The best places to live abroad for under £800 a month ☀️

Across some of the world’s most stunning and culturally rich corners, you can enjoy a fantastic lifestyle—including rent, meals, and even a bit of travel—for around £800 a month or less. Even better? You’ll find sunshine almost year-round and a warm, welcoming community to boot.

Here are some top spots where your money stretches further and the sun doesn’t play hard to get.

1. Mexico 🇲🇽 – Sunshine, street tacos & serious value

If you’re after a tropical vibe without breaking the bank, Mexico hits the spot. Cities like Mérida, Oaxaca, and Puerto Escondido are buzzing with life, rich culture, and gorgeous scenery—all at jaw-droppingly low prices.

💰 Cost of living: ~£650–£950/month

🏡 Rent: Around £330 for a one-bed in Mérida


🍽️ Dining: Street tacos under £1, hearty meals for £4–£6

🌡️ Average temp: 24°C

☀️ Sunny days: ~260/year

📍 Best for: Digital nomads, early retirees, and sunshine seekers

2. Thailand 🇹🇭 – Tropical living on a shoestring

Thailand has long been a Brit favourite, and it's easy to see why. Whether you’re into bustling Bangkok, chilled-out Chiang Mai, or beachy Phuket, Thailand offers a vibrant lifestyle for a fraction of UK costs.

💰 Cost of living: ~£570–£950/month

🏡 Rent: £250–£400 for a modern flat in Chiang Mai


🍽️ Dining: Street food from £1–£2.50, restaurants around £4

🌡️ Average temp: 28°C


☀️ Sunny days: ~275/year


📍 Best for: Remote workers, backpackers, and digital creatives

3. Vietnam 🇻🇳 – Big value, big flavour

Vietnam is perfect for budget-conscious Brits with a taste for great food and authentic experiences. From the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the beachy buzz of Da Nang, it’s one of Asia’s most affordable gems.

💰 Cost of living: ~£490–£820/month

🏡 Rent: £200–£370 for a stylish one-bed

🍽️ Dining: Pho from £1.60, sit-down meals for £4

🌡️ Average temp: 26°C

☀️ Sunny days: ~210/year


📍 Best for: Foodies, freelancers, and slow travellers

4. Portugal 🇵🇹 – Europe on a budget

Portugal ticks all the boxes for Brits: close to home, full of charm, and surprisingly affordable (outside of Lisbon). Explore Porto, Coimbra, or the Algarve, and enjoy year-round sunshine and European comfort.

💰 Cost of living: ~£730–£1,200/month

🏡 Rent: £400–£600 in Porto

🍽️ Dining: Local meals from £6–£8

🌡️ Average temp: 18°C

☀️ Sunny days: ~300/year

📍 Best for: Remote workers, retirees, and beach lovers

5. Colombia 🇨🇴 – Lush, liveable & full of surprises

Forget everything you think you know—Colombia is one of South America’s best-kept secrets. Cities like Medellín and Cali offer amazing weather, fast WiFi, and affordable living. Medellín, in particular, has been named one of the best digital nomad hubs in the world.

💰 Cost of living: ~£570–£980/month

🏡 Rent: £250–£400 for a furnished flat

🍽️ Dining: Meals for £4, coffee under £1

🌡️ Average temp: 22°C

☀️ Sunny days: ~210/year

📍 Best for: Digital nomads, Spanish learners, and free spirits

6. Georgia 🇬🇪 – Europe’s hidden gem

Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia is a budget traveller's dream. With the majestic Caucasus Mountains, medieval towns, and vibrant Tbilisi, you’ll get more bang for your buck—plus a special visa just for remote workers.

💰 Cost of living: ~£490–£820/month

🏡 Rent: Around £250 for a modern flat

🍽️ Dining: Local dishes from £2.50–£4

🌡️ Average temp: 12°C

☀️ Sunny days: ~190/year

📍 Best for: Wine lovers, history buffs, and digital nomads

7. Indonesia 🇮🇩 – The ultimate digital nomad paradise

Bali has been a go-to destination for remote workers and budget travellers for years. The island offers cheap housing, an amazing expat community, and world-class beaches—all for shockingly low prices.

💰 Cost of living: ~£650–£1,050/month

🏡 Rent: £330–£500 for a villa (with a pool!)

🍽️ Dining: Local meals for £1.60

🌡️ Average temp: 27°C

☀️ Sunny days: ~270/year

📍 Best for: Remote workers, yogis, and sun chasers

Before you pack your bags...

A life abroad sounds dreamy—but here are a few practical things to sort out first:

• Visa Rules – Some countries require long-stay or digital nomad visas. Others, like Georgia, let you stay a full year hassle-free.

• Healthcare – Check whether you'll need private cover or can access local healthcare.

• Language – English is common in tourist areas, but learning a few local phrases goes a long way.

• WiFi & Workspaces – If you're working remotely, research internet speeds and coworking spots before committing.

✈️ Ready to make the move?

If the grey skies, soaring bills, and daily slog in the UK are getting old, why not swap it for sun, savings, and something new? Whether it's sipping smoothies in Bali, brunching in Portugal, or beach-hopping through Mexico, there’s a sunny slice of paradise with your name on it.

So—where are you heading first? 🌍

Sources & further reading:

• Numbeo: Cost of Living Comparisons Worldwide

• International Living: Best Places to Retire & Live Abroad

• Expatistan: Cost of Living Rankings

• Visa Requirements