Affordable paradise: 5 countries where $1,000 covers food and seaside housing
Countries where $1,000 is enough to live (photo: Freepik)
Today, working from anywhere in the world has become normal, and the dream of swapping the gray routine for sunny beaches or exotic mountains is entirely possible. Many think life abroad requires millions, but there are countries where a comfortable lifestyle costs less than $1,000 per month.
RBC-Ukraine highlights 5 countries where your savings can make you feel like a true millionaire.
Why $1,000 is a lot in some countries
The cost of living isn’t about quality — it depends on the country’s economic level. In places where the average salary is $300–$500, $1,000 a month lets you live far better than the locals.
What $1,000 covers:
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Rent (studio or one-bedroom apartment)
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Utilities
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Food (home-cooked + restaurants)
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Transportation
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Internet
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Entertainment and domestic travel
Vietnam: paradise for digital nomads
Vietnam consistently tops lists of the cheapest countries to live in. It combines modern infrastructure with ancient culture. Stretching a modest budget across a month without hardship? That’s Vietnam.
Costs: Rent for a modern apartment in Da Nang or Nha Trang is $300–$500. In Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you can rent for around $350. Utilities cost $20–$40.
Food: street food (like the famous Pho soup) costs about $1.50, while a full dinner in a restaurant can be up to $10.
Transportation: taxis from $0.59, 10 GB of internet around $6. Overall, $700–$900 per month is enough for a comfortable lifestyle.
Thailand: quality at an affordable price
Thailand is a classic choice. While Phuket or Bangkok can be pricier, cities like Chiang Mai fit perfectly within the budget.
Costs: A studio in a condo with a pool and gym costs $400–$550. Beachside housing can be cheaper, from $250. Utilities: $30–$50.
Food: Thai cuisine is everywhere, and fresh tropical fruits are cheap. Expect to spend $200–$300 monthly, including restaurants.
Overall: $850–$950 a month covers living, entertainment, and transport comfortably.
Colombia: a Latin American dream
Medellín, once dangerous, is now a hub for foreigners thanks to its “eternal spring” climate and low prices. No winter clothes or high heating bills needed.
Costs: Rent in a good neighborhood: $450–$600.
Food: Colombian coffee and local products are very affordable. A “menú del día” lunch costs around $4. Grocery prices are low.
Overall: $900 per month is enough for a comfortable living.
Albania: Europe’s hidden gem
Want to stay in Europe without paying thousands of euros? Albania is perfect. You get both the sea (the Riviera) and mountains, plus stunning architecture and scenic towns.
Costs: Rent in Sarandë or Vlorë near the sea: $300–$450.
Food: High-quality, natural products at cafes are far cheaper than in neighboring Greece or Italy.
Overall: $750–$850 per month is enough to live freely and comfortably.
Indonesia (Bali)
Despite Bali’s popularity, budget living is still possible if you avoid the center of Ubud or Seminyak and choose areas like Canggu or Sanur.
Costs: Rent for a small villa or guesthouse room: $400–$600. Small apartments from $300. Utilities: $40–$60.
Food: Local warungs serve huge meals for $2–$3. Fresh fruit costs pennies. Total monthly living: $250–$350 for food.
Overall: Living comfortably in Bali costs $900–$1,000 per month.
