The 10 Cheapest European Country To Live in 2025

If you are looking for the cheapest European country to live in, you must consider the average cost of living, including rent, groceries, transport, and internet. This is especially important if you’re a remote worker. Fortunately, reports like the Cost of Living Index rank everyday expenses in different countries to provide an overview of affordable nations. 

This guide lists ten of the most affordable countries in Europe, along with a breakdown of everyday expenses. These nations are cheap and offer a good quality of life and great amenities for expats. Some even offer Digital Nomad Visas to help foreign nationals transition to their favorite European country.

We will cover: 

• What is the Cost of Living Index?
• The 10 Cheapest Countries in Europe

What is the Cost of Living Index?

The Cost of Living Index compares everyday expenses across countries and cities and clearly measures affordability. It is helpful for expats, travelers, and businesses when deciding where to move or visit.

The global database calculates this index using factors like:

• Groceries: Food and household item prices
• Restaurants: Dining costs
• Transportation: Public transit and vehicle expenses
• Utilities: Electricity, water, and heating costs

Since the index focuses on daily living expenses, it excludes rent. A higher-ranking country indicates higher costs, while a lower-ranking one suggests greater affordability.

The 10 Cheapest Countries in Europe

Finding the cheapest European countries to live in is not only about low living costs. Some of the best countries to live in also offer residency options, like the Digital Nomad Visa, which allows non-European citizens working for foreign businesses to live in Europe. Some also offer a Golden Visa to individuals who are interested in longer residency periods.

1. Albania

• Cheapest cities: Tirana, Shkodër, Vlorë
• Cost of Living Index ranking: 61

Albania is one of the cheapest countries located in Southeast Europe. It attracts expats with its low cost of living and rich culture, especially in the lively capital city of Tirana. The country is also known for its beautiful landscapes, including stunning coastlines along the Ionian and Adriatic seas and charming cities like Shkodër and Vlorë. To live in Tirana, you can expect to draw up a monthly budget of about $400 to $800.

Getting around in Albania will be easy as the country has a good public transportation system with low-cost buses and taxis and an improving healthcare system with many services available at low prices. In Tirana, the capital, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around €350 per month. In smaller cities like Shkodër or Elbasan, rent drops significantly, with prices around €200–€250 per month for a similar apartment. 

2. Romania

• Cheapest cities: Cluj-Napoca, Brasov, Timisoara
• Cost of Living Index ranking: 89

Romania is one of the cheapest European countries and a highly recommended destination for affordable living. Monthly expenses generally range from $500 to $900, and cities like Cluj-Napoca, Brasov, and Timisoara are known for low housing costs, affordable groceries, and cheap dining. Romania is also ideal for digital nomads and remote workers because it offers fast internet for $10 to $15 monthly and many affordable cafes and coworking spaces. 

Rent in Bucharest, the capital, averages around €500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. In contrast, in smaller cities like Cluj-Napoca or Timișoara, rents range from €300 to €400. As for healthcare, expats can access public healthcare by paying into the national insurance system, though many opt for private insurance for faster and higher-quality care. Romania is a highly recommended destination for anyone looking to experience Eastern Europe on a budget.

3. Poland

• Cheapest cities: Krakow, Wroclaw, Lodz
• Cost of Living Index ranking: 67

Poland is a centrally located country in Europe with a population of over 37.7 million. It’s the fifth largest country in the European Union. Poland is surrounded by Belarus, Ukraine, Slovakia, Germany, and the Czech Republic. To the north, it has the Baltic Sea, which offers beaches and scenic coastal towns.

Anyone looking to enjoy the budget-friendly country can plan a person’s monthly budget of about $600 to $1,000 to explore the beautiful beaches and historic cities. Rent ranges from $350 to $600 monthly in towns like Krakow, Wroclaw, and Lodz, while in Warsaw, the capital, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around $700. Poland offers fast internet at affordable rates and a strong healthcare system, with expats often opting for private insurance for quicker service.

4. Bulgaria

• Cheapest cities: Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna
• Cost of Living Index ranking: 81

Bulgaria, located in southeastern Europe, is a Balkan country with a rich history. It borders Serbia, North Macedonia, Romania, Turkey, and Greece. Bulgaria stands out for its culture and strong sense of family and community.

Bulgaria is one of the most affordable European countries in which to live. Rent in Sofia averages around $400 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, while in smaller cities like Plovdiv, it can be as low as $200.

Expats can enjoy an average salary of $600 to $1,200, and Bulgaria provides modern amenities, including good healthcare, especially in urban areas. The country has a moderate climate, beautiful Black Sea beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle, which attracts both foreigners and tourists. Its economy also offers jobs in sectors like IT, manufacturing, and tourism, supporting a strong job market and a lively expat community.

5. Czech Republic (Czechia)

• Cheapest cities: Ostrava, Brno, Pilsen
• Cost of Living Index ranking: 54

The Czech Republic is a beautiful and affordable destination in Central Europe, surrounded by Poland, Slovakia, Germany, and Austria. The Czech Republic has some of the best cities in Europe for digital nomads. Living in cities like Prague, Brno, and Ostrava requires an average monthly budget of $800 to $1,200. In Prague, rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $700 per month, while in Brno and Ostrava, it’s more affordable at approximately $500.

The Czech Republic has good internet speed and a high-quality healthcare system. Expats can access both public and private healthcare, with many opting for private services. The country also offers a digital nomad visa, making it a great option for remote workers. Beautiful landscapes and historic sites make it an affordable and vibrant place to live in Europe.

