Our guide on the best Places for Living in Europe for Less Than $2,000 USD if you are planning to move in.
Europe is home to some of the most vibrant cities and picturesque towns that offer a high quality of life, rich culture, and modern amenities at surprisingly affordable costs. Whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or someone looking for a more budget-friendly European lifestyle, many destinations can fit within a $2,000 USD per month budget.
These cities offer a fantastic blend of affordability, culture, and lifestyle, making them perfect for anyone looking to live in Europe without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer a coastal Mediterranean city, a bustling capital, or a quiet historic town, you can enjoy a high quality of life in these European destinations for less than $2,000 USD per month.
Here’s a travel guide to the best places to live in Europe for less than $2,000 USD, including estimated monthly costs, highlights, and local lifestyle insights.
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Quick Easy Tips
Track Currency Fluctuations: Living costs can shift monthly. Use currency tracking apps to monitor favorable exchange rates before moving or spending.
Opt for Suburbs Over City Centers: In many top-tier cities, nearby towns offer the same quality of life for a fraction of the rent.
Take Advantage of Public Healthcare: Several European countries offer low-cost or free healthcare for residents—research how to qualify.
Use Local Markets: Daily costs drop dramatically when you shop at local markets instead of supermarkets.
Apply for Residency Options: Some of these countries have digital nomad or retiree visas—check if you qualify to extend your stay.
Many Americans assume that Europe is universally expensive, especially compared to suburban life in the U.S. But that’s largely a myth. While cities like Paris, Zurich, or Oslo are notoriously pricey, dozens of underrated gems—from the Balkans to Southern Spain—offer exceptional quality of life, safety, and amenities at a cost far lower than many mid-size American cities. These destinations remain affordable because they’re not saturated by global tourism or overrun by digital nomads—yet.
However, what many new expats don’t anticipate is the cultural trade-off that comes with affordability. In places like Bulgaria, Albania, or even parts of Portugal, bureaucracy can be slow, Wi-Fi less reliable, and customer service not as “instant” as in the U.S. Locals may also view long-term expats with a mix of curiosity and caution, especially in tight-knit rural communities. You’re not just buying into cheap rent—you’re signing up for a different pace of life.
There’s also controversy around the ethics of mass relocation. Some critics argue that the wave of expats driving up demand in cheaper European countries is slowly gentrifying once-affordable neighborhoods and pricing out locals. This is especially true in cities like Lisbon, Tbilisi, or Krakow. While living cheaply abroad is appealing, it’s crucial to be mindful of your impact on the housing market and community integration—not just your wallet.
Best Places for Living in Europe
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Why It’s Affordable and Livable: Lisbon offers a unique blend of affordability, culture, and beautiful scenery. The city boasts a mild climate, rich history, and a welcoming atmosphere, with many English-speaking locals. It has become a hotspot for digital nomads and expats thanks to its laid-back lifestyle, fantastic food, and great public transportation.
Estimated Monthly Cost: $1,600 – $2,000 USD
Rent: $800 – $1,200 (1-bedroom apartment in the city center)
Groceries and Dining Out: $400
Utilities and Internet: $150
Public Transport: $40
Highlights:
Sunny weather year-round
Beautiful viewpoints like Miradouros and historic trams
Great seafood, local wine, and vibrant nightlife in Bairro Alto
Proximity to gorgeous beaches like Cascais and Sintra
Best Neighborhoods:
Alfama: Charming historic district.
Baixa-Chiado: Central, vibrant, and full of cafés.
Príncipe Real: Trendy, with upscale shops and parks.
2. Valencia, Spain
Why It’s Affordable and Livable: Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city and combines the advantages of big-city living with the relaxed vibe of a coastal town. With a low cost of living, delicious cuisine, beautiful beaches, and over 300 days of sunshine, Valencia is perfect for those looking to enjoy Spain’s Mediterranean lifestyle without the high prices of Barcelona or Madrid.
Estimated Monthly Cost: $1,400 – $1,800 USD
Rent: $600 – $900 (1-bedroom apartment in the city center)
Groceries and Dining Out: $300
Utilities and Internet: $150
Public Transport: $50
Highlights:
Las Fallas Festival in March
Stunning Turia Gardens and City of Arts and Sciences
Wide, sandy beaches like Playa de la Malvarrosa
A top destination for delicious paella and local produce
Best Neighborhoods:
Ruzafa: Trendy and artistic, full of cafes and nightlife.
El Carmen: Historic and charming, with a bohemian vibe.
Benimaclet: Popular with students and expats, and more affordable.
3. Budapest, Hungary
Why It’s Affordable and Livable: Budapest is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant social scene. It offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of other European capitals. With excellent public transport, a wealth of cultural activities, and great dining options, it’s a fantastic option for those seeking a dynamic city life on a budget.
