Initially, this article had the title “Cheapest Countries to Live in Europe,” but during the recent update in January 2025, I decided to change the name to “Cheapest Places to Live in Europe” due to the fact that there’s no longer a single country in Europe that can truly be called the cheapest.
Prices are rising everywhere, and within each country, there are both very expensive areas and those that are still affordable. These more budget-friendly places make life easier financially, especially if you have a stable income and work online.
Based on my experience (having moved around a lot and lived in dozens of different places across Europe), I’m sharing my personal list of nice affordable places where to live as a remote worker, freelancer, digital nomad, or retiree.
I know there are plenty of lists out there, including generic ones that rely solely on online data about GDP per capita or general economic facts. But I wanted to highlight the most affordable places to live in Europe from my own perspective and real-life experience.
My Personal TOP Cheapest Places to Live in Europe
Most Affordable Places to Live in Central & Eastern Europe
1. Regional Slovakia
Having lived in Slovakia several times for three-month periods across different regions and explored the entire country thoroughly, I’ve gained a deep understanding of its affordability and overall prices and can tell that until this day parts of Slovakia are very affordable for living. Besides Bratislava, of course, which is becoming more and more expensive each year since Vienna is near.
Some places (like those directly by the High Tatras, for example, like Poprad, Spisska Sobota, Stara Lubovna) are more expensive due to tourism (although even there it is still possible to manage to live on a budget).
When I say Regional Slovakia, I imply cities like Trenčín, Banska Bystrica, Banska Stavnica, Zilina, and even Liptovsky Mikuláš (the last place where I lived in Slovakia). All these places and smaller towns between them have lower costs of living, access to nature, and quality amenities.
For example, renting a one-bedroom apartment there is possible for €300-350 near the center and €200-250 outside the center. Utilities, including electricity, heating, and water, add €100-120 per month for a small apartment.
Groceries are budget-friendly, averaging €200-250 per month for two people (considering you are not eating out).
Healthcare is accessible and inexpensive even if you don’t have insurance. When I needed to see a private doctor last year, I paid €30-40 for a visit and between €5-€15 for various blood tests which in my experience turned out to be the cheapest among all places where I used to live in Europe. If you need monthly private insurance, premiums start at €50.
The most significant expense for many people in Slovakia is owning a vehicle, as it’s a country where having a car is highly beneficial. With its nature and scenery, you’ll likely want to explore beyond the towns. Additionally, since most towns are small and don’t offer a wide range of activities, a car provides the freedom to enjoy the surrounding landscapes and hidden gems, and that can be quite an expense.
2. Poland (In Smaller Cities)
Poland has long been a favorite destination for travelers and expats, but living here can also be incredibly affordable, especially in smaller cities like Rzeszow, Olsztyn, or Bialystok for example. These towns offer all the charm of Poland without the inflated prices of Warsaw or Krakow, making them ideal for anyone looking to experience Polish culture on a budget.
In these smaller cities, rent is surprisingly low. I have just quickly checked a couple of local Polish platforms (Gratka and OLX), and found the following options – a one-bedroom apartment in Rzeszow for €350 per month, in Bialystok for €250 without furniture. Utilities, depend on the building itself and range between €50-100 monthly in summer and €100-250 in winter.
By the way, Rzeszow has a close-knit community with modern urban developments, including a growing tech hub that’s attracting younger professionals.
During a round of interviews with a Polish company in the recent past, I briefly considered moving to Kielce. While exploring my options, I found an impressive selection of new one-bedroom apartments for rent, priced at just €400-€450. All were fully furnished and located in excellent areas, making it a very attractive prospect.
Poland, like some other budget-friendly European countries on my list, offers surprisingly affordable prices for dining out. What sets it apart, though, are the portion sizes – often large enough to rival those in the United States!
And as for entertainment, Poland also excels. Medieval architecture, castles and lovely Christmas markets, lakes, and mountains with ski resorts make Poland a country full of diverse and endless activities and landscapes to explore.
3. Western Ukraine
Before recent events, Ukraine proudly held the top spot as the cheapest European country to live in, offering affordability alongside beautiful cities. However, with the onset of war, everything has changed – not the cost, but the question of safety.
