Top 15 Cheapest Countries To Live In Europe

What are the cheapest countries to live in Europe?

Are you someone who’s seeking adventure or merely looking to restart your life on fresh terms? Or, are you simply a digital nomad, young student or professional scouting for relevant opportunities to grow and evolve? If any of these conditions apply to you, then you may want to consider Europe. Pleasantly surprised? 

Known as one of the most culturally diverse continents with abounding touristic sites and experiences to herald, there are several cheap countries to live in Europe, boasting of an amazing quality of life and character, charming its way through every wanderer’s heart.

Now just imagine living amidst this unbridled magnificence. Yes, you heard that right! Read on to learn about some of the cheapest countries to live in Europe. 

Travel on a Budget: Cheapest Places To Live In Europe

We all know that moving to a different country or even continent is no mean feat. Leaving the excitement and adventurous spirit to venture into the unknown aside, as an expat, one of your main criteria will undoubtedly be the ability to communicate. After visiting a bunch a places in Europe, maybe having done multiple European itineraries, you’ve committed to spending more time here. Keeping that in mind, I’ve put together a list of some of the best places to live in Europe for English speakers. 

Zagreb, Croatia

Sitting along the River Sava in the northwestern region of Croatia, Zagreb is an important transport hub. It connects several European regions. Its versatile economy expands to the sectors of trade, chemicals, food processing and textiles.

Declared one of the cheapest countries to live in Europe, and the world, Zagreb is vastly known for its sporting activities, entertainment, museums and cuisine.

How much does it cost to live in Zagreb, Croatia, in 2023?

• Monthly long-term rent in the city centre – €600
• Cheap restaurant meal per person – €10
• Monthly public transport pass – €48
• Gym membership – €44

Furthermore, with around 80% of its population speaking English, Zagreb is one of the best places to in Europe for English speakers.

Some of the famous tourist hotspots worth exploring include the splendid Upper Town, cobblestoned-laden streets, St. Mark’s Church and the Museum of Broken Relationships, which houses possessions of ex-lovers. 

Why do digital nomads like Zagreb?

Zagreb is such a cool spot for digital nomads! It’s got this awesome vibe that’s a mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. And even though it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it’s still an amazing place to live and work.

One of the best things about Zagreb is its location. It’s right in the heart of Europe, which makes it easy to travel to other cities and countries. And even though it’s not a huge city, there’s still so much to do and see.

The city has a really cool startup scene, with plenty of coworking spaces and events where you can meet other digital nomads and entrepreneurs. And even though it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it’s still more affordable than many other European cities.

Zagreb is also just a really beautiful city. It’s got these gorgeous parks and gardens, historic buildings, and great museums and galleries. And the food scene is amazing too! You can find everything from traditional Croatian cuisine to international flavors from all around the world.

But what really makes Zagreb a great spot for digital nomads is the community. There’s a really welcoming and supportive community of expats and locals who are always willing to help out and make you feel at home. And there are always events and meetups happening, so you can easily build a network and make new friends.

Sofia, Bulgaria

The Balkan capital, Sofia has emerged as a hotspot for migrant digital nomads due to its low cost of living. It’s truly one of the cheapest places to live in Europe.

With a population spanning over 1.3 million people, this majestic historic and economic hub is located at the edge of Mount Vitosha. Nearby you can find the Iskar River and the Black Sea for day trips.  Check out the best itinerary for a 7-day road trip in Bulgaria I did in 2021.

How much does it cost to live in Sofia, Bulgaria, in 2023?

• Monthly long-term rent in the city centre – €450
• Cheap restaurant meal per person – €10.50
• Monthly public transport pass – €26
• Gym membership – €30

Enjoying a humid continental climate, Sofia definitely has a lot of fun things to do. Whether you’re in the mood to explore its heartlands or soak in the experience, there is something for everyone! 