Estimated Monthly Cost: $1,200 – $1,800 USD
Rent: $500 – $800 (1-bedroom apartment in the city center)
Groceries and Dining Out: $300
Utilities and Internet: $150
Public Transport: $35
Highlights:
Thermal baths like Széchenyi and Gellért
Historic sites like Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion
Great nightlife in ruin bars like Szimpla Kert
Central location in Europe, perfect for travel
Best Neighborhoods:
District VII (Jewish Quarter): Lively and hip, filled with ruin bars.
District V (Belváros-Lipótváros): Central, upscale, and elegant.
District XIII (Újlipótváros): Quiet and residential, with great cafes.
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Why It’s Affordable and Livable: Prague is a beautiful city with fairy-tale charm, historical architecture, and a lively cultural scene. The cost of living is reasonable, and the city is known for its safety, walkability, and excellent public transportation. Prague’s central location also makes it a great base for exploring Europe.
Estimated Monthly Cost: $1,300 – $1,900 USD
Rent: $600 – $900 (1-bedroom apartment in the city center)
Groceries and Dining Out: $350
Utilities and Internet: $150
Public Transport: $25
Highlights:
Iconic sites like Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and Prague Castle
Vibrant expat community and international events
Affordable beer and fantastic food scene
Cultural activities, theaters, and music festivals
Best Neighborhoods:
Vinohrady: Trendy, central, and popular with expats.
Žižkov: Bohemian vibe, filled with bars and cafes.
Malá Strana: Historic and charming, close to the castle.
5. Porto, Portugal
Why It’s Affordable and Livable: Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, offers a more laid-back and affordable lifestyle compared to Lisbon. Known for its stunning riverside views, colorful architecture, and delicious food and wine, Porto is a charming city with a friendly community and lower cost of living.
Estimated Monthly Cost: $1,300 – $1,800 USD
Rent: $500 – $800 (1-bedroom apartment in the city center)
Groceries and Dining Out: $350
Utilities and Internet: $120
Public Transport: $40
Highlights:
Explore the Ribeira District along the Douro River
Wine tastings and tours in the Port Wine Caves
Traditional Portuguese cuisine and seafood
Beautiful coastal scenery and nearby beach towns
Best Neighborhoods:
Cedofeita: Artsy and hip, with plenty of galleries and cafes.
Ribeira: Historic riverside district with charming views.
Bonfim: Affordable and up-and-coming, popular with young locals.
6. Sofia, Bulgaria
Why It’s Affordable and Livable: Sofia is an underrated gem in Eastern Europe with low living costs, a burgeoning expat community, and a mix of historic and modern influences. It offers an active outdoor lifestyle, proximity to mountains, and a rapidly growing tech scene, making it ideal for remote workers and retirees looking for affordability.
Estimated Monthly Cost: $1,000 – $1,500 USD
Rent: $300 – $600 (1-bedroom apartment in the city center)
Groceries and Dining Out: $250
Utilities and Internet: $100
Public Transport: $30
Highlights:
Access to Vitosha Mountain for hiking and skiing
Historical landmarks like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Vibrant café culture and lively nightlife
Affordable dining and great local cuisine
Best Neighborhoods:
Lozenets: Upscale and leafy, with a residential feel.
Vitosha District: Close to the mountains, ideal for nature lovers.
Oborishte: Central, historic, and popular with expats.
7. Split, Croatia
Why It’s Affordable and Livable: Split is a beautiful coastal city offering a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle at a relatively low cost. With its stunning waterfront, Roman ruins, and easy access to the Croatian islands, Split is ideal for those seeking a balance between work and leisure.
Estimated Monthly Cost: $1,400 – $1,800 USD
Rent: $500 – $800 (1-bedroom apartment in the city center)
Groceries and Dining Out: $350
Utilities and Internet: $120
Public Transport: $40
Highlights:
Diocletian’s Palace: Wander through this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Beautiful beaches like Bacvice Beach and Kasjuni Beach
Day trips to islands like Hvar, Brac, and Vis
Vibrant food markets and fresh seafood
Best Neighborhoods:
Bacvice: Close to the beach and nightlife.
Varoš: Charming old town area with traditional stone houses.
Meje: Quiet, upscale, and close to Marjan Hill.
8. Athens, Greece
Why It’s Affordable and Livable: Athens offers a vibrant mix of ancient history and modern lifestyle. With reasonable living costs, sunny weather, and a lively local culture, Athens is ideal for those who want to be surrounded by history while enjoying Mediterranean life.
Estimated Monthly Cost: $1,300 – $1,900 USD
Rent: $500 – $800 (1-bedroom apartment in the city center)
Groceries and Dining Out: $300
Utilities and Internet: $150
Public Transport: $35
Highlights:
Explore the Acropolis and other ancient sites.