It’s heartbreaking to say this, but my beautiful home country, known for its ancient culture, endless activities, and previously high standard of living, is not safe right now. While many people still live there (and we ourselves are in and out), and even some foreigners choose to visit or stay in one of these safer cities, for most, the risks outweigh the benefits, despite the incredibly low cost of living.
That said, if you do find yourself in Ukraine, you can count on affordability even with a modest budget. But the safes place where to be in the country is West.
Real estate prices have risen in some areas due to demand in safer zones, but the cost of daily life remains the lowest in Europe (together with Moldova which probably also should be on this list). Remote workers will appreciate Ukraine’s exceptional Internet and mobile services, which are not only reliable but also some of the cheapest in the world (even accessible from a bomb shelter if needed).
It may seem strange to include a country amidst an active conflict, but I believe it’s important not to overlook Ukraine entirely. Life continues in many parts of the country, and people are doing their best to sustain the economy and carry on despite Russian aggression. The government remains steadfast in efforts to rebuild and develop even during these challenging times.
From my experience, and that of friends and family who live in Ukraine now, a monthly budget of €1,000-1,200 is enough to live comfortably in smaller cities like Khmelnytskyi, Vinnytsia, or Ternopil. Living on the outskirts of Lviv or in towns closer to the mountains can also be affordable.
For food, plan for around €300 per month for two people, which will cover both home-cooked meals and occasional dining out. Additional expenses (such as utilities, entertainment, medical checkups, buying clothing, and travel) can be managed within €500.
If you do choose to stay in Ukraine, prioritize safety and always take air raid sirens seriously. Life does go on, but vigilance is key in these uncertain times. Ukraine remains a resilient and beautiful country, worthy of admiration and support.
Cheap Places to Live in Western Europe
4. Inland Spain
While browsing Numbeo recently, I noticed Spain ranked among the top ten cheapest countries to live in Western Europe. And yes, compared to places like France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and parts of Italy, Spain does stand out as the most affordable option. However, when you broaden the comparison to the rest of Europe, a different reality emerges.
Spain may be cheaper than its Western European neighbors, but it’s far from inexpensive on a broader European scale. Accommodation prices, for instance, have soared in recent years, especially in cities and tourist hubs. I can tell this as a person who lived in a couple of different towns in northern Spain, then in Malaga, and now living in Tenerife for part of the year when I am not in Tallinn and can confirm that Spain is becoming more expensive (by the way, if you plan to be in Tenerife, make sure to go through the posts on my other blog dedicated to this island).
I remember when we could rent a beautiful flat in southern Spain near the sea for €300 per month, but those days are long gone. Real estate prices have risen sharply, making housing one of the costlier aspects of living there.
While food, transportation, and dining out are indeed more affordable than in France, Belgium, or the Netherlands, they remain pricier than in countries like Poland or Slovakia, for example. And let’s not get started on lists that name Barcelona, Valencia, or Madrid as “cheap” European cities. Compared to Paris or London? Sure. But on a larger European scale? They are anything but cheap.
If you’re looking to live in Spain on a budget, forget about touristy cities or seaside towns. Smaller, lesser-known inland towns will be your best bet to keep costs down. During our time in Barcelona and Santander, our monthly expenses far exceeded €1,500.
How much you’ll need in Spain largely depends on where you live, the type of accommodation you choose, and your lifestyle. One highlight, however, is food. Spain offers some of the cheapest seafood, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and wine in Europe, making it easy to eat well without breaking the bank.
So, while Spain can be an affordable option within Western Europe, it’s important to manage expectations and carefully choose your base to truly enjoy a cost-effective lifestyle.
Going to Spain soon? See some of my other posts:
- Northern Spain Overview – what to know and to do
- What to Pack & What to Wear in Spain – tips for every season
- Spain in Winter – what is it like
- Car Hire & Driving in Spain – everything you need to know
Other Inexpensive European Countries, Cities & Towns
5. Montenegro
I’ve lived in Montenegro several times, staying between 3 to 6 months each time. Last year, I almost bought an apartment there, thinking I would settle down for good (why I changed my mind is a story for another time). And the main reason for these choices was affordability, Montenegro’s safety, and the fact that the country is gorgeous.
Montenegro truly offers the opportunity to live well, enjoy interesting leisure activities, eat delicious and hearty food, and spend very little. This is especially true if you plan to stay for a year and rent an apartment for the same period, avoiding the skyrocketing summer rental prices targeted at tourists.