Here are some of the most famous tourist sites in Sofia, Bulgaria:

1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: A stunning Orthodox cathedral that is one of the largest in the world.
2. Vitosha Boulevard: A pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants that is one of the main shopping and dining areas in Sofia.
3. National Palace of Culture: A massive cultural centre that hosts a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year.
4. Sofia Central Market Hall: A historic market hall that offers a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and other goods.
5. Sofia Synagogue: A beautiful synagogue that is one of the largest in Europe and features impressive architecture and design.
6. Saint Sofia Church: A medieval Orthodox church that is considered one of the oldest in the city and features impressive frescoes and murals.
7. National Museum of History: A museum that showcases Bulgaria’s rich history and culture through a variety of exhibits and artefacts.
8. Borisova Gradina Park: A large park located in the heart of the city that is a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
9. Ivan Vazov National Theater: A stunning theatre that hosts a variety of cultural events and performances throughout the year.
10. Boyana Church: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that features impressive frescoes and is considered one of the most important medieval churches in Bulgaria.

Bucharest, Romania

Considered an emerging technology hub with a flourishing entrepreneurial culture, the cosmopolitan city of Bucharest is brimming with abundant natural beauty. Situated amongst Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, this “little Paris” is well known for its gothic architecture and cultural heritage.

Touted as one of the cheapest places to live in Europe, Bucharest clearly has a lot to offer for expats and digital nomads. Since Bucharest is my hometown, I like to say that I was born in the perfect place to be a digital nomad.

How much does it cost to live in Bucharest, Romania, in 2023?

• Monthly long-term rent in the city centre – €500
• Cheap restaurant meal per person – €10.50
• Monthly public transport pass – €27
• Gym membership – €45

Relished for its outstanding gastronomy, there are several eateries and pubs. Coupled with the hospitality of the locals, Bucharest is a great place to network. Check out here the best restaurants in Bucharest.

Here are some of the most famous tourist sites in Bucharest, Romania:

1. Palace of the Parliament: One of the largest administrative buildings in the world, built during the communist era.
2. Old Town: A historic district in the heart of Bucharest with charming streets, beautiful architecture, and a lively atmosphere.
3. Romanian Athenaeum: A stunning concert hall and cultural center that is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Bucharest.
4. Village Museum: An outdoor museum that showcases traditional Romanian village life and culture through a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
5. Revolution Square: A historic square that was the site of the 1989 Romanian Revolution and is now a popular meeting place and tourist attraction.
6. Arcul de Triumf: A triumphal arch that was built to commemorate Romania’s independence and is a popular spot for photos.
7. Herastrau Park: The largest park in Bucharest, featuring beautiful gardens, lakes, and a variety of recreational activities.
8. National Museum of Art of Romania: A museum that features an impressive collection of Romanian art, as well as European art from the medieval to modern periods.
9. Stavropoleos Monastery: A beautiful 18th-century Orthodox monastery located in the heart of Bucharest’s Old Town.
10. Carol Park: A historic park with beautiful gardens, a lake, and a variety of statues and monuments, including the Mausoleum of King Carol I.

Vilnius, Lithuania

With an influential Baltic, Scandinavian vibe and a high human development index, Vilnius is one of the most reasonable places to live in Europe.  Located in Southeastern Lithuania, this “Jerusalem of the North” is the second-largest Baltic State, which has a prosperous historical legacy. 

A major economic, research and technology hub, Vilnius was declared as the “most forward-thinking nation with the greatest potential in the world” in 2021. A massive cultural hub, Lithuania is celebrated for its literature, music, theatre, crafts and architecture. 

How much does it cost to live in Vilnius, Lithuania, in 2023?

• Monthly long-term rent in the city centre – €750
• Cheap restaurant meal per person – €10
• Monthly public transport pass – €30
• Gym membership – €31

Here are some of the most famous tourist sites in Vilnius, Lithuania:

1. Vilnius Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and beautiful churches.
2. Gediminas Castle: A castle that sits atop a hill in the center of the city and offers stunning views of Vilnius.
3. St. Anne’s Church: A stunning Gothic church with intricate brickwork and beautiful stained glass windows.
4. Cathedral Square: The main square in Vilnius and home to the Vilnius Cathedral, the oldest and largest church in the city.
5. Užupis: A bohemian district that is known for its colorful street art, cafes, and unique vibe.
6. The Gates of Dawn: A historic gate that is home to a famous painting of the Virgin Mary and is a popular site for pilgrimage.
7. Bernardine Church and Monastery: A beautiful Baroque church and monastery that is known for its stunning interior.
8. Vilnius University: The oldest university in the Baltic states, with beautiful historic buildings and a charming courtyard.
9. National Museum of Lithuania: A museum that showcases the history and culture of Lithuania through a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
10. The Hill of Three Crosses: A hilltop monument that offers stunning views of Vilnius and is said to have been erected in memory of a group of monks who were killed by pagans.

