What Does Life in Europe Really Cost?
A realistic guide for families living abroad, so you can plan with clarity—not guesswork.
Get the Cost of Living Estimator
Understanding Cost of Living as an Expat in Europe
Europe is not one-size-fits-all when it comes to budgeting. Living costs vary widely from city to city—and for expat families, expenses often go beyond rent and groceries.
Whether you’re relocating to Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, or elsewhere, this guide will help you prepare for what life will really cost.
Why Cost of Living Feels Different for Expats
- You may need private insurance before public systems kick in
- Rent deposits can be 2–3x higher for non-locals
- Initial setup costs include furniture, transportation, and legal paperwork
- Language barriers can limit access to cheaper local services
According to Numbeo’s 2024 Cost of Living Index, Zurich, Geneva, and Copenhagen are the most expensive European cities, while cities in Romania, Bulgaria, and Portugal remain more affordable.
In Germany, the average cost of living for a family of three (without rent) was €2,700/month in 2024, according to Statista.
Top Monthly Expenses to Plan For
| Category | Typical Monthly Cost (EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | €1,200–€2,500+ | Depends on location and apartment size |
| Health Insurance | €200–€500+ | Mandatory; varies by country and plan |
| Groceries | €400–€700 | Higher for organic or specialty diets |
| Childcare/School | €100–€1,200 | Public schools are often free, private ones are not |
| Transportation | €70–€300 | Public transport passes or car costs |
Eurostat reports that housing costs take up 25–35% of household income on average across the EU.
Hidden Costs Expats Often Miss
- Interpreter or translation services for legal paperwork
- Higher mobile/data plan costs due to roaming or foreign IDs
- International school tuition or fees for bilingual programs
- Sending money home or managing dual accounts
Ways to Cut Costs Without Sacrificing Quality
- Use price comparison tools like Numbeo or Expatistan to benchmark expenses
- Join local parent groups or Facebook communities for second-hand deals and local hacks
- Learn key financial terms in the local language—it’ll save you fees and frustration
- Shop at weekly markets or discount chains like Lidl, Penny, or Aldi
- Track your monthly costs using our Free Budgeting Template
Tools to Help You
Download the Cost of Living Estimator – Plan and adjust by country or city
Use Our Family Budgeting Template – Monthly planner with built-in categories
Read: Best Banks for Expats – Save money on fees and transfers
Final Thoughts: Know Before You Go (or Grow)
Understanding your cost of living abroad isn’t just about managing money—it’s about managing expectations. And for expat families, that clarity is powerful.
Plan well, budget smarter, and enjoy more of what Europe has to offer—without stress.
