Latvia is quickly emerging as one of the most attractive destinations in Northern Europe for expats seeking a balance of affordability, culture, and quality of life.
From the cosmopolitan buzz of Riga to the seaside tranquility of Jūrmala and the historic charm of Kuldīga, the country offers a wide range of living options to suit different lifestyles.
This article will guide you through the best places to live in Latvia, breaking down their pros, cost of property, and why they are popular among expats.
In this guide you will learn about:
9 Best Places to Live in Latvia
Latvia is quickly becoming a top choice for investors, business owners, and those with families looking for a high quality of life for a fraction of the cost of other European countries.
Our global passport index provides some interesting insights, ranking Latvia highly on the quality-of-life index, with a ranking of 36 out of 199. Similarly, the Latvia passport ranks 43rd, while on the Enhanced Mobility Index, Latvia stands at 39th.
As the country grows in popularity, more and more expats are wondering which are the best places to live in Latvia. Let’s take a closer look.
01/ Riga
- Population: 592,000
- Average salary: €20,000–26,000 per year
- Average home prices: ~€2,600 per m² in the city center
Riga is the largest city in Latvia and acts as the country’s economic hub. It is the most popular place to live in Latvia with a range of economic opportunities, with industries like tech, finance, and IT growing drastically. Startups are in luck, with hubs like Rise Riga and TechHub Riga providing support to upcoming companies.
Housing ranges from Art Nouveau apartments in the historic center to modern flats in Pārdaugava and Mežaparks. Monthly expenses, excluding rent, average around €900 for a single person.
For those looking to explore the culture and history of Latvia, Riga is one of the top places with things like Central Market, the Latvian National Opera, and UNESCO-listed Old Town architecture waiting to be explored.
Getting around Riga is easy with a range of public transport options, including buses and trams. For expats moving to Latvia with family, there are fantastic international schools in Riga and some top universities, including the University of Latvia and Riga Technical University.
Plus, the Latvia Golden Visa makes moving to Latvia much easier, offering residency by investment to applicants and their family members in as little as four months.
Some popular areas in Riga include:
- Vecrīga (Old Town)
- Centrs (City Center)
- Āgenskalns
- Mežaparks
- Ķīpsala
02/ Jūrmala
- Population: 50,000
- Average salary: €18,000–22,000 per year
- Average home prices: ~€2,500 per m² near the beach
If sun, sand, and sea are on your list of best places to live in Latvia, look no further than the stunning Jūrmala, a resort town just 25 minutes from Riga. Jūrmala is well known for its gorgeous white sand beaches, historic wooden villas, and exciting Dzintari Forest Park.
Hospitality and tourism are the main sources of economic activity, including hotels, spas, restaurants, bars, and various adventure activities. But the main draw to this beautiful resort town is the laid-back beachfront lifestyle that is popular for those looking to retire in Latvia.
03/ Cēsis
- Population: 16,000
- Average salary: €12,000–19,000 per year
- Average home prices: ~€1,200 per m²
Located in the Gauja National Park region, Cēsis is the ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts that want to get their taste of the great Latvian outdoors. From hiking and biking to kayaking on the Gauja River, Cēsis is a nature lovers dream place to live in Latvia.
History lovers are also in luck with the stunning Cēsis Castle and St. John’s Church on the must explore list. Life here is quiet and tranquil, making it popular amongst retirees and remote workers looking to leave the hustle and bustle behind.
Looking at the cost of living in Latvia, Cēsis is cheaper than Riga, with rent, monthly expenses, and everyday costs being lower, including meals at restaurants and groceries. However, the average salary is significantly lower in Cēsis but it does not have the same infrastructure as Latvia’s capital.
04/ Kuldīga
- Population: 13,000
- Average salary: €14,000–18,000 per year
- Average home prices: ~€1,300 per m²
Known for having the widest waterfall in Europe, Kuldīga is a small town that thrives on its tourism industry. From hotels and restaurants to small locally owned artisan stalls, Kuldīga is the epitome of small town living in Latvia.
Whether you are looking for a strong sense of community or buying property in Latvia at an affordable price, Kuldīga has this and so much more. In fact, buying a property in Kuldīga costs about 50% less than in Riga.
Families love the small town feel and Kuldīga Secondary School, while retirees are also taken care of with the local healthcare facilities and slower pace of life.
05/ Liepāja
- Population: 68,000
- Average salary: €17,000–21,000 per year
- Average home prices: ~€1,300 per m²
Situated on the western coast of Latvia, Liepāja is known as the “City where the wind is born,” thanks to the coastal wind that bellows through the city. Here, you will find a thriving port at Port of Liepāja as well as a growing renewable energy sector.
