The Baltic States include Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. All three countries are similar in culture and architecture. The same might be said about costs. Of course, the prices of day-to-day living will vary depending on where in the country you live, for example living in the city is going to be more expensive that living in a more rural area.

Many people decide to move to the Baltic States because they are looking for a better way of life, quality of life, and generally a slower pace of life. Generally speaking, the cost of living is moderate to low in the Baltic States.

In Lithuania there is a flat tax rate on income of 24%. Here, the cost of living is considered low. Although it has increased since joining the EU, compared to other countries it is cheap, especially for daily necessities. Renting property is cheaper than in the UK too, and a decent apartment will set you back just a couple of hundred pounds a month; between two people this is very affordable.

Food prices both in market and in restaurants are very cheap, and eating out can cost up to half the price as it does in the UK. Your weekly supermarket shop will most likely be a lot less than you expect when you reach the tills.

Latvia, being in the same region as Lithuania, has a similar quality and cost of living. The flat rate of tax is currently at 25% for individuals, making the monthly income very good. Renting property is an affordable and convenient way to live in the country if you are there for a couple of years only; and when it comes time to buy a property, foreigners are treated equally.

The nightlife and quality of life, especially in the larger cities, is what makes Latvia so popular with expats. Food and entertainment is cheap too, making Latvia the ideal place for those looking to move abroad but who are on a small or limited budget.

Life in Estonia is relatively cheap and relative to other European countries is a cheap place to live. A typical meal in a restaurant will only cost around half what it costs in the UK, and fast food is even cheaper. Another attractive point about Estonia is the cheap public transport, which is noticeably more inexpensive than other countries in Europe.

Generally you will need to research into the necessities you will need to buy once you are living in the Baltic States and take into consideration variable factors such as exchange rates, inflation etc. make sure that you will have enough money to live comfortably on, with some left over for indulgences. Many ex-pats find that if anything does cost over the odds, it is worth it because in return for living there they have a much better quality of life.