Riga, Latvia

Lying on the Gulf of Riga, this city lies at the junction between River Daugava and the Baltic Sea. With its historical centre being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Riga is known for its unique architecture. In terms of communication, locals generally converse in Latvian, the country’s official language. 

This social and economic capital is the perfect place for historical and cultural patrons. The 2006 NATO World Summit and several pioneering sporting events held in this primate city have made Riga prominent in world affairs. Being one of the cheapest places to live in Europe, Riga is also one of the most beautiful capitals of the continent.

How much does it cost to live in Riga, Latvia, in 2023?

• Monthly long-term rent in the city centre – €500
• Cheap restaurant meal per person – €12
• Monthly public transport pass – €30
• Gym membership – €40

Here are some of the most famous tourist sites in Riga, Latvia:

1. Old Town Riga: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and beautiful churches.
2. Riga Central Market: One of the largest and most vibrant outdoor markets in Europe, featuring a variety of fresh produce, meats, and other goods.
3. Riga Castle: A historic castle that has served as the residence of the president of Latvia since 1922.
4. St. Peter’s Church: A stunning Gothic church with a tower that offers panoramic views of Riga’s Old Town.
5. Riga Cathedral: The largest church in Latvia, with a stunning interior and a rich history.
6. Freedom Monument: A monument that symbolizes Latvia’s independence and is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike.
7. Art Nouveau District: A neighbourhood in Riga that is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture.
8. Latvian National Museum of Art: A museum that features a collection of Latvian and international art from the 18th century to the present.
9. The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia: A museum that tells the story of Latvia’s occupation by Soviet and Nazi forces during World War II.
10. Jurmala: A resort town located just outside of Riga that is known for its beautiful beaches, spas, and natural beauty.

Tallinn, Estonia

Interweaving ancient architecture with modern structures makes this juxtaposing backdrop simply resplendent! Situated in Northern Estonia on the Gulf of Finland, this capital city is revered as the primary industrial, cultural and financial centre of Estonia. Enjoying warm summers and chilly winters, the country’s E-residency programs make nomadic migration easy. Check out the top things to do and see in Tallinn, Estonia.

Moreover, with the locals being super friendly and helpful, it is a delight to soak in the inherent culture of this inland. Furthermore, it is also one of the best places to live in Europe for English speakers as a majority of the population communicates in the same. 

How much does it cost to live in Tallinn, Estonia, in 2023?

• Monthly long-term rent in the city centre – €700
• Cheap restaurant meal per person – €12
• Monthly public transport pass – €30
• Gym membership – €52

Here are some of the most famous tourist sites in Tallinn, Estonia:

1. Tallinn Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and beautiful churches.
2. Toompea Castle: A historic castle that has served as the seat of power for Estonian rulers since the Middle Ages.
3. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: A stunning Orthodox cathedral that is one of the most iconic buildings in Tallinn.
4. Town Hall Square: The main square in Tallinn’s Old Town, featuring historic buildings, outdoor cafes, and live performances.
5. St. Olaf’s Church: A Gothic church that was once the tallest building in the world and offers stunning views of Tallinn from its tower.
6. Kadriorg Palace: A beautiful Baroque palace and park that was built for Peter the Great and is now home to the Estonian Art Museum.
7. Kumu Art Museum: A museum that features a collection of Estonian and international art from the 18th century to the present.
8. Estonian Open Air Museum: An outdoor museum that showcases traditional Estonian village life and culture through a variety of exhibits and artifacts.
9. Tallinn TV Tower: A 314-meter tall tower that offers panoramic views of Tallinn and the surrounding area.
10. Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour: A maritime museum that features a collection of ships and submarines from Estonia’s maritime history.

Warsaw, Poland

An ideal combination of picturesque locales, art and tumultuous history, this European region is more than what meets the eye.  One of the cheapest places to live in Europe, this metropolitan city is located in east-central Poland by the banks of River Fistula, housing around 1.8 million people. It has proven to be a  dynamic political, economic and cultural frontier in this region. Moreover, its Old Town Square has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How much does it cost to live in Warsaw, Poland, in 2023?

