Comparison of life in Bulgaria and Poland: prices, housing, transport and climate – where is it more profitable and comfortable?

Location and climate

Bulgaria and Poland are two Eastern European countries, each with its own advantages. Bulgaria is located in the southeast of Europe and borders the Black Sea, offering a mild climate with hot summers and moderate winters. Poland is located in the central part of Europe and is famous for its varied climate: from cold winters to warm summers.

In Bulgaria, it is especially comfortable to live in Varna or Burgas, where the sea is nearby and the urban infrastructure is well developed. In Poland, such cities are Krakow and Wroclaw, which offer not only cultural wealth, but also a convenient location relative to Europe.

Photos of Bulgaria and Poland

Transport

Public transport

In Varna, Bulgaria, a single ticket for public transport costs 1 leva (€0.51), and a day ticket costs 4 leva (€2.04). In Krakow, Poland, a single ticket costs 4 zloty (€0.85), a day ticket costs 10 zloty (€2.13), and a monthly pass starts at 94 zloty (€20).

Taxi

In Varna, taxi fares are 2.20 leva (€1.12) for boarding, 1.30 leva (€0.66) per kilometer, and 0.35 leva (€0.18) per minute of waiting. In Krakow, the landing will cost 9 zlotys (€1.91), and a kilometer of travel – from 3.50 zlotys (€0.74).

Personal transport

The cost of gasoline A-95 in Bulgaria is 2.57 leva (€1.31) per liter, diesel – 2.55 leva (€1.30). In Poland, gasoline A-95 costs 6.43 zlotys (€1.37) per liter, diesel – 6.42 zlotys (€1.36). In Bulgaria, you also need to pay a vignette for using the roads: an annual one costs 91 leva (€46.48).

Rent and purchase prices for housing

Renting housing

• In Varna, renting a studio apartment of 25 m² will cost 200 euros (about 392 leva).
• In Krakow, a 20 m² studio costs 1,600 zlotys (€340).
• A two-room apartment in Varna (44 m²) costs 250 euros (about 490 leva) per month. In Krakow, renting 31 m² will cost 2,000 zlotys (€425).
• A three-room apartment (70 m²) in Varna will cost 350 euros (about 685 leva), and in Krakow (53 m²) – 2,500 zlotys (€531).

Buying a home

• In Varna, a two-room apartment costs from 70,000 euros (about 137,200 leva).
• In Krakow, a similar apartment will cost from 470,000 zlotys (€100,000).

Prices for food and household goods

Grocery

• Fresh pork: Bulgaria — 12.99 leva (€6.63), with a discount — 8.99 leva (€4.59); Poland — 20.99 zlotys (€4.47).
• Chicken: Bulgaria — 7.99 leva (€4.08), with a discount — 6.99 leva (€3.57); Poland — 19.99 zlotys (€4.25).
• Bread (550 g): Bulgaria — 1.35 leva (€0.69); Poland — 2.78 zlotys (€0.59).

Household goods

• Colgate Total toothpaste: Bulgaria — 5.99 leva (€3.06); Poland — 9.99 PLN (€2.13).
• Head & Shoulders shampoo: Bulgaria — 8.95 leva (€4.57); Poland — 15.99 PLN (€3.40).
• Ariel washing powder (70 washes): Bulgaria — 34.99 leva (€17.86), discounted — 31.79 leva (€16.24); Poland — 84.99 PLN (€18.10).

Economy and salaries

The economic opportunities in Bulgaria and Poland differ significantly. The average salary in Bulgaria is about 1,500 leva (€765) per month, while in Poland this figure is higher – about 5,000 zloty (€1,064).

However, one should also take into account the price level: rent and transport are noticeably cheaper in Bulgaria. In Poland, salaries are higher, but the costs of everyday life are also higher.

Bulgaria attracts foreigners with low tax rates, for example, the income tax is only 10% (+5% on dividends), which makes it attractive for small businesses and freelancers. Poland, in turn, offers a more developed labor market and the opportunity to get a job in large international companies.

Medicine

Healthcare is one of the key factors affecting the quality of life. Bulgaria and Poland provide different conditions for residents and expats.

Bulgaria’s medical system

Bulgaria has a compulsory health insurance system. Basic health care is covered by insurance premiums, which amount to 8% of income. However, it is important to know that free healthcare here only includes basic services, so many residents prefer private clinics.

The average cost of a consultation in a private clinic is about 40-70 leva (€20-36). Pharmacies are widely available, and prices for medicines are lower than in most European countries. For example, a pack of paracetamol costs about 2 leva (€1.02).

The Polish Healthcare System

In Poland, the health care system is also based on insurance. Employers pay insurance premiums for their employees, which gives access to free health care. However, queues at public clinics can be significant, so private clinics remain a popular choice.

The cost of a consultation with a private doctor starts from 150 zloty (€32). Poland is famous for the high quality of dental services: a filling will cost on average 200-400 zloty (€43-85).

Education

Comparing the education systems of Bulgaria and Poland is important for families with children and students.

Education in Bulgaria

Free school education is available in Bulgaria, including kindergartens and primary schools. The language of instruction is mostly Bulgarian, but there are international schools in larger cities such as Varna and Sofia.

