10 of Europe’s Most Affordable Cities to Buy Property

Have you always wanted to move to Europe but thought it was too expensive due to the high cost of real estate? If you’re willing to look outside of the major cities and other popular areas, you can find some hidden gems that are quite affordable – perhaps even more affordable than what you’d find in the United States.

While many people wish to live in cities such as Paris, Rome, or Barcelona, the reality is that most of us cannot afford to live in those areas. Many people who choose to live outside of a major city find that they prefer their lives there and have a more authentic European experience. Some of these locations are even more spectacular than their more expensive neighbors.

If you’ve been thinking about moving to Europe but aren’t sure if it’s financially feasible, we’ve compiled a list of some great places to find a home for less. Continue reading to learn about the 10 cheapest places to buy property in Europe.

#1 Belgrade, Serbia

belgrade serbia

Although Serbia has had a turbulent history, it is now a safe and wonderful place to live, with beautiful scenery, a rich history, and a vibrant nightlife. The people are extremely friendly, and there is always something to do, such as visiting ancient castles and ruins. There are also lovely lakes, fantastic markets, charming villages, and delectable food.

The best part is that you can experience all of this culture for a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere in Europe, especially if you’re willing to live outside of the city center. An older tiny house can be had for as little as $1,200. If you need more space, an eight-bedroom apartment can be had for $3,550.

There are plenty of nice three-bedroom houses with yards for around $50,000, and if you’re willing to go a little higher, you can get a really nice home. Houses that would be considered luxury in the United States can be had for next to nothing.

Average Rent in USD: $258
Average Home Price in USD: $30,000

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#2 Klaipeda, Lithuania 

klaipeda lithuania

Klaipeda is a sleepy port town with a charming atmosphere if you want a more peaceful life in Europe. Klaipeda, and Lithuania in general, has a strong emphasis on nature, making it an ideal place to live if you enjoy spending a lot of time outside. Things move slowly in that town, and the beaches are much less crowded than in other places.

While Klaipeda is Lithuania’s third-largest city, if you’re willing to forego some of the larger-city amenities, you can save a lot of money on real estate. For $47,000, you can get a brand-new four-bedroom house. That’s less than a fourth of the cost of a newly built home in most parts of the United States.

In Klaipeda, many new homes are being built, with prices ranging from $45,000 to $80,000. Living expenses are also low. You’ll be able to live comfortably if you continue to earn an American salary.

Average Rent in USD: $488
Average Home Price in USD: $40,000

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#3 Abruzzo, Italy

abruzzo italy

When people think of moving to Europe, one of the first places they think of is Italy. Beautiful scenery, incredible food, and excellent wine are just a few of the reasons that people flock to Italy. Most people, however, are quickly turned off when they see real estate prices.

Nonetheless, some areas in Italy are not only affordable, but also less expensive than purchasing a home in the United States. Abruzzo is one such location. While the average home price is in the upper $50s, there are some great deals to be had. A four-bedroom house in the country can be had for around $47,000, and you’re only a short drive from the beach or skiing.

A rustic stone cottage on a hectare of land is available for $35,000 if you don’t mind a little work. You could fix it up and have a truly unique home for that price. Townhouses can be purchased for less than $30,000, with many requiring little or no work before moving in.

Average Rent in USD: $400 per month
Average Home Price in USD: $59,000

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#4 Caldas da Rainha, Portugal

portugal

Expats looking to relocate to Europe should consider Portugal. The weather is mild and sunny, the food is delicious, and the scenery and historic architecture are stunning. While some of the larger cities can be quite expensive, if you’re willing to live in a more rural area and slightly off the coast, the cost of living will be more than affordable.

Caldas da Rainha, which is only a short drive from the beach, is one such town. The town was founded as a spa resort town in the 15th century. It still has a lot of Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture from the time period, which makes for some interesting walks around town. There are also parks and museums to keep you entertained.

A house in ruins can be purchased for $11,000 if you’re up for a project. It’s only 15 minutes from the city center and, with some work, it has the potential to be quite a nice place. A one-bedroom apartment will cost you approximately $41,000. A move-in-ready detached home can be had for around $53,000.

Average Rent in USD: $405
Average Home Price in USD: $59,000

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#5 Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

sunny beach bulgaria

Many of us fantasize about fleeing to a seaside town, but few of us can afford it. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, has the potential to make that dream a reality. This gleaming beach town has some of Europe’s best real estate values. Sunny Beach may not be the place for you if you’re looking for a quiet getaway in a sleepy beach town. Sunny Beach, on the other hand, is a vibrant destination with plenty to do.

