Are you looking for the cheapest places to live in Europe? When people think of Europe, the first thing that comes to mind for many is that it’s expensive, particularly in Western Europe, the Nordic countries, and the Eurozone. In reality, there are plenty of inexpensive European cities to live in. The cheapest places to live in Europe are Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and North Macedonia. Based on the latest cost of living data from Numbeo.com, we have compiled a list of the 15 cheapest places to live in Europe for those considering settling down.
10 Cheapest Places to Live in Europe
Romania
Romania is one of the cheapest European cities to live in, with monthly living expenses typically ranging from $500 to $900. According to Numbeo data, the cost of living in Romania is approximately 50% lower than in the United States and 30% lower than in the United Kingdom. Romania boasts some of Europe’s fastest internet speeds, attracting a large community of digital nomads and remote workers. High-speed internet is available for just $10 to $15 per month, with plenty of affordable cafes and co-working spaces complementing the digital lifestyle. Romania is also a rewarding destination to explore, boasting stunning castles, mountains, and churches all within easy reach. A one-bedroom apartment in downtown Bucharest averages around $530 monthly, while smaller cities like Cluj-Napoca and Timișoara offer rents between $320 and $400. For healthcare, expats can access public medical services by paying into the national health insurance system.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is the cheapest country in the EU for consumer goods and services, with living expenses less than half the EU average, typically at $550 to $750 per month. For travelers and expats, Bulgaria stands as one of Europe’s hidden gems, consistently appearing on nearly every list of affordable European destinations. Transportation and dining are remarkably affordable in Bulgaria, with long-distance train tickets starting at $5 and dinner with drinks available for under $10. Even for non-EU citizens, obtaining legal residency is relatively straightforward. Located in the southeastern Balkans, Bulgaria shares borders with Serbia, North Macedonia, and other nations. This ancient civilization is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and strong sense of family and community. Beyond its historic cities, Bulgaria offers stunning landscapes, including summer beaches along the Black Sea coast and winter ski resorts in the mountains. With its mild climate, Black Sea beaches, and relaxed pace of life, the country boasts ample job opportunities in IT, manufacturing, tourism, and other sectors. This has fostered a vibrant expat community, continuously attracting global migrants and tourists.
Albania
Albania ranks among the most inexpensive European countries in Southeast Europe, with a monthly living budget ranging from approximately $500 to $800. The nation attracts numerous expatriates with its low cost of living and multicultural atmosphere, offering exceptional value for housing, dining, and daily expenses. For housing, a one-bedroom apartment in central Tirana rents for about $375 monthly. In smaller cities like Shkodër and Elbasan, comparable apartments cost only $214 to $268 per month, making them even more economical. Daily dining expenses also fall well below European averages. For instance, a pizza costs just $3, and a cup of coffee is about $1.50. Additionally, Albania boasts convenient local transportation with affordable buses and taxis, alongside a continuously improving healthcare system where costs remain relatively low. This makes it an ideal destination for tourism and short-term stays.
Hungary
Hungary is considered one of the most beautiful countries and one of the cheapest places to live in Europe. The cost of living here is remarkably reasonable, with monthly expenses covered by just $700 to $1,200: a one-bedroom apartment in Budapest rents for around $600, while smaller cities like Debrecen and Szeged offer rentals as low as $400. Hungary is also renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, rich history, and culture. It boasts diverse wildlife, national parks, forests, vegetation, hills, and valleys. As one of Europe’s countries with the lowest GDP, Hungary consequently offers some of the continent’s most affordable living costs. If you seek a luxurious lifestyle, certain regions of Hungary may not suit your needs. However, if you are looking for a comfortable lifestyle that covers all basic needs with room for leisure, $1,000 should suffice in most Hungarian cities.
Poland
Poland, located in Central Europe with a population exceeding 37.7 million, is the fifth-largest country in the European Union. It boasts beautiful national parks, medieval towns, and a rich history. Poland has the lowest cost of living in Europe, especially for public transportation and food, with a comfortable lifestyle achievable on $600 to $1,000 per month. According to Numbeo data, the cost of living in Warsaw is nearly 30% cheaper than in London and approximately 20% cheaper than in New York City. Rent is relatively affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averaging just $600 per month. Monthly rents in cities like Kraków and Wrocław range from $350 to $600. Poland offers affordable high-speed internet and a well-developed healthcare system, though expats often opt for private insurance to access faster service.
