5 Countries Where Homes Are Still Surprisingly Affordable

Moving across the world isn’t a goal that everyone shares, but what if making the leap could be the thing we need to stop surviving and start living again? Sure, it’s a bold choice to make. However, with the cost of living taking such a toll on so many people, it could be the thing we need to see our money go further than ever before.

Whether you work for yourself or you want to take a new position that sees you pack your things and move thousands of miles, the five countries where homes are still surprisingly affordable go to show just how much property we can get for our money when we look at the right markets.

1. Brazil means we can live on the beach without the hefty price tags

Running away to a tropical island can be more than tempting at times, but the price tag is usually enough alone to snap us back into reality. That’s where Brazil could come in. Always wanted to live by the beach without having to spend a fortune? Here, you could find a condo for as little as $50,000, with houses further inland coming in even cheaper. As if that wasn’t enough, renting out your home in Brazil can be a great way to make money on the side if you need to boost your income, especially if you get your hands on somewhere so desirable.

2. The right place in Columbia is still surprisingly affordable

While Cartagena and Bogotá don’t offer the same affordable prices they used to, places like Cali - a bit further south in Columbia - still come with relatively low price tags. Temperatures tend to be high here throughout the year, with the sea breeze offering a great way to cool down across the country. As if the weather alone wasn’t reason enough to think about a move to Columbia, the people in places like Cali are known to be incredibly friendly, with the authentic architecture really bringing the town to life. Of course, the thing to consider with a move to Columbia is the fact the high crime rates are why houses are often so affordable.

3. Ecuador is perfect for people wanting warmer weather year-round

While some countries are famous for those looking to get away from the business of the world, others have slipped under the radar. Ecuador is one on the list. It has a range of climates and offers everything from mountain homes to beach houses and everything in between, with the temperature staying above 77 degrees Fahrenheit all year long. The historic buildings are just one pull to the area, while the architecture, surprisingly quick internet, and impressive schools are just more reasons to fall for Ecuador. With an international airport and so many variations of living spaces, it’s hard not to fall for the South American country.

4. Mexico still offers plenty of more affordable spots

Certain places in Mexico have seen a huge boom in house prices in recent years, but there are still some surprisingly affordable homes if you know where to look. The beach is likely to be the most expensive place to find a home in Mexico, with mountain properties coming in at much lower prices. Plus, being so close to the US means flights are a lot shorter to get home than compared with other places in the world. It’s all about looking for spots that are away from touristy areas and the hustle and bustle if you want to make living in Mexico as affordable as possible.

5. A lot of Italy is so affordable to keep small towns alive

Italy has been through thick and thin the last few years, but the nation is more than back with a bounce in its step. As well as being one of the most beautiful countries on offer, Italy has more than one incentive to move across the world. For one, you can get your hands on some historic buildings and get all the fun of a fixer-upper. Plus, some homes sell for just 1 euro, such as towns across Sicily. Of course, the catch is you need to spend at least $25,000 renovating the house, it needs to be complete within three years, and you’re not allowed to sell the home for at least five years. However, the nation hopes to encourage a younger generation to the area to keep towns like these alive, as the aging population across Italy means that entire regions will be lost if they don’t do something.

The five countries where homes are still surprisingly affordable might just be the inspiration some of us need to think about a move across the world. It might not have been top of the agenda before, but why not when we could enjoy some incredible experiences and affordable homes all at the same time?