Burgas is not only the fourth largest city in Bulgaria, but also one of the most popular cities to live and work in. However, like any other place, Burgas has its pros and cons. In this article, we will take a closer look at the main aspects of living in this city to help you make an informed decision.
Location
Burgas is located on the southern coast of the Black Sea, on the shores of the Burgas Bay. This geographical location makes it strategically important and convenient for living. The city is surrounded by picturesque resorts such as Pomorie, famous for its healing mud, and Sozopol, an open-air museum city with a rich history.
The embankment offers a stunning view of the island of St. Anastasia – the only inhabited island in Bulgaria, where a monastery has been preserved and which attracts tourists with its legends.
Burgas is not only the fourth largest city in Bulgaria but also one of the most popular cities for living and working. However, like any other place, Burgas has its pros and cons. In this article, we will carefully consider the key aspects of life in this city to help you make an informed decision.
Location
Burgas is the jewel of Bulgaria’s southern Black Sea coast, located on the shores of the picturesque Burgas Bay. The city is strategically placed, making it one of Bulgaria’s key economic and cultural centers.
Its proximity to popular resorts such as Sozopol, known for its historical landmarks, and Pomorie, famous for its healing muds, adds to Burgas’ charm. The city’s promenade offers stunning views of St. Anastasia Island – Bulgaria’s only inhabited island, home to a monastery and attracting tourists with its legends.
Burgas is also notable for its transportation accessibility:
- Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is 380 km away via the Trakia highway.
- Istanbul is just 330 km away, opening travel possibilities.
- Varna, Bulgaria’s maritime capital, is 130 km away.
The city’s main districts, such as Lazur, Slaveykov, and Meden Rudnik, offer a variety of infrastructure, housing, and atmosphere. For example, Lazur is known for its prestige and expensive housing, while Meden Rudnik is a more budget-friendly and rapidly developing area.
Climate
Burgas offers a mild Mediterranean climate, making the city comfortable for year-round living.
- Summer: Hot, but with refreshing sea breezes. The average temperature in July is around +28°C.
- Winter: Mild, with rare snowfalls. The average temperature in January is around +5°C.
Thanks to its climate, Burgas is ideal for both vacationing and permanent residence. Fall and spring are particularly pleasant, mild, sunny, and without sharp temperature fluctuations.
Transport
Burgas has a convenient transportation system, making getting around the city and its surroundings comfortable and accessible.
Public Transport
The city operates an extensive network of buses and trolleybuses, with main routes connecting all areas of the city, including more distant neighborhoods.
- Ticket Price: A one-way ticket on a city bus or trolleybus costs 1.50 BGN (about 0.75 EUR).
- Monthly Pass: A monthly pass for all routes costs 60 BGN (about 30 EUR).
Burgas also boasts its modern “Yug” bus station, from which it’s easy to reach popular resorts such as Sozopol, Nessebar, and Sunny Beach.
Taxis
Taxis are popular in Burgas due to their affordable prices:
- Base Fare: 2 BGN (about 1 EUR).
- Per Kilometer: About 0.80 BGN (0.40 EUR).
- Average City Trip: Costs around 5-8 BGN (2.5-4 EUR).
Burgas Airport
Burgas International Airport is located just 10 km from the city center. It is one of Bulgaria’s largest airports, serving flights from many European countries.
- Getting from the Airport to the City: By bus (1 BGN), taxi, or transfer.
Railway Connections
Burgas is connected to other cities in Bulgaria by a railway network.
- Train to Sofia: Travel time is about 6-7 hours, with a ticket costing 30 BGN (about 15 EUR).
- Trains are also available to Varna, Plovdiv, and Stara Zagora.
Cycling Infrastructure
The city is actively developing cycling paths. For those interested in eco-friendly transport, a bike rental system is available:
- Rental Cost: 1 BGN per hour.
Parking
Paid parking zones operate in central Burgas:
- Monthly Parking Pass: 50 BGN. The cost is 1 BGN per hour.
Social Life and Community
Burgas is a city where life is vibrant not only during the tourist season but throughout the year. Social life is rich and diverse thanks to a wide range of events organized for both locals and visitors.
