Immigrate to Another Country? Think Small Cities to Save Big, Better Quality of Life
Big cities like Paris and popular tourist attractions like Thessaloniki may be better known, but when it comes to moving overseas, American ex-pats can find more money in smaller, under-the-radar cities.
International Living recently released a report on 21 small towns where you can enjoy a “comfortable lifestyle” for as little as $2,000 a month. That may mean a better quality of life as defined by a more walkable community, access to attractions such as outdoor or cultural events, fresh food, or other benefits.
“These small towns offer something that people are looking for right now,” Jennifer Stevens, executive editor of InternationalLiving.com, said in a statement. “You don’t just cut costs—you gain a sense of community, a healthier pace of life, and everyday experiences that feel more meaningful.”
Amarante, Portugal
For a beautiful town in northern Portugal, consider Amarante (pictured above), which dates back to the fourth century BCE
The editors of International Living call the Amarante lifestyle “deliberately slow.” Although it’s smaller than destinations like Lisbon, they say it still attracts tourists, so it boasts “high-end” traditional restaurants and bakeries.
You can find rentals for as little as $1,000 a month for two or three bedrooms in the historic downtown area, and the overall cost of living is low, too. Larger homes or farms with land can cost around $400,000.
Bormes-les-Mimosas, France
If you read and liked “A Year in Provence,” Bormes-les-Mimosas might be right for you. It is named after the colorful flowers that bloom in the winter months, and is celebrated every year in February with a festival called Corso Fleuri.
Bormes-les-Mimosas also has beaches, wineries, and an ancient mountain village.
A person living in a modest two-bedroom apartment can expect to spend about $3,400, International Living editors estimate.
Nafpaktos, Greece
You can also find a small-town, slow-paced lifestyle in Nafpaktos, Greece. Located on the Gulf of Corinth, it offers easy access to the sea and many ancient Venetian buildings.
Housing costs remain reasonable, with rents typically between $405 and $809 per month. Monthly expenses for a single resident average $1,271 to $1,735.
The view here is like a “postcard”, say the editors of International Living, and festivals are held throughout the year.
Aigues-Mortes, France
The small town of Aigues-Mortes was founded in the 13th century, and still retains its medieval architecture. The editors of International Living describe it as chic, like other small towns in California, with good food and drink in a walking city.
Aigues-Mortes is in the south of France, but not in Provence, which helps keep it a little more expensive.
If you were to rent a two-bedroom basement apartment, you can expect to spend around $2,210–$2,600 per month. Homes for sale within the historic city center are very affordable. Expect to spend at least $231,000 for just 430 square feet, though International Living editors maintain that this might be the best place to live among all the options they put together.
Maya Beach, Belize
If you’re craving a Caribbean lifestyle, Maya Beach, on Belize’s Placencia Peninsula, might be worth a look. Because it is on a small peninsula, it is surrounded by water on two sides.
Maya Beach is quieter and less expensive than nearby towns that attract more tourists, but is home to one of the most popular restaurants in the region, Maya Bistro.
Rent is very reasonable: International Living says you can probably buy a one-bedroom cottage for about $800 a month, or a two-bedroom for about $1,400 a month.
San Ramon, Costa Rica
San Ramon, Costa Rica, shown above, offers a beautiful natural environment, interesting restaurants, cultural attractions, and much more.
International Living editors say San Ramon is one place where daily necessities are “surprisingly easy” for ex-pats. That includes health care, access to San Jose International Airport, and proximity to things like groceries and other shopping.
A couple interviewed by International Living estimated that they spend about R6 000 on living expenses, but believe it is possible to live modestly on a fraction of that. To buy a home, meanwhile, you can still find options under $150,000, or larger, updated properties and rural areas will cost at least $300,000, and possibly more.
This article first appeared in USA TODAY: Moving abroad? Think small towns for big savings, high quality of life
Reporting by Andrea Riquier, USA TODAY / USA TODAY
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
