Europe is a continent known for its rich culture, history, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities. For many people looking to live in Europe, affordability is a key factor when choosing a destination. Expats, in particular, are often drawn to cities that offer a high quality of life without breaking the bank. With 2025 just around the corner, it’s time to look at the best affordable cities in Europe that provide an ideal balance of low cost of living, excellent amenities, and vibrant cultural experiences.
If you’re planning to relocate or invest in Europe, here’s a list of the top 6 affordable cities in Europe for expats to move to in 2025:
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal’s coastal capital, has become increasingly popular with expats over the past few years, and for good reason. Known for its friendly locals, rich culture, and breathtaking views, Lisbon offers an excellent standard of living without the hefty price tag seen in other Western European capitals.
Why Lisbon is an affordable city in Europe:
- Cost of Living: Lisbon is significantly cheaper than cities like Paris, London, or Amsterdam. Rent is affordable, and eating out at local restaurants won’t drain your bank account. For example, you can enjoy a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant for around €15-€25.
- Public Transportation: Lisbon has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro, all at very affordable prices.
- Weather and Lifestyle: With mild winters and sunny summers, Lisbon offers an appealing lifestyle year-round. The city is also known for its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.
- Growing Expat Community: Lisbon has become a hub for digital nomads, tech entrepreneurs, and retirees alike, making it easier for expats to integrate and find communities with shared interests.
2. Top 6 Affordable Cities in Europe: Budapest, Hungary
Hungary’s capital, Budapest, is a beautiful and historic city known for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and energetic atmosphere. As one of the most affordable cities in Europe, Budapest offers a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost of Western European cities.
Why Budapest is an affordable city in Europe:
- Cost of Living: Rent in Budapest is very low compared to cities like Berlin or Vienna. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs significantly less, and utilities are also affordable. Dining out at local restaurants is budget-friendly, with meals averaging around €10-€15.
- Cultural and Historical Significance: Budapest is a city rich in history and culture, offering many museums, art galleries, and famous landmarks such as the Parliament Building and Buda Castle, all of which are either free or very inexpensive to visit.
- Public Transportation: The city boasts an efficient and affordable public transport network, including metro, buses, and trams, making it easy for expats to get around without spending much.
- Vibrant Expat Community: Budapest is home to a growing expat community, especially among young professionals and digital nomads. The city’s affordable cost of living, coupled with its artistic and creative atmosphere, makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a more affordable European lifestyle.
3. Krakow, Poland
Krakow, located in southern Poland, is one of the country’s oldest and most beautiful cities. Famous for its medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and vibrant cultural scene, Krakow offers expats a low-cost lifestyle in a stunning European setting.
Why Krakow Ranks Among the Top 6 Most Affordable Cities in Europe
- Cost of Living: Krakow offers a very affordable cost of living, with low rent prices and inexpensive utilities. You can rent an apartment in the city center for a fraction of what it would cost in major Western European cities. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs around €7-€10.
- Rich History and Culture: Krakow’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, historic sites like Wawel Castle, and proximity to Auschwitz make it a city full of culture and history. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or music, Krakow has something to offer every expat.
- Public Transport: Krakow’s public transport system is affordable and well-connected, including trams and buses, making it easy to navigate the city.
- Community and Amenities: Krakow is home to a large number of international students and expats, making it easy to find people who speak English and integrate into the local community.
4. Top 6 Most Affordable Cities in Europe: Valencia, Spain
Valencia, a coastal city on Spain’s eastern Mediterranean coast, is gaining attention as one of the most affordable and desirable cities to live in Spain. Known for its beautiful beaches, charming old town, and delicious cuisine, Valencia offers a perfect blend of affordable living and vibrant Spanish culture.
Why Valencia is an affordable city in Europe:
- Cost of Living: Valencia’s cost of living is much lower than Madrid or Barcelona. Rent is reasonable, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costing between €600-€800. Eating out is also affordable, with a traditional meal costing around €10-€15.
- Sunny Climate: Valencia enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors year-round.
- Cultural and Culinary Delights: Known as the birthplace of paella, Valencia is a food lover’s paradise. The city offers a range of delicious tapas and local dishes at affordable prices. There’s also plenty to explore, including stunning architecture and world-class museums.
- Vibrant Expat Community: Valencia has a growing expat community, especially in the digital nomad space, with affordable coworking spaces and an increasingly active cultural scene. The city’s laid-back atmosphere makes it easy for expats to adapt and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.
5. Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest, Romania’s capital, has emerged as one of Europe’s hidden gems. The city combines modernity with historic charm, offering expats a lively urban environment and a low cost of living, all in one package.
Why Bucharest is an affordable city in Europe:
- Cost of Living: Bucharest is one of the cheapest cities in Europe in terms of rent, food, and entertainment. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost as little as €350-€450 per month. Dining out is inexpensive, with meals typically costing around €7-€12.
- Rich History and Architecture: The city boasts impressive architecture, from the monumental Palace of Parliament to charming old town streets filled with cafes and restaurants. Bucharest also has a thriving cultural scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and museums to explore.
- Public Transportation: Bucharest’s public transport system, consisting of buses, trams, and the metro, is both affordable and extensive, making it easy to navigate the city on a budget.
- Expanding Expat Network: As Romania’s economy continues to grow, Bucharest is attracting more expats, especially from other European countries. The city is becoming a popular destination for young professionals, tech workers, and entrepreneurs due to its affordable living costs and rapidly developing business scene.
6. Mosta, Malta
Mosta, a town located in the central part of Malta, offers a charming yet affordable lifestyle for expats. Unlike the bustling capital Valletta, Mosta provides a quieter environment while still being close to the island’s best attractions. The Mediterranean climate, combined with a low cost of living, makes Mosta an increasingly popular choice among expats looking for an affordable life in Malta.
Why Mosta is an affordable city in Europe:
- Cost of Living: While Malta as a whole can be expensive, Mosta offers a more affordable alternative. Rent is relatively lower compared to Valletta and Sliema, with one-bedroom apartments in Mosta typically ranging from €600-€850 per month. Additionally, grocery shopping is affordable, with supermarkets like Eurospin and Lidl offering discounts and keeping prices low on daily essentials.
- Convenience and Accessibility: Mosta is well-connected to the rest of the island by public transport, making it easy to explore Malta without the high costs of living in the more tourist-heavy areas. You can access stunning beaches and historic sites with a short bus ride.
- Supermarket Discounts: Mosta residents enjoy access to large, well-stocked discount supermarkets such as Eurospin and Lidl, which are both known for offering high-quality products at lower prices. This makes grocery shopping more affordable and helps expats manage their monthly expenses effectively.
- Cultural and Relaxed Lifestyle: Mosta is famous for its impressive Rotunda Church and its peaceful, suburban atmosphere. Expats living in Mosta enjoy a slower pace of life, complemented by the warmth of the Mediterranean lifestyle and easy access to Malta’s rich cultural heritage.
Many Affordable Cities in Europe Are Ready for Expats
Choosing an affordable city to move to in Europe is an exciting decision for expats in 2025. From the sunny coastlines of Lisbon and Mosta to the charming historical streets of Budapest and Krakow, Europe offers a range of affordable cities that provide an excellent quality of life. Whether you’re looking for affordable rent, low-cost public transportation, or a welcoming community, these cities offer it all. So, if you’re ready for a change of scenery, consider these top 6 affordable cities in Europe as your next destination!
