In 2026 working remotely means being able to choose increasingly freely where to live, focusing on countries capable of offering a good balance between cost of living, safety, internet connectivity, and services. A new study analyzed 40 European states across 19 indicators, taking into account rents, grocery expenses, coworking, safety, healthcare, knowledge of English, local events, and visa conditions for digital nomads.
Among the most interesting destinations, Estonia stands out, while Italy is not present in the top 10 of the ranking.
The Top 3 European Countries
The analysis was carried out by LEI Register – a global database system – which compared several aspects of daily life and work to identify the destinations best suited for digital nomads. The result rewards mainly countries that can combine efficient infrastructures, affordable prices, and simple procedures for those who work online.
In first place is Estonia, which stands out for its affordable cost of living, safety, and digital infrastructure. In Tallinn, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs on average €573 per month, while monthly grocery expenses run around €247.80. The visa for digital nomads lasts one year and costs €85.
Second is Iceland, a destination much more expensive but particularly efficient. The country boasts the fastest Internet connection in the ranking, numerous coworking spaces, many available accommodations, and a high level of safety. The average rent, however, reaches €2,098 per month.
Portugal takes third place thanks to the quality of its infrastructure, good English proficiency, and the availability of dedicated visas. The average rent in the center is €919, while the annual visa for digital nomads costs €80.
The Top 10
Scrolling down the ranking, the fourth place goes to Montenegro, particularly interesting for those seeking long stays and affordable costs. The visa costs just €26 and can have a maximum duration of 730 days, the longest among the analyzed countries. The average rent is €576 and the grocery bill around €211.22.
Fifth is Croatia, which offers a visa valid up to 540 days, a good level of safety, and numerous accommodations. Average rents are €663, while expenses reach around €232.46 per month. The speed of Internet connection, however, is less impressive.
The Top 10 continues with Slovenia in sixth place, followed by the Czechia, the Spain, the Lithuania, and the Romania.
Slovenia offers a good overall balance between services and quality of life, while the Czechia represents an interesting option for those seeking urban infrastructures and work opportunities. Spain remains one of the most appealing destinations for lifestyle, services, and climate, while Lithuania and Romania stand out mainly for the balance between costs and opportunities.
The ten destinations feature diverse characteristics, but share favorable conditions for those who want to turn remote work into an opportunity to live abroad.
