Where Can you Live Comfortably for $1000 per Month?

Footloose freelancers and creative retirees have been enjoying a comfortable standard of living for years by relocating and living well overseas. Many live a Western lifestyle on $1000 or less per month, and enjoy living in great accommodation, eating well, going out regularly and indulging in creature comforts from home.

There are many places in the world where you can live on $1000 per month, but where are people finding happiness for less?

Ecuador

Lush green forests, volcanic mountains, unspoiled beaches and hot springs are just some of the things that make Ecuador a stunningly beautiful place to live. Infrastructure is generally good and reliable, and the low crime rates make this country more appealing than elsewhere in Latin America. Those looking to rent can find a simple, clean, furnished apartment for $250 per month, or a large country home for $500. New Western-style condos in prime locations with gyms and security can be rented for $500 per month in Cuenca and Quito. Real Estate is also incredibly cheap, and beautiful homes in smaller towns such as Cotacachi are on the market for $50,000. A couple can eat well on $200 per month, or like royalty for $400. A housekeeper won't cost more than $150 per month, and taxi rides around town rarely cost more than $3.

Nicaragua

If you're older than 30, you'll likely remember headlines in the news about Nicaragua that make it sound like a questionable spot to relocate to. These days, Nicaragua is a peaceful country with a lot going for it. Like Ecuador, Nicaragua has stunning, unspoiled landscapes and a very low cost of living, although infrastructure is poorer than in Ecuador. Rent is also similar to Ecuador, and food and household help is incredibly cheap. While $1000 per month will allow a comfortable lifestyle, $2000 will allow you to live in luxury in Nicaragua. Surprisingly, according to the Harvard Business School affiliate in Managua, Nicaragua is the safest country in Central America. This is a country whose reality is better than its reputation.

Thailand

Areas such as Chiang Mai have been attracting expats and retirees looking to live well on less for many years. Thailand has a large and happy expat community, and the country constantly attracts teachers, retirees, freelancers and entrepreneurs. A small, comfortable house in Chiang Mai can be rented for about $350 per month, and apartments are even cheaper. Infrastructure is generally reliable, and many expats live comfortable on $500, never mind $1000. A great meal from a street vendor can be enjoyed for less than $1, and many get around using a scooter, which costs no more than $65 per month to run.

Costa Rica

Images of white sand beaches and tropical forests suggest that living in this natural paradise is expensive, but the truth is, it's very easy to live here on $1000 per month. While Costa Rica is not at cheap as neighboring countries such as Belize, there are few places as safe and peaceful. A small apartment within a gated community can cost as little as $400 per month, and local style accommodation is much cheaper. Local food and transport are cheap and there is little need to run a car.

Relocating to any of these places takes patience and determination to adjust. The hidden costs of living for less overseas is often lack of convenience, culture shock, periods of isolation, and a totally different understanding of customer service. The hidden benefits are often reduced stress, a slower paced life, more time to focus on hobbies, and the constant opportunity to discover and learn more about your new home.