If you’ve ever considered moving abroad, new research might give you extra motivation. According to data published by William Russell, Vietnam has been declared the cheapest country for expats to live in for 2025.
The study compared costs of healthcare, transportation, rent, food, and utilities across various countries, and Vietnam stood out as the one offering the most for the least money, reports Daily Mail.
Why Is Vietnam the Most Affordable Choice?
A spokesperson for William Russell explains: "Vietnam has long been a favorite destination for budget-conscious travelers and digital nomads because it offers everything needed for a quality life. From sunny beaches to major cities, great food and friendly locals, modern amenities and ancient traditions waiting to be discovered – Vietnam is one of the few countries that truly has it all."
The cost of living supports this claim. A one-bedroom apartment in Vietnam can be rented for as little as $361 (about 310 euros) per month, while a three-bedroom apartment averages $801 (690 euros).
Overall living costs are as much as 59 percent lower than in the UK, and the cheapest city to live in is Da Nang, a coastal city known for its beaches and nightlife.
Fun Facts About Vietnam
It has over 3,000 kilometers of coastline – Vietnam stretches along the East Sea and offers countless sandy beaches, from popular ones like Nha Trang to hidden coves on Phu Quoc island. The sea is warm all year round, and seafood dishes are always fresh.
Vietnamese drink massive amounts of coffee – coffee is the second most popular drink in the country (after green tea), and Vietnam is one of the world’s largest coffee producers. Their famous cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) is an energy booster and cultural symbol.
The street is often livelier than the restaurants – street food is the heart of Vietnamese cuisine. Pho (beef noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles), and banh mi (baguette sandwich with local toppings) are legendary dishes you can enjoy while sitting on a plastic chair by the road – and they’re delicious.
More than 50 ethnic minorities – while most of the population is Vietnamese (Kinh), the country is home to over 50 different ethnic groups, from mountain tribes in the north to communities along the Cambodian border. Each has its own language, attire, and customs.
Motorbike is the king of traffic – in cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, the motorbike is the main mode of transport – there are over 50 million of them. Crossing the street can be a challenge, but the rule is: walk straight and don’t change direction – drivers will adapt to you!
It has one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders – Ha Long Bay – With more than 1,600 limestone islands and rock formations rising from the sea, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Southeast Asia’s most famous landmarks.
Vietnam has a strong sense of community and family – the culture is based on collectivism. Multiple generations often live under the same roof, and respect for elders and family obligations is deeply rooted.
It has a very young population – more than half of Vietnamese are under the age of 35. This is reflected in the rapid development of the country, especially in technology, education, and the startup culture, particularly in large cities.
Tet (Vietnamese New Year) is the biggest holiday – celebrated in January or February, depending on the lunar calendar. The whole country comes to a standstill – families gather, homes are decorated with flowers and lanterns, and cities become vibrant and festive.
A blend of East and West – due to its French colonial past, Vietnam has fascinating architecture, baguettes, and coffee, alongside Buddhist pagodas, Confucian temples, and traditional markets – all in the same neighborhood.
Other Affordable Countries for Expats
Bolivia ranks second. In the capital La Paz, a one-bedroom apartment costs on average $386 (332 euros), and a three-bedroom one goes for $707 (609 euros). “Bolivia offers a mix of adventurous spirit and modern comfort. Cities like La Paz, Cochabamba, and Santa Cruz de la Sierra are nestled between breathtaking mountains and lush jungles. Life in Bolivia allows expats to live luxuriously on just a few dollars a day,” says William Russell.
Third place goes to Georgia, described by experts as a "modern society without a high price tag." While the capital Tbilisi is increasingly connected with Europe through new direct flights, the cheapest city to live in Georgia is Kutaisi, the third-largest city known for its proximity to nature and pleasant urban setting. A small apartment in the center of Kutaisi can be rented for $550 (447 euros) per month.
India and Cambodia Round Out the Top 5
India ranks fourth, where a three-bedroom apartment can be rented for an average of $433 (373 euros) per month. "In India, your budget stretches much further, allowing for a luxurious lifestyle – even in one of its megacities," says the spokesperson. However, they note that life in India isn’t for everyone: "You need to adapt to the Indian way of life, so it may not be easy for the faint-hearted."
The fifth most affordable country for expats is Cambodia. There, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs an average of $405 (349 euros) per month.
"As modern apartments continue to rise across Cambodian cities and coastal areas, those relocating can expect an increasingly high quality of life – without hurting their bank account," notes William Russell. The cheapest place to live in Cambodia is the capital Phnom Penh.
