A recent survey by InterNations, a Swiss-based expatriate guide, reveals that Indonesia ranks as the third most affordable country for expats. The survey evaluated 53 countries based on living costs, financial satisfaction, and whether expats felt their disposable income was sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle.
The ranking is widely used by expatriates considering relocation for work or personal reasons, as reported by Tempo.co. Countries at the top of the list are considered more affordable, while those at the bottom are the most expensive.
Top 3 Cheapest Countries for Expats
- Vietnam
Vietnam has secured the top spot for three consecutive years. According to the survey, 86% of expats in Vietnam are happy with the low cost of living, and 68% say their disposable income is more than enough for a comfortable life.
“The people are very friendly, and the cost of living is very low,” A U.S. expat shared as reported by Daily Mail.
Additionally, 65% of expats in Vietnam report being satisfied with their financial situation, with 20% earning an annual income exceeding $150,000 (approximately Rp2.3 billion).
- Colombia
Colombia ranks second, with 85% of expats expressing satisfaction with the low living costs. Meanwhile, 91% report their disposable income is sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle. And nearly 90% of expats in Colombia are satisfied with their financial situation.
“What I love most about Colombia is its relaxed lifestyle.” A Maltese expat remarked.
- Indonesia
Indonesia takes the third place, praised for its affordability and quality of life. In an interview by InterNations, Canadian expat highlighted the reaasons he likes living in Indonesia.
“What I love about Indonesia is its climate, safety, friendly people, clean air, beautiful nature, and low cost of living,” as quoted by dailynews.co.uk.
According to the survey, 69% of expats in Indonesia are satisfied with the cost of living, and 86% say their income is sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle. Furthermore, 72% of expats report overall financial satisfaction while living in the country.
Top 3 Most Expensive Countries for Expats
Meanwhile on the flip side, the survey identified the three most expensive countries for expats: Canada, Finland, and the United Kingdom.
- Canada
Canada ranks as the most expensive country (53rd place). Over half (53%) of expats report their income is insufficient for a comfortable life, and 66% agree that living costs are high.
A Spanish expat shared, “The cost of living is extremely high, even dining out feels like a luxury.”
Additionally, 26% of expats in Canada described their financial situation as very poor.
- Finland
Finland comes in as the second-most expensive country (52nd place). Over half (51%) of expats are dissatisfied with the high living costs, and 69% earn an annual income below $50,000 (around Rp790 million). - The United Kingdom
The UK ranks as the third most expensive country (51st place). More than half (58%) of expats are unhappy with the high cost of living, and 43% say their income is insufficient for a comfortable lifestyle.
One expat lamented, “I wish my salary matched the cost of living. I can get by, but ideally, I’d like to live on my own, which is impossible with my current income.”
Overall, 37% of expats in the UK express dissatisfaction with their financial situation.
Sources: Tempo.co, Daily Mail, dailynews.co.uk
Image source credit: Tom Fisk (pexels.com)
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