Tuition at international schools starts at 8,000 BGN (€4,080) per year. Higher education is also available, with public universities costing around 400–900 BGN (€204–460) per year for EU citizens.

Education in Poland

Education is also free for citizens and residents in Poland. The country has highly regarded universities, such as the Jagiellonian University in Krakow. Tuition at private universities starts at 10,000 PLN (€2,130) per year.

Schools with English or German as the language of instruction are common, especially in larger cities. The average cost of studying in such schools is 30,000–50,000 zlotys (€6,390–€10,650) per year.

Cultural life and entertainment

The cultural life in Bulgaria and Poland is rich in events and opportunities for recreation.

Culture and recreation in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is famous for its natural attractions: mountains, Black Sea beaches, ancient monasteries. Large cities such as Varna often host concerts, festivals and theatre performances. The average price of a cinema ticket is 10-15 leva (€5-7.65), while a visit to the theatre will cost 20-50 leva (€10-25.50).

Winter resorts such as Bansko offer a high-quality holiday. Ski passes start from 70 leva (€35.70) per day.

Culture and recreation in Poland

Poland attracts with its rich history and architecture. Krakow with its old town and Wroclaw with its network of bridges create a unique atmosphere. Cinema tickets start at 25 PLN (€5.32) and theatre tickets start at 50 PLN (€10.64).

Active holidaymakers can enjoy the Polish Tatra Mountains, where ski passes start at 130 PLN (€27.65) per day. Poland is also known for its gastronomic diversity: a mid-range meal at a restaurant will set you back 40 PLN (€8.51).

Cost of Living

Understanding the cost of living can help you decide between Bulgaria and Poland.

Monthly Expenses in Bulgaria

The average family of 2-3 people in Varna or Sofia spends around 1,200–1,500 BGN (€613–€766) excluding rent. This includes groceries, transport, utilities and entertainment.

Utilities for a 70 m² apartment are around 150-200 PLN (€76-€102) per month. High-speed Internet is 20 PLN (€10.20) per month.

Monthly expenses in Poland

Expenses are higher in Poland. The average family in Krakow or Warsaw spends 3,500-4,500 PLN (€745-€958) excluding rent.

Utilities for a similar apartment are around 800-1,000 PLN (€170-€213). Internet will cost around 70 PLN (€15).

Ecology and climate

Climate and environmental conditions play an important role when choosing a place to live.

Ecology in Bulgaria

Bulgaria offers a variety of natural areas: from the sea coast to the mountains. However, in large cities such as Sofia, air pollution levels can be high in winter due to coal heating. Varna and Burgas, located on the coast, have a more favorable environmental background.

Ecology in Poland

Poland is actively fighting the problem of air pollution, especially in winter. High levels of smog are often recorded in Krakow. However, the country pays great attention to green areas, forests and lakes, which create favorable conditions for outdoor recreation.

Technological infrastructure

Modern infrastructure is an important aspect of comfortable living in both countries.

Technology in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is actively developing the IT sector and offers excellent conditions for remote work. The Internet here is one of the fastest in Europe. The average connection speed is about 100 Mbps, and the cost of a service package is 20-30 leva (€10-€15.30) per month.

Technology in Poland

Poland is also focusing on digitalization. Internet connection is available everywhere, including small villages. Average speed is about 80 Mbps, costing 50-70 PLN (€11-€15) per month. Warsaw and Krakow are actively implementing smart city technologies.

Social life and community

Bulgaria

Bulgaria attracts with its warm climate and friendly atmosphere. Locals are open to communication, and the stress level in the cities is lower than in more industrialized countries.

Poland

Poland is famous for its history and traditions. People value family values, and cultural events create an opportunity to meet new people.

Bottom Line: Which to Choose – Bulgaria or Poland?

Choosing between Bulgaria and Poland depends on your priorities and lifestyle. Both countries offer unique advantages and are of interest to those looking to relocate or expand their horizons.

Why choose Bulgaria?

1. Low cost of living: housing and transport are significantly cheaper than in Poland.
2. Mild climate: warm winters and hot summers by the Black Sea.
3. Affordable housing: both rent and purchase are cheaper.
4. Convenient location for recreation: close to beaches and mountain resorts.

Why choose Poland?

1. High salaries: the average salary is higher than in Bulgaria.
2. Developed infrastructure: convenient transportation, modern schools and hospitals.
3. Great career opportunities: especially in large cities such as Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw.
4. Access to European markets: Poland is located in central Europe, which makes it convenient for business.
5. Developed society: high standard of living and developed social system.

Practical advice

• For the budget-conscious: If you have a limited budget, Bulgaria is a great option for a comfortable life at a low cost.
• For professionals: Poland is suitable for those who are looking for career opportunities and want to work in a dynamic economy.
• For families with children: In Poland, you will find greater opportunities for quality education and healthcare.
• For nature lovers: Both countries are good, but in Bulgaria, the warm sea and mountains create more opportunities for active recreation.

Your next step

If you are still unsure which country is best for you, try spending your vacation in each of them to get a feel for the atmosphere. Pay attention to the locals, the quality of service and the general infrastructure. Ultimately, what matters most is what is right for you and your family.