Living in Laos: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Laos

Summary: People describe life in Laos as laid-back and relaxed. Expats love the friendly locals, the stunning natural beauty, the low cost of living, and the delicious food. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $1,500 per month, depending on lifestyle. The population of Laos is approximately 7.2 million people, and the largest cities are Vientiane (the capital), Savannakhet, and Luang Prabang. The cons of living in Laos include the lack of infrastructure and modern amenities, the limited job opportunities, and the language barrier. Additionally, the healthcare system is not as advanced as in other countries, and the internet connection can be unreliable.

What do I need to know about living in Laos?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Laos, they said:

"Before retiring in Laos, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally lower than in many other countries. It is important to research the availability of healthcare and medical facilities, as well as the quality of the services provided. Expats should also be aware of the local laws and regulations, and ensure that they are compliant with them. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, and be respectful of them. Finally, expats should ensure that they have the necessary visas and permits to live and work in Laos," remarked one expat who made the move to Laos.

"Things here run very differently. It's slow and has to be done a certain way. It's best to go with the flow. Come here with an open mind and you should be ok! Don't expect much of a nightlife as there isn't one," explained one expat living in Vientiane, Laos.

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How do I meet people in Laos?

When we asked people living in Laos about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Laos often join clubs and activities such as the Lao-American Association, the Lao-British Association, and the Lao-French Association. These clubs provide a great way to meet other expats and locals, and to learn more about the culture and language of Laos. Expats can also join sports teams, such as football, volleyball, and basketball, or take part in outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. Additionally, there are many bars and restaurants in Laos that are popular with expats, providing a great opportunity to socialize and make new friends. Finally, expats can also join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Laos," remarked one expat living in Laos.

"It all depends what you are interested in. For women there is WIG (Womens International Group) who do various activities. There are many sporting clubs (Rugby, Australian Football, etc). A volunteer group called Paws for Thought who focus on animal welfare in Lao. Most are advertised in the Vientiane Times OR on facebook/internet.," wrote one member in Vientiane.

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What is life like in Laos?

When we asked people living in Laos what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Laos is generally quite relaxed and laid-back. The country is known for its friendly locals and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. The country also offers a wide range of activities, from exploring ancient temples to trekking through the jungle. With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and low cost of living, Laos is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," commented one expat who made the move to Laos.

"For Lao people, all of the above! For many foreigners here it's mostly spending time getting to know Lao, visiting its more popular places, socialising etc. It all depends on what you want to do and spend most of your time on. For my family it's sport, socialising and seeing what Lao has to offer," remarked one expat living in Vientiane, Laos.

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Is there a lot of crime in Laos?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime is not a major problem in Laos, however, there are some reports of petty theft and other minor crimes. The most common crimes reported are pickpocketing, bag snatching, and other forms of theft. There have also been reports of drug trafficking and human trafficking in some areas. The government has taken steps to combat these crimes, including increased police presence and increased penalties for those convicted of such crimes," commented one expat who made the move to Laos.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Laos accepting of differences?

"Laos is a culturally diverse country, with over 49 ethnic groups living in the country. People in Laos are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between different ethnic and religious groups. The government of Laos has also taken steps to promote cultural diversity and acceptance of differences, such as the establishment of the National Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Ethnic and Religious Minorities," remarked one expat living in Laos.

"I think people here are quite accepting of differences. Some are open to it. A lot of the older people though not so much. As long as you come here with an open mind and are respectful of Lao customs and beliefs etc then you shouldn't have a problem," wrote one member in Vientiane.

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What are the schools in Laos like?

"If you are paying out of pocket, this is the most cost effective school in Laos and Thailand. The teachers are tough and don't hand out good grades. They give great input. It's not a pay-and-pass school. Kids are expected to work. After Grade 6 its all English. Pre-6 is 50/50 Lao/English. The main reason I moved from Thailand to Laos is because I found a cost-effective school with a good curriculum and teaching staff in my price range. Yes. I'd consider enrolling my child in this school," explained one expat living in Vientiane, Laos.

"Judging from my years of work at the school, it has become obvious that the manager's avarice to increase profits has made her turn a blind eye on the quality of education, staff matters, facilities, hygiene, and safety. One doesn't need fortunetelling abilities to see that K.I.S. is a major accident waiting to happen. Comments are appreciated," said one parent with children at KIS in Vientiane.

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Is the cost of living in Laos high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Laos, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Laos is generally quite low, with basic necessities such as food, transportation, and accommodation being relatively inexpensive. Eating out at restaurants is also quite affordable, with a meal for two people costing around $10 USD. Renting an apartment in the city center can range from $200 to $400 USD per month, while outside of the city center it can be as low as $100 USD per month. Utilities such as electricity and water are also quite affordable, with an average monthly bill of around $30 USD," wrote a member in Laos.

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"The cost of living in Laos is generally quite low compared to other countries in the region. The capital city of Vientiane is the most expensive place to live in Laos, with prices for goods and services being higher than in other parts of the country. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Vientiane is around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost up to $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Vientiane can cost around $10 USD per person," remarked one expat in Laos.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Laos?

When we asked people living in Laos about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Laos, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as swimming pools, tennis courts, golf courses, and parks. There are also many outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as cultural activities, such as traditional dance performances and festivals. Additionally, there are a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes for residents to enjoy," mentioned an expat living in Laos.

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What is the weather like in Laos?

"The climate in Laos is tropical and monsoonal, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. The temperatures in Laos are generally warm and humid, with the average temperature ranging from 18 to 38 degrees Celsius. The northern part of the country is cooler than the south, with temperatures dropping to as low as 10 degrees Celsius during the winter months. The rainy season brings heavy rains and flooding to some parts of the country, while the dry season is characterized by sunny days and cooler nights," mentioned an expat living in Laos.

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Are there good restaurants in Laos?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Laos is Tamnak Lao, located in Vientiane. This restaurant serves traditional Lao cuisine, including dishes like Laap, a spicy minced meat salad, and Khao Piak, a rice noodle soup. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian options, making it a great choice for all types of diners. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Another popular restaurant in Laos is Kualao Restaurant, located in Luang Prabang. This restaurant specializes in traditional Lao dishes, such as Laap, Khao Piak, and Khao Soi, a spicy noodle soup. The restaurant also offers a variety of international dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and salads. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Finally, the Khaiphaen Restaurant in Vientiane is a great choice for those looking for a unique dining experience. This restaurant serves a variety of traditional Lao dishes, as well as some international dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian options, making it a great choice for all types of diners," commented one expat who moved to Laos.

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Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Laos?

"People living in Laos typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, convenience stores, and supermarkets. Many people also shop at roadside stalls and small shops, which are often family-run businesses. Additionally, some people may purchase items from vendors who come to their homes," commented one expat living in Laos.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Laos?

"To enter Laos, visitors must obtain a visa in advance. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, passport-sized photos, and a valid passport to the Lao Embassy or Consulate. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. To apply for residency in Laos, applicants must submit a completed application form, passport-sized photos, a valid passport, and proof of financial stability. Depending on the type of residency, additional documents may be required. Applicants may also need to provide a medical certificate and a police clearance certificate. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residency permit," remarked one expat living in Laos.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Laos?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Laos can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's health insurance scheme. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the cost of medical care in Laos is generally higher than in other countries in the region, making it difficult for many people to access quality healthcare," commented one expat who moved to Laos.

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