Pros and Cons of Living in Riga
Last updated on Feb 24, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Riga, Latvia include its vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and low cost of living. Riga is a great place to explore, with plenty of museums, galleries, and parks to visit. The city is also well connected, with an international airport and excellent public transportation. Additionally, the city is very safe and has a low crime rate. The cons of living in Riga include the cold weather and the language barrier. Although English is widely spoken, the official language is Latvian, which can be difficult to learn. Additionally, the city can be quite expensive for certain items, such as food and clothing. Finally, the city can be quite crowded during peak tourist season.
What are the pros and cons of living in Riga?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Riga responded:
"Expats and digital nomads generally like living in Riga, for several reasons. They appreciate the city's rich history and beautiful architecture, which includes a mix of medieval, Art Nouveau, and Soviet-era buildings. The city's compact size and walkability make it easy to explore and navigate, while the efficient public transportation system is also a plus. Riga's relatively low cost of living is another attractive feature for expats and digital nomads, as it allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The city offers a variety of affordable housing options, as well as reasonably priced food, entertainment, and other amenities. The thriving expat community in Riga is another draw, as it provides opportunities for networking, socializing, and making new friends. The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and events throughout the year. Riga's location in the heart of the Baltic region makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby countries, such as Estonia, Lithuania, and Finland. The city's international airport offers convenient connections to many European destinations, making it easy for expats and digital nomads to travel for work or leisure. However, there are also some aspects of living in Riga that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The weather can be a significant drawback, as the city experiences cold, dark winters with limited daylight hours. The language barrier can also be challenging, as Latvian is the official language, and not everyone speaks English fluently. However, younger generations and those working in the tourism and service industries are more likely to speak English. Additionally, some expats and digital nomads may find the job market in Riga to be somewhat limited, particularly for those seeking employment in specific industries or fields. Finally, while Riga is generally considered safe, petty crime and pickpocketing can be an issue in some areas, so it's essential to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions," wrote one expat in Riga.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
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- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Riga appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
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