• Monthly long-term rent in the city centre – €850
• Cheap restaurant meal per person – €9
• Monthly public transport pass – €25
• Gym membership – €32

Here are some of the most famous tourist sites in Warsaw, Poland:

1. Old Town Warsaw: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and beautiful churches.
2. Royal Castle: A historic castle that was the official residence of the Polish monarchs and now houses a museum.
3. Palace of Culture and Science: A massive building that was a gift from the Soviet Union and is the tallest building in Poland.
4. Lazienki Park: A large park that is home to several beautiful gardens, lakes, and palaces, including the Palace on the Isle.
5. Warsaw Uprising Museum: A museum that tells the story of the 1944 Warsaw Uprising against the Nazis.
6. POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews: A museum that tells the story of Jewish life in Poland from the Middle Ages to the present day.
7. St. John’s Archcathedral: A stunning cathedral that dates back to the 14th century and features impressive Gothic architecture.
8. National Museum: A museum that features a collection of Polish art, as well as European art from the medieval to modern periods.
9. Wilanow Palace: A beautiful Baroque palace that was the residence of Polish monarchs and is now home to a museum.
10. Copernicus Science Centre: A science museum that features interactive exhibits on science and technology, including virtual reality experiences.

Budapest, Hungary

Haven’t we fantasized about visiting this historical gem at least once in our lifetime? Located in Central Hungary, Budapest is not only one of the safest and cheapest places to live in Europe, but is also a frontrunner in the economic, entertainment and financial domains. Oozing with congenial locals, Budapest truly is one of the best places to live in Europe for English speakers.

Enjoying a subtropical climate and numerous travel highlights, this vibrant city has a happening nightlife that will never leave you bored.

How much does it cost to live in Budapest, Hungary, in 2023?

• Monthly accommodation in the city centre €550
• cheap restaurant meal €10
• Monthly transport pass €25
• Monthly gym membership €50

Why do digital nomads like Budapest?

Digital nomads absolutely love Budapest because it’s a hip and trendy city that has a fantastic vibe! It’s a melting pot of different cultures, and the city itself has a bit of an eclectic and bohemian feel to it. Not only that, but Budapest is also very affordable, making it the perfect place for digital nomads who are trying to save money while still living it up in style. The city is packed with coffee shops, coworking spaces, and other amenities that make it easy to live and work there. Plus, the food scene is amazing – you can find everything from traditional Hungarian cuisine to international flavours from all around the world.

From the quiet, suburban life in Buda to enjoying the colourful atmosphere of Belváros, Budapest caters to one and all.

Bratislava, Slovakia

This enchanting landlocked country houses numerous natural parks, UNESCO sites and castles. Its capital, Bratislava, bustles with fascinating history, art and culture. Surrounding the River Danube, this capital city boasts of great interconnectedness with its neighbouring countries.

Also, deemed as one of the English-friendly locales, it has seen a surge in the number of immigrants in recent years. For a swiftly-expanding economy, it flourishes in banking, telecommunications and trade.  

How much does it cost to live in Bratislava, Slovakia, in 2023?

• Monthly accommodation in the city centre €700
• cheap restaurant meal €9
• Monthly transport pass €30
• Monthly gym membership €36

Why do digital nomads like Bratislava?

Well, let me tell you, Bratislava is a total hidden gem for digital nomads! It’s got all the benefits of a big city, but without the big city prices or crowds. It’s like a little slice of paradise in the heart of Europe!

One of the best things about Bratislava is that it’s super affordable. You can live like royalty without having to break the bank, which is perfect for digital nomads who want to save money while still living it up. The city has plenty of cool coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants, so you’ll never be short of places to work or hang out.

Another great thing about Bratislava is its location. It’s right in the centre of Europe, so it’s super easy to travel to other cities and countries. You can easily hop on a train or a bus and explore nearby places like Vienna or Budapest.

The city itself is just so darn charming, with its cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and medieval architecture. It’s got a very relaxed and laid-back vibe, which is perfect for digital nomads who want to slow down and take a break from the hustle and bustle of big city life.

All in all, Bratislava is a fantastic place for digital nomads who want a high quality of life, affordability, and a sense of community. It’s like a little slice of heaven in the heart of Europe, and once you go there, you’ll never want to leave!

