Compare monthly living costs between 30+ countries. See exactly how far your budget goes in your target destination — rent, food, transport, and more.

Last updated: June 2026

Popular Cost Comparisons

United States->Portugal

42%

United States->Thailand

68%

United States->Mexico

Cost of Living Guides by Country

🇵🇹Portugal 🇪🇸Spain 🇹🇭Thailand 🇲🇽Mexico 🇬🇷Greece 🇨🇴Colombia 🇻🇳Vietnam 🇮🇩Indonesia 🇵🇦Panama 🇭🇺Hungary 🇬🇪Georgia 🇹🇷Turkey

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is this cost of living calculator?

Our data is based on 2026 averages from multiple sources including Numbeo, local expat communities, and government statistics. Actual costs vary by city, neighborhood, and lifestyle. Use this as a starting point and explore our detailed country guides for city-specific data.

Does the calculator include all living expenses?

The calculator covers the main categories: rent, meals, groceries, coffee, and transport. It does not include healthcare, insurance, visa fees, or entertainment. For a complete breakdown, check our country-specific finance guides.

Which is the cheapest country for expats in 2026?

Vietnam (from $800/mo, Da Nang from $600) and the Philippines are among the cheapest. Cambodia and Georgia offer living under $1,000/month. Note: Colombia rose to ~$1,000/mo due to peso strength and 23.7% min wage hike.

How much money do I need to live abroad?

It depends heavily on the country. Southeast Asia can be comfortable from $900-1,400/month. Southern Europe ranges from $1,800-2,500. Western Europe and Anglophone countries typically require $2,800-4,000. Our calculator helps you find the right budget for your target country.

Can I use this calculator for retirement planning abroad?

Yes. Many retirees use our calculator to compare their pension or savings against living costs in retirement-friendly countries like Portugal, Greece, Panama, and Thailand. Check our Retire Abroad guide for country-specific retirement advice.

Key Takeaways

Southeast Asia (Vietnam from $800, Thailand $1,200, Philippines $900) offers the lowest living costs. Vietnam ranks #10 globally for internet speed.
Southern Europe (Portugal, Greece, Spain) provides EU quality of life at 40-50% less than Western Europe.
Latin America (Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador) combines affordability with proximity to the US and similar time zones.
Your biggest expense abroad is almost always rent — it can vary 5x between countries for similar quality.
Cost of living is only one factor. Consider visa costs, healthcare, internet speed, and tax implications too.

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