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7 Countries · Updated 2026

Best Countries in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is the world's most popular region for budget expats, digital nomads, and retirees. Tropical weather, incredible food, fast-growing internet infrastructure, and monthly costs that start under $800. Here's every SE Asian country in our database, ranked by budget.

7

Countries

from $600

Cheapest

from S$4,800

Most expensive

25

Total cities

1
🇱🇦

Laos

Southeast Asia's hidden gem — ultra-low costs, slow living, and the warmth of the Mekong

from $600 40 Mbps Limited — basic in tourist areas and expat venues 2 cities
2
🇹🇭

Thailand

Southeast Asia's most beloved expat destination — tropical paradise, ultra-low costs, incredible food, and a 10-million-strong expat community

from $800/mo 248 Mbps Moderate in cities; limited outside tourist areas 5 cities
3
🇻🇳

Vietnam

Southeast Asia's rising star — incredibly affordable, vibrant street food culture, fast-growing expat scene, and a 90-day e-visa that renews with ease

from $800/mo 285 Mbps Good in expat areas and tourist hubs; limited elsewhere 5 cities
4
🇰🇭

Cambodia

Southeast Asia's most laid-back expat haven — dollar-based economy, ultra-low cost of living, easy long-term visas, and a welcoming culture that makes settling in effortless

from $800/mo 35 Mbps Widely spoken in expat areas and tourist hubs 3 cities
5
🇮🇩

Indonesia

Tropical archipelago paradise — volcanic landscapes, ancient temples, world-class surf, and a Bali digital nomad scene unlike anywhere else

from $1,000/mo 150 Mbps Good in Bali/expat areas; limited outside tourist zones 4 cities
6
🇲🇾

Malaysia

Southeast Asia's most expat-friendly nation — English-speaking, low-cost, modern, and perfectly positioned

from MYR 5,000 (~$1,135) 100 Mbps Widely spoken — common in cities and business 4 cities
7
🇸🇬

Singapore

Asia's safest, most efficient city-state — world-class finance, legendary hawker food, and zero street crime

from S$4,800 240 Mbps Excellent (official language) 2 cities

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