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Emerging Secondary Cities That Are More Affordable Than Capitals in 2025

Tired of pricey capitals? Discover the emerging secondary cities of 2025 that offer lower living costs and a better quality of life.

Andy Caso

costngteam@gmail.com

December 11, 2025

13 min read

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  • Affordable Secondary Cities 2025
  • Cost of Living 2025
Affordability Shift: Secondary Cities Overtake Capitals as Cheaper Living Options (2025 edition)

If you’ve been stuck looking at expensive capitals and wonder, “Is there a cheaper alternative out there?” you’re not alone. Many of us are seeking cheap cities to live in 2025.

What if I told you that emerging secondary cities 2025 (i.e., not the big capitals) are offering exactly that: great quality of life, and lower living costs than the main metropolitan capitals. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through 10 such cities that could become the best affordable cities to live in in 2025. So, if you’re a digital nomad, someone planning a move to another city or country, or simply curious about affordable urban options, read on.

And yes, cities cheaper than capitals aren’t just a myth, they’re real, and we’ll dive into why.

emerging secondary cities that are more affordable

Let’s jump into the list.

Johor Bahru
Malaysia

Why it’s a good pick

Johor Bahru (JB) is Malaysia’s second-largest city by economy and lies just across from Singapore. It has been rapidly developing as an investment and urban centre, with the benefit of being cheaper than both Singapore and Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur.

Affordability & lifestyle

Because it’s a “secondary” city (i.e., not the national capital), it offers housing, services, and entertainment at a lower cost than many capitals in the region. For remote workers or digital nomads, you could enjoy a good standard of living (modern facilities) while spending significantly less.

What you need to check

While housing is cheaper than in the capital, certain imported goods or expensive services may still match capital prices.

You should examine visa/regulation conditions. Malaysia has some long-stay/nomad options, but you’ve to verify.

Indore
India

Why it stands out

Cities such as Indore and other non‐capital Indian cities rank among the least expensive globally. Indore is a fast-growing urban centre in central India with improving infrastructure and a good quality of life for its cost.

Affordability & lifestyle

You’ll find local housing, and the cost of living here is much lower than in Indian capitals like New Delhi or Mumbai. If you earn foreign income or work in USD/EUR conversion, you stand to benefit.

What to keep in mind

Language/cultural adaptation may require adjustment if you’re coming from far away.

Some services (international schools, etc.) may be fewer or costlier relative to local income.

Ensure internet/bandwidth quality is acceptable for remote work.

Lahore
Pakistan

Why does this matter

Lahore is not a “secondary city” in Pakistan (it’s a major city), but compared with the national capital (Islamabad), it often offers a lower cost of living in many segments. Additionally, globally it ranks among the cheapest large cities for cost of living + rent.

Affordability & lifestyle

For those looking to move from other countries (especially if converting foreign incomes), this city provides interesting value: large city amenities, culture, decent infrastructure, and much lower living costs compared to many capitals in other countries.

What to check

As with many growing cities, pollution, traffic, and infrastructure inconsistencies may exist.

If you're earning in foreign currency, check exchange rate movements, inflation in PKR can be a factor.

Medellín
Colombia

Why it’s emerging

While Bogotá (the capital) often gets the most attention, Medellín has become a popular alternative for anyone seeking a lower cost of living combined with modern amenities. There is growing data around cheaper Latin American cities for digital nomads.

Affordability & lifestyle

You can enjoy a modern urban life (metro, co-working spaces, cafés) with costs lower than in many capitals. If you’re considering affordable secondary cities that are non-Asian, this is one of the stronger picks.

Catchpoints

Speak some Spanish (or be willing to learn) for smoother integration.

Some services/infrastructure may still lag behind top capitals.

Visa/legal residence may need checking if you’re moving long-term.

Porto
Portugal

Why it's interesting

Porto is overshadowed by Lisbon (the capital) but is gaining traction as a more affordable European city with a good quality of life, especially for remote workers.

Affordability & lifestyle

Compared to Lisbon, you pay less for housing, daily living, and lifestyle while still getting European amenities, good infrastructure, expat-friendly environment.

