Finding the best budget cities in Eastern Europe is key for digital nomads seeking affordability. Cities like Budapest and Krakow are already well-known, while emerging destinations such as Belgrade, Tirana, and Tbilisi are gaining popularity for their low living costs, vibrant culture, and strong digital infrastructure. This guide explores the top budget-friendly cities, highlighting affordable housing, cheap public transport, and co-working spaces that help remote workers thrive.
Budget-Friendly Living in Budapest, Hungary
Hungary’s capital remains one of the best budget cities in Eastern Europe for digital nomads. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Budapest costs between €500-€800 per month, while a public transport pass is available for around €30. The cost of dining is equally attractive, with local dishes such as goulash and chimney cake available for under €5.
The city’s co-working scene is well-developed, with spaces like Kaptar and Impact Hub offering affordable memberships. Combining grand architecture, historic charm, and a dynamic nightlife, Budapest is a favourite destination for nomads on a budget.
Krakow, Poland – The Historic Budget Haven
Krakow’s affordability, rich culture, and digital-friendly environment make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious nomads. The cost of a one-bedroom apartment is approximately €400-€700 per month, while public transport costs around €25 monthly.
Food prices in Krakow are particularly low, with a meal of pierogi or bigos available for €3-€5. The city also offers affordable co-working spaces such as Cluster Cowork and OffOffice, ensuring a productive work environment for remote workers.
Belgrade, Serbia – The Affordable Nomad Hub
Belgrade is becoming one of the best budget cities in Eastern Europe for remote workers. Renting a one-bedroom flat costs between €350-€600 per month, and public transport is highly affordable, with a monthly pass priced at just €15.
Serbia’s capital is known for its café culture, strong Wi-Fi, and welcoming atmosphere. The food scene is also a highlight, with traditional Serbian dishes like cevapi and burek available for under €5. Digital nomads can enjoy budget-friendly co-working spaces such as Smart Office and Impact Hub.
Tirana, Albania – Europe’s Cheapest Capital for Nomads
Tirana is quickly becoming one of the most attractive budget cities in Eastern Europe for digital nomads. Renting a one-bedroom apartment can cost as little as €250 per month, making it one of the cheapest European capitals.
Public transport is available for just €10 per month, and traditional Albanian meals such as Tavë Kosi are widely available for under €5. Co-working spaces like InnoSpace and Destil provide cost-effective working environments, making Tirana a fantastic choice for budget-conscious nomads.
Tbilisi, Georgia – Affordable and Visa-Friendly
Tbilisi has become a major hotspot for digital nomads, offering a budget-friendly lifestyle and a special one-year visa for remote workers. Renting a one-bedroom apartment costs between €300-€600 per month, and transport is highly affordable, with a monthly pass priced at just €10.
The food scene in Tbilisi is both delicious and budget-friendly, with Georgian dishes such as khachapuri and khinkali costing around €3-€5. Co-working spaces like Terminal and Impact Hub cater to the growing digital workforce, making it a highly attractive option for those looking to work remotely.
Baltic States – Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania
The Baltic region, including Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, is known for its affordability and excellent digital infrastructure. Estonia, in particular, has drawn attention with its e-Residency programme, allowing remote workers to easily set up businesses.
Renting a one-bedroom flat in Tallinn, Riga, or Vilnius costs between €500-€900 per month. Public transport is cost-effective, with monthly passes ranging from €20-€40. The Baltic states also offer a strong network of co-working spaces such as Workland in Estonia, TechHub Riga, and Vilnius Tech Park, all catering to the growing nomadic community.
Eastern Europe remains one of the best regions for digital nomads looking to thrive on a budget. Whether it’s the historic charm of Krakow, the café culture of Belgrade, or the emerging digital hubs in the Baltic states, there is no shortage of affordable options. Low rent, budget-friendly transport, and inexpensive local food make these cities excellent choices for remote workers.
For those seeking an affordable yet culturally rich experience, Eastern Europe is one of the best places to live and work remotely.
