Safest Countries in Asia to Live In in 2022
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Table of Contents
Introduction
Let’s look at the safest countries in Asia based on Global Peace Index rankings for 2022. Asia has many wonderful places to live, no doubt, but it can be difficult to determine which nations are secure and which ones are not.
The Global Peace Index is a study published by the international think tank Institute for Economics & Peace that looks into how much involvement certain nations have in ongoing conflicts on both the local and international levels as well as how peaceful or hostile a given country is.
Each nation is assigned a Global Peace Index ranking that positions them among 163 other nations, as well as a GPI score that evaluates their level of peace using 23 qualitative and quantitative variables.
Safest Countries in Asia to Live In: Singapore
Singapore is the safest nation in Asia and the ninth-safest in the world (after Czech Republic), according to the Global Peace Index. This vibrant city-state, which offers a great quality of life and a dependable healthcare system, has also been regarded as one of the best locations to live in Asia.
As a center of Asian commerce and finance, it gains from a surge of those who travel for business as well as rich elites wanting to grab some premium Singaporean real estate.
Due to the severe punishments for even small offenses, serious crime is relatively rare in this island nation.
Singapore is renowned for being one of the cleanest nation in Asia and perhaps the entire globe. In an effort to maintain cleanliness in the streets, chewing gum has been outlawed. Police even conduct random inspections of public restrooms to ensure they are in tip-top shape. The City of Rules, as it is known, may have many restrictions, but it’s quite simple to witness the advantages of this as you saunter down their spotless streets.
The cost of living is the biggest drawback of residing in this little city-state. One of the most expensive nations in the world is Singapore. Nevertheless, the nation has a lot to offer, including excellent salaries for both locals and expats.
Living Cost in Singapore
As of the time of writing, renting a one-bedroom apartment within Singapore’s city center costs about 3,577 Singapore dollars (nearly 2,514 US dollars) per month and 2,661 dollars outside that area, according to cost of living data aggregator Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach roughly 28,916 dollars and 14,140 dollars per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Singapore is estimated to cost 15 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 80 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 5,210 dollars per month, while a single person can live off 1,434 dollars a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Japan
Japan is ranked as the second-safest nation in Asia by the Global Peace Index, just one spot behind Singapore. In Japan, there are typically very few homicides and just a small number of significant crimes. Because individuals in this nation are so trusting, it is quite common to see them leave their baggage unguarded even in public areas.
Natural catastrophes are Japan’s main safety concern. Tsunamis, floods, earthquakes, and typhoons do occur in the nation because it is situated on the Ring of Fire.
Even while these events don’t happen very frequently, according to climate experts, they will grow more common and severe if the right steps are not taken to stop the globe from warming any further.
The government of Japan has originally developed the clever software Safety Tips to guarantee tourists’ sense of security while they are in the country. Push alerts will be sent to alert international travelers about severe weather situations, among other things.
The nation is fairly hospitable in general, but you should be aware that, while if catcalling is usually uncommon, non-consensual touching and upskirting are issues on public transportation, especially for women. There are cars specifically for women on some train line, though.
Living Cost in Japan
Renting a one-bedroom apartment within Japan’s city center costs about 98,256 yen (about 660 US dollars) per month and 62,764.5 yen outside that area, as per Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 900,175 yen and 508,769.5 yen per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Japan is estimated to cost 900 yen, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 5,000 yen for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 431,448 yen per month, while a single person can live off 120,307 yen a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Malaysia
In the past few decades, Malaysia, a nation in rapid development, has made significant strides. According to the Global Peace Index, the nation is ranked third in Asia for safety. Prices are still more affordable than its neighbor Singapore, despite Malaysia having a far higher level of technological advancement than other nations in the region.
While you should be on the lookout for pickpockets in big cities, violent crime is often rather rare in the country. For drug-related crimes, Malaysia imposes severe penalties, including the death penalty.
Malaysia experiences the burning season in Southeast Asia, similar to a number of other nations in the region. From June through October, there is what locals refer to as the haze. The smoke from the forest fires can be hazardous to one’s health, especially for those who have respiratory conditions like asthma.
