The number people underestimate isn't the monthly cost of living — it's the one-time costs that land in month one, on top of three months of ongoing expenses before you've settled into a routine.
| Item | Range |
|---|---|
| One-time moving costs (deposit, agency fee, insurance, furnishing) | $2,000 – $6,000+ |
| Monthly living costs × 3 (budget tier) | $3,600 – $4,800 |
| Monthly living costs × 3 (comfortable tier) | $5,400 – $7,800 |
| Buffer for exchange-rate swings & surprises (recommended) | 10-15% on top |