Choosing where to settle down to retire is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly, and the options are plentiful.
If budget is your top priority, Moldova offers particularly attractive prices for newcomers, offering a significantly lower cost of living compared to other Western countries.
According to relocation expert Kristin from the YouTube channel Travelling with Kristin, the Eastern European country stands out as the cheapest place to live on the continent, in her opinion.
Nestled between Romania and Ukraine, the small nation boasts living costs 50 per cent lower than those in the United States.
The online database Number states that “the cost of living in Moldova is on average 46.8 per cent lower than in United Kingdom”.
It adds: “Rent in Moldova is, on average, 57.8 per cent lower than in United Kingdom”.
The YouTuber says Moldova offers a classic European lifestyle
YOUTUBE / TRAVELINGWITHKRISTIN
But even more striking are the rental prices, which Kristin reports are 70 per cent lower than US rates.
“Moldova has plenty to offer if you’re looking for that classic European lifestyle complete with wineries and vineyards, medieval villages, monasteries and plenty of unique architectures,” noted the YouTuber.
The country has been independent since 1991, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Today it is “very modern despite the occasional infrastructure hiccup”.
These features make it an appealing destination, but expatriates should be prepared to learn Romanian, particularly if planning to live in rural areas.
English is not widely spoken outside urban centres, making local language skills essential for daily life.
Healthcare in Moldova also demands careful planning, according to relocation experts at InterNations.
They noted: “Expatriates living in Moldova should be aware that the public healthcare system will likely not be of the standard they are used to in their home country.
“For this reason many expatriates take out private healthcare insurance and travel to nearby countries with better healthcare systems for serious or delicate treatments.”
The YouTuber says Moldova offers the best of European living
GETTY
Can Britons live in Moldova?
British nationals can relocate to Moldova, provided they secure proper work authorisation and necessary permissions.
The UK Government advises prospective residents to contact the Moldovan Embassy in London for detailed visa information.
Alternatively, the Bureau for Migration of the Republic of Moldova can provide guidance on specific requirements and permissions needed for working in the country.