I lived on the coast (at first in Budva and then in a small town Bijela on Kotor Bay) and then in Kolasin, a mountain resort town close to Biogradska National Park and Komovi mountains. And during my life there, my husband and I always went on various scenic road trips, hiked in different directions, or just hung out on its beaches.
In the last two places, my husband and I really overpaid for the apartments, because we rented them through Airbnb at first and then negotiated prices for future months outside the platform. But while looking for a more permanent place where to live, I found so many options (through the agent) that cost between €500-€700 per month.
Podgorica was even cheaper. Renting a one-bedroom apartment there costs €300-350, although you need to visit Podgorica for at least a day to get a feel of this city because it is really not for everyone.
If you decide to move to Montenegro, you can expect to spend €200-250 monthly for groceries (we were spending around €150 but another €200 for dining out which you kind of want to do there all the time).
A major deal-breaker for me when it came to living there was the lack of good doctors. Visiting them is inexpensive (I paid €30 for a consultation) but overall experience with the healthcare system there isn’t great. There just aren’t many quality specialists available.
One of the things that you need to have is a car (we rented monthly through different companies) as public transport is not well developed (however quite cheap). If you plan to go, read my post about things to know about car hire in Montenegro, including ome cheap deals in high touristy season.
Interested in living in Montenegro? Then see:
- What Is Montenegro in Winter Like?
- Where to Live in Montenegro – Guide to All Resort Cities & Accommodation
- All My Posts About Montenegro Are Here
6. Belgrade & Novi Sad in Serbia
Belgrade and Novi Sad, Serbia’s two largest cities are also inexpensive places in Europe where to live or stay for a few months, though they cater to slightly different lifestyles.
Belgrade, as a capital, is a dynamic metropolis with neverending energy. It has good nightlife, various cultural events, and a fast-paced atmosphere making it ideal for people who love a lively urban environment. On my last visit there, while spending summer in the mountains of Montenegro, I went on a quick trip and was amazed to see how many new bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues opened, and crowd somehow changed became more cosmopolitan.
However, all of this comes with slightly higher living costs compared to Novi Sad which, on the other hand, is much quieter and more laid-back. It is perfect for people who want to live in Europe on a budget and be close to nature.
In terms of prices, in Belgrade, it is very possible to find a one-bedroom apartment in the city center between €500-550 per month. in Novi Sad, prices drop to €350-400. Apartments outside the centers are even cheaper. High-speed internet is consistent in both cities, costing €10-15 per month.
Groceries for two people range from €200-250 monthly, private doctor visits cost €25-35, while private insurance starts at €40-50 monthly.
A co-worker of mine, who lives in Belgrade with their partner, mentioned that they spend approximately €1,000 per month (excluding rent) on groceries, dining out, clothing, entertainment, and medical checkups when needed. So it looks like an excellent option where to live in Europe as a remote worker if your remote job pays well.
7. Turkey
Turkey, one of my all-time favorite destinations and a country close to my heart, is one of the most affordable places to live in Europe. Its charm lies not just in its low cost of living but also in the exceptional quality of life it offers. It’s no wonder so many people, especially from Eastern Europe, Germany, and the UK, choose Turkey as their new home – whether for remote work or retirement.
The appeal is clear: a fantastic climate with gorgeous beaches, affordable and delicious food, warm hospitality, breathtaking nature, unique hot springs, and of course, the turquoise Mediterranean Sea with unforgettable sunsets. Turkey has it all.
Many coastal cities now have expat-friendly areas with foreign shops, English-speaking clinics, and even community hubs like international churches. Adaptation couldn’t be easier.
I also like healthcare there. Turkey offers high-quality medical services at a fraction of the cost you’d pay elsewhere. Retirees can access comprehensive medical insurance, and younger people can either purchase affordable plans or pay out of pocket for very reasonable fees.
Real estate in Turkey is surprisingly affordable too. This year, a modern, comfortable 1-2 bedroom apartment is on sale for €50,000-60,000. With this, you’re eligible for a residence permit, though property ownership isn’t the only pathway. You can also apply for a one-year residency with proof of income (starting at €600 per month) and a rental agreement.
Budget needed to live in Turkey varies by location. In smaller coastal cities or inland areas, a basic apartment goes for €250-300 per month (we paid €350 in Dalyan). Food and entertainment add €350-400, and utility bills typically cost €50-70.
