Moving Abroad? Think Small Towns for Big Savings, Great 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 might get more bang for their bucks in under-the-radar smaller towns.

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 like the outdoors or cultural events, fresh food, or other perks.

“These smaller towns offer something people are increasingly looking for right now,” said Jennifer Stevens, executive editor of InternationalLiving.com, in a release. “You’re not just cutting costs—you’re gaining a sense of community, a healthier pace of life, and everyday experiences that feel more meaningful.”

Amarante, Portugal

For a picturesque small town in northern Portugal, consider Amarante (pictured above), which dates back to the fourth century B.C.E.

International Living’s editors call the lifestyle in Amarante “intentionally slower.” Even though it’s smaller than destinations like Lisbon, they say it still attracts tourists, so it boasts “top-notch” traditional restaurants and bakeries.

You can find rentals for as little as $1,000 a month for two or three bedrooms in the historical city center, and the overall cost of living is low, as well. Larger houses or farms with land can be had for as little as $400,000.

Bormes-les-Mimosas, France

If you read and loved “A Year in Provence,” Bormes-les-Mimosas might be right for you. It’s named for the colorful flowers that bloom in the winter months, and are celebrated every year in February with a festival called the Corso Fleuri.

Bormes-les-Mimosas also boasts beaches, wineries, and a medieval hilltop village.

Someone living in a modest two-bedroom apartment can expect to spend about $3,400, International Living’s editors reckon.

Nafpaktos, Greece

You can also find the small-town, slow-paced way of life in Nafpaktos, Greece. Located on the Gulf of Corinth, it offers easy access to the beach and abundant ancient Venetian architecture.

Housing costs remain reasonable, with rentals typically between $405 and $809 per month. Monthly expenses for a single resident average $1,271 to $1,735.

The views here are like a “postcard”, International Living’s editors say, and festivals are held throughout the year.

Aigues-Mortes, France

The little town of Aigues-Mortes was founded in the 13th century, and still has its medieval architecture intact. International Living’s editors describe it as chic, a bit like some of the posh small cities of California, with plenty of good eating and drinking in a walkable downtown.

Aigues-Mortes is in the south of France, but not in Provence, which helps keep it a little less expensive.

If you were to rent a modest two-bedroom apartment, you could expect to spend about $2,210–$2,600 a month. Homes for purchase inside the historical city center are pricier. Expect to spend at least $231,000 for just 430 square feet, though International Living’s editors maintain that this might be the most beautiful place to live among all the options they cover.

Maya Beach, Belize

If you’re craving a Caribbean lifestyle, Maya Beach, in Belize’s Placencia Peninsula, might be worth a look. Because it’s on a slender peninsula, it’s surrounded by water on two sides.

Maya Beach is quieter and less expensive than nearby cities that attract more tourists, but home to one of the region’s most popular restaurants, Maya Bistro.

The rents are very reasonable: International Living says you can probably snag a one-bedroom cottage for about $800 a month, or a two-bedroom for around $1,400 a month.

San Ramon, Costa Rica

San Ramon, Costa Rica, shown above, offers beautiful natural scenery, lively restaurants, cultural attractions, and much more.

International Living’s editors say that San Ramon is one area where everyday necessities are “surprisingly easy” for ex-pats. That includes health care, access to the international airport in San Jose, and proximity to things like groceries and other shopping.

One couple interviewed by International Living estimated that they spend about $6,000 for living expenses, but believe it’s possible to live modestly on a fraction of that. To buy a home, meanwhile, you can still find options for under $150,000, even though larger, more updated properties and rural estates will cost at least $300,000, and likely more.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Moving abroad? Think small towns for big savings, great quality of life

Reporting by Andrea Riquier, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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