The good news is that you do not necessarily need to live in an English-speaking country to enjoy an English-friendly lifestyle.

In this guide, we explore the cheapest places to live in Europe where English is widely spoken, looking at accommodation, food, transportation, lifestyle, employment opportunities, and the overall experience for international residents.

What Are the Cheapest Places to Live in Europe That Speak English?

Some of the most affordable English-friendly cities in Europe include:

• Sofia, Bulgaria
• Budapest, Hungary
• Kraków, Poland
• Riga, Latvia
• Porto, Portugal
• Zagreb, Croatia
• Bratislava, Slovakia
• Tallinn, Estonia
• Ljubljana, Slovenia
• Malta

The cost of living can vary significantly between cities and even between neighbourhoods within the same city. Rent is usually the biggest factor determining how affordable a destination will be.

1. Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia is one of the best choices for people searching for the cheapest places to live in Europe that speak English.

As Bulgaria's capital, Sofia combines relatively low living costs with the advantages of a major European city. It has universities, international companies, shopping centres, restaurants, public transportation, healthcare facilities, and a growing international community.

Although Bulgarian is the country's official language, English is increasingly common among younger people, university students, professionals, and employees in international businesses.

Cost of Living in Sofia

A single person can potentially maintain a relatively affordable lifestyle in Sofia, especially when sharing accommodation.

Typical expenses may include:

• Shared accommodation: €250–€450 per month
• One-bedroom apartment: €400–€750 per month
• Groceries: approximately €200–€300 per month
• Public transportation: relatively inexpensive
• Restaurant meals: generally affordable

Actual prices depend heavily on the neighbourhood, property type, and lifestyle.

Why Choose Sofia?

Sofia offers several advantages for international residents:

• Low cost of living
• Affordable accommodation compared with Western Europe
• International companies
• Universities
• Good public transportation
• Fast internet
• Access to nature and mountains
• Large student population
• EU membership

For anyone prioritising affordability, Sofia is one of the strongest options in Europe.

2. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is another excellent destination for people looking for cheap places to live in Europe where English is widely spoken.

Hungary's capital is popular with international students, tourists, digital nomads, and professionals. English is particularly common among younger Hungarians and people working in tourism, technology, education, hospitality, and international businesses.

Cost of Living in Budapest

Approximate monthly expenses can include:

• Shared accommodation: €300–€500
• One-bedroom apartment: €500–€800+
• Groceries: €200–€300
• Public transportation: relatively affordable
• Inexpensive restaurant meal: around €8–€12

Budapest is generally cheaper than many Western European capitals, although rental prices have increased in popular areas.

Why Live in Budapest?

Budapest provides a combination of affordability and big-city living.

Residents can enjoy:

• Beautiful historic architecture
• Excellent public transportation
• International universities
• Technology and business opportunities
• Cafés and restaurants
• Vibrant nightlife
• Thermal baths
• A large international community

For students and young professionals, Budapest can be particularly attractive.

3. Kraków, Poland

Kraków is one of Poland's most popular destinations for international students and professionals.

Polish is the official language, but English is widely spoken among younger residents and in international businesses. The city also has several universities and a growing technology and business-services sector.

Cost of Living in Kraków

A typical budget could include:

• Shared apartment: €300–€500 per month
• One-bedroom apartment: €500–€750+
• Groceries: €200–€300
• Public transportation: affordable
• Eating out: relatively inexpensive

Kraków has become increasingly popular, so accommodation prices can vary considerably depending on location.

Why Consider Kraków?

Kraków offers:

• Relatively affordable housing
• A large student population
• International companies
• Good public transportation
• Historic attractions
• Restaurants and cafés
• Strong employment opportunities in some sectors
• An international atmosphere

If you want an affordable European city with opportunities for education and employment, Kraków is worth considering.

4. Riga, Latvia

Riga is one of the more affordable capitals in the Baltic region.

Latvian is the official language, but English is relatively common among younger people, particularly in Riga. The city also has an expanding international business community.

Cost of Living in Riga

Typical monthly expenses may include:

• Shared accommodation: €300–€500
• One-bedroom apartment: €450–€700
• Groceries: €200–€300
• Transportation: relatively affordable
• Restaurant meals: reasonably priced

Riga can provide a lower-cost alternative to many Scandinavian and Western European capitals.

Advantages of Living in Riga

The city offers:

• Modern infrastructure
• Historic architecture
• International businesses
• Affordable transportation
• Good internet connectivity
• Access to nature
• Growing international communities

The main drawback for some people is the cold Baltic winter, which can be considerably harsher than the climate in Southern Europe.

