The Mediterranean has traditionally been one of the most desirable areas to live or retire due to its lush coastlines and sandy beaches. After all, it is the largest of the semi-enclosed European seas and is bordered by 22 nations that span three continents and have a substantial amount of coastline in common. Furthermore, due to the region's size, its coastal areas provide a wide range of lifestyle choices, from opulent destinations like the French Riviera to more modest and cheap locations. This article discusses some of the more affordable places in the Mediterranean that don't sacrifice security, lifestyle, or living standards. But remember that some of these locations are undiscovered, while others are well-known. So, here are 12 affordable places in the Mediterranean to live or retire.

12. Montpellier, France

Southern France is home to the attractive historic city of Montpellier. It is somewhat of a student hotspot with three universities, a lively atmosphere, and affordable housing. Furthermore, the French city with the highest population growth has much to offer. Though it is the most expensive city on this list, it is an excellent option for anyone looking for limitless entertainment options on a modest budget. We decided to include it since it has a high living level and is the cheapest French city along the Mediterranean coast. Living here costs an average of $1500 a month for a single person, which is unquestionably less expensive than nearby regions like the French Riviera. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically rents for $700 monthly, while a similar unit outside the city center costs $500. Housing is likewise reasonably priced. Since students make up the majority of the population in this city, it is ideal for young couples or singles searching for an affordable, exciting location to live.

11. Cadiz, Spain

Spain's southwest includes the modest harbor city of Cadiz. The history and culture of Spain are abundant. It isn't easy to find a place with more genuine laid-back charm than this one because it enjoys good year-round weather and is surrounded by the Atlantic and Mediterranean seas. Rarely does it dip below 5 degrees or rise over 40 degrees; temperatures typically range from 32 to 8 degrees Celsius. Unfortunately, Cadiz is vulnerable to flash floods and heavy rainfall despite the beautiful weather, particularly during the monsoon season. So, that's one safety measure to consider before relocating to the city. However, the projected average monthly cost of living here for a single person, including rent and all facilities, is around $1200, which is more than cheap considering the wonderful ambiance and cityside.

10. Bari, Italy

The capital of the Apulia region in southern Italy, Bari is a port city on the Adriatic Sea. Chic cafes, pubs, and restaurants may be found in the maze-like old town, which is bordered by significant architectural landmarks. At the same time, the city's central modern center provides expansive boulevards, delectable street fare, and vibrant nightlife. Additionally, it is a well-connected city with sound highway systems and an international airport that accepts direct flights from many important EU locations. Bari experiences long, chilly, windy, and partially cloudy winters compared to warm, humid, dry, and clear summers. Without rent, the monthly cost of living is approximately $600. Rent comes out to $1200, which can be more than balanced given your location and living costs. It's an off-the-beaten-track location with fantastic food, castles, cathedrals, and welcoming locals as a whole.

9. Aeolian Islands, Italy

North of Sicily, there is a volcanic archipelago known as the Aeolian Islands, sometimes known as the Lipari Islands or Lipari Group after their main island. There are seven islands, but if you want to take advantage of modern comforts, Lipari Island is the one to live on. Although the other islands are similarly excellent, most individuals who relocate value peace and quiet and are familiar with their native tongue. Considering the beautiful environment and way of life, the average cost of living on these islands is modest at less than $1000. The islands also offer very reasonable rents, with wholly furnished apartments or residences going for $500 to $600 per month.

8. Tarifa, Spain

At the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula is Tarifa, another Spanish town in Spain's Andalusia region. It is frequently referred to as "the capital of the wind" and is one of the most well-liked locations in the world for wind sports. Its beaches stretch out in the wild and have excellent white sand and pristine waters. It has undergone tremendous growth recently, and many foreigners, mostly Britons, have been purchasing real estate in the area around it. Additionally, many snowbirds and digital nomads come to this city each year to visit and temporarily settle because there is so much to do and see. The projected average monthly cost of living for a single individual is roughly $900, which is more than reasonable for such a beautiful and high-class region.

7. Paphos, Cyprus

Numerous prehistoric and legendary sites can be found in Paphos, a prehistoric city that has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. It is renowned for its first-rate amenities and infrastructure, including top-notch healthcare and seamless transportation links to the rest of the nation. There won't be a language barrier here either because of the broad foreign population, which includes Greeks, Russians, Brits, and Germans. As a result, English is frequently spoken in the town's major areas. Young digital nomads and people traveling to work in one of the many resorts, bars, or nightclubs over the summer also enjoy it. A single person's monthly cost of living in the city is roughly $1000, while average rental fees, including utilities, are around $460.