Even in Istanbul where prices are on the rise (one of Turkey’s pricier cities), it’s still possible to live on €1,500-1,700 per month if you choose an apartment in more distant neighborhoods, like Uskudar, Basaksehir, or Goztepe, for example. Electronics and mobile services are the only notably expensive items here.
Overall, Turkey is one of Europe’s easiest and most affordable places to settle with a lot of culture, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.
In need of more information about Turkey? I have a lot of posts on this country, including affordable trips, check just some of them out:
- Living in Istanbul as a foreigner – what it’s like
- 15 Interesting Facts About Turkish Culture to Know Before Visiting
- Moving to Turkey: What You Absolutely Have to Know Before the Move
- Where to Stay in Istanbul: Guide to All Neighborhoods & Districts
- 10 Mistakes to Avoid Making Before Coming to Turkey
8. Albania (Anywhere in the Country)
Albania consistently ranks as one of the cheapest countries in Europe for foreigners, though locals might argue otherwise. For those seeking an affordable alternative to Greece or Italy, Albania is a fantastic choice, offering similar Mediterranean vibes at a fraction of the cost.
Steeped in history, Albania’s rich cultural heritage reflects influences from Greece, Rome, and the Ottoman Empire. Its ancient cities, archaeological sites, and historical landmarks provide endless opportunities for exploration, often reminding of its more famous Mediterranean neighbors. Whether you’re strolling through the UNESCO-listed Berat and Gjirokastër or hiking in the Albanian Alps, there’s always something to do. And the bet part – it won’t break the bank.
Albania also boasts some of Europe’s most stunning beaches along the Ionian and Adriatic coasts. From the turquoise waters of Ksamil to the tranquil bays of Himarë and Dhërmi, there’s no shortage of scenic spots to relax.
One of the standout perks of Albania is its visa policy. Many foreigners, including Americans and EU citizens, can stay for up to 365 days without needing a visa. This is perfect for digital nomads or remote workers who want a stable base in Europe.
The main thing to know here – Albania’s cost of living varies significantly by season. So to score a good price for the apartment, you need to be ready to rent long-term (yearly contract) and start looking for a flat in the fall or winter.
I was recently on my return trip to Albania and was surprised to see how low grocery prices are compared to all places on this list, including nearby Montenegro.
Even with all expenses, two people can live comfortably in Albania for €1,500 per month, enjoying the Mediterranean climate, views, and a relaxed lifestyle. Albania is that country in Europe that truly offers one of the best deals for long-term living on the cheap.
Cheap Countries to Live in Europe That Speak English
9. Estonia (Just Outside Tallinn)
Since moving to Tallinn (and having already explored all of Estonia), I still can’t get over how easy life here is when it comes to communication. In addition to Estonian, one part of the population speaks Russian, while the other (a larger portion) speaks excellent English. It’s such a relief!
When it comes to costs, Estonia is still a very affordable country — though Tallinn, to be fair, is quite expensive. However, in other cities like Pärnu, Tartu, Narva, and Viljandi, as well as smaller towns like Rakvere or Haapsalu (just examples, there are others), it’s possible to live on just €1,000 per month. I know people who actually do this!
Even in Tallinn, it’s possible to live on a budget of €1,500 per month for two people if you really try. We personally spend significantly more – mainly because we travel all the time and initially chose an expensive apartment that doubles as our home, office, and favorite place to relax.
However, when we were searching for housing, we saw plenty of great options (like one-bedroom apartments) for €500–550, and that’s right near the city center, mind you! For the same price, it is very possible to rent a 2-bd flat in other cities than Tallinn in this way, living cheaper but being one step away from the Nordics.
The most expensive things here are dining out and medical services, but everything else is quite reasonably priced. Groceries are affordable (and high-quality), transportation is cheap too (and if you can get residency, it’s even free!), and with the right insurance (like the €20/month plan I’m currently considering) you can access good doctors at a low cost.
10. Cyprus (Cheap Outside Main Tourist Areas Like Limassol or Paphos)
One of the first things people notice about Cyprus is that English is widely spoken everywhere – from cities like Larnaca and Paphos to smaller towns and villages. Its colonial history means that even older generations often understand some English, and for younger people, it’s practically a second language. Whether you’re navigating healthcare or ordering a coffee, there’s no language barrier here, which is such a bonus for expats.
