Renovating an apartment in Europe can be a costly undertaking, but some countries offer more affordable options than others. Depending on the location, labor, and material costs can vary significantly. Below, we highlight some of the cheapest countries in Europe for apartment renovations.
1. Bulgaria
Bulgaria is one of the most budget-friendly countries in Europe for renovations. Both labor and material costs are lower compared to most Western European nations. The country’s low cost of living and skilled workforce make it an attractive choice for property owners looking to renovate at a fraction of the cost.
2. Romania
Romania offers similar affordability to Bulgaria when it comes to renovation costs. Cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timisoara feature competitive pricing for labor and materials, making it a great choice for those looking to renovate without breaking the bank.
3. Serbia
In Serbia, renovation costs are also quite low, particularly in cities like Belgrade. The affordable price of materials and labor, combined with a growing construction industry, makes Serbia an appealing option for apartment renovations.
4. Portugal
Portugal is an excellent choice for affordable renovations in Southern Europe. While Lisbon and Porto may be more expensive, smaller towns offer lower rates for labor and materials. Additionally, the country’s lower cost of living makes it a great place to renovate at a more reasonable price.
5. Spain
Spain offers affordable renovation options, particularly in rural areas and smaller cities. Major cities like Madrid and Barcelona can be more expensive, but if you’re willing to renovate in less touristy regions, you can save significantly on labor and materials.
6. Poland
Poland provides another affordable destination for apartment renovations. With a growing construction industry and competitive prices in cities like Warsaw and Krakow, Poland stands out as an excellent choice for budget-conscious renovators.
7. Ukraine (Pre-Conflict)
Although the ongoing conflict has affected Ukraine, before the war, the country offered some of the lowest renovation costs in Europe. Cities like Kyiv and Lviv had significantly lower prices for labor and materials, making them an affordable option for those looking to renovate on a budget.
8. Hungary
Hungary offers affordable renovation costs, particularly in Budapest, where there is a high supply of contractors and materials at competitive prices. The overall cost of living in Hungary is lower, making it an attractive option for property owners.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to renovate an apartment on a budget, Eastern Europe and certain parts of Southern Europe, such as Portugal and Spain, offer the most affordable options. By focusing on these countries or rural areas, you can significantly reduce the cost of your renovation project compared to more expensive Western European countries like Norway, Sweden, or Germany.
