In recent years, Eastern Europe has increasingly captured the interest of expats, and it’s not hard to see why. Although the region was once overshadowed by its Western European neighbors, many countries in Eastern Europe offer a unique blend of affordability, history, natural beauty, and vibrant urban life. Whether you’re looking for a slower pace, a lower cost of living, or an enriching cultural experience, Eastern Europe may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Learn about the 10 most compelling reasons to consider making the move to Eastern Europe below.
One of the most prominent reasons to move to Eastern Europe is the affordability. Compared to Western Europe, the United States, and other regions, countries like Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia offer significantly lower prices on housing, groceries, dining, transportation, and healthcare.
For example, you can rent a modern one-bedroom apartment in the city center of cities like Sofia or Bucharest for a fraction of what you’d pay in London or Paris. This lower cost of living means your income goes much further, which is one of the most compelling reasons to move to this part of the world.
Eastern Europe has a rich history that spans centuries, from medieval castles and Byzantine churches to remnants of the Ottoman Empire and Soviet architecture. Cities like Prague, Krakow, and Lviv are full of cobblestone streets that lead to Gothic cathedrals and baroque town squares, offering a gorgeous, scenic area to live.
Eastern Europe is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the continent. The Carpathian Mountains stretch through Romania and Ukraine, while the Balkans run through Serbia, Montenegro, and Albania. Eastern Europe offers countless lakes, rivers, and forests, providing year-round opportunities for hiking, skiing, swimming, and kayaking.
Countries like Slovenia and Croatia also provide access to stunning coastlines along the Adriatic Sea, offering a vast array of gorgeous spots, whether you prefer the mountains or the beaches.
Because of the prominent rise of remote work and digital nomadism, Eastern Europe is now on the map for professionals with geographical flexibility at work. Cities such as Budapest, Tallinn, and Tbilisi have seen a significant surge in co-working spaces, expat meetups, and community resources, which shows the growing prominence of this lifestyle.
Because of the growing trend of digital nomadism in Eastern Europe, expat communities have flourished in these countries. As more professionals pour into the region for remote work, you can expect to easily find a community of fellow expats in Eastern Europe.
Traveling around Eastern Europe is relatively simple and affordable, thanks to well-connected bus, rail, and budget airline routes. Many cities and countries are also incredibly walkable and easy to navigate without a car, which is a huge benefit for many.
Additionally, many Eastern European countries are part of or neighbor the Schengen Zone, which allows easy travel throughout much of Europe. If exploring the continent is on your bucket list, living in Eastern Europe puts you in a prime location to do so.
Eastern Europe isn’t a monolith. The region includes Slavic, Baltic, Balkan, and Central European cultures, each with their own languages, customs, and cuisines. Countries in Eastern Europe provide endless cultures to explore, and people are typically very happy to share their customs and traditions with newcomers.
Foodies will find plenty to enjoy in Eastern Europe. The diverse cuisine is flavorful, filling, and deeply tied to local traditions. You can expect to find hearty stews, savory pastries, freshly baked breads, pickled vegetables, and dairy-based specialties across the region.
Each country has its own delicious fare, including highlights like Hungarian goulash, Serbian ćevapi, Ukrainian borscht, and Czech dumplings. Take-out and delivery options are generally affordable, and local markets provide fresh, seasonal ingredients for cooking at home.
Eastern Europe offers a wide range of climate zones, meaning you can find the environment that best suits your lifestyle. For instance, the coasts of Croatia and Montenegro offer climates similar to those of the Mediterranean, while Poland and the Czech Republic offer cooler climates. This means everyone can find the right environment for their preferences.
Looking for snowy winters and vibrant fall foliage? Try Romania or Slovakia. Prefer warm summers and mild winters? Consider Bulgaria or parts of coastal Albania. The variety makes it easier to choose a place that aligns with your weather preferences year-round.
Eastern Europe is evolving economically, and in many countries, the business environment is becoming more welcoming for entrepreneurs and startups. Tech scenes are growing in places like Tallinn, Bucharest, and Warsaw, while governments are increasingly offering visa incentives, tax benefits, and startup support.
If you’re thinking about starting a business, launching a freelance career, or investing in real estate, there may be untapped opportunities waiting in smaller markets with less competition in Eastern Europe.
Many Eastern European countries enjoy relatively low crime rates, particularly in rural areas and smaller cities. Even larger cities like Ljubljana, Zagreb, and Vilnius are known for being safe and family-friendly.
In addition to physical safety, many areas offer a strong sense of community. Neighbors look out for one another, traditions are valued, and locals are often eager to welcome foreigners, especially those who make an effort to learn the language or engage with the culture.
Eastern Europe might not be the first destination that comes to mind when considering a move abroad, but that’s quickly changing. With its affordability, beauty, history, and modern conveniences, the region offers a refreshing alternative to more well-trodden expat locations. Whether you’re looking for a quiet countryside escape or a bustling city, Eastern Europe is full of possibilities.
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