Poland, a country with a rich cultural heritage and a rapidly growing economy, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expatriates, retirees, and students. The low cost of living in Poland is one of its main attractions compared to other European nations, making it an appealing choice for those looking to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
Eurostat Analysis of Costs of Living in Poland
Based on an analysis by Eurostat (‘European Statistical Office’) performed in 2022, Poland is the third country with the lowest cost of living in the European Union (link to source). This ranking is the result of a comparison of relative cost of living, which reflects the overall expense required to maintain a certain standard of living, considering various essential goods and services.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the cost of living in Poland, covering various aspects such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, education, and entertainment. Additionally, we will explore the quality of life in Poland, including safety, healthcare services, cultural opportunities, and the overall well-being of its residents. Whether you are considering moving to Poland for work, study, or retirement, this guide will offer valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about living in this vibrant and diverse country.
Housing Costs in Poland
Housing Costs – rental prices
The costs of housing in Poland vary significantly depending on the city and district. In major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław, rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from 2,500 to 4,000 PLN per month (£490-785). In contrast, in smaller cities or suburban areas, the prices drop to around 1,500 to 2,500 PLN (£295-490). Rental prices contribute to the overall cost of living in Poland at a lower level than in the UK or USA.
Housing Costs – The price of an apartment for sale in Poland
For those considering buying property, the average price per square meter also varies, with city center locations in Warsaw reaching up to 20,000 PLN (£365 per feet square), while in smaller towns, it can be as low as 4,000 PLN per square meter (£73 per feet square).
Housing Costs – utilities
Additionally, the cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection typically adds an extra 500 to 800 PLN per month (£100-170). It’s important to consider that these costs can fluctuate based on the apartment’s size, condition, and location within the city.
Cost of Living in Poland: Food and Groceries
Food and groceries are a significant part of daily expenses that can greatly influence the cost of living in Poland.
Prices for basic grocery items in supermarkets are relatively low compared to many Western countries. The positive impact of grocery costs on the overall comparison of costs of living in Poland and other countries is much lower than that of housing costs. For example, a loaf of bread (1kg) costs around 4-5 PLN (£0,98), a liter of milk is about 4 PLN (£0,78), and a kilogram of apples is approximately 2-5 PLN (£0,4-0,98). For those who prefer fresh produce, local markets and bazaars offer a wide selection of vegetables, fruits, meat, and fish at competitive prices.
Dining out can also be affordable – a meal in an inexpensive restaurant costs around 20-30 PLN (£3,9-5,9), while a three-course meal for one in a mid-range restaurant is about 60-100 PLN ((£11,8-19,7)). Whether you prefer cooking at home or dining out, you can find options to fit any budget, making Poland an attractive place to live in terms of food-related expenses.
Food and Groceries – box diet
In Poland, meal delivery services, commonly known as “dieta pudełkowa” or “box diet,” have become increasingly popular. These services offer a convenient way to enjoy balanced, nutritious meals without the hassle of cooking. What’s more, they are available at competitive prices, making them accessible to a wide range of people.
Typically, a full day of meals, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, costs between 40-70 PLN (£7,85-13,8) per day, depending on the specific plan and provider. This pricing makes meal delivery services an affordable luxury for busy professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without spending excessive time and money on meal preparation. With a variety of plans catering to different dietary needs and preferences, from vegetarian to keto, the meal delivery trend in Poland offers both convenience and value.
Food and Groceries – Monthly Budget in Poland(2024 – single person)
- Budget Option: 500 PLN/month (£98)
- Mid-Range Option: 850 PLN/month (£167)
- Premium Option: 1350 PLN/month (£265)
- Box Diet: 1200 – 2100 PLN/month (£235 – 412)
Cost of Living in Poland: Transportation Costs
Transportation costs in Poland are generally affordable, making it convenient for both locals and expatriates to navigate cities.