Sunny Beach has some fantastic real estate available. If you’re looking to buy an apartment, you can get a really nice one in an impressive resort with a sparkling swimming pool for as little as $17,000. Do you want a detached house? A three-bedroom house with a private pool can be had for around $80,000 and is only a 20-minute drive from the beach.

Average Rent in USD: $470
Average Home Price in USD: $60,000

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#6 Tallinn, Estonia

tallinn estonia

Estonia’s e-residency program brings in a lot of money, making it an appealing option for those looking to relocate to Eastern Europe. Tallinn has all of the amenities of major cities (and more) without the exorbitant cost of living. Estonia has a distinct culture that combines Scandinavian, German, and Russian influences with their own strong national identity.

Estonia is one of the least crowded countries in Europe, making it ideal for those seeking privacy and space to grow. There’s a lot of Medieval history to discover here, as well as a beach and skiing. Many people have described the country as a living fairy tale.

If you like cold weather, centuries-old architecture, and a culture steeped in history, Estonia is for you. Tallinn is well-known for its excellent WiFi, making it an ideal location for digital nomads. In the city, you can get an adorable three-story condo for $68,000. If you want to build your own home, you can start by purchasing a plot of land for around $8,000.

Average Rent in USD: $550
Average Home Price in USD: $60,000

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#7 Istria, Croatia

istria croatia

If you’ve always wanted to live in Tuscany but found the prices too high, Istria, Croatia, is being billed as the new Tuscany. Many people think it’s the ideal place to retire or simply live a more peaceful life. Istria is well-known for its grapes and olives, and the fertile land is ideal for cultivating your own garden. The sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea are warm enough for swimming, and the climate is mild all year.

While prices can be higher on the coast, if you’re willing to live a little farther inland, you can really save some money. Istria has several beautiful stone houses in the country, all for under $40,000. You’ll have plenty left over for renovations, and since many of these houses are centuries old, you’ll be living in a piece of history.

Average Rent in USD: $370-570
Average Home Price in USD: $61,000

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#8 Ljubljana, Slovenia

ljubljana slovenia

If you want the feel of a city without the crowds and activity that many of Europe’s larger cities have, Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital city, might be just the ticket. There’s a lot to see and do there, but the city is small and walkable. The dragon is Ljubljana’s symbol, based on the legend of Jason and the Argonauts, and you’ll have fun finding the many dragons around town.

Ljubljana is charming and lovely, with numerous city streets and squares to discover. There are also a number of interesting bridges and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine. While living in the city center can be expensive (though still less expensive than major cities in the United States), if you’re willing to move a little outside of the city, you can find some great deals.

For a little more than $30,000, there’s an abandoned house just waiting to be renovated. You could also get a move-in ready house in the beautiful countryside. It will only cost you $45,000. You can even get a cute cottage with breathtaking views for less than $55,000.

Average Rent in USD: $543
Average Home Price in USD: $62,000

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#9 Larnaca, Cyprus

larnaca cyprus

Larnaca is not Cyprus’s largest city, but it has the lowest cost of living. The city is well-known for its wine and food, which are regarded as the best in the country. It is popular among retirees, but it is also ideal for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Cyprus has a temperate climate and many Mediterranean lifestyle trappings without the typical Mediterranean price tag. The beach is lovely, and the boardwalk is ideal for evening strolls. There is also a charming city with historical architecture.

If you want to build in Larnaca, you can find land for as little as $17,000 per square meter. A decent-sized studio apartment can be had for around $30,000. A slightly larger apartment with access to a pool and a better location near the beach will set you back around $80,000.

Average Rent in USD: $355
Average Home Price in USD: $70,000

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#10 Almeria, Spain

almeria spain

Spain may appear to be a European country out of reach for those on a tight budget, but the cost of living in Spain is lower than in many other European countries and even the United States. Spain should be well within your budget as long as you are willing to live outside of the larger and more expensive cities.

In terms of cost of living, Almeria is one of the best towns. It also exudes a stately air, with breathtaking views and impressive architecture. It’s not a tourist trap, so you’ll be able to live in Spain like a local. If you want to build, you can get land for as little as $2,300. A large country house in need of repair can be had for $10,600. You can have a nice home with a little effort. If you want something ready to move into, you can get a renovated home for less than $30,000.

Average Rent in USD: $583
Average Home Price in USD: $81,000

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