Living Cost in Malaysia
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment within Malaysia’s city center costs about 1,576.5 ringgit (332.5 US dollars) per month and 1,060 ringgit outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 8,094 ringgit and 4,659.5 ringgit per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Malaysia is estimated to cost 10.75 ringgit, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 80 ringgit for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 7,186 ringgit per month, while a single person can live off roughly 2,011 ringgit a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Bhutan
Between India and China amid the towering Himalayas lies Bhutan, the first carbon-negative nation in the world. Bhutan is ranked as the fourth-safest nation in Asia and the 19th-safest country overall (right behind Malaysia).
In the 38,000 square kilometer country of Bhutan, there are more than 771,000 residents. The peace and quiet of this tiny country, however, are unmatched in the entire world. Bhutan strives to be among the world’s happiest nations according to its policies of Gross National Happiness, which highlight the significance of a country’s overall happiness over more conventional measures of economic progress.
Bhutan has a low crime rate and violent crime is very unusual. Burglary, stealing, pick-pocketing, and bag snatching are examples of petty crimes that can occur in the country.
Landslides and flooding can also take place, which can impact transportation plus other services, especially during the monsoon seasons (June to September). The country is also susceptible to earthquakes.
Living Cost in Bhutan
A one-bedroom apartment for rent within Bhutan’s city center costs about 10,001 ngultrum (121.75 US dollars) per month and 8,501 ngultrum outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 164,602 ngultrum and 10,000 ngultrum per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Bhutan is estimated to cost 250 ngultrum, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 1,500 ngultrum for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of 131,342 ngultrum per month, while a single person can live off 36,022 ngultrum a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Taiwan
Taiwan is an island nation that actually boasts a stellar safety record. In comparison to global norms, violent crime is low, and despite an increase in pick-pocketing and other petty crimes in densely populated areas, overall crime rates are still quite minimal.
Based on the Global Peace Index, Taiwan is the fifth-safest country in Asia (and the 30th overall).
Because of its location in the Pacific Ocean, the nation is susceptible to typhoons and earthquakes. Even while you should be aware of this, you shouldn’t let it stop you from relocating to this amazing nation.
Dengue fever can be a concern in Taiwan, just like in many other nations. Wearing bug repellent in the country is usually a good idea to prevent insect bites. In the event that worse comes to worst, you can relax knowing that Taiwan’s health facilities are of a level of quality comparable to those in the west.
Living Cost in Taiwan
Renting a one-bedroom apartment within Taiwan’s city center costs about 13,889 New Taiwan dollars (429.5 US dollars) per month and 9,712 dollars outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach about 211,010 dollars and 131,948 dollars per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Taiwan is estimated to cost 120 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 900 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of 82,799 dollars per month, while a single person can live off roughly 22,437 dollars a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Mongolia
Many people tend to ignore this unexplored and secluded location, but as the sixth-safest country in Asia and an overall global rank of 42nd, small-time crime and tourist frauds are not a concern in this area.
Naturally, you’d want to be alert and keep a check on your luggage or wallet for every time you go out, but as long as you apply common sense, there won’t be much to worry about. Like any major city, Ulaanbaatar is constantly at danger for minor crime, however it is quite low compared to other nations in the region.
Consider taking a trip on the Trans-Mongolian Railway if you’re searching for a great adventure once you’re situated here.
Living Cost in Mongolia
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 5.7 million tugrik (1,689 US dollars) per month, while a single person can live off roughly 1.6 million tugrik a month, both excluding rent.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment within Mongolia’s city center costs 961,728 tugrik per month and roughly 572,681 tugrik outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach about 3.9 million tugrik and 2.5 million tugrik per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Mongolia is estimated to cost 15,000 tugrik, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 100,000 tugrik for a three-course meal for two.
Safest Countries in Asia: South Korea
In contrast to its highly shrouded neighbor to the north, South Korea is home to a variety of enticing attractions, from secret clubs hidden away in the city streets of Seoul to the enormous lava tube known as Manjang Cave on Jeju Island. Free Wi-Fi may be found practically everywhere, including at many historical locations; this can alleviate your mind and make it easier for you to get around on your own.
In addition to the country’s expanding expat community, South Korea has gained international recognition as a top travel destination as a result of hosting the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics.
The country is positioned as the seventh-safest country in Asia and the 43rd in the world, according to the Global Peace index.
South Korea has a minimal crime rate in general. Petty crime does occur, nevertheless, particularly in large cities like Seoul and Busan. Large-scale public assemblies and protests are also frequent, especially in Seoul.