6. Patras, Greece

Patras, located 250 km west of Athens in the northern Peloponnese, is the third-largest city in Greece and the regional capital of that region. With various activities and a sizable costume parade, the city is renowned for having the best carnivals in Greece. The gorgeous beach resorts in the area are ideal for family vacations, and its central location makes it easy to drive to Olympia, Athens, and the Greek mainland. The average monthly cost of living for a single individual in this city is $800, which is incredibly low when considering all the benefits of city life. The affordable housing market is another benefit of settling in Patras. A standalone detached home can be purchased for as little as $60,000.

5. Šibenik, Croatia

Among all the cities in the vicinity, Šibenik is one of the least expensive possibilities. It is a small, historically significant Croatian city in the Dalmatia region. Here, there is far less price difference between groceries, utilities, and dining out. Unlike any other in Croatia, it is a fantastic city with stone structures, stone stairways, rocky cliffs, cobblestone streets, and stone arches. The experience is enhanced if you visit one of the quaint town's strongholds, which boasts a stunning cathedral and breathtaking sea vistas everywhere you turn. Regarding living expenses, a single person may comfortably live here on an $800 monthly budget, including rent and utilities.

4. Chania, Greece

Even though Chania is a city on the most well-known Greek island, Crete, its cost of living is meager. It has everything a person could desire, including a beautiful Mediterranean climate, a well-established and friendly expatriates community, a highly regarded health care system, countless outdoor recreational opportunities, year-round cultural events, a low crime rate, and an affordable cost of living, especially when you consider the quality of life and convenient access from the Greek mainland and all of Europe. Even if the pace of life in the city is slower than in some other places on the list, it still contains everything a person could need. The price of a rental unit, including utilities, is just a pitiful $400, whereas the average cost of living in the city neighborhoods is roughly $800.

3. Izmir, Turkey

Izmir, one of the most liberal cities in Turkey, is situated on the Aegean side of the Mediterranean. But the city also boasts several fascinating attractions, such as one of Turkey's most fascinating bazaars, a fascinating past, an art gallery, and a relaxed yet hospitable local culture. The city deserves praise for its first-rate transportation systems. The ferry system, bicycle paths, and pedestrian-friendly footpaths make navigation simple. The residents have been referred to as the most westernized populations in Turkey; therefore, there is also a significant difference in the demographics. On the other hand, it has minor flooding and a moderate crime index for misdemeanors and petty crimes. These, however, are small compared to the standard of living and accessibility, which far outweigh them. In Izmir, a single individual's average monthly cost of living is $700, with just $300 going toward rent and utilities.

2. Vlore, Albania

The third-most populous city in Albania is Vlore, which is located on the Albanian Riviera. It is an important economic center in southern Albania and a city with a thriving tourism industry. However, it doesn't require much advertising because of its low cost of living, lovely villages, and beaches. As a result, it is becoming increasingly popular with foreigners who want to live, work, or retire by the sea. On the other hand, it is a relatively safe city with a low average cost of living. In addition, renting an entire property for a fair price is an option, and housing costs are relatively low. For instance, an average two-bedroom condo with a view of the sea rents for less than $400. People who are interested in making long-term investments can look into purchasing a sizable home outside of the city. For example, a four-bedroom villa close to downtown costs about $100,000. For those who prioritize beach life outside the major city, the rest of the region has lots of fun things to do, and a quiet off-season is not a problem.

1. Sousse, Tunisia

On the coast of Tunisia is the resort town of Sousse. It is the least expensive of all the livable cities inside the Mediterranean boundaries. Sousse doesn't feel as large as some cities because of its diminutive size. Without being overwhelmed by a large metropolis, one can readily experience Tunisian culture. Due to its designation as a resort city, it's a great place for snowbirds or digital nomads to live temporarily. So, activities won't cancel one out. The primary drawback of living in Tunisia is safety, but there are other drawbacks as well. Although it is generally safe, there are some little crimes; thus, being watchful is imperative.
Nevertheless, the average monthly cost of living in this city is less than $500, and the rent for an entirely furnished beachfront condo is less than $200. Ultimately, new residents are frequently unsure what to expect from this relatively small African city. However, the distinctive fusion of cultures and its extraordinarily diverse environment never disappoints visitors.

In Conclusion

Living in the Mediterranean doesn't cost as much as you might think. The pricing of the properties on this list is competitive, and some are practically free. In addition, the Mediterranean is a well-liked vacation spot all year round, so if you're a "snowbird," renting out your house for a portion of the year is also a huge possibility to earn additional cash.

If you opt to reside in the Mediterranean, your benefits may extend beyond your bank account. The food is fantastic and is sometimes recognized as the healthiest in the entire world. In addition, it has been demonstrated to lessen the chance of heart attack and stroke and delay aging. Therefore, if you choose to live in the Mediterranean, you may extend your life by years in addition to improving it.