If you’re looking for an affordable European destination in 2023, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 cheapest countries to live in Europe, considering factors like housing, transportation, food, and healthcare costs. Let’s dive in and find your ideal budget-friendly European home!
- Top 20 Cheapest Countries
- 1. Portugal 🇵🇹
- 2. Bulgaria 🇧🇬
- 3. Romania 🇷🇴
- 4. Georgia 🇬🇪
- 5. North Macedonia 🇲🇰
- 6. Serbia 🇷🇸
- 7. Albania 🇦🇱
- 8. Moldova 🇲🇩
- 9. Latvia 🇱🇻
- 10. Lithuania 🇱🇹
- 11. Hungary 🇭🇺
- 12. Poland 🇵🇱
- 13. Slovakia 🇸🇰
- 14. Croatia 🇭🇷
- 15. Montenegro 🇲🇪
- 16. Estonia 🇪🇪
- 17. Czech Republic 🇨🇿
- 18. Bosnia and Herzegovina 🇧🇦
- 19. Slovenia 🇸🇮
- 20. Greece 🇬🇷
- Conclusion
Top 20 Cheapest Countries
- Portugal 🇵🇹
- Currency: EUR
- Average Monthly Rent in Lisbon city center: €700
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €215
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €40
- Bulgaria 🇧🇬
- Currency: BGN
- Average Monthly Rent in Sofia city center: €300
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €100
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €25
- Romania 🇷🇴
- Currency: RON
- Average Monthly Rent in Bucharest city center: €350
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €165
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €30
- Georgia 🇬🇪
- Currency: GEL
- Average Monthly Rent in Tbilisi city center: €280
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €75
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €25
- North Macedonia 🇲🇰
- Currency: MKD
- Average Monthly Rent in Skopje city center: €240
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €80
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €20
- Serbia 🇷🇸
- Currency: RSD
- Average Monthly Rent in Belgrade city center: €300
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €130
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €25
- Albania 🇦🇱
- Currency: ALL
- Average Monthly Rent in Tirana city center: €240
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €95
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €20
- Moldova 🇲🇩
- Currency: MDL
- Average Monthly Rent in Chisinau city center: €200
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €70
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €20
- Latvia 🇱🇻
- Currency: EUR
- Average Monthly Rent in Riga city center: €450
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €115
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €45
- Lithuania 🇱🇹
- Currency: EUR
- Average Monthly Rent in Vilnius city center: €450
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €135
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €40
- Hungary 🇭🇺
- Currency: HUF
- Average Monthly Rent in Budapest city center: €450
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €180
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €30
- Poland 🇵🇱
- Currency: PLN
- Average Monthly Rent in Warsaw city center: €500
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €175
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €35
- Slovakia 🇸🇰
- Currency: EUR
- Average Monthly Rent in Bratislava city center: €500
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €200
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €40
- Croatia 🇭🇷
- Currency: HRK
- Average Monthly Rent in Zagreb city center: 4,200 HRK
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): 8,900 HRK
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: 300 HRK
- Montenegro 🇲🇪
- Currency: EUR
- Average Monthly Rent in Podgorica city center: €350
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €820
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €30
- Estonia 🇪🇪
- Currency: EUR
- Average Monthly Rent in Tallinn city center: €700
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €1,600
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €60
- Czech Republic 🇨🇿
- Currency: CZK
- Average Monthly Rent in Prague city center: 19,000 CZK
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): 63,000 CZK
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: 800 CZK
- Bosnia and Herzegovina 🇧🇦
- Currency: BAM
- Average Monthly Rent in Sarajevo city center: 600 BAM
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): 2,200 BAM
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: 40 BAM
- Slovenia 🇸🇮
- Currency: EUR
- Average Monthly Rent in Ljubljana city center: €900
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €2,500
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €50
- Greece 🇬🇷
- Currency: EUR
- Average Monthly Rent in Athens city center: €650
- Average Real Estate Price (per square foot): €1,500
- Three-course Meal for 2 at Mid-range Restaurant: €50
1. Portugal 🇵🇹
Portugal is a beautiful and diverse country located in southwestern Europe. Known for its stunning coastline, rich history, and delicious cuisine, Portugal has become a popular destination for expats and digital nomads. The cost of living in Portugal is relatively low, especially when compared to other Western European countries. In the capital city of Lisbon, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €700. Utilities and food costs are also reasonably priced, making Portugal an attractive option for those looking to live affordably in Europe. The country also offers a favorable climate, with warm summers and mild winters.