For digital nomads, finding an affordable yet vibrant place to live is essential. Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Italy stand out as top destinations, offering a mix of cultural richness, a pleasant climate, and a lower cost of living compared to many other parts of Europe. This guide explores some of the best cities for digital nomads, with practical tips on housing, dining, and entertainment to make living in these locations both enjoyable and budget-friendly.
Portugal: A Digital Nomad’s Paradise
Best Cities for Affordability & Culture
Porto – A picturesque city offering stunning architecture, riverside views, and a cost of living lower than Lisbon.
Braga – A quieter yet vibrant city with a growing digital nomad community and lower rental costs.
Madeira – Home to the famous Digital Nomad Village in Ponta do Sol, an excellent choice for remote workers seeking a unique island experience.
Cost-Saving Tips
Affordable Housing – Renting a one-bedroom flat in Porto costs between €700-€900 per month, with co-living spaces offering more budget-friendly options.
Budget Dining – Traditional Portuguese eateries (tascas) serve meals for as little as €5-€10, and fresh produce markets provide cost-effective groceries.
Low-Cost Entertainment – Free walking tours, public beaches, and cultural festivals offer great experiences without high costs.
House Sitting – Platforms like TrustedHousesitters provide opportunities for free accommodation in exchange for pet or home care.
Spain: Budget-Friendly Cities for Nomads
Top Locations for Digital Nomads
Valencia – More affordable than Barcelona and Madrid, Valencia boasts excellent co-working spaces and an active international community.
Seville – A city full of history and charm, where the cost of living remains relatively low compared to other Spanish cities.
Granada – Famous for its free tapas culture, allowing nomads to enjoy delicious food at little to no extra cost.
How to Live Affordably in Spain
Finding Accommodation – A one-bedroom apartment in Valencia ranges from €600-€900 per month, with shared housing offering more savings.
Eating on a Budget – Take advantage of the “menu del día” lunch specials, which offer a three-course meal for around €10.
Entertainment on a Budget – Many museums have free entry days, and the numerous city parks provide great spaces to relax and socialise without spending money.
House Sitting – An increasingly popular way to secure free accommodation, particularly in major Spanish cities.
Thessaloniki – A lively yet affordable city with great food, a youthful atmosphere, and a strong nomad presence.
Crete – Offers a mix of stunning landscapes, low-cost living, and a relaxed island lifestyle.
Athens (Certain Suburbs) – While central Athens can be expensive, areas like Pangrati and Koukaki offer more reasonable rental prices.
How to Save Money in Greece
Affordable Rentals – A one-bedroom flat in Thessaloniki costs between €400-€700 per month, making it one of the most budget-friendly European cities.
Cheap Dining – Greek tavernas serve generous portions for as little as €8, and local markets provide fresh and affordable produce.
Low-Cost Activities – Enjoy free beaches, historic ruins, and hiking trails without spending much.
House Sitting – A fantastic way to explore Greece while cutting accommodation costs.
Italy: Affordable Alternatives to Major Cities
Best Cities for Budget-Friendly Living
Bologna – A university city with a strong digital nomad scene, great food, and lower living costs than Milan or Rome.
Naples – One of Italy’s most affordable major cities, famous for its history, vibrant street life, and world-renowned pizza.
Palermo (Sicily) – A hidden gem offering low-cost housing, incredible food, and beautiful Mediterranean scenery.
Saving Money in Italy
Affordable Rent – In Bologna, a one-bedroom flat costs between €600-€900 per month, while Naples offers even cheaper options from €500-€800.
Inexpensive Food – Enjoy street food, such as Naples’ famous pizza, for as little as €5.
Budget-Friendly Transport – Italy’s regional trains provide a cost-effective way to explore the country.
House Sitting – Digital nomads can significantly reduce living costs by looking after homes and pets while travelling.
Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Italy provide incredible opportunities for digital nomads seeking an affordable yet enriching lifestyle. By choosing budget-friendly cities, leveraging local dining options, and utilising house sitting opportunities, nomads can experience the best of Europe without overspending. Whether you prefer the vibrant culture of Valencia, the scenic beauty of Porto, or the relaxed island vibes of Crete, these destinations cater to a range of preferences while remaining cost-effective.
