Want to move abroad? These are the cheapest European countries for expats in 2023

People move abroad for any number of reasons - to start a new job, to be closer to a partner, or simply to explore.

But as the cost of living crisis bites, looking for a cheaper way of life is becoming the number one reason for a move.

Some Europeans have flown south, cutting heating bills by fleeing to warmer climes. And in many countries, expatriates salaried by overseas companies find themselves with increased spending power.

So where are the cheapest places to move - and what do locals think of an influx of comparatively wealthy travellers?

Cost of living index Numbeo has collated data for every country in Europe. They accounted for average rent, cost of groceries, and the price of utilities and entertainment.

Cost of living is not the only consideration before a move, obviously. Safety and other quality of life considerations are also paramount.

Here are four locations that strike the balance.

Montenegro boasts medieval cities, ice cold glacial lakes, the world’s second deepest canyon - and extremely low prices.

Numbeo grants the country a rating of 38.9. For comparison, Switzerland - Europe’s most expensive destination - has an index of 114.2.

These indices represent a percentage of the destination’s cost compared to New York city, the search engine’s baseline. So prices in Montenegro are around 38.9 per cent of prices in NYC, whereas prices in Switzerland are 14.2 per cent higher than in the big apple.

Digital nomads can apply for a 2-year visa for Montenegro, with the possibility of a two year extension.

Prices in Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica:

Cheap meal: €6.40

Pint of beer: €2

One-bed flat in city centre monthly rent: €372

Portugal - with its sunny beaches and buzzing cities - is Europe’s most popular digital nomad