If you want to soak in the culture and beauty of the city, the Liepāja Museum, Liepāja Jazz Festival, and exploring the sandy beaches are great options for the whole family. The abundant natural beauty is also a big draw to the city, combining nature and modern living. Music lovers will also enjoy the famous Latvian Musicians’ Alley of Fame, with plaques dedicated to well-known Latvian musicians.
Liepaja is known for its music, with the Liepaja Secondary Art School offering a range of art programs. The city is also home to Liepāja University and the RTU Liepāja Academy, a branch of Riga Technical University focused on new media arts, renewable energy, and IT.
06/ Sigulda
- Population: 17,000
- Average salary: €15,000–19,000 per year
- Average home prices: ~€1,400 per m²
Nestled in the Gauja River valley, Sigulda is often called the “Switzerland of Latvia” thanks to its scenic hills and lush forests. Sigulda has a strong local economy driven by tourism, hospitality, and outdoor sports, including hotels, adventure parks, and wellness centers.
Local schools and sports clubs make the town popular among families. Plus, with a safety score of 63.4, Latvia is one of the safest countries in Europe, giving families peace of mind.
07/ Valmiera
- Population: 24,000
- Average salary: €16,000–20,000 per year
- Average home prices: ~€1,100 per m²
Valmiera is a northern Latvian town that combines small-city convenience with access to plenty of nature. Life here is slower paced than in Riga, making it appealing for families, remote workers, and retirees moving to Latvia. The town has good local schools, including Valmiera Secondary School, healthcare services, and a growing number of cafes and shops, that make it feel welcoming and community oriented.
Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking and biking along the Gauja River and exploring nearby forests. Housing is affordable compared to the capital, with a range of apartments and family homes, and everyday costs, from groceries to restaurants, are lower, giving Valmiera a strong balance of affordability and quality of life.
Outdoor enthusiasts love living here, with hiking, biking, skiing, and bobsleigh at the Sigulda Bobsleigh Track. Historical sites like Sigulda Castle and Turaida Castle add a cultural touch.
Sigulda’s proximity to Riga, taking about 50 minutes by train, makes it perfect for commuters and remote workers seeking a nature-focused lifestyle. Housing and everyday costs are lower than the capital, though the town is smaller and quieter.
08/ Bauska
- Population: 13,000
- Average salary: €14,000–18,000 per year
- Average home prices: ~€1,000 per m²
Bauska is a friendly small town in southern Latvia that’s perfect for people looking for a quieter pace of life. The town has a strong sense of community, with local schools, healthcare services, and plenty of spots to meet neighbors and join in local events.
Tourism adds a bit of energy, with attractions like Bauska Castle and the nearby Rundāle Palace, along with small cafes, shops, and restaurants.
Property prices are affordable, and day-to-day costs are lower than in bigger cities, making it a practical choice for families or those looking to retire in Latvia. Riga is conveniently located just one hours drive away, with buses available throughout the day.
09/ Ogre
- Population: 25,000
- Average salary: €15,000–19,000 per year
- Average home prices: ~€1,500 per m²
Ogre is a riverside town just 40 minutes’ drive from Riga, making it an ideal spot for people who want a quieter life but still need easy access to the capital. The town has a friendly community, with plenty of parks and walking trails for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Housing options range from cozy traditional homes to modern apartments, and everyday costs are lower than in Riga, making it a practical choice for those looking for a balance between affordability and convenience. The general cost of living is about 50% less in Ogre.
With its riverside setting, green natural splendor, and small-town feel, Ogre is perfect for anyone who wants a slower pace of life while staying close to the city.
Best Places to Live in Latvia Comparison Table
To further help you compare the best places to live in Latvia, here is a convenient table:
| City | Population | Average Salary (per year) | Average Home Price (per m²) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riga | 592,000 | €20,000–26,000 | ~€2,600 |
| Jūrmala | 50,000 | €18,000–22,000 | ~€2,500 |
| Cēsis | 16,000 | €12,000–19,000 | ~€1,200 |
| Kuldīga | 13,000 | €14,000–18,000 | ~€1,300 |
| Liepāja | 68,000 | €17,000–21,000 | ~€1,300 |
| Sigulda | 17,000 | €15,000–19,000 | ~€1,400 |
| Valmiera | 24,000 | €16,000–20,000 | ~€1,100 |
| Bauska | 13,000 | €14,000–18,000 | ~€1,000 |
| Ogre | 25,000 | €15,000–19,000 | ~€1,500 |
