It’s no secret that the cost of living has skyrocketed in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom.
According to Edvoy.com, the median price for one bedroom apartment is around $1224. Luckily, digital nomads can relocate to places where the cost of living is low, yet the quality of life is high.
Here are the top five countries with a comfortable lifestyle for $1,000 or less:
1. Philippines
A collection of islands, the Philippines has an abundance of beauty. With beaches of turquoise blue water and delicious tropical fruit, living there is like living in paradise.
While Manila is a popular city, it does offer a higher cost of living than the surrounding area. Instead of heading toward the capital, check out Cebu, Davao City, Baguio, and Dumaguete. Although these cities may not be as cosmopolitan as the capital, they still have many advantages, such as safer neighborhoods and friendly locals.
You can easily find a one-bedroom apartment for around $250 a month.
In addition to the low cost of rent, food is also extremely reasonable. The average grocery price for a single person is usually around $218 a month. Eating out can cost you a mere $70 monthly if you eat locally and avoid tourist restaurants.
Getting around in the Philippines is usually done by taxi or Jeepneys. Jeepneys are colorful open-air buses that cost less than a dollar per ride, depending on the distance. If you want more comfort and convenience, you can get around the island with taxis for about $2-$3, depending on how far you travel.
2. Mexico
Mexico has been a magnet for attracting digital nomads. While many ex-pats have made their new home in Mexico City and Playa del Carmen, these cities aren’t the only options for foreigners.
Oaxaca City, Merida, and Guadalajara are three great cities offering culture and lower living costs. Living in more rural or beach town areas will cost you between $450-$700 monthly for a one-bedroom apartment.
Utilities and internet can cost around $25-$50 a month. Phone bills are usually around $30 a month.
When grocery shopping, buying local produce is helpful to keep expenses low. However, eating out won’t break the bank if you’re not one to cook at home. You can eat well at most street food places for $4 to $8 a person. Most high-end restaurants will cost you $20 a person.
When getting around, many places in Mexico are walkable. However, you can rely on public transportation. Thus you can spend about $40 a month between buses, Uber, and walking.
3. Romania
When you hear the name Romania, the myth of Dracula might come to mind. Fantasy aside, this charming country is filled with castles and unique architecture and is one of Europe’s most affordable places to live.
While it does not offer sandy beaches and hot temperatures, it does provide high-speed internet, beautiful architecture, and a significantly low cost of living.
There are various places to live in Romania, including Braila, Arad, Pitesti, and Bucharest.
Renting a one-bedroom apartment within or outside the city center is usually around $285-$388.
When getting around, the bus or train is available. Although these transportation modes are often slow, you can get a monthly bus pass for approximately $13.
Like most of Europe, fresh produce costs are quite low; however, if you want to eat out at a nice restaurant, that could cost you anywhere between $50-100. However, fast food options will run you much cheaper.
4. Argentina
Wine, tango, and meat are only a few reasons this South American gem is a great place to live for less.
While Buenos Aires is a dreamy place to live, you can have the same beauty for a fraction of the cost in cities such as Cordoba and Mendoza. One-bedroom apartments can range from $200-400 a month.
While Argentina is known for its signature cuisines, you can enjoy various food options. A full-course meal at local restaurants can cost between $8 and $10. Higher-end and tourist restaurants can set you back around $20. And if you prefer to cook at home, you can shop at a local fish or produce market and bring home bags full of food for less than $20.
Getting around major cities can be done by taxi or public transport. Monthly transportation passes range from $15-20 a month.
5. Grenada
Known as the spice island in the Caribbean, living in Grenada is like living in heaven on earth. In this country, it’s easy to enjoy a beach lifestyle while staying within budget.
Many produce and products like cheese and bread are produced locally and sold cheaply. However, foreign products such as milk and beef can be more expensive.
A fancier restaurant can cost around $40-$50 when eating out. However, local fast-food restaurants can cost you around $8 a meal.
For places to rent, the island has many affordable options in cities such as Grand Anse, St. George, Lance aux Espines, and Carriacou. A one-bedroom apartment in these areas can range from $300-$400.
