Every year, more and more people chose to retire in Southeast Asia. There are many reasons for this such as the warm climate and nice beaches. Another reason people retire in Asia is because it is cheaper than in other parts of the world. Two Asian countries were singled out in The 5 Top Retirement Havens With The Lowest Cost Of Living, a report conducted by International Living.
Coming in 5th place on the list was Vietnam. The country is an inexpensive place to live with rents for fully furnished apartments in smaller towns costing USD 350 to USD 400 per month, says the report. In major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, rents for similar unit types are USD 500 per month or higher depending on the size and location.
The cost of food and daily living is also cheap in Vietnam when compared to Europe or the U.S. and getting a one-year tourist visa is possible for most nationalities. The price for this can vary, according to the report.
A surprising name finished in 1st place. Cambodia was ranked as having the lowest cost of living for retirees. Buying or renting a nice property is very cheap with western style apartments being available to rent for USD 300 a month in Phnom Penh. In Sihanoukville, the popular beach resort town, rents for a similar unit are around USD 200 a month.
Unlike other countries, it is easy to obtain a Cambodian visa and process annual extensions. Another reason the country ranked so highly on International Living’s list is because Cambodia has no minimum income requirements for its visa or extending it. And while the cost of living may be low, the quality of life is still good for expats retiring in the country with plenty of international-grade hospital and other facilities in major cities.
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