© Shutterstock

30. Greece -

Have a hard time choosing between dreamy island getaways and bustling city life? There's no shortage of options in this country. Greece ranks 30th on the list of best European nations to live in, with a cost of living index score of 47 and a quality of life index score of 138. Considering living in the birthplace of democracy? Pack your sunglasses, as it is one of the sunniest places in Europe.

© Getty Images

29. Ireland -

With lush landscapes and seaside wonders, ranked 29th on the list is the Northern European nation of Ireland. It has a cost of living score of 60 and a quality of life score of 167. It's worth noting that the cost of living is relatively high in Ireland in comparison to some other nations on this list.

© Getty Images

28. Italy -

This Southern European nation ranks 28th on the list of best European countries to live in. North, south, coastal, or interior, Italy truly offers a wondrous experience to all. The nation has a cost of living index score of 51 and a quality of life index score of 151. Did you know that Italy has some of the best quality drinking water in all of Europe? They do say all roads lead to Rome. 

© Getty Images

27. France -

France ranks 27th on the list of best European countries to live in. It has a cost of living index score of 58 and a quality of life index score of 166. The nation’s affordable education, incredible scenic beauty, and ideal work-life balance are all qualities that people appreciate about life in France.

© Getty Images

26. Serbia -

Ranked 26th on the list is Serbia. Serbia has a cost of living index score of 36 and a quality of life index score of 125. Compared to Western European nations, the cost of living in Serbia is very low, making it an attractive nation for those on a tighter budget.

© Getty Images

25. United Kingdom -

Ranked 25th on the list is the United Kingdom. Yes, the UK is still part of Europe. The UK has a cost of living index score of 59 and a quality of life index score of 175. The Northern European nation is ideal for those who enjoy multiculturalism, access to quality, affordable healthcare, and a quality education system.

© Getty Images

24. Norway -

Norway ranks 24th on the list of the best European nations to live in, with a cost of living index score of 69 and a quality of life index score of 195. The nation is perfect for the outdoorsy adventurer in you. While its cost of living is relatively high, the nation is very safe and offers great education and healthcare options.

© Getty Images

23. Belgium -

The next country on the list is Belgium. Ranked 23rd, the nation has a cost of living index score of 57 and a quality of life index score of 169. Do waffles, beer, and chocolate speak to you? Your belly will be delighted with the array of Belgian specialties. In addition to its tasty treats, the nation boasts affordable housing and education, making it an attractive option.

© Getty Images

22. North Macedonia -

Ranked 22nd on the list of best European countries to live in is North Macedonia, with a cost of living index score of 30 and a quality of life index score of 120. This tiny nation has a low cost of living in comparison to other nations on this list. The education and healthcare systems are both free and of high quality.

© Getty Images

21. Austria -

The next country on the list is Austria. Ranked 21st, the nation has a cost of living index score of 61 and a quality of life index score of 193. Although the cost of living is quite high in comparison to some other nations on this list, the quality of life is also high. Enjoy the beauty of this alpine country by exploring its rich cultural offerings and outdoor adventures.

© Getty Images

20. Hungary -

What do thermal baths and medieval architecture have in common? Visit Hungary to find out. Ranked 20th on the list, Hungary has a cost of living index score of 37 and a quality of life index score of 145. The nation has a comparatively lower cost of life relative to other European nations, allowing those on a tighter budget to enjoy the country’s offerings without forking out too much cash.

© Getty Images

19. Germany -

Ranked 19th on the list of best European nations to live in is Germany. Germany has a cost of living index score of 58 and a quality of life index score of 190. The nation boasts affordable housing options, a robust healthcare system, job opportunities, and a high quality of life.

© Getty Images

18. Bosnia and Herzegovina -

Bosnia and Herzegovina ranks 18th on the list of best European countries to live in. The nation has a cost of living index score of 32 and a quality of life index score of 135. It doesn’t just have a low cost of living, but has incredible cultural and historical offerings, with dreamy architecture and plenty of outdoor activities.

© Getty Images

17. Slovakia -

Slovakia ranks 17th on the list of best European nations to live in, with a cost of living index score of 42 and a quality of life index score of 158. The nation is relatively affordable in comparison to some other nations on this list. Enjoy tasty Slovak food as you hike its scenic routes and end your day in one of the nation’s many hot springs.

© Getty Images

16. Bulgaria -

Ranked 16th on the list is Bulgaria, with a cost of living index score of 35 and a quality of life index score of 144. Bulgaria offers a budget-friendly lifestyle for those seeking to live in Europe. The nation’s strong cultural heritage draws many visitors and immigrants in to enjoy its offerings.

