5 Low-Inflation Countries for Cheap Living and High Salaries

Quebec City and Old Port Aerial View, Quebec, Canada stock photo
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In a world where economic fluctuations are the norm, no country can claim to be entirely without inflation. Fortunately, there are places where prices don’t skyrocket from year to year. While it is challenging to find countries with both high salaries and low living costs, there are some with a relatively low inflation rate. This, in turn, helps to maintain a more reasonable cost of living for a more manageable, maybe even comfortable, lifestyle.

For comparison, here are some key statistics from the United States:

  • Current inflation rate: 2.4%
  • Estimated cost of living (single): $2,500 to $3,500
  • Average salary: $63,795 per year

Keep reading to find out which countries could make you feel richer.

Germany

  • Current inflation rate: 2.1%
  • Estimated cost of living (single): €900 to €1,070 per month ($1,020 to 1,213)
  • Average salary: €51,876 per year ($58,575)

Germany has been successful in maintaining a relatively low inflation rate, though currently is on par with the U.S., thanks to its strong economy and prudent fiscal policies. While the cost of living in Germany is not exactly cheap, it is relatively affordable compared to other Western European countries, making your paycheck go a bit further there.

Denmark

  • Current inflation rate: 1.5%
  • Estimated cost of living (single): DKK 6,500 to 7,500 ($986 to $1,1,38)
  • Average salary: DKK 583,188 per year ($82,260)

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There is nothing foul in Denmark when it comes to policies and the Danish National Bank keeping costs down. While the cost of living in Denmark is also on the higher side, the high salaries and comprehensive social benefits make it a desirable destination for many. This makes the balance swing higher in your favor, crushing inflation with a Denmark boot.

Canada

  • Current inflation rate: 2.3%
  • Estimated cost of living (single): CAD 2,500 ($1,807)
  • Average salary: CAD 63,013 per year ($45,548)

Though Canada has had issues with the current White House administration thanks to Trump’s tariffs, it still offers a high quality of life with a slightly lower rate of inflation, plus healthcare. While cities like Toronto and Vancouver can be quite expensive, many other cities and regions across the country offer a more affordable lifestyle, while still providing relatively high salaries. 

Montreal and Winnipeg are two cities that offer a good balance of affordable living and high salaries while keeping its inflation still and low. Just make sure you bring your big jacket and hockey stick.

China

  • Current inflation rate: 0.10%
  • Estimated cost of living (single): $550 to $1,000
  • Average salary: Yuan 353,000 per year ($50,341)

Unless you work in certain industries, China may not be high on your list for relocation. However, given the current economic situation of the United States and the volatility between the two powerhouse countries, it is interesting to compare. 

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