The cost of living in European cities can vary significantly even within the same country. Find out about the cheapest cities in Europe where you can live comfortably and save money at the same time

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Europe is commonly considered a place for a luxurious lifestyle with high prices, but not all European cities require huge amounts of money for comfortable living and recreation. We are going to tell you about the most budget-friendly cities in Europe, where you can avoid overpaying and spend money frugally.

You can find out which EU countries are the most profitable to live in here.

Cheapest cities in Europe to live

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is a smart and compact European city that remains an attractive place to live in terms of comfort, infrastructure and reasonable costs. As of 2024, the situation with rental housing has changed slightly.

Apartment rents in Tallinn vary depending on the area and characteristics of the property. Currently, rents range from around €400 to €1,000 per month. The rise in price is due to inflation, rising property prices and the general economic situation in Estonia.

The city's transport system has undergone changes. Since 2021, public transport has remained free for Tallinn citizens, but regular fares apply for tourists and non-residents. As of 2024, the cost of a single ticket is about 2-3 euros.

The city continues to retain its unique atmosphere: the ancient architecture of the UNESCO-listed Old Town is combined with modern technological solutions. Tallinn continues to be very walkable, especially in the central part, which makes it attractive to tourists and residents alike.

Find out which European countries are the most difficult to rent comfortable accommodation in here.

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Advantages of Tallinn that make it one of the best cities for comfortable living:

- the most advanced digital ecosystem in Europe with unique opportunities for IT professionals and remote work;

- high quality of life at relatively low costs, convenient infrastructure and safe urban environment;

- a unique combination of medieval architecture of the Old Town and modern technological solutions;

- convenient geographical location with easy transport links to other European countries;

- an open-minded society with a high level of English language proficiency and openness to foreigners.

We will tell you which EU country is the most attractive for education among foreigners and which European countries offer free or very cheap education to international students by following the links.

Riga, Latvia

Riga remains one of the most interesting and economical tourist destinations in the Baltic region. As of 2024, renting an apartment in Riga ranges from about 450 to 900 euros per month. The cost depends on the area, the condition of the apartment and its distance from the centre.

A hotel or hostel room now costs between €25 and €50 per night, depending on the season and type of establishment.

Food remains relatively affordable. The city still has many budget-friendly eateries, ranging from traditional Latvian street food to inexpensive restaurants. The average bill in an inexpensive restaurant is around €10-15.

The city remains attractive to tourists and expats due to its colour, culture and reasonable prices, although they have increased slightly compared to previous years.

Advantages of Riga that attract tourists from all over the world:

- location in the centre of the Baltic States, convenient connections to Europe and the Baltic States;

- safety, affordable healthcare and comfortable infrastructure;

- multiculturalism;

- growing opportunities in finance, logistics, IT and start-ups;

- ancient architecture, numerous festivals, theatres and cultural events.

Read about the best places to travel in Europe here.

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Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest continues to be an attractive city to live in. As of 2024, rental prices have experienced some fluctuations. In the city centre, the cost of a one-bedroom apartment ranges from 500-700 euros per month. In more remote areas, prices range from €400 to €600, depending on transport accessibility, the condition of the apartment and the infrastructure of the area.

Economic growth and inflationary processes have affected the property market. Although prices have risen slightly, Bucharest continues to be one of the most affordable European capital cities.

The city preserves its rich cultural heritage and offers a wide range of free and low-cost entertainment.

The city's transport system remains convenient and relatively inexpensive. Public transport offers a variety of travel options at reasonable prices.

Bucharest continues to attract tourists and potential residents with its unique atmosphere, a combination of historical heritage and modern urban environment.

Top reasons why Bucharest remains attractive to tourists:

- career development prospects; - lower cost of living compared to many European capitals;

- a combination of historical architecture, museums and modern entertainment;

- easy access to mountains, sea and other European destinations;

- developed city life, numerous restaurants and cafes, events and festivals.

Read how to get an EU work visa for Ukrainians here.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow continues to be one of the most attractive and affordable cities in Europe, although the economic situation has changed somewhat. As of 2024, the cost of renting a home has increased slightly. The average price for renting an apartment now ranges from €700 to €1,200 per month, depending on the area, size and condition of the property.

The average budget for food is around €15-20 per day, depending on the type of food and the choice of restaurants.

The city's transport system remains convenient and relatively inexpensive. Public transport offers a variety of travel options at reasonable prices.

Krakow continues to attract tourists and potential residents with its unique atmosphere, a combination of historical heritage and modern European city life.

The advantages of Krakow that make it one of the best cities for comfortable living

- rich history, ancient architecture and medieval atmosphere;

- prestigious universities;

- growing IT sector, international corporations and start-ups;.

- relatively low cost of living with a high quality of life;

- active city life, numerous festivals, theatres and museums.

Read here to find out which EU countries will be eligible for renewed protection in 2024.

Keep in mind that a Green Card is a prerequisite for legal travel in Europe by car. On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can apply for a Green Card online from a licensed insurer. Packages are available for different periods from 15 days to 1 year for cars and trucks, trailers and semi-trailers for trucks, as well as motorcycles and scooters.

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Prague, Czech Republic

Prague continues to be one of the most attractive European cities, combining rich history, culture and relatively affordable prices.

Currently, rents in the city centre range from €700 to €1,200 per month, depending on the area, size and condition of the property.

Food in the city remains relatively affordable: a meal in a catering establishment costs an average of €12-15. Self-catering can significantly reduce costs, and supermarkets offer reasonable prices.

The city's transport system remains convenient and relatively inexpensive. Public transport offers a variety of options for travelling at reasonable prices.

Prague continues to be an ideal destination for those looking for a combination of historical heritage, cultural richness and a modern European lifestyle.

In addition to affordability, foreigners choose Prague to live in because of:

- a developed economy, international companies and a wide range of job opportunities;

- safety, convenient infrastructure and access to quality healthcare;

- fabulous architecture, castles, museums and rich history;

- easy access to other European countries due to its central location;

- lively social and cultural life.

Find useful travel apps for your travels in Europe here.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon remains an attractive city to live in, but the cost of living situation has changed somewhat.

As of 2024, a one-bedroom apartment in the centre or popular areas costs between €900 and €1,500 per month, while in less central areas you can find options from €700 to €1,200. In comparison, rents in smaller cities in Portugal remain cheaper, ranging from €500 to €800.

The cost of living in the city includes food costs of around €15-25 per day, public transport costs around €40-50 per month, and utilities will cost around €100-150 per month.

Lisbon continues to attract tourists and potential residents with its unique architecture, rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, mild Mediterranean climate and developed infrastructure.

Despite rising prices, Lisbon remains one of the most attractive European cities due to:

- mild Mediterranean climate;

- unique cultural atmosphere with a rich history and picturesque architecture;

- affordable cost of living compared to other European capitals;

- hospitable and tolerant environment for foreigners;

- ample opportunities for remote work and professional development in modern industries.

Read more about the specifics of employment of Ukrainians with temporary protection in 2024 in different EU countries here.

Just a reminder! Europe has always attracted the attention of people who are looking for jobs with decent salaries. Read more about average salaries in the EU and the top countries to consider for work abroad here.

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