Real Numbers, Real Budgets

Cost of Living Guides

Honest monthly budget breakdowns for expats and digital nomads — from frugal to comfortable, by city.

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Cost of Living · Thailand

Living in Chiang Mai on $1,000–$2,000/Month

Rent, food, coworking, transport and health insurance — broken down by neighbourhood and lifestyle.

From $800/month

11 min read→

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Cost of Living · Vietnam

Cost of Living in Vietnam: Saigon, Hanoi & Da Nang

One of Asia's most affordable destinations — full budget breakdown across Vietnam's top expat cities.

From $700/month

13 min read→

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Cost of Living · Mexico

Cost of Living in Mexico: CDMX, Oaxaca & Puerto Vallarta

Affordable Latin American living with great food, warm weather and proximity to the US.

From $1,200/month

10 min read→

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Cost of Living · Portugal

Cost of Living in Portugal: Lisbon, Porto & the Algarve

Affordable by Western European standards — full breakdown of rent, food, and transport costs.

From $1,800/month

18 min read→

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Cost of Living · Brazil

Cost of Living in Brazil: São Paulo, Rio & Florianópolis

Surprisingly affordable for a large country — detailed budget breakdowns for Brazil's top expat cities.

From $1,000/month

11 min read→

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Cost of Living · Spain

Cost of Living in Spain: Barcelona, Madrid & Valencia

Europe's sunny option — Valencia offers the best value while Barcelona and Madrid have more to offer.

From $2,000/month

13 min read→

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Cost of Living · Germany

Cost of Living in Germany: Berlin, Munich & Beyond

More affordable than most Western Europeans think — especially outside Munich and Frankfurt.

From $2,200/month

12 min read→

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Cost of Living · Japan

Cost of Living in Japan: Tokyo, Osaka & Beyond

Japan is cheaper than its reputation suggests outside Tokyo — full expat budget breakdown.

From $1,800/month

13 min read→