Moving to Europe doesn’t have to mean draining your bank account. In fact, some European countries offer amazing quality of life for a fraction of the cost you’d pay in Western Europe or North America.
Here are 7 of the cheapest and most livable countries in Europe for expats, digital nomads, and budget-conscious travelers.
🇧🇬 1. Bulgaria
-
🏠 Rent: ~$300–500/month
-
🍝 Meals: $5–8
-
🇪🇺 EU Member: Yes
Bulgaria is one of the cheapest places to live in the EU, with fast internet, low taxes, and beautiful cities like Sofia and Plovdiv.
🇷🇴 2. Romania
-
🏠 Rent: ~$350/month
-
🚆 Great transport + internet
-
👩💻 Popular with freelancers
From castles to co-working spaces, Romania offers a balanced life at low cost. Cluj-Napoca is a growing tech hub!
🇭🇺 3. Hungary
-
🏠 Rent: ~$400–600
-
🛁 Rich culture, thermal spas
-
🌃 Capital: Budapest (affordable & scenic)
Living in Budapest feels like luxury on a budget. With cheap public transport and food, your euros go far.
🇵🇱 4. Poland
-
💰 Value for money: High
-
💼 Good for English speakers
-
📶 Strong digital infrastructure
Cities like Kraków and Wrocław are affordable, safe, and full of opportunity for remote workers.
🇵🇹 5. Portugal
-
☀️ Mediterranean lifestyle
-
🌊 Coastal towns like Faro are cheap
-
🧾 Residency options available
Portugal is a favorite among expats for its weather, visa options, and affordable lifestyle — especially outside Lisbon.
🇷🇸 6. Serbia
-
💸 Non-EU, even cheaper
-
⚡ Fastest internet in the region
-
🏞️ Lively cities like Belgrade
If you don’t need to be inside the EU, Serbia is a hidden gem — vibrant, affordable, and welcoming.
🇬🇪 7. Georgia
-
🧳 1-year visa-free stay for many nationalities
-
🍷 Excellent food, mountains, and culture
-
💵 Live well for under $800/month
While technically Eurasia, Georgia is a rising star for nomads — cheap, safe, and tax-friendly.
🎯 Final Tip: Compare Before You Move
Make sure to compare healthcare access, internet quality, visa requirements, and cost of rent before choosing your destination.
💬 Want more breakdowns by budget or visa type? Follow WealthMap Europe for country guides, cost comparisons, and relocation tips!