Originally published at: Cheapest Countries To Live in for Digital Nomads | Go VisaFree
Want to see the world without spending too much while you’re working remotely? We’ve got you covered. We’ve brought together a list of the cheapest countries around the world where you can continue to work remotely while enjoying a new culture.
For each country on this list, we’ve also added a section where you can see a comparison to the US and the UK. We’ve also added France to these comparison tables as it’s one of the most expensive countries in Europe, so it’ll give you a better perspective.
Here they are, in no particular order. Let’s start.
Cheapest Countries To Live in for Digital Nomads
Portugal
Living in Portugal has several benefits. A pleasant climate, access to the Atlantic Ocean, neighboring mountains, a low crime rate, and a low cost of living are among these advantages. Everyone in Portugal may find a place and an activity that they enjoy. Swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, hiking in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, and seeing castles and fortifications are all possibilities. Surfing, fishing, and diving are popular activities among locals.Thanks to incentives like Portugal Golden Visa, D7 Visa, and Digital Nomad Visa, Portugal has been seeing increasing attention from expats.
Comparison to other countries
United States | United Kingdom | France | |
Consumer Prices, excluding rent | 41.29% higher than in Portugal | 40.76% higher than in Portugal | 52.51% higher than in Portugal |
Consumer Prices, including rent | 56.42% higher than in Portugal | 43.51% higher than in Portugal | 43.87% higher than in Portugal |
Rent Prices | 96.53% higher than in Portugal | 50.79% higher than in Portugal | 20.93% higher than in Portugal |
Restaurant Prices | 69.87% higher than in Portugal | 82.24% higher than in Portugal | 78.30% higher than in Portugal |
Groceries Prices | 74.07% higher than in Portugal | 42.30% higher than in Portugal | 85.71% higher than in Portugal |
Estonia
Estonia is a spacious country in Europe. It has a population of only 1.3 million people and a territory nearly equal to that of the Netherlands.A forest or a lake is a 30-minute drive away in Estonia. Despite its size, it would take a lifetime to visit all of the country’s galleries, theaters, concerts, festivals, markets, fairs, and beaches.
The living atmosphere is really clean, comfortable, and secure. Estonia has the best overall air quality in the world, according to the World Health Organization.
Comparison to other countries
United States | United Kingdom | France | |
Consumer Prices, excluding rent | 30.05% higher than in Estonia | 29.57% higher than in Estonia |
40.39% higher than in Estonia |
Consumer Prices, including rent | 57.73% higher than in Estonia | 44.71% higher than in Estonia | 45.07% higher than in Estonia |
Rent Prices | 165% higher than in Estonia | 103% higher than in Estonia | 63.30% higher than in Estonia |
Restaurant Prices | 25.63% higher than in Estonia | 34.78% higher than in Estonia | 31.87% higher than in Estonia |
Groceries Prices | 64.81% higher than in Estonia | 34.72% higher than in Estonia | 75.83% higher than in Estonia |
Hungary
Hungary’s culture is a perfect blend of Eastern and Western European influences. The country is blessed with diversified geography, with lush hills, vast plains, and green river valleys. The Danube River runs across Hungary and bisects Budapest, which is generally referred to as Europe’s most beautiful city.Hungary is home to some of Europe’s friendliest people, and the country provides digital nomads seeking a balanced life abroad with both rich economic prospects and a relaxing pace of life.
Comparison to other countries
United States | United Kingdom | France | |
Consumer Prices, excluding rent | 74.18% higher than in Hungary | 73.53% higher than in Hungary | 88.02% higher than in Hungary |
Consumer Prices, including rent | 111.35% higher than in Hungary | 93.91% higher than in Hungary | 94.39% higher than in Hungary |
Rent Prices | 256.28% higher than in Hungary | 173.36% higher than in Hungary | 119.23% higher than in Hungary |
Restaurant Prices | 115.17% higher than in Hungary | 130.85% higher than in Hungary | 125.85% higher than in Hungary |
Groceries Prices | 101.62% higher than in Hungary | 64.82% higher than in Hungary | 115.10% higher than in Hungary |
Montenegro
If you’ve always wanted to live somewhere different, somewhere with a different ambiance or feel, somewhere tranquil and beautiful at the same time, Montenegro might be the place for you.Montenegro is a Balkan country bordered by Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Albania, and Serbia in Southern Europe. The Adriatic coast, Bay of Kotor, and Balkan Mountains provide breathtaking views and exciting adventures. Montenegro also boasts a rich history, from the Old Town of Kotor to the Ostrog Monastery; there is plenty to learn and see here.
