Barishal, Bangladesh

Barishal sits low and level in southern Bangladesh, just 4 m above sea level, in the Asia/Dhaka timezone, with a population of 328 thousand. The climate is tropical monsoon: hot, humid summers from April to September that can reach 40°C, mild winters from December to February around 12°C, intense monsoon rainfall, and year-round humidity of 79%. Expats who come here overwhelmingly settle in Barisal Town, the city's main urban area and the only neighborhood listed as popular among the very few international residents who call this riverine city home.

Living costs are remarkably low. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre rents for $73/mo, while outside the centre it drops to $53/mo. Three-bedroom units run $134/mo in the centre and $85/mo outside it. Utilities average $20/mo, internet $32/mo, and a mobile phone plan just $5/mo. A monthly public transport pass costs $12/mo and a gym membership $7/mo. An inexpensive restaurant meal is $1 per person, and a mid-range three-course meal for two is $6. Excluding rent, a single person spends about $280/mo and a family of four about $850/mo. Budget, mid-range, and comfortable tiers for a single adult, rent included, come to $550/mo, $900/mo, and $1,400/mo respectively. The cost of living index is 24/100 against NYC = 100, yet the average monthly net salary locally is only $183/mo, so even these modest figures demand careful budgeting for anyone earning local wages.

Safety is middling: the safety index is 45/100 and the crime index is 55/100. Air quality is a concern, with an air quality index of 78. Healthcare quality is rated poor, and English proficiency is limited, which matters for daily errands and medical visits. The expat community is very few in number, so newcomers should expect to rely on local contacts and their own resourcefulness rather than an established international network.

Visa rules vary by nationality and purpose, so check current requirements before booking anything. The nearest airport is BZL, 13 km away. Internet averages 15 Mbps, adequate for basic tasks but not heavy data work. Scores reflect the trade-offs: overall expat 74/100 and FIRE 76/100 are strong, while retiree 40/100 and digital nomad 45/100 are low. Barishal suits frugal long-stayers, early retirees chasing very low rents, and anyone prioritizing cost over convenience, healthcare, or a large expat scene.