The monsoon season lasts from late June until late August; August and September are vulnerable to typhoons, which brings mudslides and flooding. Additionally, there is a risk from earthquakes and tsunamis in the country.
Living Cost in South Korea
A one-bedroom apartment for rent within South Korea’s city center costs 633,149.5 won (441 US dollars) per month and about 441,871 won outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 20.1 million won and 11 million won per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in South Korea is estimated to cost 8,000 won, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 50,000 won for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 4.5 million won per month, while a single person can live off nearly 1.2 million won a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Vietnam
The eighth place on our list goes to Vietnam, a country with stunning landscapes, a profound cultural heritage, and a street food spot that is worth exploring in depth. Globally, the country ranks 44th in terms of the safest countries, as per the Global Peace Index.
Vietnam is a fascinating place to live in. On some days, you can get on a motorcycle and explore the vast coastline, while on other days, you may rent a kayak and explore Ha Long Bay’s glistening seas to experience some of the country’s stunning natural scenery.
Meanwhile, the locals are among the friendliest people. Consider taking part in a laughing yoga session in the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi to fully immerse yourself in the grins of unfettered bliss for yourself. Vietnam is unsurprisingly one of the best countries in the world to live when it comes to happiness indicators.
A must-visit place is the Mekong Delta, a vast network of interconnected rivers that is home to lively floating markets that are an integral part of local culture. You will not only be awed by the diverse local experiences in Vietnam, you might also feel like choosing to live in this country has been one of the best decisions you’ve ever made.
Living Cost in Vietnam
A one-bedroom apartment for rent within Vietnam’s city center costs about 8.8 million dong (354 US dollars) per month and 5.8 million dong outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach nearly 66.7 million dong and 33.2 million dong per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Vietnam is estimated to cost 50,000 dong, while a mid-range restaurant can charge half a million dong for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of 38.4 million dong per month, while a single person can live off roughly 10.8 million dong a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Indonesia
You might be surprised to see Indonesia as among the safest nations in Asia given its dangerous placement on the Ring of Fire. Although Indonesia is generally a fairly safe location to be, there is still the risk of natural calamities. In addition, it is advisable to stay away from sketchy places after dark. Pick-pocketing, a common crime in well-known tourist destinations like Bali, is the major one you should be wary of.
Islamic terror strikes are always a concern, despite the fact that the threat has diminished in recent years. What you can do is avoid participating in any sort of demonstration or protest while you’re there to keep yourself safe. Besides, drug-related offenses carry highly severe penalties, just like in other nations in the region.
In general, the country does not have a lot of violent crime, and Indonesia ranks as the ninth-safest country in all of Asia and 47th in the world this year, according to the Global Peace Index.
The province of Bali is without a doubt the most well-liked tourism destination in the nation, receiving 40% of all visitors each year. The people of Indonesia are known for being warm and welcoming, and they will do all in their power to make you feel at home as soon as you land.
Living Cost in Indonesia
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment within Indonesia’s city center costs about 4.2 million rupiah (270 US dollars) per month and 2.5 million rupiah outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 24.5 million rupiah and 12.5 million rupiah per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Indonesia is estimated to cost 25,000 rupiah, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 250,000 rupiah for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 22.6 million rupiah per month, while a single person can live off roughly 6.5 million rupiah a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Laos
It should come as no surprise to anyone who has been to Laos that it has made the top 10 of the safest countries in Asia, although its global rank of 51 has actually moved down five spots, as per the Global Peace Index.
Nevertheless, it’s very safe, with fewer recorded crimes and con artists than you could find in nations with greater numbers of tourists. Laos may be the next location you want to reside in because of its gorgeous landscape that varies at every turn, delectable cuisine, and welcoming locals.
While there, you can cycle through Vang Vieng for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, spend the night in the jungle with the Gibbon Experience, or participate in a Buddhist alms giving ceremony in Luang Prabang to witness an old custom.
Living Cost in Laos
Renting a one-bedroom apartment within Laos’ city center costs 560 US dollars per month and nearly 258 dollars outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 2,493 dollars and about 298 dollars per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Laos is estimated to cost 2 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 22 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of 2,413 dollars per month, while a single person can live off nearly 685 dollars a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Cambodia
Even though Cambodia has had a terrible, dark past, this in no way affects how peaceful the country is today. In fact, the Global Peace Index ranked the country as the 11th safest country in Asia and the 62nd in the world.