5. Porto, Portugal

Porto is an excellent choice for people who want affordability, good weather, beautiful scenery, and an international lifestyle.

Portugal has become increasingly popular with expatriates and remote workers. Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely understood in Porto, particularly among younger residents, tourism workers, students, and professionals.

Porto is also generally more affordable than Lisbon.

Cost of Living in Porto

Estimated expenses can include:

• Shared accommodation: €350–€600
• One-bedroom apartment: €700–€1,000+
• Groceries: €200–€300
• Transportation: relatively affordable
• Restaurant meal: approximately €10–€15 at inexpensive restaurants

Housing costs have increased significantly, meaning Porto is not as cheap as some Eastern European cities.

Why Live in Porto?

Porto offers:

• Mild climate
• Beautiful architecture
• Beaches nearby
• International community
• Good transportation
• Excellent food
• Growing technology sector
• Attractive lifestyle

If you are willing to spend slightly more for climate and quality of life, Porto can be a great choice.

6. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is particularly attractive to technology professionals, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and digital nomads.

Estonia is internationally recognised for its digital infrastructure, and Tallinn has developed into an important European technology and startup centre.

English proficiency is generally strong, particularly among younger Estonians and professionals.

Cost of Living in Tallinn

Tallinn is more expensive than Sofia or Budapest but can still provide better value than many major Western European cities.

Approximate costs include:

• Shared accommodation: €350–€600
• One-bedroom apartment: €600–€900+
• Groceries: €200–€300
• Transportation: moderate

Why Choose Tallinn?

Tallinn is ideal for people who value:

• Technology
• Digital services
• Clean urban environments
• Safety
• Efficient infrastructure
• English communication
• Startup opportunities
• Remote work

For a technology professional looking for an English-friendly European city, Tallinn is one of the most interesting options.

7. Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is another affordable European capital that international residents should consider.

Croatia's strong tourism industry means English is widely used, especially in cities and tourist areas. Zagreb also offers a combination of urban living, cultural attractions, restaurants, and access to Croatia's famous coastline.

Cost of Living in Zagreb

Estimated costs include:

• Shared accommodation: €300–€500
• One-bedroom apartment: €500–€800+
• Groceries: €200–€300
• Local transportation: affordable

Prices can be considerably higher in popular neighbourhoods.

Why Live in Zagreb?

Zagreb offers:

• English-friendly environment
• European lifestyle
• Good public transportation
• Restaurants and cafés
• Cultural attractions
• Parks and green spaces
• Access to Croatia's coastline

Zagreb can be a good choice for young professionals and people who want a balance between affordability and lifestyle.

8. Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava is sometimes overlooked by international residents, but its location makes it one of the most strategically positioned cities in Central Europe.

The city is close to Vienna, Budapest, and Prague, making international travel relatively convenient.

English is commonly used among younger Slovaks and in international companies.

Cost of Living in Bratislava

Bratislava is not the cheapest destination on this list, but it can still be more affordable than major Western European capitals.

Typical accommodation costs may include:

• Shared accommodation: €300–€500
• One-bedroom apartment: €600–€850+

Other everyday expenses depend on lifestyle and location.

Benefits of Living in Bratislava

• Excellent Central European location
• International companies
• Good public transportation
• Compact city centre
• Access to Austria
• Growing international community
• Career opportunities

Bratislava is particularly attractive for professionals who want access to several European countries.

9. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is one of Europe's most attractive smaller capitals.

Slovenia has relatively strong English proficiency, particularly among younger people. This makes Ljubljana easier to navigate for international residents who do not speak Slovenian.

Cost of Living in Ljubljana

Ljubljana is more expensive than cities such as Sofia and Budapest, particularly when it comes to housing.

Approximate accommodation costs may include:

• Shared accommodation: €300–€500
• One-bedroom apartment: €600–€900+

Why Choose Ljubljana?

Ljubljana offers:

• Excellent quality of life
• Clean environment
• Beautiful scenery
• Strong English proficiency
• Safety
• Green spaces
• Easy access to neighbouring European countries

For people who prioritise quality of life rather than simply finding the cheapest possible city, Ljubljana is a strong option.

10. Malta

Malta deserves a special mention because English is one of its official languages.

This makes Malta particularly attractive to people who want to live in Europe without dealing with a significant language barrier.

English is used extensively in education, business, government, tourism, and everyday life.

Cost of Living in Malta

Malta is not among Europe's absolute cheapest destinations, and housing costs have increased significantly.

Popular areas such as Sliema, St Julian's, and Gżira can be particularly expensive.

However, choosing a less expensive location or sharing accommodation can help reduce costs.

