Situated in Northern Europe, Latvia is a hidden gem, offering a blend of stunning natural beauty and modern city life. Whether you’re looking to study, work, or live in Latvia, the country invites foreign nationals to enjoy the lower cost of living and high quality of life.
Latvia offers numerous advantages, including excellent education and healthcare systems, a safe environment, and growing business opportunities, making it an attractive destination for expatriates.
In this guide, you will learn about:
Top Facts About Life in Latvia
| Official language | Latvian |
| Currency | Euro |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian |
| Population | Aprox 1.87 million |
| Weather | Four distinct seasons with mild summers and snowy winters |
| Capital city | Riga |
| Landscape | Blend of great outdoors and city living |
Living in Latvia as a Foreigner: What to Expect
Located in Eastern Europe, the Republic of Latvia is a part of emerging Europe, with a world of potential for foreign nationals. Whether you’re looking for investment opportunities, a safe environment to raise children, or a lower cost of living, Latvia offers this and so much more.
Life in Latvia for foreigners can be truly fantastic. From the abundance of natural wonders inviting the young and old to savor during the summer sensations to the history exploration awaiting on every corner, living in Latvia can be a real adventure.
In general, Latvia is a very welcoming country that invites foreign nationals to live, explore, and thrive. While the initial reserved demeanor of Latvians may be different from what you’re used to if you’re coming from countries like the US, this is a cultural trait of the country. Once relationships are formed, Latvians tend to love showing off their country and inviting foreigners to explore all the country has to offer, with a strong sense of pride.
Luckily, the Latvia Golden Visa makes becoming a resident of Latvia simple for foreign nationals. This residency by investment program is available to all non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals. The Latvian Golden Visa offers four options, including real estate, business investment, purchasing government bonds, and making a bank deposit.
Living in Latvia Pros and Cons
Pros of living in Latvia
Lower cost of living
The cost of living in Latvia is significantly less compared to the US and other Western Europe countries. For example, monthly rent for a one-bedroom in the US will set you back about €1,279, while the same costs about €421 in Latvia.
Safety
Latvia is considered one of the safest countries in Europe. Like in all countries, there may be petty crime in tourist hotspots but the chances of serious and violent crimes in Latvia are very low.
Strategic location
Latvia offers a very strategic location for business and travel. As part of the European Union, Latvia offers easy and affordable travel across the EU and Schengen Area. Residents in Latvia have access to a range of educational opportunities and world-class healthcare.
Stunning natural beauty
Nature lovers are in for a treat with Latvia offering a range of stunning natural beauty. Thanks to the country’s compact size, going from the city hustle and bustle to a more tranquil environment with forests, beaches, and gorgeous lakes is convenient and cheap.
Thriving expat community
The expat community in Latvia is thriving, with more and more foreign nationals choosing to make this beautiful country their home. This growing community can help you adjust to living in Latvia as an expat. You may want to join Facebook groups to expand your community and meet other expats.
Rich culture
Latvia is full to the brim of things to do to explore its fascinating history and culture. The UNESCO-listed Old Town Riga, charming medieval castles, and wooden architecture scattered across the country invites you to explore. Plus, Latvian food is a big part of the culture, so dig in and enjoy all it has to offer, including Sklandrausis and Kvass.
Quality education
Latvia offers a fantastic range of international schools ideal for foreign students. There are also a variety of prestigious universities and colleges in Latvia.
Cons of living in Latvia
While there aren’t many bad things about Latvia, it’s important to understand the pros and cons so you are prepared for living in the country.
- Harsh winters: Due to its location, Latvia has very harsh winters, which can take some getting used to and requires preparation in advance. January and February are notoriously cold, with average minimum temperatures going below freezing daily. However, this does lend itself to winter sports, including ice hockey and skiing.
- Language barrier: The primary language in Latvia is Latvian, so it’s best to learn the basics before moving to the country, to ensure you can get around. However, in bigger cities many Latvians speak some English which comes in handy when you first move.
- Limited job market: The job market in Latvia is fierce, with less potential for non-EU citizens to get work in the country. If you’re planning to work in Latvia the success rate is significantly higher if you work in a specialized industry.
Cost of Living in Latvia
The cost of living in Latvia is one of the main draws to the country. Here is the cost of living in Latvia vs the US and the UK to give you an idea of the cost of living in Latvia as an American.