Each year, the city hosts festivals, concerts, and exhibitions that attract people of all ages. Some of the most popular events include the Spirit of Burgas music festival, which gathers thousands of fans from across Europe, and Sand Fest, where artists create incredible sand sculptures. The community in Burgas is friendly, although it may feel somewhat closed to newcomers. Bulgarians make up the majority of the population (95%), and integration can take time. At the same time, foreigners note that locals are always ready to offer assistance and give helpful advice.
The city also boasts a developed leisure infrastructure, including playgrounds, sports complexes, skate parks, cultural centers, and libraries, making it an ideal place for family life.
Education
Burgas offers a wide range of educational opportunities. The city is home to schools, kindergartens, gymnasiums, and universities that cater to both local and foreign students.
Among the universities, Burgas University “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov” stands out, offering programs in medicine, chemistry, and engineering. Burgas Free University is also popular, known for its programs in law, economics, and information technology.
An important advantage for parents is the presence of international schools and kindergartens offering education in English and other languages, which is convenient for foreign families. The average tuition fee in private institutions starts at 3,000 EUR per year.
The secondary education system includes both public and private schools. According to parents’ reviews, the level of education in Burgas is comparable to that of Sofia or Varna, and in some institutions, even surpasses them.
Healthcare
Burgas has a medical system combining both public and private clinics. Among the largest hospitals in the city is Burgas University Hospital, which is equipped with modern facilities and offers a wide range of medical services.
For those seeking a more personalized approach, private medical centers provide consultations with specialists. The cost of an initial consultation at a private clinic ranges from 20 to 50 EUR, depending on the doctor’s qualifications and the complexity of the consultation. The city also has an emergency medical service, which responds promptly, although the quality of public services in emergency situations can vary.
Pharmacies are available on nearly every corner, offering both prescription and over-the-counter medications, which is important for residents with chronic conditions.
Housing
The housing market in Burgas is actively developing: last year, 544 new buildings were completed, totaling 256,000 square meters of housing. The majority of new constructions are modern reinforced concrete buildings, sometimes brick, and panel houses are no longer being built. Burgas offers a wide selection of housing for all needs and budgets. Here, one can find both affordable rental options and prestigious real estate in elite areas.
Renting Housing
Rental prices in Burgas are significantly lower than in other major cities in Bulgaria, making the city especially attractive for relocation. Here are approximate prices for long-term rentals:
- One-bedroom apartment in the center: 145-150 EUR/month.
- One-bedroom apartment outside the center: From 130 EUR/month.
- Two-bedroom apartment in the center: Around 240-250 EUR/month.
- Three-bedroom apartment in the center: From 310 EUR/month.
- Outside the center, prices are lower: two-bedroom apartments cost 200 EUR, three-bedroom ones from 225 EUR and up.
These prices are excluding utilities. Landlords typically require a deposit equal to one month’s rent.
Buying Real Estate
Buying property in Burgas is an excellent investment. The average cost of an apartment starts from 35,000 EUR. In areas such as Lazur (the most prestigious district in the city), prices are significantly higher due to proximity to the sea and well-developed infrastructure.
New Developments
Burgas is actively being developed. Just last year, 544 new buildings with a total area of 256,000 square meters were put into operation. New homes are mainly built with reinforced concrete structures and bricks, and panel houses are no longer constructed, improving the quality of housing.
City Districts
Each district of Burgas has its own characteristics:
- The Center: Convenient access to infrastructure, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
- Lazur: A prestigious area with expensive housing, close to the sea and the Sea Garden.
- Meden Rudnik: More affordable, but farther from the center.
- Sarafovo: A resort area with new housing, popular among foreigners.
Economy (Salaries and Cost of Living)
Burgas’ economy is one of the city’s strong points due to its strategic location and developed industrial base. Burgas is a major industrial and transport center, with enterprises in oil and gas processing, mechanical engineering, and the light and food industries.
