Top 10 Cheap Destinations with the World's Best Weather in 2024

(They're all within a few hours of the U.S.)

Special Report By Edd and Cynthia Staton

Updated April 2024

Ah, Spring...

Brilliant blue skies with a scattering of puffy white clouds. Birds are singing. The scent of blooming flowers fills the air. Everything is green again, the weather is perfect, and you love being outside enjoying it all.

Who hasn’t dreamed, “Gosh, I wish every day could be like this!”

Guess what? It can. There are inexpensive destinations around the globe to suit every lifestyle where it’s springtime all the time. We know because we have lived in one of them for almost 14 years.

And it’s fantastic!

You may be wondering where such great weather is even possible, and the answer may surprise you...

Near the equator!

We know what you’re thinking. “W-h-a-a-t-t-t?? The equator? That’s where the earth is closest to the sun. I thought it was really hot there year-round.”

And you are right. The equator has no change of seasons, and it is hot there.

At sea level.

But as you go up in elevation, magic happens climate-wise. The cooler air at higher altitude creates constant springlike weather conditions. 

We call it “Goldilocks” weather—not too hot and not too cold. Daily temperatures range from lows in the 50s to highs in the 70s. And yes, the green grass, blooming flowers, and singing birds too!

Here is even better news. There are 10 great places to retire only a few hours away from the U.S. where you can kiss the insect repellent and snow shovel goodbye.

Also, get ready to say “adios” to sky-high utility bills. No need for heating or air-conditioning in any of these destinations. Just open the windows and let in the pleasant fresh air.

In addition to ideal weather, you will also be enjoying a dramatically lower cost of living. PLUS excellent health care.

Is that a “benefit package” you would be interested in? We’re guessing the answer is, “Heck, yeah!” 

This Special Report spotlights the 10 cheap places with the world's best climate to live abroad—two locations in five different countries—with something for everyone. Modern cities. UNESCO World Heritage sites. Lakefront living. Mountain hamlets.

Let’s start with the country farthest away, Ecuador, and our hometown of Cuenca. From there we will work our way north.

Ecuador

1. Cuenca ~

At an altitude of 8,400 feet in the southern highlands of the Andes is Cuenca, Ecuador’s third largest city with a metropolitan population of over 700,000.

Its historic center is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts an impressive collection of colonial architecture and cobblestone streets.

Considered the cultural capital of the country, Cuenca is home to many skilled artisans, musicians, artists, and writers.

In all of Latin America it has been voted as one of the “most livable” cities, and its water is considered among the cleanest in South America.

The city’s manageable size, modern conveniences, and established expat community makes it perhaps one of the easiest places for new foreign residents to arrive and thrive.

Cuenca has no international airport. Fly to Quito or Guayaquil (4 hours from Miami / Fort Lauderdale), then take a 40-minute flight to Cuenca.

2. Cotacachi ~

Less than a 2-hour drive north of Quito, Ecuador’s capital, sits the tranquil town of Cotacachi (population 9,000).

During our visit there we found its hundreds of expat residents living there love the clean air, gorgeous scenery showcasing several of the country’s most famous volcanoes, rich cultural heritage, and laid-back lifestyle.

Cotacachi is known as the "Leather Capital of Ecuador." Dozens of shops line both sides of the town’s main street selling every type of leather product imaginable.

The influx of expats has added numerous restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, and bakeries where socializing goes on for hours. But the overall vibe is slow and relaxed with few businesses open after dark.

The town of Otavalo with its world-renowned textile market is a short drive away, and nearby Ibarra has shopping malls, grocery stores, and hospitals. Read all about our visit there.

Colombia

3. Medellín ~

Medellín, once known as the most dangerous city in the world, is now one of the safest and considered Colombia’s crown jewel by the many expats living there.

Nicknamed "The City of Flowers," its weather is comfortable year-round with low humidity.

The city is clean, green, and surrounded by the Andes mountains.

First World amenities abound, from shopping, dining and services to museums, galleries, and concerts. Even with a population of 2.5 million, Medellín feels more like a collection of lovely neighborhoods stitched together by parks and streams. We spent two fabulous months in a lush, beautiful area called Laureles that you can read about here.