There are so many wonderful things about this tiny nation, and there is hardly ever any form of crime committed against tourists. Explore vibrant markets, imposing temples, and charming towns that appear to have escaped the influence of contemporary tourism developments as you take in the beauty of this Southeast Asian country.
A visit to the Killing Fields and S21 is essential if you want to learn more about Cambodia’s history and the tenacity and strength of the people there. Your eyes will be opened to life under the Khmer Rouge and the importance of the experience in understanding Cambodia’s turbulent past.
Living Cost in Cambodia
A one-bedroom apartment for rent within Cambodia’s city center costs 422 US dollars per month and about 237 dollars outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach around 2,338 dollars and 1,217 dollars per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Cambodia is estimated to cost 3 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 22 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 2,067 dollars per month, while a single person can live off 582 dollars a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: China
China’s major cities are actually thought to be among the safest in the region. As per the Global Peace Index, the country is positioned as the 12th safest country in Asia and 89th globally.
The Great Wall is an example of old China, but there are also many modern touches to the country, such as the lightning-quick railway system that connects Beijing and Guangzhou and the Shanghai Tower, one of the highest structures in the world and a prominent feature of the city’s skyline. Green scenery is also available if you want it. Visit Guilin to witness the stunning limestone karst hills.
Living Cost in China
A one-bedroom apartment for rent within China’s city center costs about 4,657 yuan (637 US dollars) per month and 2,520 yuan outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach roughly 69,955 yuan and 38,880 yuan per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in China is estimated to cost 25 yuan, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 200 yuan for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 13,993 yuan per month, while a single person can live off 3,808 yuan a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Bangladesh
Even though Bangladesh may not appear on most lists of Asia’s top nations for living, it is actually one of the safest country in Asia, ranked 13th in the region and 96th in the world, according to the Global Peace Index.
You will undoubtedly be surprised by the country’s low prices, as well as its wealth of historical sites, huge woods, breathtaking beaches, and friendly locals. Along with well-known tourist destinations like Cox’s Bazar, which has the world’s longest uninterrupted stretch of sand shoreline, and the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, there are some other incredible remote locales.
Cost of Living in Bangladesh
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Bangladesh is estimated to cost 180 taka (1.70 US dollars), while a mid-range restaurant can charge 1,000 taka for a three-course meal for two, according to Numbeo.
Renting a one-bedroom apartment within Bangladesh’s city center costs 10,159 taka per month and about 6,426 taka outside that area. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 83,432.5 taka and nearly 45,485 taka per square meter, respectively.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 122,721 taka per month, while a single person can live off 35,003 taka a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Thailand
Thailand is known for its tranquil, trouble-free, paradisiacal, tropical beaches, and welcoming population.
Although there is drug and human trafficking, corruption, fraud, as well as petty crimes like pick-pocketing in some areas, Thailand remains as one of the safest countries, placing 14th in Asia and 103rd in the world, according to the Global Peace Index.
There are certain provinces you have to particularly avoid due to civil unrest, such as those in the southernmost parts of the country including Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla.
Living Cost in Thailand
A one-bedroom apartment for rent within Thailand’s city center costs 13,406 baht (353 US dollars) per month and 7,361 baht outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 114,214 baht and about 62,218 baht per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Thailand is estimated to cost 70 baht, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 800 baht for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the country for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 65,259 baht per month, while a single person can live off roughly 18,129 baht a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Countries in Asia: Final Thoughts
Moving to an entire new country could be rather unsettling, but if you’re going somewhere with a low crime rate, it will undoubtedly put you at ease somehow. If crime is your primary concern, consider moving to one of the countries on this list because they are some of the safest in the entire continent.
As we always reiterate, there is no such place in the world that can promise a hundred percent safety for you. The fact that some locations will give you a better sense of security than any other is true, but doing your research before making any move plus using common sense will help you a great deal.
Are you interested in investing while you scour Asia for the most appropriate place to live in next? If so, you can read our article on how to invest in the S&P 500 from outside America.
We also have a review of wealth management platform Ardan International for your reference.
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Adam is an internationally recognised author on financial matters, with over 760.2 million answer views on Quora.com, a widely sold book on Amazon, and a contributor on Forbes.
