Think the only places to live on a shoestring budget are in Asia or Latin America?
Think again.
You can absolutely live in Europe for $2k a month—and in many places, you’ll live not just a comfortable life, but maybe even a richer one than you live now.
Whether you’re a retiree living on Social Security, a digital nomad, or an expat, there are more options than ever to enjoy the European dream without draining your bank account.
While big, capital cities or tourist-heavy hotspots can easily eat up your Social Security check—and then some—that’s not always the case. Head farther east across the Continent or explore less well-known regions of Western and Southern Europe, and the good life can be fully accessible to those working with a smaller budget.
Central and Eastern Europe offer some of the best quality-of-life-to-cost ratios on the continent. With reliable infrastructure, comprehensive public transportation networks, low crime rates, and affordable, high-quality health care the lesser-visited countries of Europe are just as well appointed as the traditional favorites. Plus, you can get EU residency in these countries, meaning all of Europe is at your fingertips.
In Western Europe, little villages and rural regions—even in Portugal, Italy, Spain, and France—still offer an enviable lifestyle at prices that don’t break the bank. And if you’re willing to throw yourself into learning a new language you’ll find the local corners that will slash your monthly bills.
Dreaming of warm breezes through your window…? Morning strolls by the sea…? Historic, cobblestone towns centers…? Sipping wine, enjoying the view from your balcony…?
Don’t let budget concerns dictate your thinking.
There are options for the good life in Europe on a tight budget. Here’s where to live well in Europe for $2k a month or less, without sacrificing comfort or charm.
Budapest, Hungary: Beauty On A Budget
- Cost Range: $1,200 to $1,800 per month
- Why: Stylish city life at lower costs, excellent public transit
- Best For: Central Europe access, urban culture, expat professionals
Budapest is probably Europe’s best-value capital city, delivering the culture, and infrastructure of the best of Western Europe at a fraction of the cost.
When you consider the quality of life, cosmopolitan feel, art, cafe culture, public transport system, and affordable housing, Budapest could easily be called the best bang-for-your-buck capital in Europe. Even in central neighborhoods like District VI or VII, you’ll find small apartments for under $800. Even including utilities, groceries, health insurance, and entertainment, singles or couples can live well for under $1,800.
Plus, Budapest is safe, mostly flat (therefore easily walkable or bikeable), and has a metro system that rivals the best in the world. A cultural powerhouse, boasting museums, opera, galleries, and all the rest of the entertainment that you’d expect from a first-class city—Budapest is fully on par with any other big city in Europe.
But it’s also got a vibe all its own, with thermal baths and ruin pubs being unique to the city, as well as coffeehouses, music venues, and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene that brings visitors from around the Continent.
Budapest is an open-air museum, with stunning architecture that rivals that of Paris.
Digital nomads love the fast Wi-Fi and co-working spaces, and retirees appreciate the affordable, high-quality health care and slow pace outside the tourist core.
Although learning Hungarian would be a challenge, English is widely spoken, especially among younger locals. Plus, Hungary offers a low-cost residency pathway through long-stay visas for retirees or freelancers.
Budapest is arguably the best “big city” in Europe live for under $2k a month—you get cosmopolitan living, great food, historic charm, and solid infrastructure, all without the price tag of Paris, Lisbon, or Barcelona.
Greece: Affordable Aegean
- Cost Range: $1,000 to $1,700 per month
- Why: Inexpensive housing, especially outside Athens or Santorini
- Best For: Retirees, island lovers, history buffs
Greece may be best known for its whitewashed islands and legendary ruins, but it’s also one of the best-kept secrets for affordable living in the EU. Outside of over-saturated tourist favorites, like Santorini or Mykonos, you’ll find that life on a Greek island (or the mainland) is easily affordable. Apartments or cottages—even those with sea views—typically rent for less than $800 a month. Do your homework and you could find a gem for $400.
Greece is the quintessential Mediterranean vibe: year-round warm, sunny climate, relaxed pace of life, with stunning beaches, dreamy islands, and even mountain regions. The waters here are clear blue and warm year-round.
Greek culture is heavily social, and locals are warm, welcoming, and eager to share their home with newcomers. It’s not hard to find community here, whether local or expat. Life in a village, for example, revolves around the local taverna (restaurant), where people will sit for hours in the evenings, chatting with family and friends. The morning coffee ritual is likewise an institution that will help you integrate into your new home.
There’s also a growing infrastructure for remote workers, particularly in cities like Thessaloniki or on islands like Crete. Internet access is good, produce is cheap, and life is outdoorsy and healthy.
Plus, the Mediterranean Diet, full of olive oil, seafood, fresh vegetables, and whole grains is proven to reduce health risks and promote weight loss.
The country offers tax incentives to attract foreign pensioners and professionals, making it an increasingly viable long-term base for expats seeking a relaxed, low-cost European lifestyle.
From cozy island homes to historic inland villages, Greece offers some of the best places to live in Europe for under $2,000 a month.
Cyprus: Mediterranean Without The Markup
- Cost Range: $1,200 to $1,800 per month
- Why: Low taxes, Mediterranean lifestyle, English widely spoken
- Best For: Retirees, digital nomads, sun lovers
If you want to live beachfront on a budget, one of the best places to do so is in Cyprus, where you can easily you want to live for $2k a month or less.
Although it’s somewhat unknown to Americans, British and other Europeans have been coming to enjoy Cyprus’ shores for over a century. The island has modern infrastructure, tax perks, and year-round sun—at a fraction of the cost of other Mediterranean destinations.
A member of the EU with strong ties to the UK, Cyprus is one of the few countries where English is an official language—another reason it’s one of the top choices in Europe for Americans.
Even in the big cities like Larnaca, Paphos, or Limassol, rents for one-bed apartments typically range from $500 to $800, with plenty of options near the coast. The cost of utilities and groceries here are lower than in most of Western Europe—and without the need for heating, you can save quite a bit if you’re able to minimize air conditioning. Health care is both affordable and high quality.
Here, a slow-paced island lifestyle reigns supreme, and there’s a strong café culture and vibrant food scene. The island is safe and family-friendly, and absolutely teeming with history. From Roman ruins to Byzantine monasteries, you won’t want for sightseeing here.
Retirees—of which there are many British already living here—appreciate the year-round summer, laid-back pace, tax benefits, and access to EU health care. Digital nomads enjoy co-working spaces, beach cafés, and an affordable-yet-developed lifestyle with 300+ days of sunshine a year.
And despite being the ultimate beach destination, with some of the best scuba diving in the Med, Cyprus also offers hiking in the Troodos Mountains—even skiing in winter.
Overall, Cyprus offers a blend of modern living and Mediterranean charm. It’s especially appealing to expats who want the sea, the sun, and the comforts of Europe—without paying Western Europe prices.