Finding the best European countries for freelancers is essential for those looking to build a successful remote career. Freelancing in Europe offers flexibility, independence, and plenty of opportunities. However, selecting the right country is crucial, as taxation policies, government support, networking opportunities, and cost of living significantly impact a freelancer’s experience. Among the most freelancer-friendly countries in Europe, Germany and the Netherlands stand out due to their strong economies, well-developed infrastructure, and supportive policies.
Why Choose Germany as a Freelancer?
1. Robust Economy & High Demand for Freelancers
Germany is Europe’s largest economy and has a thriving market for freelancers, particularly in technology, marketing, consulting, and creative industries. The demand for skilled freelancers in these sectors remains consistently high, providing ample opportunities for independent professionals.
2. Government Support & Freelancing Policies
Germany is well known for its freelancer-friendly policies, which make it relatively straightforward to establish yourself as a self-employed professional. Freelancers in Germany fall into two main categories:
Freiberufler(liberal professionals): Includes writers, artists, consultants, IT professionals, and educators. This category enjoys a simpler tax process and exemption from trade tax.
Gewerbetreibender (tradespeople or business operators): Required to register as a business and pay trade tax.
3. Legal Setup: Registering as a Freelancer
To start freelancing in Germany, follow these steps:
Register with the tax office (Finanzamt) to obtain a tax number.
Set up health insurance, which is mandatory in Germany. Freelancers can opt for either public or private health insurance.
Consider joining a professional association such as VG Wort (for writers) or Künstlersozialkasse (for artists) to access social security benefits.
Understand VAT obligations: Depending on income levels, freelancers may need to charge and file VAT (Mehrwertsteuer) at 19% or opt for the small business exemption (Kleinunternehmerregelung).
The Netherlands has a well-established and supportive freelance community. The capital, Amsterdam, is home to many co-working spaces, networking events, and start-up incubators that help freelancers grow their businesses.
2. Freelancer-Friendly Tax Benefits
The Dutch government encourages freelancing through several tax incentives:
Self-Employment Deduction (Zelfstandigenaftrek) reduces taxable income for freelancers.
Starters Deduction (Startersaftrek) provides additional tax benefits for new freelancers.
Small Business Scheme (Kleineondernemersregeling – KOR)allows freelancers with lower turnover to be exempt from VAT obligations.
3. Legal Setup: Registering as a Freelancer
To work as a freelancer in the Netherlands, the following steps must be completed:
Register with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK)and obtain a VAT number from the Tax and Customs Administration (Belastingdienst).
Ensure proper health insurance coverage, which is mandatory.
Keep detailed financial records as Dutch tax authorities require accurate bookkeeping.
While Germany and the Netherlands lead in freelancer-friendliness, other countries also offer excellent opportunities:
Portugal: With low living costs and visa options like the D7 Passive Income Visa, Portugal is ideal for freelancers seeking affordability and sunshine.
Estonia: The country’s e-Residency programme allows freelancers to register an EU-based business remotely.
France: Offers a micro-entrepreneur scheme with simplified tax rates for freelancers.
Spain: While social security contributions are high, the self-employed can benefit from start-up tax reductions.
Choosing the right European country for freelancing depends on your industry, financial goals, and lifestyle preferences. Germany and the Netherlands offer robust freelancer support, structured taxation policies, and thriving communities, making them top choices. However, other freelancer-friendly European countries also present viable options depending on the specific needs of freelancers. Understanding legal requirements, tax structures, and available benefits is crucial in making an informed decision. By carefully selecting the best location, freelancers can set themselves up for long-term success in Europe.
Further Resources
For additional guidance on remote work and digital nomadism, visit Travel Live Learn.
Hi, we’re Sarah & Cooper. Welcome to Travel Live Learn! We’re Aussie expats currently living in the UK (for the third time!) with our adorable Westie, London. Our mission? To inspire you to embrace a life of adventure—whether it’s travelling longer, relocating to the UK or Europe, or exploring the freedom of remote work and digital nomadism. Enjoy your time on our site! We'd love to stay in touch: subscribe for our weekly stories, updates and remote work job opportunities direct to your inbox.
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