Czech
If you’re looking for the least expensive places to live in Europe, the Czech Republic is a great choice—it’s also one of the happiest countries in the world. The cost of living here is quite reasonable, especially compared to the United States and many Western European countries, ranging from $800 to $1,100 per month. Prague is considered one of the most livable cities in Europe, though the cost of living there is higher than in other parts of the Czech Republic. The Czech Republic boasts many other beautiful places and is affordable to live in or travel to. If you don’t mind residing in or visiting smaller towns like Ostrava or Olomouc, this country might be your ideal choice. The Czech Republic offers a wealth of attractions, ranging from stunning national parks with pristine forests to vibrant cities dotted with palaces and churches. If you’re a history buff or enjoy visiting castles, this country could also be your perfect destination.
Serbia
Serbia is an affordable destination in Europe that attracts expats with its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere. Monthly living costs in cities such as Belgrade and Novi Sad typically range from about $600 to $1,000 (this figure covers rent, food, transport and other daily expenses), while a one-bedroom apartment in Belgrade may rent for around $500 and smaller cities like Novi Sad and Niš can offer one-bed flats from about $350. Major urban centres are generally considered relatively safe at night, though standard city precautions are still advised. Serbia features a public healthcare system—expats should note that accessing full public services commonly requires registration or insurance—and a growing job market, particularly in IT and creative industries. For digital nomads, Belgrade and Novi Sad provide modern coworking spaces and lively urban life, while the countryside offers peaceful natural retreats for remote work.
Slovakia
Slovakia is among the most affordable European countries, where one can live comfortably on a monthly budget of $700 to $1,200, especially compared to other European nations. Living in cities like Prague, Brno, and Ostrava requires an average monthly budget of $800–1200. In Prague, a one-bedroom apartment rents for about $700 monthly, while Brno and Ostrava are more affordable at around $500. Slovakia stands as Europe’s hidden gem, renowned for its majestic mountains, charming towns, and rich historical heritage. Outdoor activities abound here, from hiking in the High Tatras to exploring national parks. Centrally located in Europe, Slovakia offers easy access to Austria, Hungary, Poland, and beyond, with affordable long-distance train tickets. As its foreign population grows, thriving industries like technology and automotive make it an attractive destination for young professionals seeking opportunities.
Estonia
Estonia is a beautiful country in Northern Europe, boasting nearly 1,500 islands and bordered by the Baltic Sea on one side and the Gulf of Finland on the other. It is renowned for its stunning beaches, forests, sunsets, lakes, castles, churches, and many other scenic attractions. Estonia is one of the cheapest countries in Northern Europe to live in. The capital, Tallinn, costs about 30% less than Western European cities like London and Paris, averaging around $900 per month. Smaller towns are even more affordable. Rent is one of Estonia’s major expenses, with a one-bedroom apartment in central Tallinn costing around $600 per month. Dining at a mid-range restaurant averages about $50, while a quick meal from a street vendor or fast-food chain costs less than $5. The country warmly welcomes foreigners, with people speaking multiple languages, including English, Russian, Finnish, and even German, French, and Spanish. Estonia offers abundant job opportunities in engineering, education, and healthcare, making it an excellent place to live for foreigners from around the world.
Spain
Spain is a diverse nation with 17 autonomous regions, each offering a rich historical and cultural heritage. Known for its architectural marvels, Spain is also one of the most affordable countries to live in Europe. The average monthly cost of living for a single person ranges between $1,296 and $1,620, which covers all basic expenses, including rent and groceries.
Housing costs are generally lower in smaller towns and villages compared to major cities. Utilities are reasonably priced, and everyday food items remain affordable. For instance, in Madrid, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages around $16, while staple goods like milk and bread can be purchased for under $5.40. A one-bedroom apartment located outside the city center typically rents for about $1,044 per month, with basic utilities costing around $164 monthly. Spain truly has it all: stunning beaches, historic monuments, charming streets, vibrant markets, and world-renowned cuisine. Its cities are among the most beautiful in the world, celebrated for their scenic coastlines, lush forests, and culinary delights.
Conclusion
Living in Europe doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. From the vibrant streets of Kraków to the sunny shores of Valencia, these affordable cities prove that you can enjoy rich culture, quality of life, and new experiences without spending a fortune. Whether you’re a student, digital nomad, or simply someone seeking a fresh start, the cheapest places to live in Europe offer the perfect balance of cost and comfort. The key is choosing the city that best matches your lifestyle and ambitions.
FAQs About Cheapest Places to Live in Europe
The cheapest places to live in Europe are Romania, Bulgaria, Poland, and Portugal.
Romania is the most affordable European city to live in, ranging from $500 to $900 per month.
Yes, Eastern Europe is generally far more affordable than Western Europe, especially for housing and daily expenses.