Living costs in Cyprus are surprisingly affordable too, but of course, if you stay away from the more upscale areas of Limassol or tourist-heavy spots.
In Paphos or Larnaca, for example, it is possible to rent a cozy one-bedroom apartment for €400-500 per month (my former co-worker is renting there, so I know), or a two-bedroom for €600. Utilities are low as this is the sunnest place in Europe in winter where not much is spent on heating.
All monthly expenses for a couple, including utilities, groceries, car rental, and time out often total around €1,000-1,200. Groceries are not the cheapest in Europe (because everything is imported), but fresh produce, especially local fruits and vegetables, are a steal at the weekly markets.
Public transport isn’t as robust as in European countries on the continent, so owning a car might become a necessity. During one of the winters in Cyprus when we were there, we were renting a car for less than €200 per month (see my tips on car hire there). Healthcare is another highlight: private insurance plans start at €25-30 monthly, giving access to excellent doctors and facilities.
All in all, Cyprus combines great weather, ease of communication, and affordable living into an ideal option for those wanting an English-friendly, Mediterranean lifestyle.
11. Czech Republic Outside Prague
The Czech Republic might surprise you with how much English is spoken in its smaller cities and how affordable it actually is.
While Prague is a hub for international expats, cities like Brno and Olomouc are just as English-friendly, especially among the younger generation and university communities. Navigating daily life in these areas doesn’t feel like a challenge, as signs, menus, and even public services often accommodate English speakers.
As for living costs, Czech Republic remains one of Europe’s more affordable options outside the capital. In Brno, you can rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for €450-500, while Ostrava, Olomouc, and České Budějovice offer much better value for money, without sacrificing convenience or quality of life. In these cities, you can rent a one-bedroom apartment for €300-400 per month
Transportation is a huge perk, as it’s efficient and cheap. A monthly public transport pass costs just €20 in Brno, and it’s even less in smaller cities. Healthcare is reliable and affordable and private insurance (which costs between €20-30 per month) provides excellent coverage.
If you want to live in the center of Europe with easy access to many places around the continent, live cheap and be in a place where people speak English, consider the Czech Republic outside Prague.
Thinking of visiting the Czech Republic soon? Get inspiration from the following posts:
- 2 Days in Prague Itinerary – Where to Go & What to Do
- What to Eat in Prague: Guide For a Foodie
- Bars & Restaurants in Prague With a View of the City
- 16 Dreamy Hotels in the Czech Republic You’d Love to Sleep In
12. Bulgaria (Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, or Burgas)
I know that Bulgaria has become a go-to for many people seeking a low-cost lifestyle without sacrificing comfort (lately, I have been meeting different people who were saying that they live in these particular cities and don’t spend much).
In cities like Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, and Burgas, English is surprisingly common among younger locals and expats. While Sofia might have the most English speakers, it is quite expensive these days, but these smaller cities have growing expat communities, making it easy to get by without Bulgarian.
Living costs in Bulgaria are impressively low (again, outside the capital). In Plovdiv or Veliko Tarnovo, you can rent a one-bedroom apartment in the center for just €250-300 (of course on a yearly basis), while outside the center, there are options even for €200.
Monthly expenses for a couple, including utilities, groceries, hairdresser, occasional eating out, basic transportation, and entertainment typically stay within €1,000. Groceries are incredibly affordable, with staples like bread at €0.60 per loaf and seasonal fruits and vegetables costing far less than in Western Europe
Did you live in any other cheap countries that are not on this list? Share with me in the comments!
Great list; thank you. I love that you’ve mentioned Portugal – if at all help to anyone looking at moving there, Imovirtual release a monthly report where they talk about cost of rent in each municipality amongst other things
Cool, thanks for sharing
Прекрасный блог Анюта! Я зачиталась :))
Спасибо, Женя!
Many thanks for your hard efforts Anya. It’s a great help!
Thankyou that was so helpful. I’m looking at varna santander or wroclaw. First choice was lviv but sadly can’t go back there for some time . SO which one of the others? !
Hey Patrick,
How did you decide on cities? Just curious because they are so different 🙂
I lived in Santander very short time and can’t tell it is cheap, mainly because of the real estate prices. From April to October, even November prices triple because tourists are ready to pay. Plus in my experience, a lot of the housing options are not of good quality. In winter, it gets really cold since there is no heat. Due to constant humidity, it is also muggy, clothes together with linen constantly stay half wet.
