Cheapest European Cities for Expats in 2026

Europe offers incredible diversity, and not all cities will drain your wallet. Here are the most affordable European cities that still offer excellent quality of life for expats in 2026.

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal's capital has grown more expensive but remains affordable by Western European standards:^[?]

• 1-bedroom rent: €1,000 - €1,500/month
• Monthly expenses (excl. rent): €700 - €1,000
• Pros: Weather, beaches, digital nomad community, D8 visa
• Cons: Rising rents, lower local salaries

2. Prague, Czech Republic

One of Europe's most beautiful cities at a fraction of Western prices:^[?]

• 1-bedroom rent: €800 - €1,200/month
• Monthly expenses (excl. rent): €500 - €750
• Pros: Central location, stunning architecture, growing tech scene
• Cons: Language barrier, Czech bureaucracy

3. Valencia, Spain

The sweet spot between Barcelona's prices and Spanish quality of life:

• 1-bedroom rent: €900 - €1,300/month
• Monthly expenses (excl. rent): €600 - €900
• Pros: Beach, weather, food, Beckham Law eligible
• Cons: Smaller job market than Madrid/Barcelona

4. Budapest, Hungary

Exceptional value in a world-class city:^[?]

• 1-bedroom rent: €600 - €900/month
• Monthly expenses (excl. rent): €450 - €700
• Pros: Stunning architecture, thermal baths, vibrant nightlife
• Cons: Political situation, Hungarian is difficult

5. Warsaw, Poland

Growing tech hub with excellent infrastructure:

• 1-bedroom rent: €700 - €1,100/month
• Monthly expenses (excl. rent): €500 - €800
• Pros: Fast-growing economy, good public transport, EU member
• Cons: Cold winters, Polish language

6. Athens, Greece

Mediterranean lifestyle at reasonable prices:

• 1-bedroom rent: €600 - €1,000/month
• Monthly expenses (excl. rent): €550 - €850
• Pros: History, islands nearby, improving economy
• Cons: Bureaucracy, summer heat, fewer tech jobs

What About Bucharest, Sofia, Zagreb?

Even cheaper options exist in Eastern Europe, but these often have limited English-speaking job markets and smaller expat communities. They're excellent for remote workers but harder for those seeking local employment.