The Best Countries with Low Cost of Living and High Quality of Life
Living in a different country sounds exciting, right? Imagine waking up in a new place, seeing different people, tasting new food, and learning new languages. But when we think about moving to a new country, the first two things we ask are: “Is it safe?” and “Is it cheap?” In this article, I’ll take you through some of the safest and cheapest countries to live in the world. I’ll also share how I felt when reading or hearing about these places, so you can feel a personal connection too.
Countries with Low Cost of Living and High Quality of Life
1. Vietnam
Why It’s Cheap:
Vietnam is one of the most affordable countries to live in. A meal at a local restaurant costs just a few rupees (converted from Vietnamese Dong). Rent is also cheap. You can get a small apartment in a big city like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi for a fraction of the price in cities like Mumbai or Delhi.
Why It’s Safe:
Vietnam is a peaceful country. The people are friendly, and crime rates are low. I read stories about how locals help foreigners when they’re lost or confused. That made me smile.
Personal Touch:
One of my friends visited Vietnam and told me about the magical lanterns in Hoi An. She stayed in a homestay with a kind Vietnamese family. They cooked for her and even took her to a nearby waterfall. It sounded like a dream!
2. Portugal – Europe on a Budget
Why It’s Cheap:
Among European countries, Portugal is surprisingly cheap. Local food, public transport, and even healthcare are affordable. You can enjoy the beauty of Europe without spending too much money.
Why It’s Safe:
Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world. The streets are calm, and people are polite. Whether you are walking in Lisbon or near the ocean in Porto, you’ll feel secure.
Personal Touch:
When I was researching Portugal, I found photos of narrow streets with colorful tiles and old trams. I imagined myself riding those trams while eating warm pastries called pastel de nata. I felt so peaceful even just thinking about it.
3. Georgia
Why It’s Cheap:
Georgia (the country, not the US state!) is incredibly affordable. Fresh vegetables, fruits, and bread are very cheap. Many tourists say they were surprised by how low the prices were.
Why It’s Safe:
Georgia has low crime and very friendly people. Many visitors say locals invited them for dinner even if they had just met! That shows how warm-hearted people are.
Personal Touch:
A YouTube vlogger shared how a taxi driver refused to take money from him just because he was a guest in Georgia. That touched my heart. It reminded me of Indian hospitality.
4. Thailand
Why It’s Cheap:
From delicious street food to budget guesthouses, Thailand is known for being affordable. You can enjoy beaches, mountains, and temples without spending too much.
Why It’s Safe:
Thailand is mostly safe, especially in smaller cities and tourist areas. People are respectful, and there’s a calm feeling in most places.
Personal Touch:
I’ve always dreamed of visiting Thailand’s islands. I imagine myself walking barefoot on white sand, sipping coconut water, and watching the sunset. My cousin once stayed in Chiang Mai for two months and said it was the most relaxing place ever.
5. Mexico
Why It’s Cheap:
Mexico has cheap food, transport, and housing. You can eat tasty tacos for very little money. Even in tourist cities, it’s affordable compared to the U.S. or Europe.
Why It’s Safe:
While some parts of Mexico can be unsafe, many cities like Mérida, Oaxaca, and San Miguel de Allende are very peaceful. Many foreigners live there without problems.
Personal Touch:
I saw photos of Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico, with people wearing colorful clothes and painting their faces. It felt like a mix of celebration and respect. I’d love to be part of that one day.
6. Nepal
Why It’s Cheap:
Nepal is very budget-friendly. Meals, rent, and travel are all cheap. Even visiting the Himalayas won’t break the bank!
Why It’s Safe:
Nepal is known for its peaceful people and spiritual culture. Whether you’re in a small village or in Kathmandu, you’ll find helpful locals.
Personal Touch:
I once met a group of students who had gone trekking in Nepal. They said the mountain views made them feel small in the best way possible. I remember thinking, “I want to feel that too.”
7. Indonesia
Why It’s Cheap:
You can rent a nice house on the island of Bali for a price lower than a 1BHK in many Indian cities. Food is cheap, and transport is easy on the pocket.
Why It’s Safe:
Bali and many parts of Indonesia are considered safe. People are used to tourists and are very kind.
Personal Touch:
One of my favorite Instagram influencers lives in Bali. She shows her daily life – yoga by the beach, smoothie bowls, and lots of sunshine. Sometimes, I daydream about joining her life!
8. Czech Republic
Why It’s Cheap:
In Europe, places like Prague (the capital of the Czech Republic) are cheaper than cities like Paris or London. Public transport is good, and food is affordable.
Why It’s Safe:
Czech Republic is very safe, especially for students. Many Indian students go there to study because of low tuition and safe surroundings.
Personal Touch:
While reading a travel blog, I saw a photo of Prague’s famous Charles Bridge in the early morning fog. I imagined walking there with a hot chocolate in hand. It felt magical.
9. Sri Lanka
Why It’s Cheap:
Just like India, Sri Lanka has a low cost of living. From spicy food to beachside homes, you can live well on a small budget.
Why It’s Safe:
Sri Lanka has some political ups and downs, but it’s mostly safe, especially in tourist areas like Kandy and Galle.
Personal Touch:
I visited Sri Lanka once with my family. We stayed near a beach and drank king coconut water. People smiled and waved at us. It felt like being at home, just with more palm trees!
10. Bolivia
Why It’s Cheap:
Bolivia is one of the cheapest countries in South America. Meals, housing, and travel all cost very little.
Why It’s Safe:
It’s generally safe, especially in small towns. Like every place, it’s good to be careful, but most travelers feel fine here.
Personal Touch:
I once saw photos of the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia. They reflect the sky and make it look like you’re walking on clouds. I whispered to myself, “Someday, I want to see that in real life.”
How to Choose the Right Country?
Things to Think About:
- Language:
Can you speak their language? Or is English commonly spoken there? - Climate:
Do you like cold weather or tropical warmth? - Food:
Would you enjoy their local food? Or miss Indian food too much? - Work and Study:
Can you study or get a job there easily? - Internet and Transport:
Good Wi-Fi and public transport make life much easier!
Conclusion
When I started writing this article, I felt excited. As I researched more and saw pictures of quiet streets, happy people, and beautiful landscapes, I felt like I was traveling in my imagination.
All of us have dreams. Some dream of being doctors, some dream of painting, and some of us dream of living in a peaceful, lovely place.
Wherever you go, the most important thing is not just if a country is safe or cheap, but how it makes you feel. If you feel at home in a new land, if you feel calm when you wake up and excited to explore then that’s the right place for you.
Even if you don’t move to these countries forever, reading about them and dreaming is a great way to open your heart and mind.
Who knows? Maybe someday you’ll walk the streets of Lisbon, drink tea in Kathmandu, or dance under the stars in Bali.
FAQs
Q1. Which country is the safest and cheapest to live in for Indians?
Vietnam and Nepal are both very safe and affordable, especially for Indian travelers or students.
Q2. Can I live in these countries as a student?
Yes! Countries like the Czech Republic, Portugal, and Georgia have student visa options and universities with low fees.
Q3. Are these countries good for families?
Yes, most of these places have a peaceful environment, good schools, and friendly locals – perfect for families.
Q4. Do I need to know the local language to live there?
In many places, like Thailand or Portugal, basic English is enough. But learning a few local words can help a lot!
Q5. Can I work in these countries?
Yes, but check visa rules first. Some countries offer working holiday visas or allow part-time work for students.
