You don’t need to select the city for your next move from the usual suspects. From the futuristic and modern Seoul to the undisturbed tranquility of Irkutsk, here are the 12 underrated cities you can go to change your life for the better:
1. Seoul, South Korea
With East Asian cultures increasing in global popularity, Seoul is the unappreciated city that gets lost within the Tokyos and Shanghais of the world. This soulful city draws you in with its historical palaces and modern skyscrapers. Living in Seoul is easy as can be, with great immigration options and tax schemes for investors and businesses.
2. Düsseldorf, Germany
Although often ignored for the big names like Munich and Berlin, Düsseldorf is a fantastic place to live and the 6th most liveable city in the world! The city has an efficient public transport system and offers global connectivity through its international airport. The diverse international community it hosts enriches the vibrant tapestry of this artistic city.
3. Nelson, New Zealand
High real estate prices are the one downside of the Kiwi life. Luckily, you can look at affordable, smaller, yet no less stunning cities like Nelson. Nelson’s year-round sunshine lets you relish nature through activities like kayaking and hiking.
4. Krakow, Poland
Krakow is a burgeoning city with a rapidly growing economy, offering lucrative job opportunities in the IT and finance sectors. It’s a green city with affordable housing, clean streets, and an excellent transport system. Krakow has a rich history and culture, with castles, cafes, and cathedrals to be explored in your downtime.
5. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, Estonia’s quietly thriving tech hub, makes the rest of the world look stuck in the Stone Age. The city offers free Wi-Fi, making its inhabitants technologically inclined. Hence, expats moving to Tallinn can find abundant IT jobs. The city also has free public transport for residents and an economically-savvy flat tax system.
6. Liverpool, UK
A city thought to be nothing but the decaying remains of the Industrial Revolution, Liverpool is actually beautiful. Its long-standing false image hides a lively city with friendly, hard-working people. Its walkable city center, captivating architecture, and bustling shopping center reveal a city heart, character, and an undeniable potential for a quality living experience.
7. Irkutsk, Russia
Expats seeking a quiet retreat for burnout recovery might turn to Irkutsk as their next move. Amidst the brain drain of the young and talented to bigger cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, professional qualifications are highly valued. With cheap utilities and accommodations available in pristine natural surroundings, Irkutsk is an ideal city to relax in.
8. Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plovdiv, Bulgaria is an underrated gem to consider for relocation, distinguished by its historic allure and thriving art scene. Its art and cafe culture make it a European Capital of Culture. The city’s rapidly growing economy fosters opportunities in manufacturing, IT, tourism, and services, making it an ideal destination that blends culture with career opportunities.
9. Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade is a well-connected hub for entrepreneurs and freelancers looking to make a city their own. This city has an energetically upbeat vibe. Belgrade’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its architecture and museums, while the lovely locals and divine cuisine are the cherry on top. Undoubtedly, Belgrade is an ideal city to inspire you.
10. Eskisehir, Turkey
Despite being ranked 8th safest globally in 2021, Eskisehir, Turkey often slips under the radar. Eskisehir remains underrated despite its allure. The city combines the historical charm of the Odunpazarı district with a thriving art scene. The affordable and sustainably “Green Eskisehir” is perfect for raising a family.
11. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City invites globetrotters to make a life within its rich cultural tapestry. With jobs ranging from multinational corporations to startups paired with affordable real estate and a reasonable cost of living, you can live a high-quality life in Mexico City. The vibrant neighborhoods and delicious culinary delights promise an enriching lifestyle to anyone who builds a life in this city.
12. Turin, Italy
Turin is the automobile capital of Italy, but it’s much more than its industrial background. Turin has elegantly juxtaposed architectural styles, museums bursting with history and culture, and Northern Italian fusion cuisine to satisfy the tastebuds. The city offers a laid-back quality lifestyle with efficient transport, established healthcare system, and affordable housing.
Compare How Much it Costs to Live in These Popular Cities
If you’re an Americans who wants to move abroad, you might have have an exaggerated view of how much it costs to live in cities around the world. Countries like Monaco, Switzerland, Australia, and Singapore can be extremely pricy, but you’ll find that the cost of living anywhere you go is less than you’ll pay in an average U.S. city.
➤ Compare How Much it Costs to Live in These Popular Cities
You Should Move to One of These 8 Cities in Spain
There are about 40,000 Americans living in Spain, a number that’s expected to grow thanks to all the country has to offer. People love Spain for its beautiful art and scenery, incredible food and wine, and top-rated healthcare and safety, all at a low cost of living by American standards.
➤ You Should Move to One of These 8 Cities in Spain
Affordable Cities to Move to in Portugal
Current expat darling Portugal is continually listed as the best for retirees, young families, and digital nomads who want to leave the United States. Although more Americans are moving to Portugal than ever before, the actual population is still quite low. Only about 10,000 of us live in the lush Iberian country, a drop in the bucket filled with 750,000 other immigrants and 10 million locals.
