MOVE ABROAD NOW (THE BLOG)

Crunching numbers is only half the equation when moving abroad. Rent, groceries, and transport matter, but so do climate, community, culture, healthcare, and bureaucracy. This guide explains why cost of living ≠ quality of life, with examples from Portugal, Spain, Italy, and France, and shows how to layer lifestyle factors into your decision. Because the best expat destinations aren’t just affordable—they feel like home.

When planning a move abroad, rent will likely be your largest expense—often 30–50% of your monthly budget. This guide walks you through researching housing costs in Europe using Numbeo and Expatistan, comparing cities side by side, checking local listings, and accounting for neighbourhoods, seasonal rent spikes, and extras like utilities and condo fees. By layering these tools, you’ll create a clear, realistic rental budget for your new life overseas.

Dreaming of life in a sun-drenched village, where mornings start with espresso and evenings end with aperitivo? Southern Europe has become one of the top destinations for Americans looking to relocate, work remotely, or take a sabbatical. But the biggest hurdle is housing. Finding a long-term rental in Spain, France, Portugal, or Italy isn’t as straightforward as it looks — leases work differently, tourist pricing is everywhere, and the best listings often aren’t even online