Looking to find cheap homes for rent abroad? If you desire for a country lifestyle, love city life, or dream of a tropical vacation, some countries offer low-budget homes rents with good infrastructure.
This guide will help you find low-cost rental homes with known reputation for being incredibly economical, along with welcoming and breathtaking scenery.
1. Mexico- Greatest and most affordable option
Do you know? Mexico has several cheap homes for rent. Especially small cities and mountain communities provide amazing rental deals. However, larger tourist destinations like Cancun and Tulum can be pricey.
Where to Rent Cheap Homes in Mexico
- Xalapa (Veracruz State) – One of the cheapest quiet, mountain-surrounded town where you can rent a one-bedroom home for as little as $250 per month.
- Durango – Offers European-style architecture and a mild climate, with apartments available from $300 per month.
- Álamos – A charming colonial town where traditional homes can be rented for around $400 per month.
Why Rent in Mexico?
- Lower cost of living than the U.S.
- Proximity to the U.S. for easy travel
- Stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage
2. Colombia – Low Rents in Vibrant Cities
Colombia recently has become a sought after location by expatriates wishing to find affordable rental homes. While percentages of rent in Bogotá and Cartagena are relatively high, all other regions provide inexpensive housing.
Best Cities for Affordable Rentals in Colombia
- Cali – Known for its lively atmosphere and warm climate, you can rent a spacious two-bedroom apartment for $250 per month.
- Medellín (Belén neighborhood) – A quieter alternative to the expensive El Poblado area, with rentals starting at $300 per month.
- Santa Marta – A beautiful Caribbean coastal city where homes near the beach can be rented for $400 per month.
Why Rent in Colombia?
- Year-round warm climate
- Affordable healthcare and public transportation
- Thriving expat communities
3. Brazil – Beachside Rentals at Low Prices
If you are a beach lover, Brazil is a hotspot for inexpensive beachfront rental properties. The tropical coastline makes it possible to live in an affordable beach house.
Where to Find Cheap Rentals in Brazil
- Itamaracá Island – A peaceful beach destination with homes for rent starting at $300 per month.
- Vila Velha – Known as “Little Rio,” this beautiful coastal city offers apartments for around $350 per month.
- Fortaleza – A lively city with affordable beachfront rentals starting at $400 per month.
Why Rent in Brazil?
- Low-cost beachside living
- Rich food culture and diverse communities
- Friendly and welcoming locals
4. Ecuador – Budget-Friendly Mountain and Coastal Living
Ecuador is an ideal location for those seeking cheap homes for rent with both coastal and mountain town options. The cost of living is low, and the country offers great infrastructure for expats.
Best Places to Rent in Ecuador
- Salinas – A popular seaside town where apartments start at $300 per month.
- Cuenca – A beautiful mountain city with affordable rentals from $350 per month.
- Loja – A lesser-known Andean gem with homes available for as low as $250 per month.
Why Rent in Ecuador?
- Affordable living with great weather
- High-quality public services and infrastructure
- Expat-friendly locations with welcoming communities
5. Italy – Surprisingly Cheap Countryside Rentals
While cities like Rome and Milan are known for their high rental prices, many of Italy’s smaller towns and countryside locations offer surprisingly cheap homes for rent.
Where to Rent Cheap Homes in Italy
- Sicily (Rural Villages) – Some historic village homes are available for under $300 per month.
- Abruzzo – A hidden gem with rental prices starting at $350 per month.
- Puglia – A charming coastal region where rental homes go for around $400 per month.
Why Rent in Italy?
- Incredible food and culture
- Beautiful countryside and historic towns
- Affordable cost of living in non-touristy areas
Cheapest States to Rent in the U.S. (by Median Rent)
If you are looking for cheap homes for rent within the U.S., these five states offer the lowest median rents:
- West Virginia – $831
- Arkansas – $868
- South Dakota – $878
- Mississippi – $896
- Kentucky – $902
Average Rent by U.S. Region
Rental costs vary significantly depending on location. Here is the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in major U.S. urban areas:
- Southeast: $1,600
- Northeast: $2,990
- Midwest: $1,410
- West: $1,930
The South and Midwest remain the most affordable, while the Northeast and West tend to have higher prices due to demand and income levels.
Rent as a Percentage of Income
The affordability of low-cost rental properties is determined by both price and the percentage of income that goes towards rent. Although rents are lower in the Midwestern and Southern states, affordability is impacted by lower wages in these regions.
- U.S. Median Percentage of Income Spent on Rent: 31.2%
- Mississippi Example: While median rent is $896, residents spend 33.4% of their income on rent, making it feel less affordable.
Key Locations for Affordable Rental Homes in the U.S.
If you are searching for cheap homes for rent, here are some budget-friendly cities in the most affordable states:
1. West Virginia ($831 median rent)
- Charleston – Affordable housing, low property taxes, and a low cost of living.
- Huntington – Offers budget-friendly rental options with a small-town feel.
2. Arkansas ($868 median rent)
- Little Rock – Reasonable rent prices with a growing job market.
- Fayetteville – A university town with many low-cost rental properties.
3. Mississippi ($896 median rent)
- Jackson – One of the most affordable state capitals for renters.
- Hattiesburg – A university town with cheap housing and a low cost of living.
4. Kentucky ($902 median rent)
- Lexington – Reasonable rent prices and a thriving job market.
- Louisville – A larger city with affordable rental options and great amenities.
In case you are searching for cheap homes for rent in 2025, these locations, both international and within the U.S., provide some of the most affordable options. From picturesque charming old towns to mountain retreats and beachside havens, any lifestyle can be fulfilled with reasonable rented accommodations.
