Cheapest country to buy land in the world

Thinking of buying land abroad to build a house, start farming or grow your investment portfolio? Even if you’re not ready to commit to a big purchase, there are still places around the world where land prices are affordable.

In this guide, we’ll explore different destinations to help you find the cheapest country to buy land. We’ll also cover key factors to consider and any hidden costs that could affect your budget.

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What is the cheapest country to buy land?

Let’s look at some of the most budget-friendly countries where buyers can get the most value for their money.

Argentina

Argentina is often considered to have some of the most affordable land in South America, though prices vary significantly depending on the region and the quality of the property.¹

On average, residential buildable land sells for around £150 per square metre, but the most affordable options can be as low as £33 per square metre. Land at these prices can sometimes be found even in the greater Buenos Aires area.²

Argentina stands out as an affordable and attractive option for land buyers in South America. With its lively cities, beautiful countryside and welcoming communities, it’s a country worth exploring.

United States

The US may not be the absolute cheapest country to buy land, but some regions are surprisingly affordable. In certain areas, prices can drop below £740 per acre, making them worth considering for budget-conscious buyers.³

States including Arizona, Colorado, Michigan and New Mexico are often associated with lower land prices. That said, costs can vary widely depending on the terrain, location and permitted use. In most cases, land in more remote rural areas tends to be the most affordable.³

In Luna County, New Mexico, you can sometimes find land priced at around £150 per acre. If you’re thinking about getting into agriculture, farmland across the state typically averages closer to £500 per acre.³

The US offers a wide range of land across different landscapes, from rural areas to small towns, giving buyers plenty of options to consider.

Uruguay

Residential land prices in Uruguay start at £30 per square metre, but it’s possible to find plots for as little as £18 per square metre in peripheral zones.⁴

Some of the most affordable areas include Durazno, Flores, and Treinta y Tres. If you're considering buying in or around Montevideo, prices typically range between £180 and £440 per square metre.⁴

Uruguay's sun-drenched beaches, open countryside and relaxed pace of life make it an appealing choice for anyone looking to settle or spend time in South America. Just remember to get professional advice before buying, as foreigners sometimes pay up to 20% more than locals due to misinformation.⁴

Romania

If you're hoping to purchase affordable land within the EU, Romania is worth considering. Some of the cheapest areas include Teleorman, Vaslui, Giurgiu and parts of Ilfov County surrounding Bucharest.⁵

The average cost of residential land nationwide is around £80 per square metre, but some plots can start at just £4. These extremely low prices usually apply to rural land, so it's important to check whether the plot has utility connections and the necessary building permits before buying.⁵

Along with low prices, Romania offers beautiful natural landscapes, charming towns and a welcoming environment for those looking to settle or invest.

Portugal

Owning land in a sunny European country doesn’t have to be expensive. Portugal is considered the cheapest country to buy land in this region, with a range of affordable options available.⁶

The average price of residential land is around £30 per square metre, though plots farther from the coast can be found for between £7 and £22 per square metre. Some of the less developed areas along the Silver Coast (Costa de Prata) are ideal starting points for those seeking affordable land.⁶

Whether you're looking to start a project or invest, Portugal’s sunny coastlines and relaxed lifestyle could be the right setting to start.

What to know before buying land abroad

The first thing to consider when searching for affordable plots overseas is whether foreigners are allowed to own land in that country. You might find the perfect piece of land, but there could be restrictions or outright bans on ownership for non-citizens. Checking local laws or working with a property lawyer can save you a lot of time and help avoid costly mistakes.

Depending on your plans, you may need a specific type of land, which could come with different rules in each country. It’s a good idea to get professional guidance on planning permissions and zoning regulations.

You should also consider costs beyond the purchase price, such as taxes and registration fees. Verifying the land title and checking for any obligations tied to the property is also essential. This is another area where a local legal professional who speaks the language and understands the country’s laws can be invaluable.

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Key takeaways

• Argentina remains a premier destination for affordable land. Residential buildable plots average around £150 per square metre, but remote or unserviced interior land can be found for as low as £33 per square metre.
• While the US average is higher, specific counties offer some of the cheapest acreage in the developed world. In Luna County, New Mexico, and parts of Arizona, remote desert land can still be found for as little as £150 to £400 per acre.
• Romania offers the lowest entry prices in the EU, with some rural plots starting at just £4 per square metre. For those seeking a Mediterranean climate, Portugal is the most affordable Western European option, with inland residential land averaging £30 per square metre and rural plots as low as £7 per square metre.
• Uruguay offers residential land starting at £18 to £30 per square metre in peripheral zones. While more expensive than Argentina, it is often favored by international investors for its legal stability and "foreigner-friendly" ownership laws.
• Cheap land often lacks essential infrastructure. The "true cost" of land must include utility connection fees, which can add 30%–60% to the initial price, and zoning verification to ensure the land is legally buildable.

Sources used:

Sources last checked on date: 25-Feb-2026