In today’s housing market, affordability feels increasingly out of reach, especially if you’re dreaming of life in a vibrant, well-connected city. There are still international cities where rent is under $1,000 a month.
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From South America to Southeast Asia, these nine destinations combine low costs with cultural richness, walkable neighborhoods and thriving communities.
Tirana, Albania
Average rent runs roughly $475. Apartments often include basic furnishings, a compact kitchen and a balcony overlooking lively streets. Neighborhoods such as Komuna e Parisit and Blloku offer safe, walkable living with cafés and everyday amenities.
Why Move There? Tirana combines a warm climate, friendly locals and low costs with walkable streets, vibrant cafes, colorful architecture and easy access to the Balkans.
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Buenos Aires, Argentina
Rents average around $799, with apartments often found in mid-rise buildings that feature balconies and generous layouts. Palermo and Recoleta are renowned for their leafy boulevards, vibrant nightlife, and reliable public transportation.
Why Move There? Buenos Aires combines European-style architecture and lively Latin culture, featuring theaters, tango and affordable dining, according to Business Insider.
Hanoi, Vietnam
The average rent is about $715 per month. Housing options range from serviced apartments to older walk-ups, many with balconies overlooking tree-lined boulevards. Tay Ho attracts those looking for lakeside living and international schools, while the Old Quarter offers historic charm, bustling markets and food stalls.
Why Move There? Hanoi combines centuries-old tradition with rapid modern growth, making it an affordable city that also offers rich cultural immersion.
Nairobi, Kenya
Rent averages about $800 with options including apartments in leafy neighborhoods like Kilimani and Westlands or newer developments on the city’s edge.
Why Move There? Nairobi is a fast-growing hub with a dynamic mix of culture, business and access to world-famous wildlife just outside the city.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Average monthly rent is about $560. Many apartments are in modern towers with gyms, pools and 24-hour security. Bangsar and Mont Kiara remain popular with internationals for their malls and cafés, while more traditional districts offer lower rents and bustling night markets.
Why Move There? Kuala Lumpur blends diverse cultures with modern conveniences, tropical weather and some of Asia’s best regional flight connections.
Quito, Ecuador
Rent for a two-bedroom apartment typically ranges from about $600 to $900 per month. Options include restored apartments in the colonial Old Town and modern condos in neighborhoods like La Carolina and La Floresta.
Why Move There? Quito combines affordable living with rich culture, colonial architecture and mountain scenery.
Riga, Latvia
Rental costs hover around $700. Housing includes historic Art Nouveau buildings and modern apartments, with central districts close to universities, cafés and the cobbled streets of the Old Town.
Why Move There? Riga offers Northern European charm at a fraction of the cost of Stockholm or Copenhagen. It is compact, safe and increasingly popular with professionals seeking international living without high prices.
Medellín, Colombia
Rent for a two-bedroom apartment typically averages around $926 per month. Housing options include hillside apartments with scenic views and centrally located units near the Metro.
Why Move There? Medellín combines a mild, spring-like climate with vibrant culture, abundant green spaces and a well-connected public transport system.
Port Louis, Mauritius
Average rent is about $676 per month. Apartments range from compact city flats to modern units with ocean views, while suburbs like Moka and Quatre Bornes provide quieter residential living.
Why Move There? Mauritius combines island beauty and modern infrastructure with relatively low housing costs, allowing access to beaches, multicultural dining and a stable lifestyle.
All rental data is from Global Property Guide, unless otherwise noted.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 9 International Cities Where a 2-Bedroom Costs Less Than $1K