Of course, it depends on your lifestyle and preferences, but if you try to choose a city based on the budget and comfort, Santander is not among the cheapest. It is a wonderful city which I absolutely love but living there comfortably costs much more than it may seem from the beginning.
Wroclaw and Varna come almost at the same expense but they are very different in terms of culture and vibe. It all depends on your lifestyle and what you like.
If you want something similar to Lviv, I don’t think any of these cities can give you that. But if I still had to choose, I’d personally choose Wroclaw. It is a very comfortable city in a great location and reasonably priced.
Thank you very much . The information is useful , Thxs
Good lass. Very informative.
I live in Portugal, and if Portugal is on the list, also Italy and Germany should be as they cost the same or are cheaper
Portugal is on the list as a country that used to be cheap but not anymore. Although if we speak about Germany, you are right, you can live on a low budget there too if you pick a village in the middle of nowhere, don’t travel, and watch your other spendings 😐
Very nice post madam.useful and informative.
Hi Anya, a very informative piece; thank you! Question: any reason why you chose to include Lithuania in your list and not Latvia or Estonia? Also, what are your thoughts about Slovenia and Croatia?
Hi Chris, that’s a good question! I actually have to add Latvia to this list, you are absolutely right but as for Estonia, as far as I know, it is not the cheapest country anymore (based on the experiences of my friends who live there).
While it is still relatively cheap if compared to nearby Finland or let’s say Netherlands or Germany, it is much more expensive even if compared to Lithuania, Ukraine or let’s say Turkey. Based on wages to expense ratio, Estonia is an expensive country to be in unless you’re in a highly demanding field like IT. The costs have increased over the last few years since the moment the country introduced the e-residency program.
As for Slovenia and Croatia, Slovenia is not cheap at all. We thought to make a base there for some time, but very quickly realized it was far outside our budget. Renting an apartment is more expensive, cost of food, clothing, electronics, eating out, and traveling are almost the same as in Germany. But the main thing for us (and many people) is not even that. While it is still possible to find reasonably priced accommodation, it’s hard to legalize and stay longer than your visa allows. Another thing, in Slovenia you need to have a car. Without it, it will be difficult to visit all that beauty the country is famous for. If travel is not important, I guess staying in one place and using a bus on occasion is fine but if you love traveling often, you do need to have a car. Car rent in Slovenia, as well as gas prices, are on a very high side.
Croatia can be considered a cheap country but not the cheapest. Compared to all countries on this list it is more expensive and there is no way to live for/under $1000 per month unless you are away from the coast and not in Zagreb.
I wanted to make a list of the cheapest countries to live in Europe. While Croatia may be cheap compared to the US or Western Europe, it is far from being among the cheapest European countries, especially if you don’t plan to rent a flat for one year.
That’s just my opinion based on our experience 🙂
Thank you for stopping by!
This is an amazing post. I have a small blog and I live an unstable country. I’m looking to find cheap countries I can live on with my very little blogging income.
Thanks a lot.
This is how we were starting out. We lived in half of these countries from this list when our blog was still a baby 🙂 and keeping our expenses low helped us stay afloat and actually not to quit.
Good luck to you!
great post! Can’t wait to see more from you!
Georgia used to be a great country few years ago, but current government is ruled by one oligarch who is heavily under Russian influence, prowestern influence is slowly fading out, it’s becoming a very unstable place to live and if you want to live in a place with European values, look elsewhere…
Plenty of other countries out there with better over all ratings…
You are right, Greg, I still have to update this post. Georgia is really one of the cheapest countries to live in Europe now but also one of the least safe and comfortable.
We have recently moved there for the second time but ran away after only a few months in the country. During this time, we were harassed on multiple occasions and attacked (unfortunately) which prompted us to leave right away.
Some people still move there and think it’s great, not paying attention to all the problems. But if we have to be honest and recognize the reality, we’ll see that Georgia is not a good place for foreigners, at least for now.
Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.
Thank you for a great and informative report. I am retired and I am looking for the places that you have covered. I was in Ukraine for over 7 weeks this Summer. I visited Kyiv, Kharkiv, Lviv, Poltava and Odessa. I like your home country, the people and culture. Turkey is a interesting option as well.
