8 Budget-Friendly Relocations Around the World

Budget-friendly relocations are more achievable than ever, especially if you are flexible on destination and keen to swap high housing costs and expensive commutes for better value and a slower pace of life. Below are 8 destinations around the world that consistently offer lower living costs, attractive lifestyles and plenty of reasons to stay long-term.

Moving abroad on a budget

Relocating doesn’t have to mean shipping an entire houseful of belongings or paying premium rates for checked baggage on every flight. Many budget-conscious movers now travel with hand luggage and send the bulk of their possessions separately, which can be more cost‑effective than airline excess‑baggage charges, particularly on long‑haul or low‑cost carriers. Services like Send My Bag specialise in door‑to‑door shipping of luggage and boxes worldwide, making it easier to move home without the stress of dragging multiple suitcases through airports.

1. Valencia, Spain

Valencia combines Mediterranean sunshine, city convenience and beach life at a lower cost than many other major Western European cities. Rents are typically cheaper than in Madrid or Barcelona, and everyday costs such as groceries, transport and eating out tend to be more reasonable, helping new arrivals stretch their budget further.

The city offers a walkable historic centre, a long sandy coastline and the striking City of Arts and Sciences, so you do not need to spend much to enjoy your free time. There is a strong café culture, extensive cycle paths and a growing international community, which makes it easier for newcomers to settle in while still enjoying authentic Spanish life.

2. Porto, Portugal

Porto is often chosen by budget-minded expats who want Old World charm without the price tag of many other European hotspots. Housing can be significantly cheaper than in Lisbon, especially in neighbourhoods just outside the tourist centre, and public transport and day‑to‑day expenses remain relatively low.

The city’s riverside setting, compact size and mild climate make it appealing if you prefer to explore on foot rather than pay for frequent car use. With a strong café and co‑working culture, plus good connections to the rest of Europe, Porto works well for digital nomads, remote workers and retirees alike.

3. Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki, Greece’s second city, offers many of the advantages of Mediterranean living at a more affordable rate than some of the country’s islands or capital. Rental prices and restaurant costs are generally lower than in Athens, while markets and local shops make it easy to keep food costs under control.

The seafront promenade, lively student population and rich Byzantine and Ottoman history give the city a youthful yet relaxed feel. Excellent access to nearby beaches and mountain areas means you can enjoy weekend escapes without expensive long‑distance travel.

4. Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi regularly appears in lists of affordable places to live, particularly for remote workers. Accommodation, public transport and eating out tend to cost significantly less than in Western Europe, and utility bills and mobile data are also relatively inexpensive.

The city itself mixes historic districts, sulphur baths and Soviet‑era architecture with an increasingly modern café and bar scene. Georgia’s relatively flexible visa options for many nationalities and its strategic position between Europe and Asia make it a practical base for those who travel frequently but want a low‑cost home hub.

5. Da Nang, Vietnam

Da Nang has grown into a favourite for those seeking a beach city that is more laid‑back than Ho Chi Minh City but more developed than many coastal towns. Rents for modern apartments can be very competitive, and local food, transport and services are generally inexpensive, especially if you embrace markets and small eateries.

The long stretch of beach, warm climate and proximity to other popular spots such as Hoi An and the Hai Van Pass give residents plenty to explore at minimal cost. Increasing numbers of co‑working spaces and cafés with good internet make Da Nang particularly attractive to digital nomads and freelancers on a budget.

6. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is well known for its low cost of living, especially in comparison with many Western cities. Rent, street food, local transport and basic services are typically very affordable, allowing many long‑term visitors to live comfortably on a modest monthly budget.

The city offers a relaxed pace, surrounded by mountains and national parks, with hundreds of temples and a thriving café and market culture. Its established expat and digital‑nomad scenes mean there is plenty of community support, language classes and co‑working spaces, all of which help newcomers settle in quickly.

7. Mexico City, Mexico

While Mexico City is a huge and diverse metropolis, many neighbourhoods remain comparatively affordable when set against large European or North American capitals. Housing, local food, and public transport costs can be good value, particularly outside the most fashionable districts, and there is a wide range of price points for almost everything.

Cultural life is a major draw: world‑class museums, galleries, parks and historic sites often have low entry fees or free days, which keeps leisure costs down. With a strong café and restaurant culture, vibrant street life and good transport links to the rest of the country, the city suits those who want big‑city energy without typical big‑city prices.

8. Montevideo, Uruguay

Montevideo offers a quieter alternative to some of South America’s larger cities while still providing a good standard of living at reasonable cost. Housing, healthcare and everyday services tend to be cheaper than in many Western countries, and the city’s rambla (waterfront promenade) provides kilometres of free outdoor space for walking, running or socialising.

The atmosphere is relaxed, with a strong café culture, regular markets and a focus on family and community life. Uruguay’s relative political stability and slower pace can be particularly attractive if you are looking to relocate somewhere calm and safe without paying premium prices.

Keeping relocation costs down with Send My Bag

Wherever you decide to move, managing luggage is one of the simplest ways to stay on budget. Airline excess‑baggage fees can quickly exceed the price of the ticket itself, especially on low‑cost airlines or long‑haul routes.

We ship your boxes, bikes, golf clubs, skis and more door to door, giving you the most affordable way to move your belongings without hauling everything through the airport.

You book online, pack your items and hand them over to the courier, then track them all the way to your new front door so you can travel light while your possessions make their own journey.

Choosing a simple and affordable service can make the whole move feel more manageable and free you up to focus on settling into your new surroundings.