10 Countries with the Cheapest Meals
Bangladesh has the cheapest meal price in the world with just $1.63.
For travelers and residents looking to keep food expenses low, the cost of an inexpensive meal can be an important factor when comparing destinations.
According to Numbeo data for August 2026, several countries across Asia, Africa and South America stand out for offering some of the world's lowest average prices for an inexpensive restaurant meal.
Bangladesh ranks first among the countries listed, with an average inexpensive meal costing just $1.63. The country's low meal prices make everyday dining relatively affordable, particularly for people accustomed to local food establishments and traditional Bangladeshi cuisine.
Indonesia follows closely in second place at $1.70 per meal. From small local eateries to street-food vendors, Indonesia has a wide range of affordable dining options. The country's diverse culinary traditions also mean visitors can find inexpensive meals featuring rice, noodles, vegetables, meat and seafood.
In third place is Bolivia, where an inexpensive meal averages $1.73. Bolivia's affordable food prices add to its reputation as a destination where travelers can experience local cuisine without spending heavily on dining.
Nigeria ranks fourth at $1.85, while Vietnam comes fifth with an average price of $1.91. Vietnam is particularly well known internationally for affordable everyday dishes such as pho, rice dishes and banh mi, although prices can vary depending on location and type of establishment.
The sixth position belongs to Nepal, with an inexpensive meal costing an average of $1.96. India is next at $2.09, continuing the pattern of relatively low meal costs across South Asia. India's enormous culinary diversity provides diners with numerous inexpensive options, from local restaurants to street-food stalls.
Pakistan ranks eighth, with an average inexpensive meal costing $2.16. It is followed by Algeria, where the figure reaches $2.72, and Sri Lanka, which completes the top 10 at $2.88.
The figures show that affordable meals can be found across several different regions of the world. Seven of the 10 countries on the list are located in Asia, while Nigeria and Algeria represent Africa and Bolivia represents South America.
Overall, the Numbeo figures illustrate the substantial differences in everyday dining costs between countries. For budget-conscious travelers, these destinations offer opportunities to experience local food and culture while keeping meal expenses comparatively low.
However, actual prices can vary by city, restaurant, neighborhood and exchange-rate movements, so the figures should be viewed as country-level averages rather than fixed prices.