Cost of Living in Poland

The cost of living in Poland is among the most affordable in the European Union, alongside countries like Romania, Hungary, and Bulgaria. While Warsaw is Poland’s most expensive city, it remains significantly more budget-friendly than many major capitals in Western Europe, with prices typically around 60 percent of the EU average.

Cost of accommodation in Poland

The cost of accommodation in Poland varies, but apartments closest to the main square in any Polish city – big or small – will usually be the priciest. If you’re willing to live a bit further out and commute to work, you’ll get more for your money, especially in terms of apartment space.

Accommodation in Poland

Cost of transport in Poland

Public transport in Poland is relatively inexpensive, and students, pupils and senior citizens are eligible for discounts on long-term ticketing. Most major cities offer cross-platform card systems like those in Warsaw or Kraków, with daily, weekly or monthly pass options. For getting around within cities, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are widely available and typically cheaper than in Western European countries.

Poland’s central location within Europe and the prevalence of low-cost air travel make it easy and affordable to explore the continent while living here. Airports can be found in all the major Polish cities, and train services like the Warszawa/Gdynia-Berlin-Express provide direct connections to neighbouring countries.

Public Transport and Driving in Poland

Cost of groceries in Poland

Shopping for groceries in Poland can be a refreshing change, as the prices are often substantially lower than in Western Europe, the US or Australia. Local markets, filled with fresh produce, are especially budget-friendly and typically offer better quality seasonal fruits and vegetables than supermarkets.

While local produce and goods tend to be affordable, imported goods might have a price tag closer to what you’re used to back home. For the best value, shop at popular discount chains like Biedronka and Lidl for staples, and visit local markets (targowisko) for fresh produce.

For those with a penchant for local delicacies like pierogi, bigos or żurek, Poland is a food haven on a budget. It might be a bit pricier if you’re yearning for a taste of home from faraway places, although speciality food shops in major cities now stock a wide range of international items.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Poland

The cost of entertainment and eating out in Poland offers excellent value compared to Western European capitals. Enjoying a night out or engaging in cultural activities doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket, with city passes like the Warsaw Pass (available in 24, 48, or 72-hour options) providing free entry to top attractions and significant savings for visitors.

You’ll find options across all budgets for dining out. Traditional milk bars offer hearty, authentic Polish meals at rock-bottom prices. Mid-range restaurants provide excellent value, while even upscale establishments in Warsaw or Kraków typically cost less than their equivalents in London or Paris. Café culture costs vary across cities, with Warsaw’s trendy coffee shops commanding higher prices than the atmospheric cafés in Kraków’s historical buildings or the student-friendly establishments in Wrocław.

Cost of education in Poland

Public education in Poland is free, but it is not a viable option for many expats because the language of instruction is Polish. As an expat parent, you’ll usually opt to send your children to an international school, where they can continue to follow the same curriculum they were studying in your home country. For families seeking alternatives, bilingual Polish schools, Montessori programmes, online education, and homeschooling provide more affordable options for English-speaking families.

While international schools were once concentrated primarily in Warsaw and Kraków, good options now exist in cities like Poznań, Wrocław, Gdańsk, Łódź, and even smaller cities like Szczecin and Lublin. Be aware that popular international schools often have significant waitlists, so apply well before your move.

Beyond tuition, budget for additional costs, including registration fees, development funds, uniforms, technology fees, field trips, and extracurricular activities, which can add up to 30 percent to the base fee.

Education and Schools in Poland

Cost of healthcare in Poland

Healthcare in Poland has seen significant improvements over the years, and the standard of care in major cities is comparable to that in other parts of Europe. Public healthcare is funded through a mandatory health insurance system. If you’re working in Poland, you’ll typically contribute to this system via your employment and, as a result, have access to public healthcare services.

On the other hand, many expats opt for private healthcare due to shorter waiting times and the availability of English-speaking doctors. The difference in non-emergency treatment is stark – you might wait months for a specialist appointment in the public system, while private clinics can typically see you within days.

Dental care stands out as a particular bright spot, with high-quality treatment available at prices 30 to 50 percent lower than in Western Europe.

Healthcare and Medical Insurance in Poland