With many Americans choosing to live overseas, it is prudent to compile a list of the most affordable countries to live in South and Central America in 2015. Not surprisingly, most of the countries that are top choices not only for American citizens, but also for other overseas travelers are in South America. This is largely because of their pleasant climates, proximity and great affordability.
Transportation and communication are very cheap in South America. Major carriers are now offering direct flights to the main cities of South and Central America, including San Jose, Panama, Honduras and Costa Rica among others. Telecommunications are also very cheap. For instance, because of a very long presence of the US military in Panama, the city has high-quality wireless availability that ranges from just $19 per month.
South America not only contains the cheapest countries to live in for Americans,but these countries are very hospitable to foreigners. Actually, most of these Latin American governments offer incentives for foreigners to retire in their countries and invest there. For instance, Ecuador allows foreigners to import their household goods without any duty charges.
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For people seeking a place to go after retirement that will allow them to stretch out their retirement savings, then South and Central America is the place to go. Even though the living costs vary from one country to the next, you can largely live more affordably in South America and still get high-quality amenities.
Healthcare in South and Central America also represents an important savings. Regular doctor visits are between $15 and $25, but they can be just slightly higher for seeing a specialist. However, prescription medications and hospital charges are also nearly 25% of what you would normally pay in America.
Check out the most affordable countries to live in South and Central America in 2015 here below.
7. Mexico
You may be surprised that more Americans have moved to Mexico than the number of Mexicans who have relocated up north. The reasons why this happens are quite vast. To begin with, getting to Mexico is just easy since it is very close. You can just take a direct flight, which is very short or just drive across the border. In most places, there is great infrastructure, quality healthcare, which can all be accessed at a much lower cost than in America.
6. Ecuador
Ecuador is in a continuous battle with Panama for the top honor of the best retirement site in the world. In 2014, the country was ranked number 2 and among the main reasons why it consistently scores highly are its highly affordable living costs and unmatched attractions. A couple can easily live very comfortably in many cities in Ecuador for less than $1,800 a month. This includes comfortable housing and other luxuries like getting part-time maids.
5. Belize
Just like its other South American neighbors, Belize offers a great climate alongside a very affordable lifestyle. You will also some of the most unspoiled natural beauty and adventurous expats will enjoy exploring the historic Mayan ruins, tropical rainforest, waterfalls, mountains and sandy beaches among others.
4. Costa Rica
Americans have been gradually relocating to Costa Rica as it is both part of the most affordable countries to live in South and Central America in 2015 and it also has an attractive natural beauty. It has even been previously given the title of the happiest place in the world as it contains several factors, which contribute to a high quality of life. There are several options for quality living, including organic foods, yoga and many other green initiatives.
3. Guatemala
The popularity of Guatemala is large because it shares most of the well-known perks of South American countries of beautiful surroundings and affordability without being overcrowded. It is even less costly than its rivals, with some expat couples saying that they can live happily on less than $1,400 per month. Domestic help and a full week’s worth of food are also very cheap.
2. Nicaragua
If you are in Nicaragua, you definitely have to see the two colonial towns of Leon and Granada. These two cities are not only known for their distinctive Spanish architecture and shady parks, but they are also amongst the oldest towns in the world. Visually, Nicaragua offers special attractions and is an undiscovered tourist site that shares Panama’s eco tourism appeal and is significantly cheaper to live in.
1. Panama
Panama took the first place as the top site for retirees in 2014 and it remains a much-preferred location among many expats due to its affordability and convenience, and also its unrivaled retirement program. Actually, with new visa choices, it has become simpler for people to relocate there. The conveniences include easy access with several huge airports, widely speaking English population and a dollarized economy. Few South American countries can outmatch Panama’s value and variety.
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You now have a list of the most affordable countries to live in South and Central America in 2015 to start planning your expatriate journey.
