Where is the cheapest place to live in the European Union in 2026? Find out which EU countries have the lowest cost of living and compare prices for food, transport, energy, housing and everyday expenses before moving

The choice of a country for moving or long-term residence in the European Union often depends not only on the level of salaries or quality of life, but also on monthly expenses. According to European statistics, the difference in the cost of living between EU countries can reach tens of percent.

The highest prices are traditionally recorded in Northern and Western Europe. For example, in Denmark, the overall price level is approximately 40–45% higher than the EU average. At the same time, Bulgaria remains the cheapest country in the European Union, where the cost of living is almost 40% lower than the European average.

Let's take a closer look at where in the EU you can save the most.

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Food: where is it cheaper to eat every day?

The grocery basket is one of the key items of expenditure for any family.

- The cheapest products: Romania and Bulgaria.

- The most expensive: Luxembourg, Denmark.

In the cheaper countries of Eastern Europe, prices for basic products - bread, milk, vegetables, fruits and meat - are much lower. This is especially important for families with children and people planning a long-term stay.

Alcohol and tobacco: the impact of taxes

The prices of alcohol and tobacco products in the EU are strongly dependent on excise duties:

- The lowest prices - in Bulgaria (about -30% of the EU average)

- The highest - in Ireland, where due to tax policy the cost can be twice as high as the average

This factor often affects the total costs for migrants and tourists.

Clothes and shoes: where is the cheapest place to update your wardrobe?

- Budget shopping: Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary.

- Most expensive countries: Denmark, Sweden, Finland.

In the Scandinavian countries, high prices are due to income levels, rent and taxes, while in Central and Eastern European countries, branded items are often much cheaper.

Appliances and furniture: unexpected differences

- Lower costs: Bulgaria, Lithuania, Italy.

- Highest prices: Malta, Finland.

Appliance prices depend on logistics, VAT and the domestic market. For those planning to move, it is sometimes more profitable to buy appliances locally rather than transporting them from home.

Transport: public and private

- Cheapest transport: Bulgaria, Poland, Hungary (about a third cheaper than the EU average).

- The most expensive: Denmark, Sweden, Finland.

In many Eastern European countries, monthly passes are 2-3 times cheaper than in the Nordic countries.

Communication and Internet

- Affordable rates: Poland, Romania.

- The most expensive services: Luxembourg, Belgium.

For digital nomads and remote workers, this is one of the key factors when choosing a country.

Restaurants and hotels: where it is cheaper to live and travel

For economical living and recreation, the following are best suited: Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Czech Republic, Greece, Spain, Portugal, Poland, Baltic countries.

On the other hand, Denmark, Ireland, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden remain among the most expensive destinations for eating out and accommodation.

Energy: electricity, gas and fuel

- Lowest tariffs: Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Malta.

- Highest: Germany, Denmark, Netherlands, Italy, Ireland.

This is especially important for families and those who rent housing for a long time.

If your goal is to live in the EU with minimal expenses, you should pay attention to the countries of Eastern and partly Southern Europe. They offer affordable housing, cheap products, transport and communication, while remaining part of the European Union with all its advantages.

Do you want to live in the EU cheaper and legally?

Before moving to accessible European Union countries, it is important to know the conditions for obtaining a residence permit or citizenship.

“Immigration Guide” from Visit World will help you understand the requirements of a specific country, the cost of processing and the time for considering documents - without unnecessary mistakes and risks.

The entire guide comes in PDF format to your email - fast, convenient and up-to-date.

Check the immigration conditions to the selected EU country today

Let us remind you! Do you dream of spending the winter in a warm country and working remotely without legal risks? We have already told you which countries are suitable for digital nomads in 2026, offer stable internet, comfortable climate and visas for digital nomads.

Photo – generated by Gemini

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