans and citizens of many other countries, you can stay in Jamaica for up to six months without a visa, which provides ample time to explore. For those wishing to retire or live there long-term, a permanent residency application is required. The process involves applying through Jamaica’s Passport, Immigration, and Citizenship Agency (PICA). You’ll need to provide a valid passport, evidence that you can financially support yourself without working in Jamaica (such as bank statements or proof of pension), and a letter stating your reason for seeking residency. The non-refundable processing fee is J$100,000 (approximately $640). It’s often recommended to start this process while still in your home country through a Jamaican consulate, as approval is not guaranteed.
Thailand: The Land of Smiles and Affordable Living
Thailand, the “Land of Smiles,” has long been a magnet for expats and retirees, and for good reason. It offers an incredible blend of bustling, modern cities, serene ancient temples, lush mountains, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism, emphasizing respect and non-confrontation, which contributes to a generally peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a country that offers flexibility, allowing you to live a lavish lifestyle or a simple one, all while surrounded by stunning scenery and delicious food.
Thailand is remarkably affordable, especially when compared to Western countries. A single person can live comfortably on a budget of around $620 to $800 per month, excluding rent. A couple could maintain a very comfortable lifestyle for just under $2,000 per month, including rent and healthcare. Housing costs vary dramatically depending on where you choose to live. In the heart of Bangkok, a modern one-bedroom condo might cost around $1,800 per month. However, in the popular northern city of Chiang Mai, a similar apartment can be found for as little as $300 per month. If you dream of island life, a one-bedroom condo near the beach on an island like Koh Samui starts at around $500 per month.
Food is both a cultural highlight and a major money-saver. A delicious and filling meal from a street food vendor can cost as little as $3, while a meal at a casual sit-down restaurant typically ranges from $5 to $6. Utilities are also affordable; an unlimited data SIM card costs around $11 per month, and a monthly water bill can be as low as $6. Thailand offers several visa options for retirees, with the most common being the Non-Immigrant O-A (one-year) and O-X (ten-year) visas. To qualify, you must be at least 50 years old and meet specific financial requirements. Once in Thailand on a retirement visa, you are required to report your address to immigration every 90 days, a process that can be completed online or in person.
Ghana: A Welcoming Gateway to West Africa
Ghana shines as a beacon of stability and warmth in West Africa. It’s known for its friendly, hospitable culture, making it a welcoming place for expats and returning diasporans. The country offers a rich history, vibrant markets, beautiful coastlines, and a growing economy. For those seeking a deep cultural immersion and an authentic African experience, Ghana is an exceptional choice. Ghana is an incredibly affordable place to live, especially when compared to Western countries. A single person can live comfortably on a budget of $400 to $600 a month. A family’s monthly expenses would be higher, but still a fraction of what they would be in the US or Europe. Rent varies by location and standard. In the capital, Accra, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around $496 a month, while outside the center, it drops to about $111. In popular expat neighborhoods like Cantonments or East Legon, you can find modern housing, but at a premium.
Daily expenses are very low. A meal at an inexpensive local restaurant costs around $4, and a domestic beer is just over $1. Basic utilities for an apartment are approximately $46 per month, and a monthly public transport pass is about $33. Ghana does not have a specific “retirement visa,” but obtaining long-term residency is a relatively straightforward process. Foreign nationals can apply for a residence permit through the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) after arriving in the country.
The process involves applying with documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial self-sufficiency (like bank statements), a clean criminal record check from your home country, and proof of accommodation in Ghana. While there isn’t a set income requirement specified for retirees, the key is demonstrating that you can support yourself without needing to work. Legal firms specialize in assisting retirees with this process, helping with everything from paperwork to opening a bank account. Individuals aged 60 and above are eligible to apply for a retiree residence permit.
India: A Land of Incredible Diversity and Unbeatable Affordability
India is not just a country; it’s an entire subcontinent of diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences. From the bustling, high-tech metropolis of Bangalore to the historic streets of Delhi and the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, India offers a sensory-rich environment that’s constantly changing. As a former British colony, English is an official language and is widely used in business, government, and urban areas, making it navigable for expatriates. It’s a place of profound culture shock, but also of incredible depth and discovery.
India is, by a significant margin, the most affordable country on this list. It is possible to live a comfortable life here on a budget that is almost unimaginable in the West. The average cost of living ranges from just $300 to $500 a month. Rent is exceptionally low. In a major city like Delhi, a one-bedroom apartment can range from ₹5,000 to ₹60,000 ($60 to $720), depending on the neighborhood and standard. In Bangalore, a hub for many expats, accommodation can range from ₹7,000 to ₹30,000 ($84 to $360). Even a luxury villa would likely cost the same as a regular apartment back home. Daily expenses are minuscule. A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around ₹1,200 ($14.40). A liter of milk is about ₹60 ($0.72), and a one-way ticket on local transport is just ₹30 ($0.36). Utilities for a 915 sq ft apartment average around ₹3,500 ($42) a month.
India does not currently offer a specific retirement visa for foreign nationals. This is a critical point to understand. Most long-term expats reside in India using other visa categories, such as an Employment Visa or a Business Visa. For those with significant capital, the most direct route to long-term residency is through the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) program. This involves investing between 10 and 25 million rupees (approximately $120,000 to $300,000) and creating at least 20 jobs for Indian residents each year. This grants a 10-year permanent residency permit that is renewable. This means that for the typical retiree without business or employment ties, long-term living in India can be challenging from a legal standpoint and may require frequent visa renewals or navigating a complex residency-by-investment path.
Key Takeaway
The 9-to-5 grind doesn’t have to be your only reality. As this guide shows, a life with more freedom, more adventure, and less financial pressure isn’t just a daydream—it’s a tangible, achievable goal. From the tax-friendly shores of Belize to the high-tech, low-cost cities of Malaysia, there are real, data-backed pathways to a new way of living.
This journey isn’t about finding a “perfect” country, because no such place exists. It’s about finding the country that is perfect for you. It’s about understanding the trade-offs and choosing your adventure wisely. Are you willing to trade the convenience of first-world healthcare for the ultimate freedom and simplicity of Belize? Or would you prefer to navigate a bit of bureaucracy in exchange for the incredible safety and top-tier medical care of Portugal?
The research is done. The numbers are crunched, and the paths are clearer than ever. The only question left to answer is, which adventure will you choose?
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
How Total Beginners Are Building Wealth Fast in 2025—No Experience Needed
How Total Beginners Are Building Wealth Fast in 2025
I used to think investing was something you did after you were already rich. Like, you needed $10,000 in a suit pocket and a guy named Chad at some fancy firm who knew how to “diversify your portfolio.” Meanwhile, I was just trying to figure out how to stretch $43 to payday.
But a lot has changed. And fast. In 2025, building wealth doesn’t require a finance degree—or even a lot of money. The tools are simpler. The entry points are lower. And believe it or not, total beginners are stacking wins just by starting small and staying consistent.
Click here and let’s break down how.