Comparison to other countries
United States | United Kingdom | France | |
Consumer Prices, excluding rent | 81.03% higher than in Montenegro | 80.35% higher than in Montenegro | 95.41% higher than in Montenegro |
Consumer Prices, including rent | 118.59% higher than in Montenegro | 100.55% higher than in Montenegro | 101.05% higher than in Montenegro |
Rent Prices | 261.65% higher than in Montenegro | 177.48% higher than in Montenegro | 122.53% higher than in Montenegro |
Restaurant Prices | 116.55% higher than in Montenegro | 132.33% higher than in Montenegro | 127.30% higher than in Montenegro |
Groceries Prices | 125.41% higher than in Montenegro | 84.26% higher than in Montenegro | 140.48% higher than in Montenegro |
Bulgaria
Depending on whether you live in one of the cities or in one of the smaller towns and villages, Bulgaria can present you with very distinct experiences.The temperature, beaches, stunning landscape, a laid-back lifestyle, friendly people who welcome expats, low costs, a stable economy, and rising work prospects are just a few of the advantages of living in Bulgaria.
Comparison to other countries
United States | United Kingdom | France | |
Consumer Prices, excluding rent | 83.41% higher than in Bulgaria | 82.72% higher than in Bulgaria | 97.98% higher than in Bulgaria |
Consumer Prices, including rent | 131% higher than in Bulgaria | 112% higher than in Bulgaria | 112% higher than in Bulgaria |
Rent Prices | 361% higher than in Bulgaria | 253% higher than in Bulgaria | 183% higher than in Bulgaria |
Restaurant Prices | 126% higher than in Bulgaria | 142% higher than in Bulgaria | 137% higher than in Bulgaria |
Groceries Prices | 107% higher than in Bulgaria | 69.24% higher than in Bulgaria | 120% higher than in Bulgaria |
Romania
Consider Romania as your next destination, which gives way to hills, forests, farmlands, and rustic villages along the western edge of the Black Sea. Bucharest, Romania’s capital, is located on the Dambovita River and is the most popular location for foreigners looking to relocate to the country.Romania is a relatively safe country, but newcomers quickly discover that it has a lot more to offer, especially as it develops as a digital nomad destination and a corporate hub in Eastern Europe.
Comparison to other countries
United States | United Kingdom | France | |
Consumer Prices, excluding rent | 137.96% higher than in Romania | 95.25% higher than in Romania | 111.56% higher than in Romania |
Consumer Prices, including rent | 144.98% higher than in Romania | 118.32% higher than in Romania | 118.87% higher than in Romania |
Rent Prices | 302.14% higher than in Romania | 208.55% higher than in Romania | 147.45% higher than in Romania |
Restaurant Prices | 128.74% higher than in Romania | 145.41% higher than in Romania | 140.10% higher than in Romania |
Groceries Prices | 119.88% higher than in Romania | 79.74% higher than in Romania | 134.58% higher than in Romania |
Slovakia
Slovakia is one of the fastest-growing economies in the European Union. It is highly accommodating to expats as a member of the Schengen area.Slovakia, despite its tiny size, has a rich cultural past as well as a vast natural endowment of high mountains and deep forests. If you’re a history fan, foodie, and nature lover, you’ll find many attractions. If you’re looking for a blend of global culture and unique tourist experiences, this diverse country will leave an indelible impression on you.
