As the rise of becoming an expat and remote work continues to grow, many people are moving to Asia to enjoy its beautiful landscapes while spending less of their hard-earned cash. According to the YouTube channel Across the Globe, here are the best Asian countries to live on $1,000 a month.

1. Bangladesh

1. Bangladesh
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Located in South Asia, Bangladesh offers a low cost of living with a high standard of life. The capital city, Dhaka, and Chittagong are popular among expats. The average cost of a meal is just $1.75, and monthly rent can be as low as $73 outside the cities. Sandy Perry of the Affordable Housing Network of Santa Clara notes that the average monthly cost of living before rent is $382.

2. Malaysia

2. Malaysia
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Malaysia, located in Southeast Asia, boasts a multicultural heritage and a relaxed pace of life. According to data, the cost of living in Malaysia is about 51.74% lower than in the United States. Georgetown in Penang is a recommended spot due to its affordable homes and beautiful beaches. The average cost of a meal is $2.37, while monthly rent in the city center averages $356 and $237 outside the city center.

3. Cambodia

3. Cambodia
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Cambodia is a country with a complex history that has emerged as a popular destination for digital nomads and remote workers. The cost of living in Cambodia is one of the lowest in the world. Phnom Penh and Battambang are notable cities for expats. The average cost of a meal is $2.80, and the average monthly rent in the city center is $440, dropping to $250 outside the city center.

4. The Philippines

4. The Philippines
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An archipelago of over 7,000 islands, the Philippines offers an affordable cost of living, warm climate, and stunning beaches. Davao City and Boracay Island are popular among expats and retirees. The average cost of a meal is $3.50, with monthly rents averaging $390 in the city center and $290 outside.

5. India

5. India
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India, with its rich cultural heritage, provides a high standard of living at an affordable price. Bangalore and Kolkata are highlighted as affordable cities with great infrastructure for digital nomads. The average cost of a meal is $2.65, and monthly rent can be as low as $134 outside city centers.

6. Sri Lanka

6. Sri Lanka
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Sri Lanka offers a high quality of life without breaking the bank. Colombo, the capital, is a popular choice for expats. The average cost of a meal is $1.35, and monthly rent in Colombo averages $338, dropping to $118 outside the city.

7. China

7. China
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China, with its ancient civilization, offers certain areas where one can live affordably. Cities like Guangzhou, Qingdao, and Xi’an are noted for their low cost of living. The average cost of a meal is $4.70, with monthly rent averaging $825 in the city center, though this can be much lower if shared with roommates or outside the city center.

8. Vietnam

8. Vietnam
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Vietnam has transformed into a vibrant and dynamic nation, attracting digital nomads and expats. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a low cost of living. The average cost of a meal is $2.20, with monthly rents averaging $411 in the city center and $263 outside.

9. Thailand

9. Thailand
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Thailand, with its rich history and cultural heritage, is a popular destination for digital nomads. Cities like Bangkok and islands like Koh Samui are favored for their modern vibe and affordability. The average cost of a meal is $1.80, with monthly rents averaging $424 in the city center and $215 outside.

10. Indonesia

10. Indonesia
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Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago, offers a low cost of living with diverse options depending on the island. Bali and Jakarta are more expensive, but islands like Java are much cheaper. The average cost of a meal is $1.75, with monthly rents averaging $279 in the city center and $175 outside.

High Standard of Living

High Standard of Living
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Living on $1,000 a month in these Asian countries is not only possible but also provides an opportunity to enjoy a high standard of living without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a digital nomad, expat, or retiree, these destinations offer a unique blend of affordability, cultural richness, and modern amenities.

Cultural Integration

Cultural Integration
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What do you think? How do you think living in a country with a vastly different culture and language would impact your daily life and overall experience as an expat? With the rise of remote work, what challenges and opportunities do you foresee in maintaining productivity and work-life balance while living in a low-cost Asian country? Beyond the cost of living, what other factors would you consider crucial when choosing a country to move to, such as healthcare, safety, and social connectivity?

To dive deeper into this topic, check out the full video on Across the Globe’s YouTube channel here.