Affordable European Countries for Expats in 2025. By Nwabueze Benard
Moving abroad is an exciting adventure, but finances play a crucial role in deciding where to settle. Europe offers a mix of vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and affordable living—if you know where to look.
From Croatia’s coastal charm to Hungary’s historic cities, here are the **most budget-friendly European countries for expats** in 2025.
---
## **1. Croatia 🇭🇷**
**Why Move Here?**
- Stunning Adriatic coastline
- Low cost of living (31.5 on the cost of living index)
- **Digital Nomad Visa** with **no income tax for one year**
- High-quality, affordable healthcare
**Cost Breakdown:**
- **Rent (city center):** €550/month
- **Meal at a restaurant:** €10
- **Coffee:** €2
Compared to London (where rent averages €2,500), Croatia is a steal. Remote workers earning Western salaries enjoy a **40% lower cost of living** than in the UK.
---
## **2. Estonia 🇪🇪**
**Why Move Here?**
- Europe’s **most digital-forward country** (home of Skype & e-Residency)
- **Tallinn** blends medieval charm with a booming tech scene
- **Estonia Digital Nomad Visa** available
**Cost Breakdown:**
- **Rent (city center):** €600/month
- **Meal at a restaurant:** €11
- **Coffee:** €3
While local salaries are lower (avg. €27,000 for developers), remote workers can **live comfortably** on international wages.
---
## **3. Spain 🇪🇸**
**Why Move Here?**
- Sunny beaches, vibrant cities, and a relaxed lifestyle
- **Digital Nomad Visa** for remote workers
- **29.3% cheaper than the Netherlands**
**Cost Breakdown:**
- **Rent (city center):** €930/month
- **Meal at a restaurant:** €12
- **Coffee:** €2
With **6 million expats**, Spain is a top choice for work-life balance.
---
## **4. Hungary 🇭🇺**
**Why Move Here?**
- **Budapest** offers history, thermal baths, and ruin bars
- **Cheapest country on this list** (cost of living index: 28.2)
**Cost Breakdown:**
- **Rent (city center):** €420/month
- **Meal at a restaurant:** €9
- **Coffee:** €2
Hungary is **68% cheaper than Berlin** for rent, making it ideal for budget-conscious expats.
---
## **5. Montenegro 🇲🇪**
**Why Move Here?**
- **Breathtaking nature** (Bay of Kotor, Adriatic beaches)
- Low taxes & affordable living
**Cost Breakdown:**
- **Rent (city center):** €600/month
- **Meal at a restaurant:** €9
- **Coffee:** €2
Montenegro is perfect for **remote workers** who want a relaxed, scenic lifestyle.
---
## **Final Thoughts**
If you’re looking for **affordable living in Europe**, these five countries offer **great value** without sacrificing quality of life.
**Best for:**
✅ **Digital nomads** → Croatia & Estonia
✅ **Budget expats** → Hungary & Montenegro
✅ **Sunseekers** → Spain
Which one would you choose? Let us know in the comments!
---
Comments
Post a Comment