Public transportation, including buses, trams, and trains, is widely used and well-connected. A monthly pass for public transport in major cities like Warsaw or Kraków typically costs between 100 to 150 PLN (Warsaw – Center, 110 PLN for 30 days) (£20-30), students pay half of this price . Single tickets range from 3 to 5 PLN, depending on the city and the type of transport.
For those who prefer driving, fuel prices average around 6-7 PLN per liter (£1,2-1,4). Additionally, owning a car entails costs such as insurance, which can range from 1,000 to 2,500 PLN (£20-46) annually, and maintenance expenses. Parking fees also vary, with city center spots costing more. Alternatives like taxis and ride-sharing services are available, with an average fare of 2-3 PLN (£0,4-0,6) per kilometer. Overall, Poland offers a range of transportation options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Cost of Living in Poland: Healthcare Costs in Poland
Healthcare costs in Poland are relatively moderate, thanks to a well-established public healthcare system. Residents contributing to the national health insurance fund (NFZ) can access public healthcare services at little to no cost, covering most medical needs, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and certain treatments.
However, many opt for private healthcare for shorter waiting times and more specialized care. Private health insurance plans vary in cost, typically ranging from 100 to 500 PLN per month (£20-100), depending on the coverage level. Without insurance, a visit to a private general practitioner can cost around 150 to 300 PLN ((£30-60)), while specialist consultations range from 200 to 500 PLN ((£40-100)).
Dental care, often not fully covered by public insurance, can be particularly expensive. Medication costs are generally affordable, with many common prescriptions priced between 20 to 100 PLN. Overall, while public healthcare provides a safety net, private options offer enhanced convenience and access.
Examples of prices for visits to specialists in Cracow in 2024:
| Specialist | Cost per medical appointment |
| general practitioner, family doctor | £35-60 (The most common price is £40) |
| cardiologist | £50-80 (The most common price is £60) |
| stomatologist (treatment of dental caries) | starting from £50 up to thousands |
| nurse | £50 for a day |
| geriatrician | £30-60 |
| paediatrician | £30-60 (The most common price is £40) |
Entertainment and Leisure Costs
Gyms and fitness clubs offer memberships ranging from 100 to 200 PLN per month (£20-40), with many offering discounts for longer-term commitments
. Outdoor activities like visiting parks, hiking, and exploring nature reserves are often free or require a minimal fee.
Dining out is relatively affordable, with a meal at an average restaurant costing between 30 to 70 PLN (£6-14) per person, and fast food options available for around 15 to 25 PLN. For nightlife enthusiasts, the cost of a drink at a bar or club usually ranges from 10 to 25 PLN (£2-5). Overall, Poland offers a rich variety of entertainment and leisure activities that can fit any budget.
Summary, cost of living in Poland.
In summary, the cost of living in Poland offers a mix of affordable and more expensive aspects compared to the UK. Housing costs in Poland are generally lower, with both rental and property purchase prices being significantly cheaper than in the UK, particularly outside major cities like Warsaw and Kraków. Public transportation is also more affordable, with lower costs for monthly passes and fuel. Additionally, food and dining out are relatively inexpensive, making everyday living costs more manageable.
Healthcare in Poland, especially within the public system, is cost-effective, though private healthcare can add to expenses if preferred. On the other hand, entertainment and leisure activities offer great value, with lower prices for cinema tickets, theater performances, and dining out compared to the UK.
However, certain aspects like private healthcare and specific high-demand real estate areas can be more costly. Utility costs are comparable to those in the UK, and some imported goods and luxury items may be priced similarly or even higher due to import taxes.
Overall, Poland is a budget-friendly option for many aspects of daily life, especially in housing, transportation, and food, while certain luxury and specialized services may come at a higher price. Poland is a great place to retire early or study.
If you are planning to move to Poland and are looking for a real estate agent in Poland who represents buyers, check out how I can help you.
Check also:
Cost of living in Poland and the USA.