Because living overseas in just “survival mode” isn’t the dream.

Let’s just say this out loud: moving abroad isn’t about seeing how little you can live on. It’s about designing a life that feels good.

That means we need to talk about more than just the cost of living. We need to talk about quality of life. And that starts with this question:

How much income do you need to feel secure, fulfilled, and free in a brand-new country?

Spoiler alert: the answer isn’t some magical number like $1,500/month. Despite what a YouTuber in Bali or Lisbon might promise, the real answer depends entirely on you.

First, let’s define your version of thriving

Are you dreaming of beachside brunches, local Pilates classes, and the occasional trip to Paris? Or do you feel your best in a quiet village where fresh fruit is abundant and your neighbors know your name?

Both are valid. And both require different income levels. Here’s the truth:
☑︎ Thriving isn’t about luxury—it’s about comfort and stability.
☑︎ It’s not just about what you can afford, but about what brings you peace of mind.

So, before you ask how little you can live on, flip the question:

What makes you feel safe, joyful, and rested?

The Three Levels: Bare Minimum, Comfortable, and Thriving

To get a clearer picture, let’s break it down into three lifestyle tiers:

1. Bare Minimum

This is survival mode, and honestly? I don’t recommend it long-term. Think:
☑︎ Room in a shared apartment
☑︎ Local food only
☑︎ Walking everywhere
☑︎ Emergency health expenses not fully covered
☑︎ Saying “no” to most extras (massages, travel, organic food)

Fine for a backpacking phase or tight transition period—but if you have chronic health issues or just want to live well, this probably won’t cut it.

Estimated range in many countries: $800–$1,200/month

2. Comfortable

You’re still mindful of spending, but you’re not depriving yourself. Think:
☑︎ Private studio or 1-bedroom
☑︎ Weekly cleaner
☑︎ Health insurance
☑︎ Streaming services
☑︎ Monthly self-care or mini-trips
☑︎ High-speed internet and reliable mobile data

This is where most solo digital nomads aim to land—and it works well in many countries.

Estimated range: $1,500–$2,500/month

3. Thriving

This is where life starts to feel expansive and joyful. Think:
☑︎ Living in a safe, central neighborhood
☑︎ Eating out when you want, not just when it’s cheap
☑︎ Hiring help so you can focus on your business or well-being
☑︎ Saving and investing consistently
☑︎ Traveling for fun, not just visa runs
☑︎ Having a backup fund for medical, family, or “just because” moments

Estimated range: $2,500–$4,000+/month, depending on the country and your preferences.

Your “thriving” number might be lower than in the U.S., but that doesn’t mean you should be scraping by. The goal is peace of mind, not just palm trees.

Real-Life Tradeoffs: From Mercedes to Modern Minimalism

Let me tell you what thriving used to look like for me back in the U.S.:
☑︎ A Mercedes-Benz C42 convertible
☑︎ A four-bedroom, three-bathroom home that was only shared with two small dogs
☑︎ A three-car garage
☑︎ TVs in almost every room
☑︎ A guest room that maybe got used once a year
☑︎ A handyman on call
☑︎ A pool and a pool guy
☑︎ A landscaper
☑︎ A housekeeper

That house had more square footage than I needed, more rooms than I used, and more people maintaining it than visiting it.

Now? I’ve traded the car for Uber and walkable cities. I live in small, modern one-bedroom apartments with luxury amenities I use, like a pool, gym, co-working lounge, and secure entry.

And I kept what matters:
☑︎ Weekly housekeeping (because I’m still not scrubbing floors)
☑︎ Reliable, fast WiFi (non-negotiable for remote work, meetings, and streaming)
☑︎ Air conditioning—optional in Mexico City’s high-altitude climate, but mandatory anywhere in Thailand.

The life I have now is leaner but feels so much richer. Because everything in it serves me, not the other way around.

What Are You Unwilling to Cut?

Now it’s your turn. Make a short list of your “non-negotiables”—the things that make you feel safe, sane, and like yourself.

Some examples:
☑︎ Air conditioning
☑︎ Your own car
☑︎ Weekly massages or facials
☑︎ Reliable WiFi and mobile service
☑︎ Ability to fly home once a year
☑︎ Private healthcare
☑︎ Organic groceries or dietary-specific food
☑︎ Living in a safe neighborhood or one with security

Items on your list aren’t luxuries. They’re your version of security and wellness. If cutting them means waking up stressed every day, you’re not saving money—you’re just trading joy for survival.

Income Isn’t Just Money—It’s Boundaries

Let’s reframe this:
Your income abroad should match your values, not just your visa.

Ask yourself:

☑︎ Am I trying to escape my U.S. expenses—or build a life that feels better?
☑︎ What will it take for me to feel safe enough to explore, relax, and grow?
☑︎ How do I want to spend my time, not just my money?

Your income target becomes your boundary. It helps you say yes to the things that matter—and no to anything that pulls you into burnout or survival mode.

A Gentle Challenge

If your current income isn’t enough to cover your thriving life abroad, don’t shrink your dream.

Instead, ask:

☑︎ What skills can I monetize remotely?
☑︎ Can I reduce my expenses temporarily without compromising my health or values?
☑︎ Where would I feel both inspired and financially supported?

There’s no prize for choosing the cheapest country. Choose the country and the lifestyle that loves you back.

Lastly, Define Your Number, Then Build Around It

Your thriving number abroad is not just about paying the bills.

It’s about having room to:

☑︎ Breathe
☑︎ Heal
☑︎ Explore

And maybe finally enjoy the life you’ve worked so hard for

Start with the number that reflects what you need to feel good every month. Not just fed. Not just sheltered. But deeply okay.

You deserve that. Period.

Want help defining your income goal and finding ways to reach it?

My Digital Nomad Money Strategy Kit walks you through what you need to know, what to consider, and how to start earning from your skills right now—even before you move.

Or grab my free Skills2Cash mini-course and let’s brainstorm what you can sell, teach, or create.

Have questions?

Leave a comment below, reply (for those on my email list). 

Wishing you an overabundance of location, financial, and time freedom!
Marcia Hylton, aka Marcia Unbound
Move Abroad Advisor