The most popular Low-Cost countries in Europe for expats to relocate

Relocating to a more affordable European country is becoming increasingly common among people already living in high-cost regions like Germany, the UK, or the Nordics. Whether it’s for a lower cost of living, better weather, or simply a fresh start, plenty of expats are making the move. But which countries are the most popular for this transition, and how much can you save? Let’s explore the statistics and break down the financial benefits of moving to Europe’s favorite low-cost destinations.

Why move to a Low-Cost European country?

For expats already living in Europe, the idea of moving to a cheaper country can be incredibly appealing. Here are some reasons why:

• Different cost of Living
• Lifestyle Upgrade
• Remote Work Flexibility: With remote work becoming the norm, people can live in affordable countries while earning salaries from higher-paying economies.
• Proximity: Staying within Europe means maintaining easy travel access to family and friends while enjoying the benefits of a cheaper destination.

The Most Popular Low-Cost Countries in Europe

1.Portugal 🇵🇹

• Why: sunny climate, welcoming locals, relaxed pace of life and a relatively low cost of living, especially outside Lisbon and Porto. The D7 visa makes it attractive for remote workers and retirees.
• Savings example: Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Lisbon averages €900, while in smaller cities like Braga, it can be as low as €500.

2.Spain (Smaller Cities) 🇪🇸

• Why: While Madrid and Barcelona can be pricey, smaller cities like Valencia, Seville, or Malaga are much more affordable. Spain offers excellent weather, rich culture, and high-quality healthcare.
• Savings example: Rent in Valencia is about €700 for a 1-bedroom apartment, compared to €1,500 in cities like Munich or Amsterdam.
• Lifestyle perks: World-class food, a vibrant social scene, and the chance to live near the Mediterranean.

3.Poland 🇵🇱

• Why: Poland is one of the best options for affordable living combined with modern infrastructure. Cities like Krakow and Wroclaw are favorites among expats for their history, charm, and budget-friendly costs.
• Savings example: A 1-bedroom apartment in Krakow costs around €500, compared to €1,800 in London. Groceries and dining out are also significantly cheaper.

4.Bulgaria 🇧🇬

• Why: Bulgaria is one of Europe’s most affordable countries, known for its low taxes, beautiful nature, and vibrant expat communities.
• Savings example: Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Sofia averages €450, and monthly utilities are around €100.
• Lifestyle perks: Affordable skiing in winter, beaches on the Black Sea in summer, and a rapidly growing digital nomad scene.

5.Romania 🇷🇴

• Why: Romania combines affordability with a surprisingly high quality of life. Cities like Cluj-Napoca and Bucharest are expat-friendly, with English widely spoken in professional settings.
• Savings example: A 1-bedroom apartment in Cluj-Napoca costs around €400, and dining out rarely exceeds €10 for a full meal.
• Lifestyle perks: A growing tech hub, picturesque landscapes like Transylvania, and a strong café culture ☕️🥨

6.Greece (Mainland and Islands) 🇬🇷

• Why: Known for its stunning landscapes, Greece offers affordable living, especially on the mainland or smaller islands. The digital nomad visa has made it an attractive option for remote workers.
• Savings example: Rent in Thessaloniki averages €500, compared to €2,000 in Zurich. On smaller islands, costs are even lower.
• Lifestyle perks: Endless sunshine, Mediterranean cuisine, and a rich history to explore.

7.Hungary 🇭🇺

• Why it’s popular: Hungary offers a low cost of living and vibrant cultural life, especially in Budapest.
• Savings example: A 1-bedroom apartment in Budapest costs about €500–€600, while dining out can cost as little as €6 for a full meal.
• Lifestyle perks: Beautiful architecture, thermal baths, and a buzzing nightlife scene.

How Much can You save?

Here’s a comparison of estimated monthly costs for a single person living in different cities:

Moving from a high-cost country like France or Germany to a more affordable destination like Poland or Bulgaria can save you anywhere from €800 to €1,500 per month, depending on your lifestyle.

Tips for Relocating

1. Start with Research: Use cost-of-living calculators and talk to expats already living in your chosen country to get realistic estimates.
2. Leverage Remote Work: Keep earning a higher salary while enjoying lower living costs.
3. Choose Smaller Cities: Major cities like Lisbon or Budapest are popular but can be pricier. Look at second-tier cities like Braga, Cluj-Napoca, or Wroclaw for even more savings.
4. Use Affordable Money Transfer Services: If you regularly transfer money across borders, choose low-fee services, like Spoko.app, to avoid expensive bank fees.

Relocating within Europe to a low-cost country can significantly reduce your living expenses while offering a new cultural experience. Countries like Portugal, Poland, and Bulgaria provide the perfect mix of affordability, lifestyle perks, and accessibility, making them top choices for expats. Whether you’re a retiree, remote worker, or adventurer, moving to a cheaper European destination could be the financial and lifestyle upgrade you’ve been looking for.

Are you ready to explore your options with Spoko.app?