Why Choose Malta?

Malta offers:

• English as an official language
• Mediterranean climate
• Large international community
• Strong tourism sector
• EU membership
• English-language education and services
• Warm weather
• Beautiful beaches

If English accessibility is your number-one priority, Malta is one of the best choices in Europe.

Cheapest English-Speaking Places in Europe Compared

Here is a quick comparison of the destinations covered in this guide:

Note: Living costs change over time and vary considerably depending on rent, neighbourhood, lifestyle, and accommodation type.

What Is the Cheapest English-Speaking Country in Europe?

If you mean a country where English is an official language, Malta is one of the clearest options.

However, if you mean a country where you can live cheaply while communicating in English, several Eastern and Central European countries become attractive.

Bulgaria, Hungary, and Poland can offer particularly good combinations of affordability and English accessibility in their major cities.

It is important to remember that English proficiency varies from one location to another. You will generally find more English speakers in major cities, universities, tourist destinations, and international workplaces than in rural communities.

How Much Money Do You Need to Live in Europe?

There is no single amount that applies to everyone.

Your monthly budget depends on:

• Where you live
• Whether you rent alone or share
• Your lifestyle
• Transportation
• Food expenses
• Entertainment
• Healthcare
• Utilities

A student sharing accommodation in a relatively inexpensive city may be able to live on around €700–€1,000 per month, while a professional renting a private apartment could require €1,200–€1,800 or more per month.

More expensive European capitals can require significantly higher incomes.

The most important factor is usually housing.

For example, €1,500 per month may provide a relatively comfortable lifestyle in Sofia but may be considerably more challenging in cities such as Amsterdam, Paris, or London.

How to Choose the Best Cheap Place to Live in Europe

Choosing a destination based solely on rent can be a mistake.

Before moving, consider the following factors.

1. Housing Costs

Look beyond average city prices and investigate the specific neighbourhood where you want to live.

Two neighbourhoods in the same city can have dramatically different rental prices.

2. English Proficiency

Find out how commonly English is used in:

• Shops
• Restaurants
• Universities
• Banks
• Hospitals
• Government offices
• Workplaces

3. Employment Opportunities

A city can be extremely cheap but unsuitable if there are few employment opportunities in your profession.

Research the local job market before relocating.

4. Visa and Immigration Requirements

If you are moving from outside the European Union, investigate visa and residence requirements before making relocation plans.

Different countries have different rules for students, employees, remote workers, entrepreneurs, and retirees.

5. Healthcare

Research the healthcare system and determine whether you qualify for public healthcare or need private insurance.

6. Transportation

Affordable public transportation can significantly reduce your monthly expenses.

A city where you can walk, cycle, or use inexpensive public transport may be cheaper overall than a city where you need a car.

7. Internet Connectivity

Remote workers and digital nomads should pay particular attention to internet availability and reliability.

A low-cost city with excellent broadband can provide significant value for people working online.

Best Cheap European Cities for International Students

If you are an international student, some of the strongest options include:

Sofia: Excellent for students looking for low living costs.

Budapest: Offers universities, nightlife, and an international student community.

Kraków: Strong student environment and relatively affordable living costs.

Riga: Good option for students seeking a smaller European capital.

Porto: Attractive for students who value climate and lifestyle.

When choosing a university city, remember to consider tuition fees separately from living expenses.

A city with cheap rent may not necessarily have the cheapest universities.

Best Cheap European Cities for Remote Workers

Remote workers have different priorities from students.

The most important factors are often:

• Reliable internet
• Affordable accommodation
• Coworking spaces
• International communities
• Good transportation
• Cafés
• Visa options
• Quality of life

Sofia, Porto, Budapest, Tallinn, and Zagreb can all be interesting options for remote professionals, depending on individual circumstances.

Final Thoughts

The cheapest places to live in Europe that speak English are spread across Central, Eastern, Southern, and Northern Europe.

If affordability is your biggest priority, Sofia, Budapest, and Kraków are among the cities worth researching first.

If you want stronger English accessibility and excellent quality of life, Tallinn and Ljubljana are attractive choices.

If climate and lifestyle are more important, Porto and Zagreb may be better suited to you.

And if you want a European destination where English is an official language, Malta is one of the easiest choices.

Ultimately, the best place to live depends on your budget, career, lifestyle, family situation, and immigration options.

Before relocating, always check the latest rental prices, visa requirements, employment opportunities, healthcare rules, and local regulations because these can change over time.

The cheapest city is not necessarily the best city. The ideal destination is the one that gives you the right combination of affordable living costs, English accessibility, employment or study opportunities, safety, and quality of life.