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Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse, Savannakhet and Vang Vieng are some of the best places in Laos for expats. The cost of living here is also quite affordable making it one of the best Asian countries for expats to live in, and the locals are very friendly, sociable, and hospitable.
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Are you looking to get away from the busy and hectic city life? Are you drawn to the laid-back lifestyle that some call myth? We’ve put together the best places in Laos for expats for you to discover the other side of life. As always, wherever you are, remember to secure sufficient health insurance.
The Best Places For Expats In Laos
As an expat you want to move to a place where you find other expats, good healthcare, and schools, and you will find them in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse, Savannakhet, Vang Vieng, Thakhek, Muang Ngoi, Phonsavan, Champasak and Nong Khiaw. These places are some of the best for expats in Laos.
It’s no surprise that the expat community in Laos is constantly growing thanks to its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and friendly people. Moreover, you are in luck if you love the outdoors because there’s a lot you can do as an expat in Laos.
The best part about Laos is its people! While moving countries as an expat, it’s hard to meet locals and become friends with them. However, the people in Laos are very friendly and welcoming, you can rest assured that you will make friends here in no time!
Laos is a developing country, so you can find all kinds of accommodations to stay in. From high-end developments to old local houses. Now, without any further ado, let’s explore the best places in Laos for expats.
Vientiane
Vientiane, the capital city of Laos is one of the best cities for expats to move to. You can find a blend of Western and Lao culture, and find yourself calling it your new home in no time. In addition, the city also has great options for schools, food places, and shops.
Vientiane is also the country’s economic hub, so as an expat you may find a few decent jobs here. You will also find a lot of international embassies and consulates here, as well as international organizations like the World Health Organization and the United Nations.
The city is also bicycle-friendly, making it perfect for exploring all the attractions such as the riverfront, and cozy cafes. Thanks to the Buddhist temples and French architecture the city is both beautiful to live in and you will find something new everyday. So, if you are someone that loves a small-cozy town consider moving to Vientiane.
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is another great place for expats to move to in Laos. The town boasts a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great escape from the bustle of the bigger cities. The city also houses some stunning architecture, serene temples, and French architecture.
In addition, Luang Prabang offers cultural and artistic heritage that beautifully blends traditional Lao urban architecture with colonial-era influences. You can find the town’s unique charm in its well-preserved historic buildings and streets.
It’s a fascinating and beautiful reflection of the town’s history and cultural identity. So, if you’re looking for a spiritual and cultural adventure Luang Prabang is an ideal place for you!
Pakse
Pakse is a Southern town in Laos and is perfect for expats to move to! It is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls, coffee plantations, and breathtaking views. The town is also quaint and peaceful making it ideal for those expats that are planning to retire.
Given that there is an international airport in the city, you can travel to other places with ease. However, Pakse offers a slow-paced life and most expats that move here, move here for NGO work. So, there is not much to do socially, other than meeting someone at their homes.
Savannakhet
Savannakhet is a small town located in central Laos that is known for its French colonial architecture and relaxed atmosphere. The expat community here is ever-growing and offers a range of amenities for digital nomads and expat families alike.
It is also home to the famous That Inhang Stupa, which is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the town. Savannakhet has a laid-back and slow-paced lifestyle that is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The town’s small size and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal place for digital nomads and retirees. Moreover, the cost of living in Savannakhet is relatively low compared to other cities in Laos, making it an attractive destination for expats. You will also be pleased to know that housing, food, and transportation in Savannakhet are affordable, allowing expats to live comfortably on a budget.
Vang Vieng
If you are an outdoors kind of expat, Vang Vieng is for you, the city is just perfect for exploring and indulging in local culture. From Nam Song River to limestone karsts, natural caves and parties you will find everything you need to settle in here with ease.
Vang Vieng has a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, which is perfect for those looking to escape city life. However, the expat community here is growing, so you can be sure to find friends in no time. In addition, the low cost of living and its location make Vang Vieng one of the best places to live in Laos for expats.
Thakhek
Located along the banks of the Mekong River, Thakhek is a charming town known for its colonial-era architecture and picturesque landscapes. This peaceful town is a great option for expats who want a quiet yet scenic lifestyle. The cost of living here is low, and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, including trekking, caving, and kayaking.