Cost of living in Latvia vs the US
| Item | USA | Latvia |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Center | €1,681.91 $1,761.78 | €421.67 $445.69 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Center | €2,818.68 $2,952.54 | €808.14 $854.17 |
| International Primary School, yearly for 1 Child | €21,553 $22,682 | €13,187.50 $13,938.58 |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment | €197.71 $207.10 | €279.52 $295.44 |
| Mobile phone monthly plan with calls and 10GB+ data | €67.85 $71.07 | €17.20 $18.20 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) | €19.09 $20 | €16.75 $17.70 |
| Meal, inexpensive restaurant | €71.60 $75 | €10.00 $10.57 |
| Meal for 2 people, mid-range restaurant, three-course | €62.05 $65 | €55.00 $58.13 |
| McMeal at McDonald’s (or equivalent combo meal) | €13.37 $14 | €7.20 €7.61 |
Cost of living in Latvia vs the UK
| Item | USA | Latvia |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Center | €1,279.34 | €421.67 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Center | €2,118.38 | €808.14 |
| International Primary School, yearly for 1 Child | €18,673.64 | €13,187.50 |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment | €292.32 | €279.52 |
| Mobile phone monthly plan with calls and 10GB+ data | €15.10 | €17.20 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) | €37.07 | €16.75 |
| Meal, inexpensive restaurant | €17.99 | €10.00 |
| Meal for 2 people, mid-range restaurant, three-course | €77.97 | €55.00 |
| McMeal at McDonald’s (or equivalent combo meal) | €8.98 | €7.20 |
Education in Latvia
Latvia has a strong education system, here is a breakdown of the education structure in Latvia:
| Education level | Age Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Preschool Education | 1.5 – 6 | Non-compulsory but widely attended to prepare children for primary school. |
| Primary Education | 7 – 12 | Compulsory and free for all children. |
| Lower Secondary Education | 13 – 15 | Compulsory and free; completes Latvia’s nine-year basic education requirement. |
| Upper Secondary Education | 16 – 18 | Optional; includes general secondary schools, vocational education, and specialized programs. |
Education options in Latvia
There are a range of schooling options in Latvia, including:
- Public school: Provided by the Latvian government, public school in Latvia is free for those with Latvian citizenship and residency. The curriculum is in Latvian, which may pose a language barrier for international students.
- Private school: Latvia has a range of private schools, offering smaller classes and specialized curriculum. Private schools may offer lessons in various languages, including Russian, Latvian, or English. Pricing varies between €4,000- €10,000 per year.
- International schools: Ideal for children who move to Latvia from different countries, the curriculum generally follows British or American systems. There are a range of options with pricing varying between €10,000- €19,000 per year.
Working in Latvia
For those moving to Latvia for work, it’s important to know that the job market is highly competitive. As a smaller country, finding work can be difficult, unless you are in a specialized field and can find work within international companies. However, some industries are seeking skilled individuals to propel the country’s economy, including:
- Transportation and logistics
- IT
- Technology
- Tourism and hospitality
- Manufacturing
- Fintech
- Green technology
- English teaching
Luckily, in Latvia, there is a strong emphasis on work-life balance, ensuring that employees are happier, healthier, and content. Additionally, the country is popular among digital nomads, with our 2025 Global Digital Nomad report ranking Latvia 21st, with an overall score of 87.25.
Income tax in Latvia
If you’re planning to live and work in the country, it’s essential to know which taxes in Latvia you are liable for. The most significant will likely be income tax, which is based on a progressive scale as follows:
| Income up to €20,004 | 20% |
| Income between €20,004 – €78,100 | 23% |
| Income over €78,100 | 31% |
Where to Live in Latvia
Latvia offers fantastic places to live for foreign nationals. Whether you want to soak in the natural splendor or enjoy the hustle and bustle of city life, there is something for everyone living in Latvia. Here are some of the best places to live in Latvia:
Riga
Riga is Latvia’s vibrant and bustling capital city, offering a perfect mix of historic charm and modern living. Most of the best things to do in Latvia can be found in the historic capital city.
As the country’s cultural and economic hub, Riga is home to world-class restaurants, international schools, and plenty of job opportunities, particularly in IT and finance.
This UNESCO-listed Old Town with its lively nightlife make it an exciting place to live, particularly for expats that want to explore what Latvia has to offer in one place.
Jurmala
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to live, Jurmala is the ideal place. Known for its sandy beaches and pine forests, this coastal town is perfect for families and retirees.
Jurmala offers wellness centers, summer festivals, and is just 25 km from Riga. This town blends relaxation and convenience.
Sigulda
Outdoor enthusiasts are in luck, with Sigulda inviting you to soak in the expansive surrounding natural landscapes. The nearby Gauja National Park is perfect for hiking and skiing.
Family life in Sigulda is tranquil, offering the ideal location for families, including older generations looking to retire in Latvia. Plus, Riga is just over one hours drive away, providing access to big city living.
Liepaja
Those looking for a slower pace of life with a fantastic art and music scene, Liepaja may just be the perfect fit. Located on the western coast of Latvia, this city offers stunning beaches and is a thriving maritime destination.
Housing in Latvia
For those that want to live in Latvia full time, there are a range of housing options, including residential homes, apartments, and townhouses. Plus, if you are looking to obtain residency, then buying property in Latvia is one of the easiest ways to obtain a residency permit.
Working with a Latvia immigration lawyer is highly recommended to ensure you make the right choice for your immigration needs. Luckily, Global Citizen Solutions in on hand to guide you from start to finish on your immigration journey to living in Latvia.
Getting Around in Latvia
If you want to explore Latvia beyond Riga, it’s highly advisable to have a car. While there are public transport options like trains and busses, they can be scarce the further outside of the city you travel.
Travelling within Riga is convenient with trams, trolleybuses, and buses available throughout the city. You can also travel by taxi; just ensure you agree on the price beforehand or that the trip is metered.
Cycling through the city is also growing in popularity as Riga is committed to becoming a green country.