Comparison to other countries
United States | United Kingdom | France | |
Consumer Prices, excluding rent | 52.78% higher than in Slovakia | 52.21% higher than in Slovakia | 64.92% higher than in Slovakia |
Consumer Prices, including rent | 76.25% higher than in Slovakia | 61.70% higher than in Slovakia | 62.11% higher than in Slovakia |
Rent Prices | 149.24% higher than in Slovakia | 91.23% higher than in Slovakia | 53.36% higher than in Slovakia |
Restaurant Prices | 89.96% higher than in Slovakia | 103.80% higher than in Slovakia | 99.39% higher than in Slovakia |
Groceries Prices | 71.36% higher than in Slovakia | 40.08% higher than in Slovakia | 82.82% higher than in Slovakia |
Georgia
Georgia is a developing country with an Association Agreement with the European Union and a rapidly growing economy. It’s one of the most well-known remote work centers in the world, attracting digital nomads.Georgia is a friendly country. It’s still relatively unknown to many people, yet it boasts beautiful scenery filled with Unesco-listed castles and monasteries. Tbilisi, the capital city, has been seeing a lot of attention from digital nomads recently.
Comparison to other countries
United States | United Kingdom | France | |
Consumer Prices, excluding rent | 141.42% higher than in Georgia | 140.51% higher than in Georgia | 160.59% higher than in Georgia |
Consumer Prices, including rent | 188.39% higher than in Georgia | 164.59% higher than in Georgia | 165.25% higher than in Georgia |
Rent Prices | 358.47% higher than in Georgia | 251.77% higher than in Georgia | 182.11% higher than in Georgia |
Restaurant Prices | 163.80% higher than in Georgia | 183.02% higher than in Georgia | 176.90% higher than in Georgia |
Groceries Prices | 176.25% higher than in Georgia | 125.82% higher than in Georgia | 194.71% higher than in Georgia |
Serbia
Serbia has a pleasant continental climate and is located in Central/Southeast Europe. Low living costs, fast internet, a vibrant startup ecosystem, and coworking spaces are just a few of the advantages of living in Serbia. Add to that a vibrant nightlife, culinary scene, and cafe culture.Serbia’s geographical location makes it easier to travel to other Balkan countries (Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro), as well as major European cities (Vienna, Budapest, Berlin, etc).
Comparison to other countries
United States | United Kingdom | France | |
Consumer Prices, excluding rent | 91.93% higher
than in Serbia |
91.21% higher
than in Serbia |
107.18% higher
than in Serbia |
Consumer Prices, incl. rent | 139.94% higher than in Serbia | 120.14% higher than in Serbia | 120.69% higher than in Serbia |
Rent Prices | 358.62% higher than in Serbia | 251.88% higher than in Serbia | 182.20% higher than in Serbia |
Restaurant Prices | 135.65% higher than in Serbia | 152.82% higher than in Serbia | 147.35% higher than in Serbia |
Groceries Prices | 145.53% higher than in Serbia | 100.71% higher than in Serbia | 161.95% higher than in Serbia |
Turkey
Turkey is a magnificent country that would take many lifetimes to properly appreciate. Throughout history, this region has been the epicenter of countless ancient civilizations. Turkey is a land of numerous tastes and flavors, with the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Eastern European cuisines all influencing its food.In Turkey, you have little trouble filling your free time. Consider taking a trip to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the Pamukkale White Calcium Pools, or the Cappadocia Fairy Chimneys, all of which are popular tourist destinations.
Comparison to other countries
United States | United Kingdom | France | |
Consumer Prices, excluding rent | 137.48% higher than in Turkey | 136.59% higher than in Turkey | 156.34% higher than in Turkey |
Consumer Prices, incl. rent | 198.46% higher than in Turkey | 173.82% higher than in Turkey | 174.51% higher than in Turkey |
Rent Prices | 484.65% higher than in Turkey | 348.58% higher than in Turkey | 259.75% higher than in Turkey |
Restaurant Prices | 247% higher than in Turkey | 272.29% higher than in Turkey | 264.24% higher than in Turkey |
Groceries Prices | 181.97% higher than in Turkey | 130.50% higher than in Turkey | 200.82% higher than in Turkey |
Conclusion
There you have it. We’ve tried to give you an insight into the cheapest countries where you can start living as a digital nomad. Note that figures on the cost of living are based on the data from Numbeo, and are subject to change in time. Before you make a decision, make sure you check out the current figures and alternatives. If you want to make a comparison, you might also want to check the Most Expensive Cities in Europe article.
Have you ever lived in the above countries? Let us know about your experience. If not, check out our Digital Nomad Visa Countries article and see which countries offer you an easy process of relocation. Good luck!