Rental prices in Europe 2024

Comprehensive analysis of the most expensive and most convenient cities

In an increasingly mobile world, choosing where to live in Europe also means evaluating the Rental prices in Europe in 2024.

Whether you’re thinking of moving for work, study or smart working, knowing which cities are the most expensive and most accessible in 2024 can help you make the right choice.

In this complete guide, you will find updated data on the rent index, comparisons between European cities, practical advice for finding a home and an analysis of housing market trends in Europe.

What is the European Rent Index and how it works

The Rent Index is a comparison tool that measures the average monthly cost of rent per square meter in major cities and the average of rental prices in Europe 2024.

The data is generally collected from international real estate portals, rental agencies and long-term rental platforms.

The Rent Index takes into account variables such as:

• Type of apartment (studio, two-room, three-room);
• Area (central or peripheral);
• Size in square meters;
• Inclusion of expenses (utilities, condominium).

It is useful for:

• Those looking for a home abroad;
• Real estate investors;
• International students and workers;
• Digital nomads looking for the best European city to live in.

Rental prices in Europe 2024: ranking of European cities by average price

Here is the top 20 of the most expensive European cities to rent a 1-bedroom apartment in the center (average monthly prices in euros) according to the index of rental prices in Europe 2024:

City	Average rent
London	2300€
Zurich	2200€
Amsterdam	2000€
Dublin	1950€
Paris	1750€
Berlin	1500€
Rome	1200€
Milan	1150€
Barcelona	1100€
Madrid	1050€
Lisbon	900€

Also discover Europe in our special guides on the topic.

Rental prices in Europe 2024: the most expensive cities in Europe

Among the most expensive cities we find London, Zurich, Amsterdam , Paris and Milan.

In these metropolises the high quality of services, the standard of living, the concentration of multinationals and the scarcity of available spaces influence rental prices.

In London, renting a studio flat in the center can cost over €2,300 a month.

Zurich and Geneva maintain high Swiss standards in terms of prices and quality.

Amsterdam recorded increases of 15% compared to 2023, thanks to the demand from expats and restrictions on short-term rentals.

The cheapest cities in Europe: where to live for less

Those looking for a more accessible European life can look towards Eastern Europe and the South.

Sofia, Bucharest, Budapest, Lisbon are examples of cities where the cost of rent is much lower, often less than €900 per month in the centre.

These cities offer:

• Growing quality of life;
• Lower overhead costs;
• Coworking network and digital nomad community.

💡 Budapest, in particular, is one of the favorite destinations for freelancers and students thanks to its low rents and lively cultural life.

North-South Europe comparison: growing gap in prices

The gap between North and South is growing ever wider when it comes to rental prices in Europe 2024.

Northern cities – such as London, Copenhagen, Oslo – have much higher prices than those in the South or East. This phenomenon is linked to:

• Higher average incomes in the North;
• Tighter housing policies;
• Constant demand from international professionals and students.

In Southern Europe, despite an increase in prices in some cities (such as Lisbon and Barcelona), rent still remains relatively affordable, especially in non-central areas.

Rentals in Europe for students: the best university cities

Studying in Europe is a dream for many, but the cost of rent can be a challenge.

The most popular university cities are usually:

• London
• Amsterdam
• Paris
• Berlin
• Lisbon
• Budapest
• Milan
• Bologna

Students are often required to share rented rooms or rent in outlying areas; sign up to university waiting lists for controlled-price accommodation or contact specialized platforms such as Spacest.com.

Rental trends in Europe in 2024: increases, decreases and stability

In 2024, the market trends are as follows:

🔺 Significant increases in cities such as Amsterdam, Berlin and Dublin, driven by the shortage of housing supply.

🔽 Stability or slight drops in less central cities and in Eastern countries such as Romania, Bulgaria and Hungary, where supply exceeds demand.

💡 Interest in secondary cities is growing, thanks to remote working and the desire to save.

Renting in London, Paris and Amsterdam: evolving markets

These metropolises remain among the most sought-after, but also among the most problematic in terms of economic accessibility:

🟢 London: Brexit and inflation have caused costs to soar. High demand, low supply.

🟢 Paris: Very high prices in the centre, very competitive market.

🟢 Amsterdam: Restrictive policies on short-term rentals are trying to calm the market.

👉 In these cities it is essential to move well in advance and have all the required guarantees.

Rentals in Eastern Europe: new housing opportunities

More and more Europeans and digital nomads are moving east, where the quality/price ratio is decidedly more advantageous.

Among the cities to keep an eye on:

⛪ Bucharest: rent a central apartment from €700.

🕍 Sofia: among the cheapest, with studio apartments for €500.

🏰 Krakow: good liveability and constant growth of the real estate market.

Rental prices in Europe 2024: emerging cities with good quality/price ratio

Some cities are becoming ideal alternatives to more expensive capitals:

• Valencia, ES;
• Porto, PT;
• Tallinn, EE;
• Zagreb, H.R.;
• Bristol, UK.

These cities offer quality of life, services, and affordable rental prices for downtown apartments.

Rentals and remote working: the new digital nomads in Europe

Remote working has revolutionized the market. More and more professionals choose cities where:

1. Rental costs are more accessible;
2. There is a good internet connection;
3. It is possible to live well on an average budget.

Popular destinations for digital nomads include:

• Lisbon;
• Tbilisi;
• Budapest;
• Tallinn;
• Palermo.

Rental prices in Europe 2024: tips for finding rent, strategies and useful sites

1. Start your search at least 2-3 months before;
2. Use reliable portals like Spacest.com;
3. Prefer advertisements with contractual specifications;
4. Check for included expenses;
5. Video call and/or virtual tours if you are abroad.

Renting abroad: what to know to avoid scams

• Do not make advance payments without contractual guarantees;
• Be wary of prices that are too low for the area you are looking for;
• deer platforms with payment guarantees;
• View the photos of the property carefully;
• Check the reviews of the owner or platform.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about renting in Europe in 2024

1. What is the most expensive European city to rent?

London, followed by Zurich and Amsterdam.

2. Where can I rent for less than €800 per month?

In cities such as Sofia, Bucharest, Budapest, Porto, Krakow.

3. Which city is best suited to students?

Berlin and Lisbon offer a good balance between costs and university quality.

4. Where is it best to live if I work remotely?

Lisbon, Valencia, Budapest, Palermo are optimal choices for digital nomads.

5. What documents are needed to rent in Europe?

Passport, tax code, employment contract or financial guarantee.

6. Can rent be negotiated in Europe?

Yes, especially off-season or in less competitive cities.

In conclusion, choosing where to live in Europe in 2024 requires a clear vision of the rental market.

The cities of the North remain fascinating but expensive, while the East and the South still offer savings opportunities and quality of life.

Compare, inform yourself and plan carefully: Europe is full of solutions for every lifestyle.