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, which is important if you’re a remote worker.

This guide lists ten highly recommended destination countries with stunning landscapes, colorful cities, and a detailed cost of living breakdown.

In many countries, the government highly supports digital nomads and ensures quality services and affordable living. Some even offer a Digital Nomad Visa to help smooth your transition to your favorite European country.

 

The 10 Cheapest Countries in Europe

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To find the cheapest European countries to live in, you must look at important factors affecting the cost of living. These include housing costs like rent and property, utility bills such as electricity and water, food expenses, healthcare costs, and transportation fees. Leisure activities and entertainment prices should also be part of the budget.

Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, Hungary, and Portugal are some of the most affordable countries in Europe, with lower housing, food, and transportation costs.

And it gets better! Some countries in this list offer the Digital Nomad Visa, which allows non-European citizens who work for foreign businesses to live in Europe.

1. Albania

Cheapest cities: Tirana, Shkodër, Vlorë

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 city features a mix of Ottoman and Soviet-era buildings, and you can expect to draw up a monthly budget of about $400 to $800 to live in Tirana. Albania is known for its beautiful landscapes, including stunning coastlines along the Ionian and Adriatic seas and charming cities like Shkodër and Vlorë, which are affordable. 

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. Additionally, this affordable country offers competitive prices for both renting and buying properties, which is perfect for anyone looking for a European country with natural beauty and a very affordable lifestyle. 

2. Romania

Cheapest cities: Cluj-Napoca, Brasov, Timisoara

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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.

The country’s rich cultural heritage, from medieval towns to the Carpathian Mountains and the Black Sea coast, adds to its desirability.

There are also fun festivals to attend, friendly locals, and a welcoming atmosphere. This is why Romania is a highly recommended destination for anyone looking to experience Eastern Europe on a budget.

3. Poland

Cheapest cities: Krakow, Wroclaw, Lodz

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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 country can plan a person’s monthly budget of about $600 to $1,000 to explore the beautiful beaches and historic cities. Still, there are other cheap cities to live in, like Krakow, Wroclaw, and Lodz, which will help expats save on rent, groceries, and dining out without compromising quality of life. For instance, the average rent in Poland would range between $350 – $600.  

Poland’s historic cities, castles, and large ancient forests further add to its charm, making it a well-rounded option for those wanting both cultural and natural attractions at a budget-friendly price.

4. Bulgaria

Cheapest cities: Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna

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Bulgaria, located in southeastern Europe, is a Balkan country with a rich history, bordered by Serbia, North Macedonia, Romania, Turkey, and Greece. It’s known to stand out for its culture and strong sense of family and community.

The country offers a variety of affordable cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna. Expats can get along with an average salary of $600 – $1,200, making it one of the cheapest European countries to live in. Bulgaria provides many modern amenities, including good healthcare options, especially in urban areas.

It has a moderate climate, beautiful Black Sea beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle that appeals to foreigners and tourists.

The economy in Bulgaria offers jobs mainly in the service and industrial sectors, such as IT, manufacturing, and tourism. This job diversity creates a strong job market and a lively expat community.

5. Czech Republic (Czechia)

Cheapest cities: Ostrava, Brno, Pilsen

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The Czech Republic is a beautiful and affordable destination in Central Europe, ideal for those seeking the cheapest European countries to live in. Known for its arts and culture and a stable economy, it is surrounded by Poland, Slovakia, Germany, and Austria.

The Czech Republic has some of the best cities in Europe for digital nomads. For instance, cities like Prague, Brno, and Ostrava offer an average monthly budget ranging from $800 to $1,200.

The country also has good internet speed, crucial for remote work, and a high-quality healthcare system. With its beautiful landscapes and historic sites, the Czech Republic provides an attractive environment for those seeking both affordability and a vibrant lifestyle in Europe.

6. Hungary

Cheapest cities: Debrecen Szeged and Miskolc

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 average cost of living ranges from $700 to $1,200 per month, making it easy for residents to enjoy a high quality of life without spending too much. It is also considered to be one of the European countries with affordable real estate, meaning rent is also on the cheaper side.

The country has an amazing culinary scene, and in terms of entertainment, Hungary has a lively nightlife and numerous festivals that attract expats and tourists.

In addition to entertainment options, there is a strong public healthcare system. Hungary’s central location in Europe makes it an ideal hub for travel throughout the continent. But there are also cities like Debrecen, Szeged, and Miskolc, which are great to explore, and each offers something unique, like delicious food, beautiful parks, and historical sites. One thing you can count on in Hungary is having an active social life and safety while living in one of the more affordable European countries.

7. Portugal

Cheapest cities: Coimbra, Braga, Évora

Portugal is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and warm weather. While the cost of living is increasing in some cities like Lisbon and Porto, making them comparatively expensive, it is still lower than in many Western European countries, especially in smaller cities like Coimbra and Braga. In these places, residents can expect to spend about $800 to $1,200 monthly, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle.

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.

Moreover, Portugal is known for its friendly people and strong expat community. It also has good tax benefits for foreign residents and a growing tech scene, which attracts digital nomads and retirees. The country is beautiful and affordable and is considered one of the easiest countries to immigrate to.

8. Slovakia

Cheapest cities: Košice, Prešov Nitra

Slovakia is one of Europe’s hidden gems, known for its beautiful mountains, charming towns, and rich history. The living expenses in Slovakia are lower than in many neighboring countries, especially in smaller cities like Košice and Prešov, where residents can enjoy a monthly budget of about $800 to $1,200.

The country offers a high standard of living with excellent healthcare services, a reliable transportation system, and a safe environment for families and individuals.

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

Serbia is one of the cheapest countries in Europe to live in. It offers an affordable lifestyle, a vibrant culture, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The cost of living is very low, especially in cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad, where housing and food are inexpensive. Monthly expenses average around $600 to $1,000, and this low-cost budget will allow you to enjoy its rich history, diverse culinary scene, and lively music festivals.

The country’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences creates a dynamic environment, making it an exciting place for travelers. Additionally, Serbia’s fast-developing infrastructure and expanding job market, particularly in tech and creative industries, offer promising opportunities for those looking to live and work here.

While English is widely spoken in urban areas, learning the local language, Serbian, can improve your experience and connections in the country.

 10. Latvia

Cheapest cities: Daugavpils, Jūrmala, Liepāja 

Latvia is also one of the cheapest European countries, and it attracts expats with its low cost of living and rich cultural heritage. The capital, Riga, beautifully combines modern living with historic charm and a low monthly budget of about $700 to $1,000.

Latvia is known for its stunning nature, including lush forests and beautiful coastlines, as well as a vibrant arts and music scene. The job market is growing for professionals seeking 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.

Take a look at our Complete Guide to Golden Visa Europe Programs for 2024

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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?

There are many affordable countries to live in Europe, such as Albania, Romania, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and Poland. Other European countries to consider are Portugal, Malta, Spain, Cyprus, and Greece.

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?

As of 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.