Already a recognized model for urban planning, Medellín is now pursuing a goal to become Latin America’s first “eco city,” with ambitious initiatives in renewable energy, water and waste management, transportation, and housing.

It's the only city in Colombia with a metro system (which rivals any you will ride in the States). With this amenity, plus a fleet of electric buses and an abundance of inexpensive taxis, there’s no need to own a vehicle.

Nonstop flights from Miami / Fort Lauderdale take less than 3½ hours.

4. Coffee Triangle (Pereira, Manizales, Armenia) ~

Want Medellín’s weather in a smaller package? Then opt for the nearby Coffee Triangle (30-minute flight from Medellín), anchored by the cities of Pereira (pop. 500,000), Manizales (pop. 400,000), and Armenia (pop. 300,000).

Most of Colombia’s world famous coffee is grown in this lush, temperate region which has become a magnet for tourists and expats alike.

All three major cities have every modern convenience and good public transportation while offering a much lower cost of living than Medellín.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy an abundance of hiking, rafting, and kayaking options, while numerous spas tucked into the mountainous surroundings provide luxury getaways.

And for coffee aficionados (who also love amusement parks) a visit to the Colombian National Coffee Park near Armenia is a must!

Panamá

5. Boquete ~

The small highland district of Boquete is the top expat haven in all of Panamá.  Foreigners are drawn there for the cooler weather plus its proximity to the ocean and easy access to David, the country’s third largest city.

In fact, there are so many expats here, often living in gated communities, that English is almost the primary language.

This is an artsy community with all the comforts of home—varied types of cuisine, spas, Pilates, community theater, even a microbrewery.

With the lower temperatures comes more rain, overcast skies, and wind than in other parts of the country. Those making Boquete their home don’t seem to mind.

To reach Boquete, fly into Panamá City (less than 3 hours from Miami). Then take a short flight to David and a 30-minute drive to arrive.

6. El Valle de Antón ~

Searching for a hidden gem with a little bit of everything?  Look no further than El Valle de Antón.

This quiet village is a short 2-hour drive from the wealth of amenities found in Panamá City, and only 45 minutes to the beautiful beaches of Coronado.

El Valle’s location in one of the world’s largest volcano craters creates a mild, stable climate at an altitude of only 2,000 feet.

Affluent Panamanians own second homes here so the weekends are a bit busy, but in general the lifestyle is muy tranquilo.

Expats in El Valle appreciate the proximity of both a major metropolis and lovely beaches without the oppressive heat and humidity that plagues much of the country. They enjoy farm fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers; hike to nearby waterfalls and natural hot springs; go bird-watching to spot over 350 species. 

For a quiet town of only 8,000 residents, El Valle de Antón boasts a wealth of activities!

Costa Rica

7. Central Valley ~

The Central Valley, which includes Costa Rica’s capital, San José, and surrounding suburbs and towns, is home to 70 percent of the nation’s population.

It is easy to understand why for decades this has also been the most preferred area of the country for expats to reside.

In addition to the near perfect year-round weather, amenities include access to the country’s largest international airport, shopping in North American style malls and big box stores, excellent restaurants, and the best medical care.

Nearby towns like Heredia, Escazú, and Grecia offer gated compounds almost exclusively inhabited by expats and commercial areas very much like American suburbia.

If you are looking for the softest landing into expat life possible, the Central Valley will be high on your list of favorites.

Direct flights from Houston take 3½ hours.

8. Lake Arenal ~

Located about a 3-hour drive from San José, the 33-square-mile Lake Arenal has become an increasingly popular expat destination.

This is especially the case for outdoor types who participate in everything from hiking to mountain biking to whitewater rafting.

The weather, views (including Costa Rica’s largest volcano), tranquil lifestyle, and affordable housing are all desirable features.

Expats living at Lake Arenal socialize frequently and enjoy a wonderful relationship with locals as well. The temperate climate and volcanic soil make gardening a dream.

Few actually live directly on the water and the lake is never very busy. Compared to the Central Valley and Pacific coast this area has until recently drawn little attention, creating an opportunity for great real estate deals.

Mexico

9. Lake Chapala ~

Residents of the U.S. and Canada began arriving at Lake Chapala years ago.