2. Bulgaria 🇧🇬
Bulgaria is an Eastern European country known for its diverse landscapes, including picturesque mountain ranges and a beautiful coastline along the Black Sea. The cost of living in Bulgaria is significantly lower than in Western Europe, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. In the capital city of Sofia, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is €300. Bulgaria also offers affordable food and utility costs, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The country has a rich history and culture, with numerous historical sites and natural attractions to explore.
3. Romania 🇷🇴
Located in Eastern Europe, Romania is a country with a unique blend of urban and rural living. The cost of living in Romania is relatively low, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Bucharest, the capital city, being around €350. Additionally, the cost of groceries, transportation, and other daily expenses is quite affordable. Romania boasts a rich history, with stunning castles and medieval towns scattered throughout the country. The diverse landscape, from the Carpathian Mountains to the Danube Delta, offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Georgia 🇬🇪
Georgia, a small country at the intersection of Europe and Asia, has a surprisingly low cost of living. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around €300 per month. Daily expenses, such as groceries and transportation, are also quite affordable. Georgia offers a mix of stunning natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant cities. The country is known for its warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and exciting outdoor activities. Georgia’s growing tourism industry also provides job opportunities for expats.
5. North Macedonia 🇲🇰
North Macedonia is a landlocked country in Southeast Europe known for its rich history and diverse culture. The cost of living in North Macedonia is relatively low, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being between €250 and €400. Food and transportation costs are also quite affordable, making North Macedonia a budget-friendly European destination. The country’s picturesque landscapes, including lakes and mountains, offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
6. Serbia 🇷🇸
Serbia, a country in Southeast Europe, is known for its affordability and diverse cultural heritage. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from €250 to €450. Food and transportation costs are also reasonably low, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle on a budget. Serbia offers a unique blend of natural beauty, including national parks and rivers, as well as vibrant cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad. The country’s rich history and lively culture make it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads.
7. Albania 🇦🇱
Albania is a small country in Southeast Europe with a beautiful coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The cost of living in Albania is quite affordable, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranging from €200 to €400. Food and transportation costs are also relatively low, making Albania an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers. The country offers stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, mountains, and ancient ruins, as well as a rich cultural heritage.
8. Moldova 🇲🇩
Moldova, a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, is one of the least visited countries in the region, making it a hidden gem for budget travelers. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is between €200 and €350. The cost of living in Moldova is significantly lower than in Western Europe, with affordable food, transportation, and daily expenses. The country’s beautiful countryside, diverse cultural heritage, and delicious wine make it an attractive destination for those looking to explore off the beaten path.
9. Latvia 🇱🇻
Located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, Latvia is a small country with a rich history and beautiful natural landscapes. The cost of living in Latvia is quite affordable, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being around €450. Food, transportation, and utility costs are also reasonably priced, making Latvia an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers. The country’s diverse culture, stunning architecture, and picturesque countryside make it a great place to live and explore.
10. Lithuania 🇱🇹
Lithuania, another Baltic country in Northern Europe, offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €500. The cost of groceries, transportation, and other daily expenses is also quite affordable. Lithuania is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. The country’s lush forests, lakes, and coastal landscapes offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
11. Hungary 🇭🇺
Hungary, a landlocked country in Central Europe, is known for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and rich cultural heritage. The cost of living in Hungary is relatively low, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being around €450. Food and transportation costs are also quite affordable, making Hungary an attractive option for those looking to live on a budget in Europe. The country offers a high quality of life, with access to healthcare, education, and other essential services.