Thakhek is also famous for the Thakhek Loop, a motorbike route that takes travelers through some of the most stunning scenery in Laos, including caves, waterfalls, and traditional villages. The expat community here is small but tight-knit, making it easy to integrate and make friends.
Muang Ngoi
For expats looking to truly escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Muang Ngoi is a dream destination. This remote riverside village is only accessible by boat, making it a haven for those seeking peace and tranquility. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery, Muang Ngoi is perfect for nature lovers, digital nomads, and retirees.
The cost of living is incredibly low, and while modern conveniences may be limited, the laid-back lifestyle and friendly locals more than make up for it. This is the place to go if you want to disconnect from the fast-paced world and immerse yourself in the beauty of Laos.
Phonsavan
Phonsavan, the capital of Xieng Khouang Province, is best known for its fascinating Plain of Jars – a mysterious archaeological site filled with giant stone jars believed to be over 2,000 years old. This highland city offers a cool climate, making it an excellent alternative for expats who prefer to avoid the heat and humidity of lower-altitude cities.
While Phonsavan is quieter than Vientiane or Luang Prabang, it has all the necessary amenities, including hospitals, markets, and schools. The expat community consists mainly of archaeologists, historians, and humanitarian workers, so if you’re interested in history and culture, this could be the perfect place for you.
Champasak
Champasak is a small but historically significant town located in southern Laos. Once a royal capital, it is home to the stunning Wat Phou temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town offers a peaceful riverside atmosphere with charming cafés, guesthouses, and a relaxed lifestyle that appeals to many expats.
Champasak is an excellent option for those who want to experience traditional Lao culture while still having access to modern comforts. The cost of living is affordable, and the town’s proximity to Pakse makes it easy to access airports, hospitals, and shopping centers when needed.
Nong Khiaw
If breathtaking mountain views and a relaxed lifestyle sound appealing, then Nong Khiaw is the place for you. Nestled along the Nam Ou River, this charming village offers stunning scenery, vibrant local culture, and a growing expat community. It is a great place for those who enjoy hiking, cycling, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature.
While it may not have the fast-paced excitement of larger cities, Nong Khiaw provides a peaceful and affordable lifestyle. It’s a great choice for expats who work remotely, as many cafés and guesthouses now offer reliable internet. If you love adventure and tranquility in equal measure, Nong Khiaw might just be the perfect home for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city in Laos do most expats live in?
When it comes to living in Laos as an expat, most tend to settle down in either Vientiane or Luang Prabang. Many move to Laos to work in industries such as NGO, infrastructure, hydroelectric, or mining.
Vientiane is the most popular choice among expats due to its bustling city life and job opportunities. However, Luang Prabang also has a significant expat and tourist population, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Is Laos cheaper than Thailand to live in?
You will be surprised to know that Laos is actually just a little more pricy when compared to Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. While the overall cost of living is a lot cheaper compared to the West, Laos offers some of the most beautiful places to live, in Asia.
How much do expats earn in Laos?
While the annual income is not a lot when compared to Thailand, your earnings will ensure a good quality of life in Laos. The average annual income in Laos is about USD $2,150, compared to USD $5,640 in Thailand.
Conclusion
All in all, Laos offers a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle that is great for expats who are retiring, digital nomads, or those that love the great outdoors. Even the cost of living in Laos is quite affordable!
While Laos is one of the best places for expats to move to in Asia, we would like to take this moment to also discuss healthcare in Laos, while there are good and private healthcare centers here, it may be very expensive to get medical help without health insurance. So, secure a comprehensive health insurance plan before your move.
If you do not know where to start, you can get in touch with the insurance experts at Pacific Prime. We’ve got over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry and will be able to find a plan that meets both your requirements and budgets. So, contact us today!
Since joining Pacific Prime, Martin has become even more aware of the gap between the true value of insurance products and most people’s appreciation of it, and developed a passion for demystifying and simplifying matters, so that more people get the protection they need at a cost they can easily afford.
In his free time, Martin attends concerts of various genres, and plays the violin with piano accompaniment he pre-recorded himself or played live by his niece.
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