International living in Europe is a dream for many of us. But, not all European countries are wallet-friendly.
What if we told you that there were plenty of affordable options for accommodation in Europe or if they were alternatives to renting expensive homes. Some, are much cheaper than even the United States…
We’ve put together some fantastic options so you’ll be moving in no time! Have a read of the guide below to find some of the cheapest places to live in Europe.
Table of Contents
Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina
Sarajevo has such low rents that you could easily get a 3-bedroom apartment for $400 per month. Transportation is also affordable with a monthly pass being around $30.
For more bargains; food, drinks, and coffee will only set you back a few dollars.
Looking for an Alterntives to Renting or Airbnbs?
You don’t have to pay for rental or Airbnb’s anymore! There is an alternative for renting and that is called house sitting. There is house sits all over the world, you just need to look at some of the international house sitting sites to book a sit so you can visit all the places you want for next to nothing!
Warsaw, Poland
Poland is overall a cheap country and the capital is no exception. It is also one of the cheapest European country to fly to, make sure you check Skyscanner but we always found this to be true.
The average cost of living in Warsaw is pretty low and food and drink are especially cheap. There is also a lack of ex-pats in Warsaw so you can truly immerse yourself in the city.
Krakow, Poland
Other than rent, Krakow is relatively cheap to reside in as well as the cheapest places to visit in Europe. Krakow is a remarkably well-preserved city and is an amazing European destination.
It is also one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Europe.
Wroclaw, Poland
Wroclaw is a city on the Oder River in Eastern Europe. The average monthly budget for a single person is less than $600 a month.
It is one of our favorite cheap destinations with its historical sites and sprightly streets.
Prague, Czech Republic
While the capital can be expensive to visit, residing in it is pretty cheap. Prague has a low cost of living as well as a fantastic work/life balance.
The only downside of Prague is the tourists, but the baroque buildings make up for it!
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
This UNESCO World Heritage site is great to visit and reside in. This city for tourism also has plenty of job opportunities available. Easily cheaper than Prague, you’ll love living in this cheap city.
Brno, Czech Republic
Brno is a tech hub of the country and perfects if you’re a digital nomad. It also has a low cost of living and affordable housing. Brno is also a really safe place to reside, with good healthcare and high social tolerance.
Bratislava, Slovakia
This capital city is also the largest in Slovakia. The cost of living for a single person in Bratislava is around $700 per month. It is also next to Austria and Hungary giving it one of the best locations in Europe.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius is the capital city of Lithuania and is very affordable to live in. The average living costs in this city are much lower than in the rest of Europe.
There is also a diverse range of activities in the city that are perfect for ex-pats wanting to explore.
Budapest, Hungary
For a big ex-pat and international community, this bustling city is ideal. There are also plenty of job opportunities in this creative city. The standard of living is also very good and very cheap.
Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb is where Southeast Europe, the Mediterranean, and Central Europe meet. The capital of Croatia also has a high standard of living. But, it comes with some of the lowest living costs in Europe.
Belgrade, Serbia
The capital of Serbia is also the largest city in the country. The cost of living is approximately 58% lower than in New York. It also boasts a fascinating history and is a safe place to reside.
Sofia, Bulgaria
With stunning architecture and jaw-dropping mountains, Sofia won’t disappoint. This city in Eastern Europe is home to cheap food, drink, and utilities.
Sofia comes with a vibrant nightlife but also skiing and outdoor activities.
Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest comes with amazing natural beauty to see. It also has low living costs and lots of employment opportunities. Ex-pats with experience are welcome and will adapt quickly.
Iasi, Romania
Iasi is a university city close to Moldova and a modern city. It is 61.5% cheaper than living in New York and perfect for international travelers.
Iasi is also a historic city with diverse architectural styles from various periods.
Murcia, Spain
Some Spanish cities are incredibly expensive to live in. Murcia however, has some of the lowest rental and property prices in the country.
Food and utilities are also very cheap in this authentic city. However if you really want to cut your costs you should try house sitting in Spain. This will take your accommodation costs to zero!
Riga, Latvia
Riga is the capital of Latvia and has a vibrant nightlife and fascinating museums. Latvia is one of the cheapest countries and has some of the lowest costs in Western Europe. If you’re after low rental and property prices- this is the place to be!
Tirana, Albania
Tirana is the capital of Albania and has a backdrop of countryside and mountains. Renting in Tirana is 79% lower than in the United States with the cost of living is also 42% lower than in the US.
Aveiro, Portugal
Aveiro is close to Porto which makes travel very easy. This city is much more affordable than other cities in Portugal.
It is also known as the ‘Venice of Portugal’ with its canals and gondolas. Portugal is also a beautiful place to retire and house-sit.
Athens, Greece
Athens is not only a cheap holiday destination, renting is highly affordable. For $650 per month, you could easily rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. Local markets, restaurants, and taxis are also inexpensive.
Kotor, Montenegro
The cost of living in Kotor is around $1000 (or less) per month for all your costs. The city is also super easy to get around and is right next to the Adriatic Sea. With great trekking and amazing beaches, Kotor has it all.
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, otherwise known as the ‘walled city’ is a thriving city in Estonia. Perfect for remote workers, this city is fun and cheap.
Tallinn is also one of the cheapest holiday destinations if you’re just looking to visit.
Cardiff, Wales
Wales is pretty cheap to reside in compared to the rest of the UK. Outside the city center, rents are affordable and low. Public transport will be your main daily cost, but otherwise, Cardiff is a cheap city to reside in.
When it comes to cheap European living, there are plenty of cities to choose from. We love the diversity of these places- from major cities to smaller towns.
Most of them also come with beautiful architecture, amazing landscapes, and cheap food. These cities have it all and will be a life-changing experience if you choose to reside there.
So, budget travelers what are you waiting for? Go pack your bags!
Which cheap European city do you want to live in?
Author: Britt
I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.
The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.
I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.
Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.
I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!
You can read more about Jay and me here!
Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.
