Priced out of Austin, he bought a one-way ticket out of the US. Now, he lives on a Thai island for a fraction of the cost.

Mike Holp left the US because of the high cost of living. Now, he's living in Koh Samui, Thailand, and has no regrets.

Amanda Goh.

• Mike Holp, now 38, left Austin in 2019 due to the high cost of living.
• He bought a one-way ticket to Asia and eventually settled in Koh Samui, Thailand.
• Island life is slower and much more affordable; his monthly expenses rarely exceed $1,800.

Seven years ago, Mike Holp was riding through the streets of Austin as a food delivery worker, earning between $15 and $20 an hour.