Enjoy the vibrant neighborhood of Plaka.
Great dining and nightlife in Exarchia and Kolonaki.
Easy access to Greek islands and beautiful coastal areas.
Best Neighborhoods:
Koukaki: Close to the Acropolis, vibrant yet quiet.
Exarchia: Trendy, artistic, and budget-friendly.
Kolonaki: Upscale, with chic cafes and shops.
8. Krakow
Why Live Here: Kraków is one of Poland’s most beautiful cities, with a well-preserved medieval old town, lively cultural scene, and a low cost of living.
Cost of Living: $1,000 – $1,400 USD per month.
Rent: Around $400 – $600 USD for a one-bedroom apartment in a central area.
Lifestyle: The city offers a vibrant lifestyle with plenty of cafés, bars, and cultural events. It’s also a great place to explore the nearby countryside and historical sites.
Expat Community: Active and growing, with plenty of meetups and events.
Tip: Consider living in the Kazimierz district for a mix of history, culture, and nightlife.
9. Tbilisi, Georgia
Why Live Here: Tbilisi is gaining popularity among expats for its affordability, unique charm, and welcoming atmosphere. The city blends traditional and modern architecture, with a booming arts and café culture.
Cost of Living: $800 – $1,200 USD per month.
Rent: Around $300 – $500 USD for a one-bedroom apartment in the center.
Lifestyle: Tbilisi’s dynamic lifestyle, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife make it an exciting place to live. The proximity to nature also allows for easy access to the mountains and countryside.
Expat Community: Growing quickly, with a mix of digital nomads, students, and retirees.
Tip: Look for housing in Vera or Sololaki for a central location and easy access to cafés and cultural spots.
10. Thessaloniki, Greece
Cheaper than Athens while offering seaside living.
Cost Breakdown:
Rent: ~$600–$900 (one-bedroom apartment in the city center).
Dining Out: ~$8–$12 per meal.
Lifestyle Perks:
Rich in history, stunning sea views, and a vibrant nightlife.
Access to Greek islands and Mediterranean cuisine.
11. Riga, Latvia
A cost-effective Baltic gem with modern amenities.
Cost Breakdown:
Rent: ~$500–$800 (one-bedroom in the city center).
Dining Out: ~$7–$12 per meal.
Lifestyle Perks:
Art Nouveau architecture and vibrant culture.
Excellent transport links to other Baltic countries.
12. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Why It’s Affordable:
An underrated destination with a rich history and affordable living.
Cost Breakdown:
Rent: ~$300–$600 (one-bedroom in the city center).
Dining Out: ~$5–$8 per meal.
Lifestyle Perks:
Surrounded by mountains and historical landmarks.
Friendly locals and a low cost of transportation.
13. Vilnius, Lithuania
Why It’s Affordable:
A compact, modern city with low living costs.
Cost Breakdown:
Rent: ~$400–$700 (one-bedroom in the city center).
Dining Out: ~$6–$10 per meal.
Lifestyle Perks:
Baroque architecture, cozy cafes, and lush green spaces.
Safe and clean with a high quality of life.
14. Belgrade, Serbia
Why It’s Affordable:
A lively city with rich history and low costs.
Cost Breakdown:
Rent: ~$400–$700 (one-bedroom in the city center).
Dining Out: ~$6–$10 per meal.
Lifestyle Perks:
Vibrant nightlife, riverside cafes, and a laid-back vibe.
Affordable healthcare and strong expat networks.
Final Thoughts
Living in Europe doesn’t have to mean draining your savings or giving up a comfortable lifestyle. These 14 dreamy cities prove that with thoughtful planning, the European life you’ve fantasized about—complete with café mornings, walkable neighborhoods, and rich cultural experiences—can be entirely within reach for under $2,000 a month. From Portugal’s sun-drenched coast to Eastern Europe’s hidden gems, the opportunities are as diverse as the landscapes.
However, affordable living doesn’t mean compromising on quality. Many of these cities offer excellent public healthcare, efficient transportation, and vibrant local communities—all at a fraction of what you’d pay in U.S. urban centers. The key is researching your ideal balance of cost, lifestyle, and local culture, and being open to destinations beyond the usual tourist magnets. Sometimes, the best places to live are the ones you haven’t heard of yet.
Ultimately, choosing to relocate or spend extended time abroad is not just about money—it’s about values. Many who make the leap find that slowing down, prioritizing community, and embracing a more minimalist lifestyle leads to a richer, more fulfilling life. Whether you’re a remote worker, retiree, or just someone dreaming of a change, these cities offer more than just affordability—they offer a fresh start.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.