Things to note & Why it adds something fresh

Cost of living in Europe is higher than in many Asian/South American cities, but cheaper than in capitals.

For remote work, ensure your internet, time zone/latency, and visa status (EU/Portugal rules) are aligned.

Many affordable cities list skip European “secondary cities” and focus on Eastern Europe or tiny towns. Porto offers a well-balanced pick for readers wanting a European flavour.

Cuenca
Ecuador

Why does it make sense?

Cuenca is often promoted as an affordable city in Latin America, especially compared to Quito (the capital). With lower rent, fewer crowds, a growing expat community, and decent infrastructure, Cuenca can be described as a “secondary city to live in rather than a capital” in Latin America. Good for retirees, remote workers, or anyone seeking lower costs. Plus, the stable climate and friendly environment enhance its long-term livability.

Checkpoints & Why is this new?

Local healthcare/infrastructure: fine for many, but you’ll want to check specific needs.

Language: Spanish will help.

Growth: Some amenities may not be as widespread as in the capitals.

As remote work and global mobility increase, smaller Latin American cities like Cuenca are emerging as new alternatives for sustainable, budget-friendly living.

Tampere
Finland

Why a surprising pick

While capitals like Helsinki get all the attention, Tampere is Finland’s secondary city (in terms of size and significance). It combines good infrastructure, a strong quality of life, and potentially a lower cost of living than the capital. Although it is still in a developed country (so “cheap” is relative), for some income levels, it can offer more value than the capital.

Affordability & lifestyle

If you’re earning in foreign currency or remote work income, living in Tampere rather than Helsinki could mean saving on housing and living costs while still accessing Finnish standards of service and infrastructure.

What to check & Why does it add diversity?

Developing foreign income/remote worker tax/visa considerations.

Cost of living is still higher than many global “cheap city” picks, so your baseline income matters.

Weather/culture: Finland is great, but winters are long.

Tampere attracts a mix of locals, students, and international remote workers. Its smaller size, affordable living, and offering a unique alternative to the capital’s urban lifestyle.

Kraków
Poland

Why it works

While Warsaw (the capital) is increasingly expensive, Kraków remains more affordable and offers historic charm, good amenities, and a growing tech/remote-work sector. It can serve as a “secondary city to live than capitals” in Europe. Many remote workers from Western Europe use cities like Kraków for cost savings.

Affordability & lifestyle

Lower housing costs relative to the capital, strong cultural life, and good transport. For someone earning remote income, you get a good value proposition.

What to check & Why does it add value?

Peak seasons/tourism: Kraków is popular, so some pockets may cost more.

Language/cultural adaptation for non-Polish speakers.

Visa/residence rules if you’re coming from a non-EU.

Again, many lists skip European secondary cities with strong value. This fills a gap.

Bucharest (or Satellite Cities)
Romania

Why include it

While Bucharest is the capital, many are now exploring its secondary satellite cities/suburbs, which cost less but give access to the capital’s services. Alternatively, one could pick a smaller Romanian city altogether.

Affordability & lifestyle

Good for remote workers, lower housing costs, European infrastructure, and visa access via the EU. If you’re flexible, such a city gives an “affordable alternative to capitals”.

What to check & Why is this different?

Smaller city = fewer amenities than a major capital, so if you require a large international airport or an extremely diverse culture, check availability.

Emerging cities may have variability in services or tech infrastructure.

Most affordable city lists focus on the “tiny towns” or “cheap countries”; this gives a mid-sized city with decent infrastructure in Europe.

Cebu City
Philippines

Why it fits

The Philippines offers many options for lower-cost living. While Manila is expensive, Cebu City and its surroundings serve as a secondary city with growing infrastructure and good value. The retirement/expat guides for Latin Asia mention the Philippines in affordable country lists.

Affordability & lifestyle

You can find housing, food, and services at very affordable prices compared to many Western capitals. Good climate, English language widely understood. A compelling choice for budget-minded movers or remote workers.

Things to check & Why does it add fresh variety?

Infrastructure/internet quality can vary by area, so pick neighborhoods carefully.

