5 Countries Where You Can Live in Paradise for Under $2,000/Month
5 dream spots where your money goes further
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Everything Is Expensive
At least that’s what it feels like, when I visit friends and family back home in Germany.
A dinner out costs more than a flight. Groceries are up. Rent is ridiculous. And for what? Short gray days, long commutes, and not much joy left after taxes.
But there’s another reality. One that exists just a plane flight away.
In some of the world’s most beautiful places, $2,000 a month gets you a private apartment, daily fresh fruit, morning swims, and time to actually live.
Here are 5 countries where you can live simply for under $2,000/month.
What Does $2,000/Month Really Cover?
Before we dive into the countries, it’s worth clarifying what this budget actually includes and why it’s enough for more than just scraping by.
In each of these locations, $2,000 per month can support a complete, comfortable lifestyle for a single person. Not luxury, but certainly not hardship either. It’s the kind of life where your needs are fully met, and there’s room for enjoyment, connection, and even a few upgrades.
Here’s what’s typically included.
Rent
A clean, private one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central area. Often furnished, with features like air conditioning, a balcony, or shared amenities such as a pool or garden.
Food
Local groceries for cooking at home, daily coffee or smoothies, and eating out a few times a week. This includes both local restaurants and the occasional Western meal.
Transport
Affordable options like public transport, rideshares, or renting a scooter or motorbike. In many cities on this list, you’ll rarely need a car. Walkable neighborhoods and good infrastructure make getting around simple.
Lifestyle
The budget can stretch to cover things that make life enjoyable: gym memberships, yoga or fitness classes, co-working spaces, and short weekend trips. Even extras like massages, haircuts, or casual entertainment are often within reach.
Connectivity
Fast, reliable internet at home and in public places. Local SIM cards and mobile data plans are affordable and easy to set up, making it simple to stay online and work remotely.
Healthcare
Basic healthcare is accessible and low-cost in most of these countries. While major emergencies or long-term coverage may require separate insurance, routine medical needs and dental care are typically affordable out of pocket.
Of course, lifestyle and comfort levels vary from person to person. Some people live well below this number, others might stretch slightly above it. But across the board, $2,000 per month is a solid benchmark for living fully, not just frugally, in the places you’re about to see.
Let’s check out the countries in depth.