Do diplomats receive free living accommodations overseas?

Question

I was wondering because I want to be a diplomat, but they only get paid $55,000 for a doctrate degree. So I was wondering if they at least get to the foreign country and live there for free.

I was also wondering if it is possible to move from one country to another more frequently than 2-4 years (like every 1 and a half years).

Lastly I was wondering if throughout you career you have the option to stay overseas 100% of the time.

Thanks

Answer 1

If you're a US diplomat you will be in the Foreign Service.

Here's their link: http://www.careers.state.gov/officer/ind...

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Answer 2

Yes, housing is provided for US diplomats overseas.  The amount of time one spends in a particular assignment is fixed, and depends on the level of the job and the hardship of living in that country.  For example, junior officers in Paris or Athens serve two years; mid-level and seniors serve three years.  In Iraq and Afghanistan it's only one year for everyone.

It is certainly possible to serve overseas for an entire career.  You don't rise as high, usually, but that's not the only measure of success, is it?