Prague, Czech Republic

Appraised as one of the cheapest places to live in Europe, Prague is an amalgamation of old-world charm and modernization. Brimming with pretty surroundings, this city has seen an annual rise in the number of foreigners settling here due to its appealing work/life balance norms.

Located at the Vlatava River, one can heavily see the influence of the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque ages. From transport and pharmaceuticals to finance and exports, Prague has emerged as a glorious employment hub. People generally prefer to converse in their local language.

How much does it cost to live in Prague, Czech Republic, in 2023?

• Monthly accommodation in the city centre €1,000
• cheap restaurant meal €10
• Monthly transport pass €25
• Monthly gym membership €55

Efficiently connected through their tram service, Malá Strana and Vinohrady are popular areas to live in. 

Why do digital nomads like Prague?

Oh man, Prague is just the bee’s knees when it comes to digital nomad destinations! First off, the city is just drop-dead gorgeous, with its stunning architecture, winding streets, and breathtaking views. It’s like a fairytale come to life!

Another thing that makes Prague a digital nomad hotspot is its affordability. You can live like a king or queen without having to spend a ton of cash, which is perfect for remote workers who want to stretch their budget as far as it can go. Plus, there are plenty of great cafes, restaurants, and coworking spaces where you can work and hang out without breaking the bank.

One of the best things about Prague is its central location in Europe. You can easily travel to other cities and countries, like Berlin, Vienna, or Budapest, which is perfect for nomads who love to explore new places.

The city also has a really cool vibe, with a thriving art scene, plenty of music festivals and concerts, and a nightlife that just won’t quit. And the people are just so friendly and welcoming, which is great for nomads who are looking to make new friends and build a community.

Lisbon, Portugal

Ola, lovelies! Living up to the claim of the ‘sunny side up’ life, this Atlantic coastal city is situated by the bank of the River Tagus, and Monsanto Forest Park, replete with rich wildlife. 

As the largest city of Portugal, this capital plays an important role in propagating finance, media, arts, commerce and the other economic sectors in the country. Showing off its plethora of beaches and rivers, the eclectic Lisbon Metropolitan area is touted as one of the best places to live in Europe for English Speakers.

And, its fantastic cuisine and nightlife, warm, friendly locals and diverse job opportunities make it every nomad’s dream. If you’re an expat moving to this wonderland, then don’t fret- you’ll feel at home soon! 

How much does it cost to live in Lisbon, Portugal, in 2023?

• Monthly accommodation in the city centre €1,250
• cheap restaurant meal €12
• Monthly transport pass €39
• Monthly gym membership €40

Why do digital nomads love Lisbon?

Lisbon is one of the hottest digital nomad destinations around, and it’s easy to see why! The city has so much to offer, from its rich history and culture to its beautiful beaches and warm climate. And even though it’s not as cheap as it used to be, it’s still an amazing place to live and work as a digital nomad.

First off, Lisbon is just a beautiful city. It’s got these winding streets, colorful buildings, and breathtaking views that will just knock your socks off. And the food is amazing too! You can find everything from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international flavours from all around the world.

But what really makes Lisbon a digital nomad hotspot is its thriving startup scene. There are plenty of coworking spaces, networking events, and other resources available for those who work remotely. And even though the city isn’t as cheap as it used to be, it’s still more affordable than many other European cities, which makes it a great option for digital nomads who are looking to save money.

Plus, Lisbon has a great community of expats and digital nomads, which means that there are always events and meetups happening where you can meet new people and build a support network.

And let’s not forget about the beaches! Lisbon is just a stone’s throw away from some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, which makes it the perfect place for digital nomads who love to surf, swim, or just soak up the sun.

Ready to live in Europe?

Now, now! With this comprehensive guide, I hope I’ve contributed to making your decision process easier. Wherever you decide to move, always remember one thing- it is of paramount importance to do thorough research on the country your wanderer’s personality takes you to while respecting, embracing and accepting their culture completely. 

In conclusion, all I’d like to say is be fearless in your move, and hustle hard! The digital world has rightly given us wings to soar!

PS. If you ever need more inspiration or you’re looking to move to another cheap country in Europe, check out the official stats on Statista and the living costs on Numeo.