6. Hungary

• Cheapest cities: Debrecen Szeged and Miskolc
• Cost of Living Index ranking:74

Hungary, also located in Central Europe, is famous for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and rich cultural traditions, especially in the country’s capital, Budapest.

Hungary’s living costs range from $700 to $1,200 per month. Rent is affordable, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $600 in Budapest and $400 in smaller cities like Debrecen and Szeged. The country also has a vibrant culinary scene, lively nightlife, and festivals that attract expats and tourists.

In addition to entertainment options, there is a strong public healthcare system, and the country re-introduced the Hungary Golden Visa program which offers residency in exchange for an investment in the country’s real estate fund.

7. Portugal

• Cheapest cities: Coimbra, Braga, Évora
• Cost of Living Index ranking:58

Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and warm weather. It has a large English-speaking population, which makes integration easier.  While living expenses in cities like Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, and Porto are higher, smaller cities like Coimbra and Braga remain affordable, with monthly costs around $800 to $1,200.

The average in Lisbon is $1,200, while it’s about $700 in Coimbra and Braga. Expats have access to Portugal’s public healthcare system, which offers high-quality care at a low cost. Private healthcare options are also available at lower prices than in Western Europe, which makes Portugal one of the best countries for affordable living.

The country also offers expats the option to live there longer through the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, which grants a residence permit to remote workers who can meet the minimum income requirements. There is also the attractive Portugal Golden Visa for those who want to stay longer and enjoy the benefits of living in Portugal. The country is beautiful, affordable, and considered one of the easiest countries to immigrate to.

8. Slovakia

• Cheapest cities: Košice, Prešov Nitra
• Cost of Living Index ranking: 55

Slovakia is a hidden gem in Europe, known for its stunning mountains, charming towns, and rich history. The cost of living is lower than in many neighboring countries, with a monthly budget of $800 to $1,200, enough to live comfortably in cities like Košice and Prešov. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages $800 in Bratislava and $500 in smaller cities. Expats can access Slovakia’s public healthcare system, though many prefer private care for faster services.

Slovakia has many outdoor activities, including hiking in the High Tatras mountains and exploring national parks. With its central location, Slovakia is a convenient base for traveling to other European destinations like Austria, Hungary, and Poland, with affordable options for long-distance train tickets. The increasing number of expats and a growing economy, especially in the tech and automotive sectors, make it an appealing place for young professionals looking for new opportunities.

 9. Serbia

• Cheapest cities: Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš
• Cost of Living Index ranking: 77

Serbia is one of the cheapest countries in Europe to live in, offering an affordable lifestyle, vibrant culture, and a welcoming atmosphere. The cost of living is low, especially in cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad, with monthly expenses averaging $600 to $1,000.

Rent in Belgrade is around $500 for a one-bedroom apartment, while in smaller cities like Novi Sad and Niš, it’s closer to $350. Expats can access Serbia’s public healthcare system, but many opt for private healthcare for better service and shorter wait times.

Serbia’s growing job market, particularly in tech and creative industries, makes it a great place to live. The country also offers the Serbia Residency by Investment program, which allows foreigners to gain residency through real estate.

 10. Latvia

• Cheapest cities: Daugavpils, Jūrmala, Liepāja
• Cost of Living Index ranking: 51

Latvia is one of the cheapest European countries, attracting expats with its low cost of living and rich cultural heritage. The capital, Riga, beautifully combines modern living with historic charm, with a low monthly budget of about $700 to $1,000. Rent in Riga averages around $600 for a one-bedroom apartment, while in smaller cities like Daugavpils and Jelgava, it’s closer to $400. Expats can access Latvia’s public healthcare system, but many opt for private healthcare for quicker service and better quality care.

The job market is growing for professionals looking for career opportunities in Latvia, particularly in the tech and finance sectors. Latvia’s affordability, natural beauty, and dynamic culture make it a standout option among European countries for those seeking a new home. Fortunately, there is a possibility of moving to the country through the Latvia Golden Visa with a minimum investment of just €50,000.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about the Cheapest Country in Europe

What are the cheapest countries to live in Europe?

The 10 cheapest European countries are:

1. Albania
2. Romania
3. Portugal
4. Slovakia
6. Poland.
7. Hungary
8. Bulgaria
9. Czech Republic
10. Serbia

What European country has the lowest cost of living?

Bulgaria is often the cheapest country in Europe, with living costs of $600 to $1,000 per month and rent as low as $300 outside Sofia. Other affordable options include Romania, Albania, Poland, and Portugal, where living expenses are still lower than in most Western European countries.

Which European country has the lowest prices?

Cheap countries in Europe include Albania, Romania, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and Poland. The cost of living in a cheap country will, however, depend on your lifestyle and spending habits.

What is the cheapest European country to live in 2024?

Bulgaria is often cited as the cheapest European country to live in, with low costs for housing, food, and transportation.

What are the cheapest countries to live in Europe for digital nomads?

The cheapest countries for digital nomads in Europe offer low living costs, affordable housing, and good internet access. They also have vibrant cultures and welcoming communities, making it easy to settle in. These countries include:

1. Bulgaria
2. Romania
3. Hungary
4. Poland
5. Portugal
6. Serbia

What is the cheapest and safest country to live in Europe?

The cheapest and safest country to live in Europe is often considered to be Portugal. It offers a low cost of living, especially in smaller cities, along with a high quality of life and a strong sense of safety. Other affordable and safe options include Bulgaria and Slovakia, which also provide a welcoming atmosphere and low living costs.