Living Abroad in 2025: 6 Cheapest Countries for Expats with High Quality of Life

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Having traveled to 5 out of these 6 gorgeous countries, I know these are all fantastic options to live and work from for nomads and expats alike.

Relocating abroad is rapidly becoming a popular choice for many in particular those who are looking to stretch their savings without compromising on the quality of life.

While retiring overseas is an exciting prospect, it comes with its challenges. To make the right choice, you need a wealth of information and some guidance, to help you interpret it all.

Therefore, you should treat this blog as an essential road map for finding the best countries for expats to retire in, keeping in mind your lifestyle, priorities and career dreams.

The handpicked destinations detailed below are in ever-growing demand by expats because they offer not only a healthy and happy life, but where you can spend a lot less money for a whole lot more.

Related Reading –

16 Best Countries for Dual Citizenship
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7 Best Countries for Long-Stay Visas in South East Asia

6 Top Countries for Expats and Nomads to Retire

1. Panama

While your first reaction may be of surprise about picking this tiny Central American Republic as the first choice for the cheapest countries for expats, 2025 has already shown that Panama has become a shining star for aspiring settlers.

Though Panama is located in the same hemisphere as the US and Canada, it enjoys enviable environmental protection as it lies completely out of the hurricane zone.

The country is wealthy, stable and safe and you can easily live comfortably in a lifestyle that feels more than luxurious with a good home, good food, potable tap water, reliable high-speed internet and above all a wonderfully welcoming community.

In addition:

There is no tax on foreign income
Property tax is just 0.5%
Easiest country in the world to gain residency
Temporary Telework visa allows stay for up to 18 months with proof of medical insurance and income from a foreign source

Simply put, no other country in the world offers so much than Panama.

2. Portugal

An ever-enduring favorite with expats, Portugal is also known for its stunning coastlines, historic charm, bustling neighborhoods and a diverse range of lifestyle options.

While the cost of living abroad plays a significant role in choosing the best countries for expats, Portugal stands tall among other countries for its safety, reasonable cost of living, exceptional healthcare and warm and friendly locals.

For expats planning to settle in Portugal it is necessary to secure a resident visa, with the most common being D-7, which requires proof of passive income. After 5 years of stay, retirees can apply for citizenship. With a Portuguese passport, you can live anywhere in Europe without going through an additional visa process.

3. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a magnet for those settlers seeking immersion in nature and a laid-back lifestyle against a spectacular backdrop of verdant surroundings with howler monkeys and brightly colored toucans flying overhead.

Coupled with the warmth of the overly friendly Ticos, this Central American Republic is easily accessible from the US and is a place that captures the heart on first sight.

From frugal retirees to those expats seeking a more luxurious lifestyle, there is a way to make this work for anyone in Costa Rica.

The Central Valley is preferred by most expats because of the cooler climate, accessible healthcare and much lower cost of living abroad than the beach towns.

The country’s visa and residency process is a bit time consuming, but with a bit of patience one can get a temporary residency permit like the Pensionado visa for retirees with a $1000 monthly income or the Rentista visa with a $2500 monthly income. Permanent residency is gained after 3 years of legal residency.

4. France

There is more than one reason why expats have decided to settle in France, but the main one has to be the healthcare system which is not only increasingly affordable, but is ranked number one in the world.

France has also been often considered as an affordable country to retire in as it provides significant savings in key areas such as housing, food costs by avoiding staying in expensive cities like Paris, in order to enjoy a good French way of life without breaking the bank.

Healthcare is guaranteed to everyone living in the country with a Long-Stay visa which is quite easy to come by. After three months of stay you can avail of the healthcare system and visit any medical practitioner without joining any network.

The country provides one of the easiest visas to obtain in Europe making it a smart choice for expats, although at first, the language barrier may feel daunting.

5. Greece

With its breathtaking landscapes and turquoise blue waters, living in Greece can be an experience of the highest level. While life here moves at a relaxed pace, community is the heart of life in the country which gives a comforting sense of belonging to the expats already residing here.

Outside the top tourist areas the cost of living is affordable and there are an appealing range of accommodation options ranging from quiet villages to modern sea-facing villas.

Expats pay a small monthly fee to access healthcare services and private healthcare is also affordable with shorter wait times. The Mediterranean climate is also mild and the occasional rainfall only adds to a more green landscape.

The Greek Digital Nomad visa allows non-EU citizens to stay in Greece for up to two years and the Golden Visa provides permanent residency to those who invest in property. For those considering a change of pace, Greece will be hard to beat.

Whether it is hiking through olive groves or exploring ancient ruins with the sun setting behind in the sea, Greece has become a top retirement destination of 2025 because of its luxurious but simple lifestyle.

6. Italy

Italy is another top destination for retirees as it offers a range of benefits and experiences not to be found anywhere else.

Beyond the fine climate, the country’s topography adds to the appeal with over 4700 miles of coastline and spectacular mountain ranges of the Dolomites and the Apennines making it a haven for adventurous expats.

Compared to the US, the cost of living in Italy is almost half and even more if you choose to stay in the smaller towns and villages. Apart from good healthcare, the benefits of a Mediterranean diet are undeniable.

Securing a long-term visa to Italy is manageable, providing one demonstrates financial stability and a face-to-face meeting with a consular at the embassy.

It may take some effort to transit into this idyllic lifestyle, but the rewards of embracing Italy’s culture will be worth the effort.

So this was a handpicked list of 6 best & cheapest countries for expats and digital nomads to live, work and play.

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Jo has been putting pen to paper from an early age when she started her "Dear Diary" and letters to her pen friends across the globe.
This alongside regular visits to Indian jungles in search of the Royal Bengal Tiger, fueled her zest for adventure, nature and wildlife.
Now she is a renowned travel blogger, outreach expert and has worked with over 500 travel brands in the last 15 years.