The average salary in Burgas is about 1,200–1,400 BGN (610–715 EUR) per month, which is lower than in Sofia (1,700 BGN) and slightly below Varna (1,500 BGN). However, lower rental prices and service costs offset the difference.
The unemployment rate in the city is around 5-6%, which is in line with the national average. Key employment sectors include:
- Logistics and transport.
- Tourism and hospitality.
- Information technology.
- Industrial production.
Burgas is also an attractive destination for freelancers and entrepreneurs due to relatively low taxes and access to modern technological solutions.
Crime and Safety
Burgas is considered one of the safest cities on Bulgaria’s coast. The crime rate is moderate, and statistics show that the most common incidents are minor thefts, typical for tourist cities.
The city’s police actively patrol the central areas, making them particularly safe for walking even late at night. Tourist zones, such as the Sea Park, are protected from unwanted incidents by increased police presence. For those planning to move, it’s important to note that the safety level can vary across different residential neighborhoods. More prestigious areas such as Lazur and Bratya Miladinovi are considered safe and well-maintained, while more remote areas may require extra vigilance.
City Infrastructure
Burgas is a modern and well-maintained city with developed infrastructure. Clean streets, well-equipped parks, and squares create a cozy atmosphere. The city administration is actively working on improving the roads and expanding pedestrian zones.
Public transport is well-organized, and the city’s promenade is a popular spot for walks, both for locals and tourists. It has recreational zones and sports grounds.
As for the internet, 5G is available, and optical internet is also accessible. However, major service providers don’t cover all areas, which might limit choice and competition.
Culture and Attractions
Burgas is a city where culture and arts play an important role in daily life.
Cultural Events
Burgas hosts numerous festivals every year:
- Spirit of Burgas: A music festival featuring global stars.
- Salt Festival: A unique event dedicated to local salt production.
- Sand Sculpture Festival: Impressive sand sculptures created by artists from all over the world.
- International Film Festival: A platform for Bulgarian and foreign filmmakers.
Museums and Galleries
- The Ethnographic Museum tells the story of local life and traditions.
- The Maritime Museum showcases a unique collection on the history of shipping.
- Petko Zadgorski Art Gallery displays works by Bulgarian artists.
Natural Attractions
- St. Anastasia Island: Bulgaria’s only inhabited island with a monastery and museum.
- Sea Garden: A green oasis with beautiful sea views.
- Atanasovsko Lake: A paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Theatres and Concerts
The city is home to the Adrian Budevski Drama Theater, attracting both local and international audiences. Concerts, performances, and ballet productions are held regularly, making Burgas a cultural hub in the region.
Pros and Cons of Living in Burgas
Like any city, Burgas has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons of living in this city.
Pros:
- Excellent location on the Black Sea coast, close to resorts and neighboring countries.
- Developed infrastructure – convenient roads, public transport, parks, and recreational areas.
- Affordable housing – relatively low rental and property prices.
- Vibrant cultural life – numerous festivals, museums, and events.
- Green spaces and parks contribute to its ecological appeal.
- Safety – lower crime rate compared to other Bulgarian cities.
- Modern technologies – access to 5G networks and optical internet.
- Pleasant climate – mild winters and sunny summers.
- Convenient port for both cargo and leisure trips.
- Friendly community – locals are welcoming and helpful.
Cons:
- Presence of the Lukoil oil refinery.
- Average income levels – salaries are lower than in Sofia and Varna.
- Seasonal economy – heavy dependence on tourism.
- Fewer professional growth opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Quality of seawater – Burgas Bay is not always clean.
- Limited coverage by major internet providers.
- Some areas require infrastructure improvements.
- Overcrowding in the tourist season – the city gets crowded in summer due to tourists.
Conclusion
Burgas is an ideal city for those looking for a comfortable place to live by the sea. It offers a combination of affordable prices, developed infrastructure, and natural beauty. However, like any city, it has its drawbacks, which should be taken into account when moving here.
For families with children, Burgas offers good educational institutions and safe residential areas. Young people will appreciate the cultural life and proximity to the sea, while retirees will find the city a peaceful and cozy place to live with its mild climate and affordable prices.