Hi Michael,
I am so glad to hear you enjoyed Ukraine, yay! There are still many more places to visit, so make sure to return 🙂
And Turkey is incredible, I absolutely love living there for part of the year and always look forward to returning. It is very different from Ukraine in every sense.
Thanks Alex , certainly helpful!
Thank you for a very interesting selection. I hope to research Albania in depth. The fact that it is Muslim and presumably low in alcohol over-consumption would be an attraction.
You’re welcome, Fred, I am glad to help!
Thank you Anya for a very interesting article. This year my husband is retiring and we are planning to move for our retirement from US. We are considering Turkey as the best option for us due to its budget friendly accomodations, weather, safety, ecology, fresh food, and affordable healthcare, which is a total opposite of what we have in US. Also, closeness to Russian community hopefully will give us an opportunity for socializing and having a more meaningfull life. Traveling is also important to us, and easier if you live in Europe.
Thank you so much for sharing your life experience and all provided details. It makes such a difference for people like us. You just can’t live on a budget and have a quality life here, in US.
Hi Yelena, I hear you! I felt the same and never really had a quality life in the US, although my salary was above average.
I wish you all the best with the move and enjoy Turkey! 🙂
Hi Anya! I watch world news every day and it’s so sad what’s taking place in Ukraine. Praying for peace, freedom, security, and prosperity.
Sincerely,
Brian (Texas)
Thank you, Brian. We stepped on a long path to freedom and security but we will definitely get there! Thank you for your thoughts and prayers!
Thanks so much for this, I’ve only lived in 4 of these so far but looking forward to trying out a few more!
Dear Anya,
Thank you for your guide, it was very helpful.
One day I look forward to visiting Ukraine, but in the meantime, the courage of her people and their present suffering is very much on my heart and the subject of my prayers.
Stay strong.
Jasmine
Hi Jasmine, thank you for your thoughts and prayers! I hope you’ll get a chance to visit and we all hope this war will be over soon.
Great article!
Thankyou Anya! This was exactly the guide I was looking for, as I look to quit the overtime and set off on a long adventure in 2025. I hope to visit your beautiful homeland too, once the fascists recede. Slava Ukraini!
Hi Ricky, I hope you will get a chance to visit soon as well as we will be able to return home! Thanks for stopping by!
Poland is no longer all that cheap. Inflation hit 18% this year (though it is down now), but apartments are pretty expensive in the cities. I left my apartment in Poznań (moved to Paris) and it immediately rented for 2.5x what I was paying. When I go back, restaurants aren’t shockingly cheaper than here in France, though groceries are still cheaper, and even though real estate rentals in cities like Warsaw have gone absolutely bonkers, it’s still cheaper than here… though not by as much as it used to be.
Thank you for your input, Piotr! I agree, Poland is not as cheap as it used to be but it is still way cheaper than France, at least I can speak from my experience.
I was recently in Perpignan (French city near the border with Spain) and right after I flew to Warsaw. Compared to Perpignan, Warsaw was so affordable! My husband and I could dine for two with drinks included and pay less than what I paid for myself only in Perpignan for food alone. Accommodation was quite cheaper too when in Perpignan I wasn’t able to find anything decent at all within my budget and decided to return to Spain to stay there.
All other places I have been to in France (outside Paris) were much more expensive than even in nearby Spain.
Thanks for the information provided, really helpful.
I’ve gained a deep understanding of its affordability and overall prices and can tell that until this day parts of Slovakia are very affordable for living. Besides Bucharest of course which is becoming more and more expensive each year since Vienna is near.
LMAO. Bucharest is capital city of Romania. Why would I or anyone else read farther? Level of incompetence – god.
Typos happen when you write a lot about places you’ve actually lived in and traveled through — too many cities on your mind at once. The only incompetence here is mistaking a slip of words for lack of knowledge. But I guess ability to analyze and use common sense is still a luxury for some.
Great retort to a clueless remark!
Are there places in Portugal you’d recommend for a stay of a few months starting in winter? Are any of the Spanish or Portuguese islands feasible?
Hi Don, in my experience, on the mainland, the Algarve is the best for a few months in winter (lots of long-term rentals and really sunny weather). Around Spain, the best mainland winter bases are smaller towns around Alicante and parts of Costa Blanca. Both stay warmer and cheaper than most of Europe in winter.