Europe isn’t exactly famous for being “budget-friendly.” Most people imagine high prices in Parisian cafés or €5 espressos in Milan. But you know what?
That’s not the whole story. Tucked away between postcard-perfect cities and tourist-heavy capitals are countries where your euros stretch like yoga instructors at sunrise.
If you’re a digital nomad, remote worker, retired expat, or just daydreaming about packing it all in and heading somewhere new—this list might just nudge you over the edge.
Ready? Let’s talk affordable European living.
1. Albania – The Underdog That’s Winning Hearts
Let’s start with a surprise pick. Albania is often overlooked, which is honestly part of the charm. Nestled between Greece and Montenegro, it has Mediterranean beaches without Mediterranean prices. You can rent a one-bedroom apartment in Tirana for under €300 a month. Yep, you read that right.
Food? Ridiculously cheap. Coffee culture? Strong. And if you’re into hiking or wild beaches—this place delivers.
Oh, and English is more widely spoken than you might expect. Especially among younger locals. You might even start to enjoy the quirky mix of Italian, Ottoman, and Communist influences in daily life.
2. Bulgaria – Cheap, Cheerful, and Surprisingly Fast Internet
Sofia doesn’t get the praise it deserves. It’s modern, laid-back, and incredibly affordable. Rent can be around €400 for a decent place. Groceries and dining out are also budget-friendly, grab a full meal for under €6 in many places.
But here’s the kicker: Bulgaria has some of the fastest internet speeds in Europe. Seriously. So if you’re working remotely, this could be the perfect mix of chill and connected.
One minor note winters are cold. But that just means you can cozy up in a rustic mountain village for less than you’d spend on a weekend in London.
3. Romania – Europe’s Most Underrated Blend of Old and New
Romania often feels like two timelines merged. You’ll see horse-drawn carts on the same roads as electric cars. And honestly, that duality makes it fascinating.
Cost-wise? In cities like Cluj-Napoca or Timisoara, you’re looking at rent under €400, even in central neighborhoods. And yes, Bucharest is a bit pricier—but still way cheaper than Western Europe.
The tech scene is growing, locals are friendly, and the Carpathian Mountains? Breathtaking.
4. North Macedonia – Quiet, Cheap, and Kind of Addictive
If you’ve never considered North Macedonia, you’re not alone. But that’s exactly why it remains one of the most affordable places to live in Europe.
Skopje is charming in a slightly offbeat way. The capital has statues everywhere like, everywhere and rents average around €250 to €350. You can eat out for the price of a Starbucks drink.
There’s also a slower pace of life here. Not boring-slow, just… human.
5. Georgia – Technically on the Edge, But Spiritually in Europe
Let’s stretch the borders for a second. Georgia (yes, that Georgia) sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia but vibes very European. Tbilisi is a cultural delight, filled with wine bars, art houses, and mountains you can reach in an hour.
You can live well on €500–€600 a month here, with rent starting around €250. And the food? Think cheesy bread boats (khachapuri), grilled meats, and wine that’s been made the same way for 8,000 years.
Oh, and their visa policy? Wildly expat-friendly. You can stay up to a year without any headaches.
6. Serbia – Belgrade’s Buzz Without the Bank Account Burn
If you’re after nightlife, edgy cafés, and a bit of that Eastern European grit, Belgrade might steal your heart. It’s got soul. And concrete. But also charm.
Rent sits around €350–€450 in the capital. Smaller cities like Novi Sad? Even cheaper.
Yes, it’s not in the EU (yet), but that’s part of what keeps prices low. Serbia also doesn’t get bogged down in tourist clichés, so it still feels authentic, raw in a way that’s hard to fake.
7. Ukraine (Western Regions) – A Delicate Recommendation
Let’s tread carefully here. Ukraine, for obvious reasons, is not on every traveler’s list right now. But parts of Western Ukraine, like Lviv or Ivano-Frankivsk, are still inhabited, functioning, and incredibly affordable for foreigners, though due diligence is essential.
Pre-war, rent in Lviv hovered around €200–€300 for a one-bedroom. Prices are still low, though availability can vary.
Why mention it? Because many foreigners are still there, helping with aid work or simply building lives amid uncertainty. It’s a resilient, culturally rich country that deserves acknowledgment.
8. Montenegro – Adriatic Beauty, Balkan Budget
This little gem on the Adriatic doesn’t shout as loudly as Croatia, but that’s why we like it. It’s got medieval towns, dreamy beaches, and a slower pace of life.
Cost-wise, Podgorica (the capital) is affordable, with rent around €300–€400. Coastal towns like Kotor or Budva? Slightly more expensive, especially in summer, but still manageable if you plan right.
Pro tip: Visit in spring or autumn for lower rents and emptier beaches. You’ll feel like you’ve time-traveled back to 1995, but in a good way.
9. Poland – Not as Cheap as It Was, but Still a Steal
Poland isn’t ultra-cheap anymore, but it’s still very reasonable. Cities like Kraków, Wrocław, or Łódź offer a great quality of life without breaking the bank.
Rent? Around €400–€500 in most cities. Public transport is top-notch, and groceries are about 30% cheaper than Western Europe.
Plus, it’s central, so if you’re the kind who likes weekend trips to Prague or Vienna, you’re in luck.
10. Portugal (Yes, Really) – Affordable… If You Know Where to Look
Portugal has gotten pricier in the past five years, especially Lisbon and Porto. But here’s the trick—go south or inland. Towns like Évora, Beja, or even parts of the Algarve (outside summer season) can be surprisingly affordable.
Rent can still be found for under €500 in smaller cities. And the weather? Near perfect. Think 300 days of sun, seafood for days, and some of the friendliest locals in Europe.
Also, Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa makes it easier than ever to stick around.
In conclusion
Let’s be honest: moving abroad isn’t just about saving money. It’s about a better pace of life. Cleaner air. More time for dinner with friends. The possibility of walking through a city that feels like a movie set and calling it “home.
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