Visa/immigration: stay longer term? Will need to examine rules.

Healthcare & services: good in many places but may not match top capitals.

Asia is often listed with capitals (e.g., Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, etc.). Including Cebu gives a “second city” flavor that is emerging and lower cost.

Note: Affordability is relative (to capital) and depends on your personal income, lifestyle, and currency strength in your home country.

City Comparison at a Glance

City & Country Avg Monthly Cost (USD) Avg Salary (USD) Best For Lifestyle Type Quality of Life ★ (1–5)
Johor Bahru, Malaysia700 – 1,000900 – 1,200Digital nomads, expatsModern, urban, growing★★★★
Indore, India400 – 650500 – 800Budget-conscious movers, remote workersAffordable, fast-growing, cultural★★★★
Lahore, Pakistan450 – 600600 – 900Foreign-income earners, cultural enthusiastsHistoric, vibrant, urban★★★★
Medellín, Colombia600 – 900800 – 1,100Remote workers, lifestyle seekersModern, creative, mild climate★★★★½
Porto, Portugal900 – 1,3001,200 – 1,600Digital nomads, EuropeansHistoric, coastal, tech-friendly★★★★½
Cuenca, Ecuador500 – 800700 – 1,000Retirees, budget moversColonial, slow-paced, expat-friendly★★★★
Tampere, Finland1,200 – 1,8002,000 – 2,500Remote workers, lifestyle seekersGreen, tech-driven, efficient★★★★½
Kraków, Poland800 – 1,2001,200 – 1,600Remote workers, culture loversHistoric, lively, tech & student-friendly★★★★½
Bucharest (area), Romania600 – 900800 – 1,100Flexible remote workersCalm, suburban, European★★★★
Cebu City, Philippines500 – 800700 – 1,000Retirees, digital nomads, expatsTropical, English-friendly, urban★★★★

Final thoughts

Moving to a cheaper city doesn’t mean you’re giving up life, adventure, or comfort, it means you’re smarter with your budget. The 10 cities above offer a mix of regions, climates, cultures, and cost structures, all with the potential for high value in 2025.

If I were to pick one key takeaway, look beyond capitals. The phrase “cities are cheaper than capitals” is literally here. By choosing a secondary city, one with growth potential, decent infrastructure, and lower living costs, you can stretch your income further, enjoy lifestyle freedom, and potentially build long-term assets (if property/housing applies) while avoiding the ultra-high costs of major capitals.

FAQs

Q: How can I identify which secondary city is truly more affordable than the capital?
Compare property, transport, food, utilities, and healthcare costs between the capitals and the secondary city. Many emerging cities offer lower rents and daily expenses while still providing strong infrastructure.
Q: Why should I consider moving to a secondary city instead of the main capital?
Secondary cities often provide a better balance of cost, lifestyle, and opportunity. You get modern infrastructure, growing job markets, and lower living expenses, allowing remote workers and expats to enjoy more value for their income.
Q: Are secondary cities safer or riskier compared to big capitals?
Safety varies by region, but many secondary cities experience less congestion and fewer urban pressures than capitals. Before moving, research neighbourhoods, local crime statistics, and expat experiences to make an informed choice.
Q: What challenges might foreigners face when relocating to these affordable emerging cities?
Expect potential hurdles like language barriers, cultural differences, bureaucratic visa processes, and varying service quality. Preparing in advance and researching expat communities can help make the transition smoother.
Q: Will these affordable secondary cities remain budget-friendly in the future?
Affordability may decrease as demand rises. When more digital nomads, expats, and remote workers arrive, rent and service prices may increase. Relocating earlier often provides better long-term value and cost stability.
Q: What visas or residency options should I look for before relocating to these cities?
Look for visas like digital nomad, long-stay, retirement, or investment-based residency. Check what documents you need, how long you can stay, income requirements, and if you can extend them before deciding where to move.

© 2025 Affordable Cities Guide. Content for informational purposes. Always conduct your own research before relocating.

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Andy Caso

costngteam@gmail.com

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Secondary Cities 2025: Affordable Alternative to Capital Cities