© Getty Images

15. Denmark -

Ranked 15th on the list is Denmark, with a cost of living index score of 67 and a quality of life index score of 210. Denmark has the third-highest quality of life index score on this list and it’s easy to see why. Quality healthcare and education, coupled with great work-life balance and safety, make the nation an attractive option.

© Getty Images

14. Romania -

Romania ranks 14th on the list of best European nations to live in, with a cost of living index score of 34 and a quality of life index score of 142. The nation is more affordable than other nations on this list, while still offering a great quality of life. Its rich cultural heritage, incredible landscapes, and tasty cuisine draw people in.

© Getty Images

13. Poland -

Poland ranks 13th on the list of best European nations to live in, with a cost of living index score of 39 and a quality of life index score of 154. The nation has affordable housing options, even its its biggest cities. Poland has a rich cultural scene, quality education, and a great deal of safety.

© Getty Images

12. Latvia -

Ranked 12th on the list of best European nations to live in is Latvia, with a cost of living index score of 43 and a quality of life index score of 165. The nation is quite affordable in comparison to some other nations on this list. For business owners, it's quite attractive because of its low tax rates.

© Getty Images

11. Sweden -

Sweden ranks 11th on the list of the best European nations to live in. It has a cost of living index score of 54 and a quality of life index score of 193. In comparison to its Scandinavian neighbors, the cost of living in Sweden is lower, offering a great option for those wishing to explore residing in the region without breaking the bank.

© Getty Images

10. Lithuania -

Lithuania ranks 10th on the list of best European nations to live in. The nation has a cost of living index score of 44 and a quality of life index score of 173. Lithuania has incredible options for nature lovers, offers a good work-life balance, and boasts high levels of safety.

© Getty Images

9. Finland -

Ranked ninth on the list is Finland, with a cost of living index score of 59 and a quality of life index score of 204. The high quality of life in conjunction with its relatively low cost of living in comparison to its neighbors makes the Northern European nation an attractive option.

© Getty Images

8. Portugal -

Ranked eighth on the list is Portugal, with a cost of living index score of 41 and a quality of life index score of 168. Portugal is more affordable than other Western European nations, offering flexibility for those on a tighter budget. Its rich cultural heritage, incredible nature, and generally relaxed lifestyle make it an attractive option.

© Getty Images

7. Estonia -

This nation is known for its traditional sauna culture and practices. Ranked seventh on the list is Estonia, with a cost of living index score of 49 and a quality of life index score of 186. The small European nation offers high quality healthcare and education, as well as an environmentally friendly way of life. 

© Getty Images

6. Slovenia -

Ranked sixth on the list is Slovenia, which has a cost of living index score of 46 and a quality of life index score of 179. The country offers incredible nature escapes. From the alpine landscapes to its stunning vineyards, do not miss the outdoor adventures Slovenia offers.

© Getty Images

5. Croatia -

Ranked fifth on the list is Croatia, which has a cost of living index score of 43 and a quality of life index score of 175. The nation of over 1,000 islands has absolutely majestic outdoor activities. It has a relatively lower cost of living in comparison to other nations on this list, while still offering a high quality of life.

© Getty Images

4. Luxembourg -

Luxembourg ranks fourth on the list of best European nations to live in, with a cost of living index score of 65 and a quality of life index score of 220. Luxembourg is tiny but economically mighty. The nation has one of the highest GDPs per capita, not just in Europe, but in the world.

© Getty Images

3. Netherlands -

Ranked third on the list of best European nations to reside in is the Netherlands. The Dutch hold a cost of living index score of 61 and a quality of life index score of 211. The nation’s quality of life score speaks for itself, boasting quality education and healthcare systems, as well as a great work-life balance for its residents.

© Getty Images

2. Czech Republic -

The second-best European nation to live in is the Czech Republic, with a cost of living index score of 43 and a quality of life index score of 175. The relatively low cost of living, coupled with a high quality of life, makes the nation an attractive option for those considering a move.

© Getty Images

1. Spain -

The best European nation to live in is Spain. The country earns a cost of living index score of 44 and a quality of life index score of 184. The Iberian nation’s sunny, stable climate, coupled with a relaxed lifestyle and rich cultural life, makes Spain a truly wonderful place to live.

Sources: (Lexidy) (Global Citizen Solutions) (Travel Sphere) (Profee) (Wise) (Expat Arrivals) (Old Town Explorer) (Luxtoday) (My Dolce Casa)

See also: Where to find Portugal's most picturesque castles

© Getty Images