12. Poland 🇵🇱
Poland, a country located in Central Europe, offers a blend of history, culture, and modernity at an affordable cost. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €500. The cost of living in Poland is quite reasonable, with affordable food, transportation, and daily expenses. The country boasts a rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads.
13. Slovakia 🇸🇰
Slovakia, a landlocked country in Central Europe, offers a low cost of living and a high quality of life. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €450. The cost of groceries, transportation, and other daily expenses is quite reasonable. Slovakia boasts beautiful mountain ranges, medieval towns, and a rich cultural heritage. The country offers a safe and stable environment, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live on a budget in Europe.
14. Croatia 🇭🇷
Croatia, a country located in Southeast Europe along the Adriatic Sea, is known for its stunning coastline, historic cities, and beautiful national parks. The cost of living in Croatia is relatively affordable, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being around €500. Food and transportation costs are also quite reasonable, making Croatia an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. The country offers a pleasant Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters.
15. Montenegro 🇲🇪
Montenegro, a small country in Southeast Europe along the Adriatic Sea, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including pristine beaches, rugged mountains, and medieval towns. The cost of living in Montenegro is quite affordable, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being around €350. Food and transportation costs are also reasonably priced, making Montenegro an ideal destination for those looking to live on a budget in Europe. The country’s natural beauty and rich history provide ample opportunities for exploration and adventure.
16. Estonia 🇪🇪
Estonia, a small country in Northern Europe, is known for its picturesque medieval towns, beautiful coastline, and vibrant tech scene. The cost of living in Estonia is quite affordable, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being around €500. Food and transportation costs are also reasonably priced, making Estonia an attractive option for those looking to live on a budget in Europe. The country’s strong digital infrastructure and innovative e-residency program make it a popular destination for digital nomads and entrepreneurs.
17. Czech Republic 🇨🇿
The Czech Republic, a landlocked country in Central Europe, is known for its historic cities, beautiful architecture, and stunning countryside. The cost of living in the Czech Republic is relatively low compared to other European countries, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being around €600. Food and transportation costs are also quite affordable, making the Czech Republic an attractive destination for those looking to live on a budget in Europe. The country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and high quality of life make it a popular choice for expats and digital nomads.
18. Bosnia and Herzegovina 🇧🇦
Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country in Southeast Europe, offers a low cost of living and a unique blend of cultures, religions, and history. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €250. The cost of groceries, transportation, and other daily expenses is also quite affordable. The country’s beautiful landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and historic towns, make it an attractive destination for those looking to live on a budget in Europe. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality make it a welcoming place for expats and travelers.
19. Slovenia 🇸🇮
Slovenia, a small country in Central Europe, is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Julian Alps, lakes, and caves. The cost of living in Slovenia is relatively affordable, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being around €500. Food and transportation costs are also quite reasonable, making Slovenia an attractive destination for those looking to live on a budget in Europe. The country’s high quality of life, excellent healthcare system, and strong education system make it an appealing choice for expats and digital nomads.
20. Greece 🇬🇷
Greece, a country in Southeast Europe known for its rich history, beautiful islands, and delicious cuisine, offers an affordable cost of living for those looking to live on a budget in Europe. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €450. Food and transportation costs are also quite reasonable, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. Greece’s stunning landscapes, including pristine beaches, rugged mountains, and ancient ruins, make it an attractive destination for expats, digital nomads, and tourists alike. The country’s warm climate, hospitable people, and vibrant culture make it an ideal place to call home.
Conclusion
Europe is home to many countries that offer an affordable cost of living while still providing a high quality of life. From the stunning landscapes of Croatia to the vibrant culture of the Czech Republic, there are plenty of options for those looking to live on a budget in Europe in 2023. Whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or simply looking for a change of scenery, these 20 countries offer a variety of experiences and opportunities for living an affordable European lifestyle.
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Source: MandyNews.com
