These budget-friendly destinations offer a high quality of life without the high price tag.
Europe may be home to some of the world’s most expensive cities, but many countries offer an affordable cost of living without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re looking for charming historic towns, scenic coastal retreats, or vibrant cultural hubs, these destinations make it possible to live well for less.
In these 12 countries, everyday expenses—housing, dining, and transportation—come at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe.
With rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming communities, they prove that a dream life in Europe doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag.
1. A high quality of life meets low costs in Portugal’s coastal cities.
Few places in Europe offer as much beauty and affordability as Portugal. Whether settling in the sun-drenched Algarve, the cultural hub of Porto, or the charming countryside, residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of nearby Spain or France.
Fresh seafood, local wines, and café culture are part of everyday life, and dining out remains surprisingly inexpensive. The country’s well-connected transport network makes it easy to explore without needing a car. With stunning coastlines, historic architecture, and welcoming locals, Portugal offers a laid-back, affordable way of life.
2. Cities steeped in history and culture make Bulgaria a budget-friendly choice.
Sofia, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo stand out as some of Europe’s best low-cost destinations. These cities offer a modern yet affordable lifestyle, with low rent, cheap public transport, and inexpensive dining. Even the capital remains significantly cheaper than most European cities.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Bulgaria’s mountains, hiking trails, and Black Sea beaches, all of which can be enjoyed without spending much. Fresh produce and locally made wines are inexpensive, and traditional Bulgarian cuisine is hearty and affordable, making it easy to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on a modest budget.
3. Medieval towns and scenic landscapes make Romania an underrated gem.
A mix of affordability and old-world charm makes Romania a great choice for those looking to live well on a budget. Cities like Brasov and Cluj-Napoca offer a high quality of life with low rental costs and inexpensive food. Even Bucharest, the capital, remains cheaper than most other European capitals.
The country’s breathtaking landscapes include the Carpathian Mountains, rolling farmlands, and medieval castles. Cheap train fares make travel between cities accessible for budget-conscious residents. With friendly locals and a growing expat community, Romania is a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly European home.
4. Affordable Mediterranean living is easy to find in Albania.
Stunning coastlines, charming towns, and a low cost of living make Albania a top choice for budget-conscious expats. Coastal cities like Vlorë and the capital, Tirana, provide low-cost housing, fresh food, and an easygoing lifestyle.
Even in beachfront restaurants, meals are far more affordable than in neighboring Italy or Greece. Buses and shared taxis offer cheap and convenient ways to get around, making car ownership unnecessary. Unlike other Mediterranean destinations, Albania remains incredibly budget-friendly, making it a perfect alternative for those dreaming of seaside living on a budget.
5. A rich cultural heritage meets low living costs in Poland.
Vibrant cities, historic charm, and an affordable lifestyle make Poland an attractive option. From the colorful streets of Kraków to the lively atmosphere of Wrocław, the country blends affordability with a strong cultural scene. Rent is low compared to Western Europe, and grocery prices remain reasonable, especially for fresh produce and locally sourced goods.
Getting around is easy with Poland’s efficient and inexpensive metro and bus systems. With historic architecture, lively markets, and a café culture that rivals much pricier destinations, Poland provides an excellent cost-of-living-to-quality-of-life ratio.
6. Coastal towns and mountain retreats in Montenegro offer stunning views for less.
Living by the sea doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. Montenegro’s Adriatic coastline is home to budget-friendly towns like Budva and Kotor, where rent is reasonable and meals are inexpensive. The dramatic landscapes, from towering mountains to medieval streets, add to the country’s appeal.
Daily expenses such as groceries, utilities, and intercity travel remain significantly lower than in Western Europe. Montenegro’s straightforward residency options and growing expat community make it an appealing choice for those seeking coastal living without the hefty price tag.
7. Small cities in the Czech Republic deliver affordable European charm.
Outside of Prague, which has become pricier in recent years, cities like Brno and Olomouc remain excellent choices for budget-conscious living. They offer all the essentials—low rent, affordable utilities, and reasonable grocery prices—without sacrificing quality of life.
Navigating the country is simple, thanks to its efficient rail and bus network. With affordable beer, historic architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene, the Czech Republic strikes an excellent balance between affordability and European charm.
8. A low cost of living and rich history make Latvia a great choice.
Among the Baltic nations, Latvia stands out for its affordability and vibrant atmosphere. Riga, the capital, is known for its art nouveau buildings, cozy cafés, and creative community—all without the high costs of similar European cities.
The cost of housing remains far lower than in Western European capitals, making it possible to live comfortably without a large budget. Outside of Riga, smaller towns like Cēsis and Liepāja offer even lower housing costs while providing access to Latvia’s forests, beaches, and scenic countryside.
9. Serbia’s affordability and energetic lifestyle attract budget-conscious expats.
Belgrade, Serbia’s capital, has gained popularity among digital nomads and expats looking for an affordable European lifestyle. The city offers low-cost rent, cheap public transportation, and inexpensive dining, making it a great place to stretch a budget.
Outside the city, Serbia’s rolling vineyards, historic monasteries, and national parks offer plenty of outdoor activities. The country’s welcoming atmosphere and lively nightlife make it a top choice for those who want an affordable yet vibrant place to live.
10. Slovakia’s central location makes travel easy and affordable.
A mix of charming cities and scenic countryside makes Slovakia a great place to live well for less. Bratislava and Košice offer low rent, affordable dining, and efficient public transportation, making everyday life simple and budget-friendly.
Slovakia’s prime location allows for cheap and easy travel to Austria, Hungary, and Poland. Whether exploring medieval towns, hiking in the Tatra Mountains, or enjoying a café in a bustling square, Slovakia provides a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost.
11. Lesser-known Greek regions provide an affordable Mediterranean dream.
Greece is often associated with pricey island getaways, but regions like Thessaloniki and the Peloponnese offer a far more affordable cost of living. These areas provide stunning coastal views, fresh local food, and a relaxed lifestyle without the tourist markups.
Finding affordable housing is much easier in these regions compared to tourist-heavy destinations like Santorini. Everyday expenses such as groceries and dining out remain budget-friendly. With warm weather, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, Greece offers an idyllic lifestyle without requiring a luxury budget.
12. Life in Hungary offers beauty, history, and affordability.
Budapest remains one of Europe’s most budget-friendly capitals, offering stunning architecture, a rich cultural scene, and low living costs. Beyond the city, towns like Pécs and Debrecen provide even more affordable alternatives while maintaining Hungary’s unique charm.
The country’s extensive tram and bus networks make transportation easy and inexpensive. With its famous thermal baths, riverfront views, and vibrant arts community, Hungary provides an excellent quality of life at a fraction of Western Europe’s cost.