Old-World Charm in a New-World Location: 6 U.S. Spots Where Renters Can Have a Taste of Europe

If Lipps Inc.’s “Funkytown” taught us anything, it’s that sometimes we “gotta make a move to a town that’s right for” us. And who doesn’t occasionally yearn for the romance of Parisian boulevards or the beauty of Spanish plazas? While the idea of living in Europe has its allure, there’s no place like home here in the U.S. Luckily, renters can still enjoy a taste of that Old World charm right here in America, capturing the essence of European living without ever crossing the Atlantic.

Here are six American cities whose vibes make them feel strikingly similar to your favorite European destinations.

Frankenmuth, MI

If Franconian-style architecture has been one of your long-time interests, but flying over to Germany to admire it was out of reach, then Frankenmuth has great news for you. Holding tight onto the German roots of its settlers, Frankenmuth’s gorgeous “X”-patterned buildings will surely captivate you — and maybe even inspire you to buy a pair of lederhosen.

With a cost of living that’s 21% lower than the U.S. average, this charming Northern escape provides a budget-friendly alternative to renters looking for their next home sweet home. What’s more, Little Bavaria’s love for this region is not only felt in its architecture, but in its Black Forest bridge replica and its many German-inspired festivals such as the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival and, of course, Oktoberfest.

New Glarus, WI

Besides being a beloved musical and film, “The Sound of Music” convinced many viewers that Switzerland has a lot more charm to it than previously thought. While not all renters might be as lucky as Julie Andrews’ character and get to move to the mountainous country, New Glarus, WI, could make for a great substitute.

Known as “America’s Little Switzerland”, this quaint village is home to a Swiss historical museum, as well as several festivals that celebrate all things Swiss, including Silvesterchlausen, the Heidi Festival and Volkfest. If that wasn’t enough, the traditional Swiss dishes served here are the stuff of the Old World — all at a cost of living that’s 14% lower than the national average.

Holland, MI

Everyone knows that if you’re a tulip enthusiast, visiting the Netherlands at least once is a must. Luckily, there’s a slice of Holland right in Michigan . Known affectionately as “Tulip City”, Holland, MI, proudly celebrates its Dutch heritage with various events and festivals that pay homage to its namesake’s beauty. Add to that a cost of living that’s 6% below the national average and you got yourself a new place to call home.

The annual Tulip Time Festival is not just a perfect way to welcome spring but also offers a perfect backdrop for your next Instagram post. And if you want to experience what Don Quixote might have felt while battling those windmills, Holland has you covered: De Zwaan, situated on Windmill Island, is the oldest authentic, working Dutch windmill in the country.

Montpelier, VT

What more can be said about France that hasn’t already been said in films, music and art in general? It’s the perfect country for romantics, as well as pastry lovers everywhere, but sadly, it’s an ocean away. Still, if you want to have a small, more affordable taste of the country, why not give Montpelier, VT, a try?

With a cost of living that’s 6% below the national benchmark, Montpelier’s appeal lies in its rich French heritage, gorgeous nature centers, beautiful theaters and the Vermont College of Fine Arts. If you’re looking to begin a life-long friendship by accidentally meeting a fellow artist at a French-inspired café, then Montpelier might be the perfect city for you.

Thief River Falls, MN

It’s hard not to be taken aback by Norway’s fjords, regardless of whether you’re a nature enthusiast or not. The country’s iconic landscape has charmed plenty of visitors, but the cold weather and moving costs might be quite a deterrent if you’ve ever entertained the thought of moving there.

Luckily, for renters looking to experience some of that Nordic charm, Minnesota offers a compelling alternative. Thief River Falls, MN, is home to the Peder Engelstad Pioneer Village, which is a recreation of the early Norwegian settlements in the area, providing a taste of historical Scandinavian life. The city also holds a Norwegian Heritage Week every spring that’s ideal for fans of Norwegian culture as well as families with children going through their “Frozen” phase.

Lenox, MA

From the pages of Jane Austen to the scenes of “Bridgerton”, the English countryside has long been a beacon for romantics who enjoy the thought of frolicking among beautiful gardens and attending Shakespeare plays at night. While getting to England might not be in the cards for every renter, they can find a great substitute in this Massachusetts gem.

Lenox offers a slightly lower cost of living than the national average (down by 4%) — making it quite appealing for relocating there — as well as a variety of attractions such as the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Bellefontaine, and the Shakespeare & Company theater venue. But perhaps The Mount is the most inviting attraction here. This gorgeous country house — designed by celebrated American writer Edith Wharton to use it as her home — could be the perfect backdrop to have a serendipitous encounter with a broody duke that might just spark a great romance.

Whether you’re longing for the Franconian-inspired architecture of Frankenmuth to the Swiss traditions of New Glarus, and from the tulip-lined streets of Holland to the French ambiance of Montpelier, each city on our list offers a unique tapestry of culture and heritage. So, while the allure of Parisian boulevards and Spanish plazas may beckon, renters don’t necessarily need to cross the Atlantic to experience the magic of Europe.