Budget-Friendly Countries Where You Can Live for $3,000 a Month
Traveling for a year and a half was not a spur-of-the-moment decision. Two significant factors pushed me in this direction. First, my living situation changed unexpectedly, making it uncomfortable to stay. Second, at 63, I was ready to retire. On a whim, I decided to see if I could live overseas for less than it costs in the United States.
One of the biggest financial challenges in the U.S. is the high cost of health insurance. COBRA would have cost me over $1,000 a month, which didn’t fit my budget, especially since I still had two years before I could qualify for Medicare.
So, I started looking into other options. After some research, I discovered that I could get international health insurance for less than $500 a month, valid everywhere except in the U.S. This opened up new possibilities. I’ve been on the road ever since.
After ten months of traveling, I found several places where you can live for much less than in the U.S. Combining my love of travel with budget-friendly destinations, I’ve been living abroad comfortably for the past year. Here are some places I recommend if you want to live on a $3,000 monthly budget. My most considerable expense has been the flights between the U.S. and overseas.
My Budget Travel Guidelines
To stay within my budget, I try to keep my hotel or apartment costs under $40 a night, which adds up to around $1,200 a month. Many hotels in the countries listed below offer free breakfast, which helps manage food costs.
I’m not a foodie. I don’t chase the latest restaurant trends or seek out culinary hot spots. I could eat pizza or chicken every day and be perfectly content.
Traveling full-time has become my way of life. Below are some countries where you can live on a budget, their visa requirements, and the length of stay. For those with U.S. passports, “VOA” stands for Visa on Arrival, meaning there is no need to apply for a visa beforehand, though the length of stay may vary.
Eastern Europe Itinerary (15 Months)
Albania
Visa: 1 year VOA with U.S. Passport
Albania is a hidden gem, having been closed off from the outside world until 1991. Old-world charm still thrives there, especially outside Tirana’s capital. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major cities, so you must carry cash.
The countryside is stunning, with checkerboard fields of crops and the last free-flowing river in Europe. The Vjosa River, fed by snow-capped mountains, sparkles a vibrant turquoise that will take your breath away.
Albania is rich in history. Cities like Berat and Gjirokaster are UNESCO Heritage sites, perfect for history buffs. The coastline, particularly in cities like Saranda, boasts some of the best beaches in the world alongside ancient ruins.
North Macedonia
Visa: 90 days VOA
East of Albania lies North Macedonia. If you arrive by bus, you’ll likely pass through Ohrid, a paradise on the shores of one of Europe’s largest lakes. Its history stretches back thousands of years and offers a beauty that is hard to match.
Ohrid is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers kayaking, boating, and swimming activities. You can also cruise around the lake and visit charming towns with centuries-old buildings.
In the center of the country is the capital, Skopje. It’s one of the few places where I could see myself settling down. With a population of over 600,000, Skopje has a blend of modern amenities and old-world charm without the overcrowded tourist scene.
I found a one-bedroom apartment just outside downtown for a reasonable price, complete with utilities, Wi-Fi, and a washing machine. Skopje also offers plenty of cultural activities, like the Kale Fortress, the Mother Teresa Museum, and the Macedonian Symphony, where tickets are under $20.
Looking to stay longer? Bulgaria and Turkey are the natural next steps. To learn more about This area of the world click here. Exploring the Balkans: An Amazing Adventure From Istanbul to Skopje
Southeast Asia Itinerary (6 Months)
Vietnam
Visa: 90 days with U.S. Passport (application required before entry)
Vietnam is a traveler’s paradise. From the street food in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the terraced rice fields of Sapa and the breathtaking views of Halong Bay, Vietnam offers something for everyone.
Accommodation in Vietnam is incredibly affordable.
I stayed in a large hotel room in the heart of Sapa, complete with an indoor balcony overlooking the city and a breakfast buffet included.
Cambodia
Visa: 30 days VOA
I arrived in Phnom Penh after a six-hour boat ride up the Mekong River from Vietnam. The journey through floating villages and old temples felt like a trip back in time.
Phnom Penh is a bustling city with a surprising mix of modern high-rises and traditional markets. The central market is a hive of activity, offering everything from fresh seafood to cooked meals, clothing, shoes, and accessories.
One must-see in Cambodia is Angkor Wat. I spent two full days exploring the temples and still felt like I hadn’t seen it all. After two days, though, I needed a break from temple-hopping—there’s just that much to take in.
Thailand
Visa: 60 days VOA
Thailand quickly became one of my favorite countries. From the vibrant energy of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Phuket, this country has it all.
Bangkok alone offers enough to keep you entertained for at least a week. I especially recommend a dinner cruise on the river for nighttime views of the temples. The chaos and charm of Khao San Road are worth experiencing, too, where you’ll encounter everything from vendors selling fried insects to shops offering fake IDs and more.
After Bangkok, I headed to Chiang Mai, a laid-back city in northern Thailand with a cozy, small-town vibe. The temples, street food, and local culture made me feel at home. I’ll be returning for a more extended stay.
Phuket and Pattaya, known for their stunning beaches, are perfect for snorkeling, island-hopping, or simply soaking up the sun.
If you want more Southeast Asia adventures, Laos and Bali are excellent, budget-friendly options.
These itineraries are just the start of your adventure. I hope they inspire you to embark on a long-term journey of your own.
Until next time, enjoy life’s journey, wherever it takes you.
Joseph O’Brien