In this article, we will look at the 5 least urbanized countries in Europe. We have also discussed the challenges of urban development in Europe in another article. If you are interested in reading about that along with a more extensive list, head straight to the 15 Least Urbanized Countries in Europe.
5. Romania
Urban Population (% of Population): 54%
In Romania, rural areas dominate the landscape of the country as they cover 87% of the national geographical territory. Despite this vast rural expanse, urbanization rates in the country remain relatively low as about 46% of the total population still resides in the rural regions. Approximately 9 million live in rural areas in Romania and call them home.
4. Slovak Republic
Urban Population (% of Population): 54%
Despite being a member of the European Union and the eurozone, Slovakia’s urban population remains modest. With a population of approximately 5.4 million people, only around 54% of the population resides in urban areas. This indicates that a major portion of Slovakia’s population still lives in rural regions.
This lower level of urbanization can be linked to Slovakia’s economy which was traditionally based on agriculture and manufacturing and may have contributed to the persistence of rural communities. Additionally, cultural attachment to rural lifestyles and the presence of smaller towns and villages with historical significance might also have been a key contributor.
3. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Urban Population (% of Population): 50%
Bosnia and Herzegovina is the 3rd least urbanized country in Europe as half of its population lives in rural areas. Moreover, Sarajevo is the capital and the largest city of the country.
Sarajevo’s urban area encompasses the City of Sarajevo along with the municipalities of Ilidza, Vogosca, Istocna Ilidza, Istocno Novo Sarajevo, and Istocni Stari Grad and is inhabited by 419,957 people.
2. Moldova
Urban Population (% of Population): 43%
Despite historical Russian influence and a major Russian-speaking population, ethnic Russians only comprise 4.1% of the population of Moldova and only 14.5% of the population speaks Russian. Since there is a dominance of the Russian language in media and education, efforts to promote Romanian/Moldovan have sparked reactive ethno-linguistic nationalism among Russian-speakers. Hence, due to the social and cultural anxieties, urbanization efforts have been compromised in Moldova.
1. Liechtenstein
Urban Population (% of Population): 15%
Liechtenstein, nestled between Austria and Switzerland with an area of 160 square kilometers, has a very low urbanization, as only 15% of its total population resides in urban areas as of 2023. Despite its size, the country has a vibrant economy, boasting more registered companies than citizens. Its annual urbanization rate stands at 1.15% from 2020 to 2025 and thus, indicates a gradual but steady shift toward urban living. With 85% of its population living in rural areas, Liechtenstein is the least urbanized country in Europe.
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