Alaverdi, Armenia

Capital City

Living in Alaverdi means settling into a post-industrial town that’s seen better days. The Debed river gorge gives it dramatic scenery, but the population has halved since Soviet times—empty apartments and shuttered factories tell the story. This isn’t a place for digital nomads needing coworking spaces, but if you want dirt-cheap living near the Georgian border (the rail link is handy for visa runs), it works.

Winter here is harsh, with the gorge trapping cold air. Locals rely on the copper smelting plant for jobs, so expect Soviet-era pollution. The upside? No expat bubble means you’ll learn Armenian fast. Just don’t expect English menus or international groceries. This is for FIRE types who prioritize extreme frugality over comfort.