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.
๐ง๐ฌ 1. Bulgaria
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๐ Rent: ~$300–500/month
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๐ Meals: $5–8
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๐ช๐บ 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.
๐ท๐ด 2. Romania
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๐ Rent: ~$350/month
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๐ Great transport + internet
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๐ฉ๐ป Popular with freelancers
From castles to co-working spaces, Romania offers a balanced life at low cost. Cluj-Napoca is a growing tech hub!
๐ญ๐บ 3. Hungary
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๐ Rent: ~$400–600
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๐ Rich culture, thermal spas
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๐ Capital: Budapest (affordable & scenic)
Living in Budapest feels like luxury on a budget. With cheap public transport and food, your euros go far.
๐ต๐ฑ 4. Poland
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๐ฐ Value for money: High
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๐ผ Good for English speakers
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๐ถ Strong digital infrastructure
Cities like Krakรณw and Wrocลaw are affordable, safe, and full of opportunity for remote workers.
๐ต๐น 5. Portugal
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☀️ Mediterranean lifestyle
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๐ Coastal towns like Faro are cheap
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๐งพ Residency options available
Portugal is a favorite among expats for its weather, visa options, and affordable lifestyle — especially outside Lisbon.
๐ท๐ธ 6. Serbia
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๐ธ Non-EU, even cheaper
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⚡ Fastest internet in the region
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๐️ Lively cities like Belgrade
If you don’t need to be inside the EU, Serbia is a hidden gem — vibrant, affordable, and welcoming.
๐ฌ๐ช 7. Georgia
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๐งณ 1-year visa-free stay for many nationalities
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๐ท Excellent food, mountains, and culture
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๐ต Live well for under $800/month
While technically Eurasia, Georgia is a rising star for nomads — cheap, safe, and tax-friendly.
๐ฏ Final Tip: Compare Before You Move
Make sure to compare healthcare access, internet quality, visa requirements, and cost of rent before choosing your destination.
๐ฌ Want more breakdowns by budget or visa type? Follow WealthMap Europe for country guides, cost comparisons, and relocation tips!