Don’t Let Fear Stop You: Moving Abroad is Easier and Cheaper Than You Think
Moving Abroad is Easier Than You’d Think
Moving to another country might seem like a daunting and expensive task, but it doesn't have to be. In fact, relocating abroad can be surprisingly affordable and stress-free. With a bit of planning and research, you can find affordable destinations, utilize expert resources, and navigate the process pretty seamlessly. I hear often that this seems to be an insurmountable task, but as a bonafide expat, I’m here to bust the myth. It’s really not.
Moving Abroad: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Adventure
If you're cool with living on instant noodles and sleeping in hostels
I’m kidding, of course. Moving abroad can actually be much less expensive than moving to a different state. In the U.S. I’d moved from New York to Detroit in 2017. Later, I moved from Detroit to Mexico City, Mexico in 2022. The state to state move was much more expensive and frankly, stressful. I rented a moving truck and hired help. I moved into a much less expensive apartment in Detroit, but within a few short years, my rent was almost as high as my New York apartment.
Contrary to popular belief, moving abroad doesn't have to empty your pockets. In fact, it can be surprisingly affordable. Here are a few reasons why:
Cost of Living
The cost of living varies drastically from country to country. Many popular expat destinations offer lower living expenses than major cities in developed nations. Rent, groceries, transportation, and utilities can be considerably cheaper abroad, freeing up more of your income for travel and experiences.
Me after getting all set up in my 2nd apartment in Mexico City.
Housing
In some countries, housing prices are a fraction of what they are in major cities. You may be able to afford a spacious apartment or even a house for the same price as a cramped studio in your home country. This can lead to significant savings on your monthly expenses, seeing that housing is usually the highest expense.
Healthcare
Healthcare costs can also be lower abroad. In countries with universal healthcare systems, you may have access to affordable or even free medical care. This eliminates the hefty premiums and deductibles associated with private health insurance in many countries.
In Mexico, for instance, I took my niece to Mexico City. She came down with Montezuma’s Revenge in the worst way. I booked a doctor’s appointment for her, paid online, took her to the doctor, and picked up her prescriptions all in the same day. Total cost for her treatment including 5 prescriptions? $85 USD. YES, and the doctor texted a few days later to check on her and took her off of one of the medications. My niece was back to her picky, adventurous self after about 4 days.
My niece, nephew and dog just after we arrived in Mexico City
Food and Entertainment
Street food, local markets, and ethnic restaurants abroad often offer delicious and budget-friendly meals. Cultural events, festivals, and attractions are also typically more affordable than in major tourist destinations. This means you can enjoy a rich and fulfilling lifestyle without straining your wallet.
Of course, the cost of living abroad will vary depending on the country you choose, your lifestyle, and the exchange rate. However, with careful planning and research, it's entirely possible to live abroad for less than it costs to live in your home country. Also the lower cost of living should quickly offset the moving costs.
Mexico City is probably not the best example of where to move to reduce expenses, but there’s a whole world out there. I did not move here to obtain a less expensive lifestyle, but everything is a bit more reasonably priced here, without a doubt. If you have your eye on this amazing city, check out my article about where to stay when you arrive:
Touring Mexico City Upon Arrival
Moving Abroad Is Not That Hard
As long as you don't mind getting lost, mispronouncing everything, and accidentally offending the locals
While relocating abroad is a significant undertaking, it's crucial to dispel the notion that it's an inherently stressful endeavor. With thorough planning and meticulous research, the process can unfold smoothly and even become an enjoyable experience. I say this with a caveat: as long as you’re the type of person who can stomach the growing pains like language and cultural differences. Moving abroad is really not that big of a deal.
Mexico City
Referring back to the comparison of my 2 moves; 1) from NY to Detroit and 2) from Detroit to Mexico City - the move abroad was simpler and enjoyable by leaps and bounds. Yes, I planned the move for a year, but it was a year of dreaming, being delusional, taking notes and making decisions about my future. The move from NY to Detroit was completely stress-ridden. Just awful. I drove my things to Detroit in a U-Haul truck with no sleep for more than 24 hours while praying the whole time that I wouldn’t crash the truck. After my things were moved into the new apartment and I was alone, I broke down and cried for hours. It was a terrible terrible experience from the drama and labor of moving out of my NY apartment to the heavy lifting and setting up my Detroit place.
When I moved to Mexico City, it was a fun flight with my niece, nephew and my dog. I gave all of my furniture to my family, put a few things in my mom’s storage and packed my luggage. I ended up purchasing furniture after I found a long-term apartment a few weeks after settling into Mexico City. But furnishing an apartment was done at a slower pace and on my schedule. There were some annoyances, for sure, but no comparison to the angst of the U.S. move.
Contrary to popular belief, the logistics of moving abroad vary greatly depending on your destination. While some relocations may involve merely booking a flight, others may necessitate arranging for the shipment of your belongings internationally. However, there are numerous companies and organizations dedicated to assisting with these aspects, alleviating much of the associated stress. I have never shipped items abroad, so I can’t speak to this personally, but I’d say research the company heavily and look for references.
Moving abroad presents an unparalleled opportunity for a fresh start. Whether you seek to escape a challenging situation or simply embark on a new chapter in your life, relocating to a foreign country can be an incredibly empowering and transformative experience. And it’s probably not as bad in real life as it is in your head.
