Look:
We all know Western Europe can be expensive.
In fact, you’ll have to pay a whopping $23 for a single meal of Big Mac, soda, and fries in Norway.
Ouch.
But—did you know there are actually some affordable destinations in that region of the Old World?
In this 2023, Numbeo-powered ranking, we’ll look at the five most budget-friendly cities in Western Europe for remote workers looking to stretch their savings.
Let’s dive in.
Dresden, Germany
- Affordability index: 37.46
- Rent per month (one-bedroom apartment outside of the city center): $451.26
- Meal (inexpensive restaurant): $10.51
- One-way ticket (local transport): $2.68
Dresden is THE most affordable city in Western Europe.
Situated in the east of Germany, Dresden has a wide range of affordable housing options, as well as a variety of inexpensive and cheerful restaurants and bars.
What’s more, Dresden is home to many world-class museums and galleries, making it an ideal destination for culture vultures.
So—
Dresden is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for an affordable destination where you could live in a nomadic fashion.
Grenoble, France
- Affordability index: 42.67
- Rent per month (one-bedroom apartment outside of the city center): $512.59
- Meal (inexpensive restaurant): $14.72
- One-way ticket (local transport): $1.79
Grenoble ranks as the second most affordable city in Western Europe.
The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of museums and theaters to keep you entertained.
It’s also home to a number of universities, so there’s a young, lively atmosphere.
If you want to get outdoors after a rough day at work, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Grenoble is surrounded by mountains, and there are plenty of hiking and cycling trails to explore.
Thus, shortlist Grenoble if you’re looking for a Western European city with plenty to offer on a shoestring budget.
Looking for passport photos? Discover more information:
Graz, Austria
- Affordability index: 43.13
- Rent per month (one-bedroom apartment outside of the city center): $547.82
- Meal (inexpensive restaurant): $11.57
- One-way ticket (local transport): $2.84
Graz (you guessed it) is the third most affordable city in the Western region of Europe for digital nomads.
Not only does this Austrian city have a low cost of living, but it also offers a high quality of life. In fact, Graz was named the European Capital of Culture for 2020, and it’s not hard to see why.
From its well-preserved historic center to its vibrant university scene, Graz has something to offer to every remote worker.
Gent, Belgium
- Affordability index: 43.86
- Rent per month (one-bedroom apartment outside of the city center): $768.16
- Meal (inexpensive restaurant): $16.82
- One-way ticket (local transport): $2.31
If the cities we mentioned above don’t cut it, consider Gent.
This Belgian destination is known for its medieval architecture, lively nightlife, and abundant green space. It’s also home to a large student population, which helps keep costs down.
On top of it, Gent is home to some of Belgium’s best beer and chocolate.
Finally, you can enjoy scenic walks along the canals, explore charming alleyways, and marvel at grand Gothic churches.
So why not give Gent a try? It might be the perfect place for you.
Enschede, Netherlands
- Affordability index: 45.94
- Rent per month (one-bedroom apartment outside of the city center): $838.84
- Meal (inexpensive restaurant): $15.77
- One-way ticket (local transport): $2.63
Last but not least, there’s Enschede.
The Dutch town has a relatively low living cost, with reasonably priced rent and groceries. Of course, there are some trade-offs. The weather isn’t great, and the nightlife isn’t exactly booming.
But if you’re looking for a place in the Netherlands that won’t break the bank, Enschede should be on your radar.
Stacking It All Up
There you have it!
A 2023 ranking of Western Europe’s five most budget-friendly destinations for digital nomads.
Have you been to any of the places we’ve discussed? Which one do you think you could call home for some time?
Let us know in the comment section below.
Methodology
Passport Photo Online examined Numbeo’s data on Western Europe’s cities and ranked them using the cost of living plus rent index, which estimates consumer goods prices along with rent, compared to New York City.
Fair Use Statement
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Sources
- Numbeo, Western Europe: Current Cost of Living Plus Rent Index by City
- Zboncak T., “How Much Is a McDonald’s Meal in Norway?”
As a Digital PR specialist and a member of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), Max has 5+ years of writing experience.
Over the course of his career, Max’s work has garnered significant attention, with features in numerous prominent publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, Inc., Business Insider, Fast Company, Entrepreneur, BBC, TechRepublic, Glassdoor, and G2.