Your basics
Add the costs you must pay each month. Use honest numbers, not the lowest numbers you can find.
Plan the whole life
What will your life abroad really cost?
A low rent number can hide a lot. Build a full budget that protects your comfort, health, and peace of mind.
There is no one budget for everyone.
Two people can live in the same country and spend very different amounts. Your home, health, food, travel, and habits all matter.
Do not ask only, “How cheap is it?” Ask, “What will the life I want cost me?”
Your full budget
Seven costs to plan for
HomeRent, fees, power, water, internet, repairs, and setup
FoodMarkets, grocery stores, restaurants, and special items
HealthcareInsurance, visits, tests, medicine, dental, and vision care
TransportBus, train, taxi, car, fuel, insurance, and repairs
LegalVisa, residency, documents, tax help, and renewals
JoyHobbies, trips, meals out, gifts, and time with friends
Safety cushionEmergency travel, price changes, repairs, and the unexpected
Keep it simple
Build your budget in three passes
Your good life
Add the things that make life feel full: fun, comfort, travel, and time with people you love.
Your protection
Add room for emergencies, price changes, and costs in two countries during a move.
Before you trust a cost-of-living number
- Check when the number was published.
- Ask which city and part of town it covers.
- See whether it is for one person or two.
- Look for costs that were left out.
- Compare the lifestyle to the one you want.
- Add a cushion for change.
See how we think about real costs.
Our videos show prices and explain what those numbers can mean in daily life.
Watch the $1,200 Ecuador Cost Video