This country is the most expensive for expats (and these are the cheapest)
4 min read- Over half of Americans have considered moving abroad, citing a lower cost of living and higher quality of life as primary reasons.
- Experts advise potential expats to research everyday expenses, not just salaries, to understand a country’s true affordability.
Many Americans are enticed by the idea of becoming expatriates, believing they could enjoy a better life abroad.
That’s precisely why over half of Americans have considered moving abroad, according to a Harris Poll survey of over 6,358 adults between Aug. 2024 and Feb. 2025. A lower cost of living and higher quality of life were some of the most popular reasons for respondents to consider moving abroad, along with dissatisfaction with the current political leadership.
However, becoming an expat is not always as simple as packing up your bags and heading off to wherever calls your name. Some countries that offer the nature, lifestyle and culture many expats are seeking may end up costing them more than they realized – or budgeted for.
“It’s important for expats to look beyond just salaries when choosing to relocate, as it doesn’t determine the overall affordability of a country,” said Ross Irvine, financial director at international health insurance provider William Russell, in a statement to USA TODAY. “Daily expenses such as groceries, gym memberships, and internet bills can all quickly add up. While many expats move abroad in search of a cheaper cost of living, some end up in destinations where costs remain high.”
To help break down actual costs, the experts at William Russell analyzed the everyday average living expenses in popular expat destinations, including utilities, public transportation and dining out. Then they compared those costs to create a ranking of the least and most affordable countries for expats to move abroad to.
Most expensive countries for expats
1. Switzerland: Switzerland is renowned as one of the safest and happiest countries in the world, making it an attractive destination for many expats. Not to mention, the European country is home to iconic landmarks like the Matterhorn, the Swiss Alps, and Lake Geneva. However, enjoying all these wonders won’t come cheap, with the highest prices for gym memberships, movie tickets, public transportation and meals out. It also has the highest monthly utility costs.
2. Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice is known for its awe-inspiring nature, but also as the second-most expensive country for expats. This Nordic country has the most expensive public transportation and average restaurant meals in the ranking.
3. Norway: For those who want to live under the northern lights, Norway is known as a safe destination. However, it’s also one of the most expensive options, with high monthly utilities and gasoline costs.
4. Denmark: Living in the second-happiest country in the world comes with a price, according to William Russell’s ranking. For two people to dine out at a mid-range restaurant in Denmark, it’ll cost around $106.31, according to the ranking.
5. Netherlands: From the tulip fields to the canals of Amsterdam, the Netherlands is home to a wide variety of beautiful attractions. It ranked as the fifth most expensive country on the list, with high monthly utility costs.
Most affordable countries for expats
1. Mexico: Mexico earned the title as the most affordable country for expats, and is an ideal choice for those seeking a slower pace of living close to an array of beaches. (It doesn’t hurt that Mexico also ranks as the 10th happiest country in the world.) The North American country offers the most affordable utilities out of all the countries analyzed, plus going to eat out, to the gym and the movies won’t break the bank.
2. Lithuania: Located on the Baltic Sea with picturesque medieval castles and cobblestone streets, Lithuania came in as the second-cheapest country for expats, along with Poland, with low internet and public transportation costs.
3. Poland: Expats can explore Poland’s historic cities, mountain ranges and thermal baths. Tied with Lithuania, Poland has cheap internet, movie tickets and gym memberships.
4. South Korea: South Korea’s cities are known for having thriving cafe and spa cultures, but travelers can also explore the country’s stunning beaches and national parks. Here, expats can find affordable restaurants and basic utilities.
5. Hungary: Expats looking to enjoy thermal baths, storybook-like architecture and historic towns can find all those plus a low cost of living in Hungary. The European country offers the second-cheapest monthly utilities.
