20 Cities Where Your Money Goes the Furthest
Discover 20 incredible cities where your money stretches further, offering affordable living, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank!
- Alyana Aguja
- 5 min read
Stretch your budget further by exploring 20 cities where affordability meets unforgettable experiences. From Southeast Asia’s vibrant street markets to Europe’s hidden gems and South America’s colorful escapes, these destinations offer incredible value for housing, dining, and lifestyle. Whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or savvy traveler, these cities prove that living well doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
1. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Supanut Arunoprayote from Wikipedia
Chiang Mai offers a rich cultural experience with ancient temples and vibrant street markets at a fraction of the cost of many Western cities. A comfortable apartment can cost as little as $300 per month, and delicious street food meals start at just $1. The city also boasts a laid-back vibe, ideal for remote workers and retirees.
2. Hanoi, Vietnam
NKSTTSSHNVN from Wikipedia
In Hanoi, history and modernity coexist perfectly, from the charm of the Old Quarter to rooftop cafés with city views. Living costs here are very low: hostels and local meals for less than $2 can be found here. The street food is good, too.
3. Tbilisi, Georgia
Boris Kuznetsov from Wikipedia
Tbilisi is fast becoming an expat and digital nomad hotspot with beautiful streets and an affordable lifestyle. The average rent in the city center stands at $400, while utilities are just as cheap. The city is further complimented by the warm local culture and renowned Georgian wine.
4. Kraków, Poland
Pawelsuder from Wikipedia
Kraków combines European charm with affordability, providing everything from medieval architecture to lively nightlife. There aren’t as many historical sites, but it’s much cheaper than in Western Europe because a one-bedroom apartment costs $500. Add to that the inexpensive public transportation and meals, and your budget stretches far.
5. Medellín, Colombia
Ephren23 from Wikipedia
Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellín offers a comfortable climate and a thriving expat community. Rent for a modern apartment in a desirable area can be under $500, and transportation costs are minimal. The city also boasts excellent healthcare and a vibrant cultural scene.
6. Budapest, Hungary
Jakub Hałun from Wikipedia
Budapest is a city of great architecture and thermal baths, and it is very affordable. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around $550, and dining out is similarly affordable. The city’s strong public transport system cuts down costs even further.
7. Porto, Portugal
Diego Delso from Wikipedia
Porto is a very scenic coastal town with a lower cost of living than other Western European cities. Rent and utilities for an apartment in a central location can be under $900, and fresh, local seafood won’t break the bank. It’s also an excellent base for exploring Portugal’s wine regions.
8. Bali, Indonesia
Rosino from Wikipedia
Not only is Bali heaven for tourists but also for cost-effective living. Locals could afford very cheap food for a $500 rental price for a villa with a pool. It has really nice beaches, too.
9. Sofia, Bulgaria
Deensel from Wikipedia
Sofia is among the most accessible capitals of Europe, a fusion of ancient sights and energetic young life. For rent: an apartment with one room costs $400, and every meal at a restaurant costs no more than $10. Here, it also serves as access to the country’s stunning mountains and ski resorts.
10. Mexico City, Mexico
Gobierno CDMX from Wikipedia
Mexico City offers museums of global standards, color-filled neighborhoods, and excellent food, all of which are budget-friendly. A comfortable apartment in a good location costs around $600, street tacos are incredibly tasty and really affordable, and metro lines reach all across the city to ensure easy commutes.
11. Prague, Czech Republic
Moyan Brenn from Wikipedia
Prague is pretty fairy-tale-like and surprisingly inexpensive in terms of lifestyle. One-bedroom apartments can be rented for about $700, and eating out isn’t terribly expensive relative to other European capitals. History and culture make any exploration pure joy.
12. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Pimnl from Wikipedia
Ho Chi Minh City pulsates with excitement, providing a budget-friendly blend of modern amenities and traditional culture. Apartments in prime areas start at $400, and street food from vendors is often under $2. It’s an exciting, affordable destination for expats.
13. Cartagena, Colombia
Juan Sáez from Wikipedia
Cartagena is a colorful city with a Caribbean feel and an affordable tropical destination. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $500, and fresh seafood meals are a steal. Its lively culture and historic architecture add to its charm.
14. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Shahee Ilyas from Wikipedia
Kuala Lumpur has a blend of modern skyscrapers and rich cultural heritage at affordable prices. Rent and utilities for a comfortable apartment can cost under $600. The city also boasts excellent food options and efficient public transport.
15. Belgrade, Serbia
ZlatanJovanovic from Wikipedia
Belgrade is gaining popularity for its affordability and dynamic cultural scene. Rent is incredibly low, with apartments costing around $300, and dining out is equally cheap. It’s a city full of history and energy, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
16. Lima, Peru
Joshuary from Wikipedia
Lima offers a mix of coastal views, history, and incredible cuisine—all at an affordable price. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a desirable area averages $500. With its low-cost transportation and delicious local dishes, Lima offers great value.
17. Bucharest, Romania
Madalin Pentelie from Wikipedia
Bucharest is the hidden gem in Europe, providing low living costs with a mix of old-world charm and modernity. The central apartment rent is around $400, and public transport is very cheap. The growing expat community makes it even more welcoming.
18. La Paz, Bolivia
EEJCC from Wikipedia
La Paz offers mountain views and an incredibly low cost of living. Rent for the simplest apartment is about $300, and local meals can be under $5. It’s an excellent base from which to explore the landscapes of Bolivia.
19. Zagreb, Croatia
Nick Savchenko from Wikipedia
Zagreb is a lovely, inexpensive European capital with a rich cultural scene. Rent for a central apartment is around $500, and the city offers a vibrant café culture. It’s also a gateway to Croatia’s beautiful Adriatic coast.
20. Cape Town, South Africa
Ranjithsiji from Wikipedia
Cape Town boasts breathtaking landscapes and a cosmopolitan lifestyle, all at a reasonable cost. Rent for a stylish apartment can cost as little as $600, and dining out offers excellent value. You’ll get incredible bang for your buck with its beaches, mountains, and vineyards.