Expats will enjoy a low cost of living in Bulgaria, but sadly the salaries are equally low. Many retired expats from Western Europe or the US relocate to Bulgaria as it allows them to purchase property more cheaply while extending the purchasing power of their pensions. This allows expats living in Bulgaria to enjoy a European lifestyle at a cheaper cost.
The Mercer Cost of Living report for 2020 ranked Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, as the 180th most expensive city in the world out of 209 cities.
Cost of accommodation in Bulgaria
Compared with the rest of the EU, accommodation in Bulgaria is relatively cheap. As in most countries, accommodation is more expensive the closer one gets to urban centres.
When securing a lease, expats are expected to pay agent fees, the first month’s rent in advance as well as a refundable security deposit which is usually equivalent to one month's rent.
Cost of food and entertainment in Bulgaria
Relative to most countries in the EU, eating out in Bulgaria is cheap. Bulgarian produce is excellent and local sourcing makes groceries highly affordable. Naturally, imported foods will be more expensive than buying local.
Alcohol is also affordable and Bulgaria’s cities have an active nightlife scene.
Cost of education in Bulgaria
Public school fees are relatively inexpensive and EU and EEA citizens have the right to attend Bulgarian schools for free. As the language of instruction in public schools is Bulgarian, most expats send their children to international schools, which are expensive. Expats sending their children to international schools will find that school fees are their largest expense.
Cost of transportation in Bulgaria
Bulgaria’s public transport infrastructure is well developed and extremely affordable. Most Bulgarians in cities commute by bus, which is similarly priced to the tram systems that run in some Bulgarian city centres.
Cost of living chart for Bulgaria
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Sofia, Bulgaria for April 2021.
|
Accommodation (monthly) |
|
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
BGN 600 - 1,000 |
|
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
BGN 1,000 - 2,000 |
|
One-bedroom apartment outside of the city centre |
BGN 400 - 700 |
|
Three-bedroom apartment outside of the city centre |
BGN 800 - 1,300 |
|
Groceries |
|
|
Dozen eggs |
BGN 3.22 |
|
1 litre milk |
BGN 2.10 |
|
Loaf of bread (white) |
BGN 1.22 |
|
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
BGN 9.99 |
|
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
BGN 6 |
|
Utilities/household |
|
|
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile) |
BGN 0.30 |
|
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
BGN 21 |
|
Basic utilities (average per month for a small apartment) |
BGN 204 |
|
Eating out and entertainment |
|
|
Three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant for two |
BGN 60 |
|
Big Mac meal |
BGN 10 |
|
Cappuccino |
BGN 2.62 |
|
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
BGN 1.80 |
|
Bottle of local beer |
BGN 3.25 |
|
Transportation |
|
|
Taxi rate per km |
BGN 0.80 |
|
City centre public transport fare |
BGN 1.60 |
|
Petrol (1 litre) |
BGN 1.90 |
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
With 86 million customer relationships in over 200 countries, Cigna Global has unrivalled experience in dealing with varied and unique medical situations and delivering high standards of service wherever you live in the world.
Aetna
Aetna International, offering comprehensive global medical coverage, has a network of 1.3 million medical providers worldwide. You will have the flexibility to choose from six areas of coverage, including worldwide, multiple levels of benefits to choose from, plus various optional benefits to meet your needs.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
