10 Dreamy European Cities To Retire on $1,500 a Month

Make the most of your retirement by checking out these affordable European cities.

By Lucy Clark

Edited by Chris Kissell

Updated Oct. 1, 2024

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Europe can be an expensive place to live. But we've rounded up a handful of European cities where you can retire for just $1,500 a month.

Keep in mind that transportation fees will be lower in walkable cities. You will also be surrounded by enriching cultural landmarks and experiences, so expect traditional entertainment costs to go down.

As you prepare for retirement, consider these great and affordable European cities. The estimated costs come from a number of different authorities on the internet.

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Alicante, Spain

Estimated monthly costs: $1,547

Spend your retirement off the Mediterranean coast without breaking the bank in Alicante, Spain. There are several communities of mostly expatriate residents and a vibrant local population here.

Alicante is a walkable city, so you won’t need to worry about transportation costs. Grab one of the top travel credit cards and check out this city.

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Corfu, Greece

Estimated monthly costs: $1,068

Corfu is set on an island, making it a great place if you dream of retiring by the sea. The pace is slow here, and you will find a large community of expatriates.

It’s also tough to beat the weather: Greece’s Mediterranean climate makes each day close to perfect.

Split, Croatia

Estimated monthly costs: $1,168

A gorgeous city located on the Adriatic Sea, Split is surprisingly affordable.

Diocletian’s Palace dates back to 305 A.D. and was built for the famous Roman emperor. You can also climb the bell tower of St. Domnius Cathedral.

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Antwerp, Belgium

Estimated monthly costs: $1,670

Belgium is a beautiful country to retire in, and Antwerp is an affordable option. There is a vibrant food scene for those looking to expand their cultural palettes.

The monthly cost of living is slightly higher than $1,500 but manageable if you’re on a tight budget. Monthly housing costs vary, but they range between $610 and $1,300.

Debrecen, Hungary

Estimated monthly costs: $960

The affordability of Hungary makes cities such as Debrecen increasingly popular places to retire.

Debrecen is one of Hungary’s chief cultural centers and is home to the University of Debrecen.

Braga, Portugal

Estimated monthly costs: $1,217

Braga is located in northern Portugal and offers a mild climate for your retirement.

Retirees often need good healthcare services, and you will find them in Braga. The city is among the oldest in Portugal and will appeal to history buffs.

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Uppsala, Sweden

Estimated monthly costs: $1,560

For a Scandinavian retirement experience, consider moving to Uppsala. It’s located near Stockholm but more affordable for those on a tighter budget.

This is a university city, which might appeal to retirees who want to expand their education or who like the idea of being close to youthful energy.

Prague

Estimated monthly costs: $1,695

Retire to Prague and enrich yourself in Eastern European history while staying on budget. Despite being a major tourist site, the cost of living is reasonably affordable in this city in the Czech Republic.

Some estimates suggest that more than 100,000 expatriates live here, so retirees from elsewhere should feel right at home.

Granada, Spain

Estimated monthly costs: $1,225

Granada is a gorgeous city steeped in medieval history, art, culture, and more — all for a reasonable monthly cost.

The Alhambra — a legendary palace and fortress — is not to be missed.

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Klaipeda, Lithuania

Estimated monthly costs: $1,124

If you are looking for an under-the-radar spot to retire, check out Klaipeda. It is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Vilnius Old Town and the Curonian Spit.

This is also a region of forested beauty and other natural wonders.

Bottom line

Retiring in Europe doesn’t have to be a fantasy, even if your budget is relatively tight.

Whether you plan to retire early or still have many years before you quit working, start planning your overseas golden years today.

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