Now with around 20,000 living there, it has become the largest concentration of North American expats in the world.

Additionally, perhaps another 10,000 snowbirds spend the winter months there.

Great weather and proximity to Guadalajara airport were the initial draws.

The two towns of Chapala and Ajijic have evolved into Mexico’s closest expat version of a typical American lifestyle. Restaurants, shopping (yes, Walmart is here), and social activities abound.

A direct, 2-hour flight will get you from Houston to Guadalajara. Read all about our personal experience in Lake Chapala.

10. San Miguel de Allende ~

Travel + Leisure readers consistently vote San Miguel de Allende as one of the top cities in the world. In fact, it has won top honors four times in recent years. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its architecture is stunning.

Many consider this highland town the crown jewel of Mexican expat life.

A main attraction is the appealing combination of old world charm and modern conveniences (which now include the likes of Walmart and Starbucks).

Catering to both expats and well-heeled Mexicans, fine hotels, restaurants, and shopping abound.  

San Miguel is known as an artistic hub and residents participate in everything from music events to film festivals. The narrow cobblestone streets house more art galleries than you can count.

The city is also one of the most popular places in the world for foreigners to come and learn Spanish.

With all these amenities plus constant spring-like weather and affordability, it’s no wonder over 10 percent of San Miguel’s population of 70,000 are expats.

From Houston take a 2-hour flight to either Leon or Querétaro, then drive an hour to reach San Miguel.

We spent weeks there (including our 50th wedding anniversary 💖) and love it! Read the blogs we wrote while exploring this beautiful city.

** Surprise Bonus **

Europe  

The Algarve, Portugal ~

Maybe you are wanting to go somewhere besides Latin America. How about Europe? 

The Algarve region in southern Portugal enjoys over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year. Wow!

During summer the temperatures are higher than the other countries we have spotlighted, but light sea breezes cool things down a bit. The rest of the year—fabulous!

The Algarve is every bit as gorgeous as neighboring St. Tropez in France at a fraction of the cost.

Dramatic cliffs, over 150 secluded sandy coves, excellent golf, and wonderful food add up to all the ingredients of a perfect coastal destination.

Especially when the price tag is such a bargain compared to similar European locations.

English is universally spoken here as over 10,000 expats from the U.K. call the area home. If you are looking for affordable coastal living with all the bells and whistles, the Algarve is as good as it gets.

There are numerous connecting flights from European airports to nearby Faro airport. An interesting alternative is to fly nonstop into Lisbon (7 hours from New York), perhaps spend a few days sightseeing there, then take a scenic 3-hour drive to the Algarve.

Final Thoughts

So what do you think? Ten terrific places—a major metropolis, mid-sized colonial cities, mountain towns, and lakeside villages. None farther than a 5-hour flight to the States. And all with ideal spring weather year-round.

Here is even better news: Living abroad in any of these locations offers so much more than a favorable climate.

For starters, the cost of living is remarkably low. A couple can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle for less than $2,000 a month. Including rent.

Part of that budget could be things you now consider luxuries. Eating out whenever you want. A housekeeper. Even spa treatments.

In fact, living better for less is perhaps the main reason many people decide to become expats.

If that isn’t enough to get you excited, health care in all these countries is outstanding. With English-speaking doctors, and costs as low as one tenth of what you are now paying in the U.S.

All these benefits and more are showcased in our feature report, “10 Great Reasons to Live Abroad!”

So what are you waiting for? Book a flight to whichever spot you find most appealing and check it out!

You just may discover what 9 million Americans living outside the U.S. already know—living abroad could be one of the best decisions you will ever make!

Unless you prefer stifling heat and humidity, bone-chilling cold, and through the roof utility bills, that is…

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Edd and Cynthia Staton are America’s best known experts on retiring abroad and expat life. They have appeared on network television; written hundreds of articles for national and international publications; and are regularly featured in major media outlets including ABC News, CBS News, CNBC, Forbes, and USA Today.

They are authors of three Amazon best-selling books and creators of Retirement Reimagined!, a Master Course providing comprehensive, step-by-step guidance to successfully move abroad.

Visit their website for other Products & Services to help you live your best retirement!