Laos🇱🇦
At a Glance
How Laos compares across key indices
Cost of Living
33 vs NYC
100 = NYC
Safety Index
66/100
Healthcare
34/100
Quality of Life
104/200
Climate
72/100
Cost of Living
How far your money goes in Laos
Cost of Living
33
100 = NYC baseline
Rent Index
16
100 = NYC rent
Groceries
40
100 = NYC groceries
Restaurant Prices
18
100 = NYC dining
Safety & Crime
Low RiskHow safe residents feel in Laos — based on surveys of people living there
Safety Index
66/100
Crime Index
34/100
Lower is better
Crime Trend
64/100
Crime perceived as increasing
Walking Safety
18 point drop from day to night
Problem Severity
0 = no problem, 100 = severe problem
What Residents Worry About
Based on 29 survey responses. 0 = not worried, 100 = very worried.
Cities
City Data Coming Soon
We're gathering city-level data for Laos.
Freedom Abroad Newsletter
Insider knowledge on living abroad, new city guides, and cost updates.
Healthcare
Healthcare system overview for Laos
Healthcare Index
34/100
Quality Breakdown
How satisfied residents are with healthcare costs relative to quality
Based on 10 survey responses
Insurance Coverage
Recommended PartnerDon't skip health insurance
Real coverage for real life abroad. Not travel insurance. Not hoping for the best.
A portion of affiliate revenue is donated to UNHCR
Environment
PollutedAir quality, water, and environmental conditions in Laos
Pollution Index
79/100
Lower is better
Environmental Quality
Concerns
0 = no concern, 100 = severe concern
Based on 44 survey responses. Perception scores are 0–100 where higher is better unless noted.
Transport & Commute
How people get around in Laos
Average One-Way Commute
22minutes
Short
Traffic Index
104
Moderate congestion
Inefficiency
76
Time wasted in traffic
CO2 Emissions
4.7kg/trip
How People Commute
Based on 7 survey responses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about living in Laos, answered with data
What is the cost of living in Laos?
Laos has a cost of living index of 33 relative to New York City (100). It is significantly cheaper than the US.
Is Laos safe for expats?
Laos has a safety index of 66/100, making it generally safe for expats and travellers.
How good is healthcare in Laos?
Laos scores 34/100 on Numbeo's healthcare index, making it limited in some areas by global standards. This index reflects the overall quality of the healthcare system, medical staff, and facilities.
Is Laos cheaper than the United States?
Yes. Laos's cost of living is roughly 67% lower than New York City and generally cheaper than most major US cities. Rent specifically is around 84% cheaper. This makes it a popular destination for remote workers looking to stretch their dollar.
What is the air quality and pollution like in Laos?
Laos has a pollution index of 79/100 (lower = cleaner). Pollution can be a concern in urban areas. Research specific cities before committing, as rural and coastal areas typically fare better.
Before You Go
Your pre-departure checklist for Laos
Plan Your Move
Escape Plan Quiz
Find your best-fit country based on budget, climate, safety, and lifestyle priorities.
Salary Calculator
See what your income is actually worth after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Compare Countries
Side-by-side breakdown of cost of living, safety, healthcare, and more.
90-Day Move Planner
Your personalized countdown checklist — visas, banking, housing, and logistics.
Recommended PartnerDon't skip health insurance
Real coverage for real life abroad. Not travel insurance. Not hoping for the best.
A portion of affiliate revenue is donated to UNHCR
Set Up International Banking
Get a multi-currency account before you leave. Essential for managing money abroad.
Get Connected
eSIM, VPN, and reliable internet — sorted before you land.
Book Your First Accommodation
Secure at least your first week. Having a home base makes everything else easier.
Find Flights
Find the cheapest flights with flexible date search. Set alerts for price drops on your route.
Freedom Abroad helps you figure out the part nobody talks about: how to actually build a life in another country. Films, tools, and data. No fluff.
Learn about our mission