Belarus is a country located in Eastern Europe and is home to a growing number of expats. The country offers a low cost of living compared to many Western countries and is known for its friendly people and natural beauty. However, it is important to note that there are certain challenges that expats may face when moving to Belarus, such as the language barrier and a complex bureaucracy.
In terms of the cost of living, Belarus is generally cheaper than many Western European countries. The cost of housing, food, and other necessities is relatively low, but healthcare and education can be expensive for foreigners. The currency in Belarus is the Belarusian Ruble, which is stable but subject to fluctuations in the global market.
The country also offers a relatively high standard of living, with good infrastructure and a variety of cultural and entertainment options available. Expats in Belarus may also enjoy the country’s natural beauty, including forests, lakes, and national parks.
Overall, Belarus may be a good choice for expats looking for an affordable, high-quality lifestyle in Eastern Europe, but it is important to do thorough research and consider the potential challenges before making the move.
The general cost of living in Belarus
Belarus has a relatively low cost of living compared to many other European countries. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the city and lifestyle. The capital city of Minsk is generally more expensive than other parts of the country.
Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses in Belarus. The cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from 250 to 600 USD per month, while outside of the city center, the cost drops to around 200 to 400 USD per month.
Food and groceries are relatively cheap in Belarus. Basic groceries for a week for one person can cost around 20-30 USD. Eating out in restaurants can also be affordable, with a meal for one person in a mid-range restaurant costing around 10-20 USD.
Transportation costs in Belarus are also low. A one-way ticket on public transport is around 0.25-0.30 USD, and a monthly pass costs around 15 USD. Taxis are also affordable, with a ride within the city costing around 2-3 USD.
Overall, the cost of living in Belarus can be considered affordable, especially for those coming from Western Europe or the United States.
Wages and salary in Belarus
The average salary in Belarus is about 420 dollars per month. However, the salary level may vary depending on the field of activity and the region of the country. For example, wages may be higher in Minsk and other large cities than in smaller settlements. In addition, specialized professionals such as doctors, architects, and computer programmers may have higher salaries compared to other occupations.
Housing costs in Belarus
The housing costs in Belarus can vary depending on the city and the type of accommodation. Minsk, the capital city, is generally the most expensive in terms of housing. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost between 400 and 700 BYN per month (approximately 155 to 270 USD), while a similar apartment outside the city center can range from 300 to 550 BYN (approximately 116 to 213 USD) per month. Larger apartments will cost more, and luxurious apartments in the city center can reach up to 1,500 BYN (approximately 582 USD) or more per month. Outside of Minsk, housing costs are generally lower, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from 200 to 500 BYN (approximately 77 to 193 USD) per month.
Rental costs in Belarus
The rental costs in Belarus vary depending on the location, size, and condition of the property. In general, rental prices are lower compared to many other European countries.
In the capital city of Minsk, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 400-600 BYN (Belarusian rubles), while a similar apartment outside the city center may cost around 300-400 BYN per month. A larger apartment with two or three bedrooms in the city center may cost around 800-1,200 BYN per month, while outside the city center, the cost may be around 500-900 BYN per month.
It’s worth noting that some landlords may require a deposit of several months’ rent upfront, and utility bills such as electricity, gas, and water are usually not included in the rent and should be paid separately.
Property prices in Belarus
Property prices in Belarus vary depending on the location, type of property, and other factors. In general, the cost of real estate in Minsk, the capital city, is higher than in other parts of the country. According to Numbeo, the average price per square meter for an apartment in the city center is around 2,170 BYN (Belarusian rubles), while outside the city center, it is around 1,720 BYN. In smaller cities and towns, the prices are generally lower, with the average price per square meter around 1,500 BYN.
It is worth noting that property ownership laws in Belarus can be complicated for foreigners, and it is recommended to seek legal advice before buying any property.
Cost of domestic bills in Belarus
The cost of domestic bills in Belarus can vary depending on the size of the apartment, the number of people living there, and the usage of the utilities. On average, the monthly cost of utilities (electricity, gas, water, and heating) for a two-bedroom apartment in Minsk is around 150-200 BYN (Belarusian rubles), which is approximately 60-80 USD. However, this can be higher in winter months when heating is required. Additionally, internet and mobile phone plans are relatively inexpensive, with packages ranging from 5-20 BYN (2-8 USD) per month depending on the provider and data allowance.
Utility bills in Belarus
The cost of utilities in Belarus can vary depending on the size of the apartment or house, location, and usage. On average, the monthly utility bill for a 2-3 room apartment in Minsk is around 100-150 BYN (40-60 USD) per month. This includes the cost of electricity, gas, heating, water, and garbage disposal. However, this cost can be higher in winter months when heating bills increase. In addition, some apartment complexes and houses may require additional fees for maintenance and repairs. It’s important to note that utility costs can also vary greatly depending on the region of Belarus that you live in.
Telecommunications in Belarus
Telecommunications services in Belarus are generally affordable. The country has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure, and there are several companies that offer mobile phone, internet, and other related services.
Mobile phone services in Belarus are provided by several operators, including MTS, Velcom, and Life. The cost of calls and data usage varies depending on the plan and the operator, but overall, the prices are relatively low compared to many other countries. Prepaid plans are also available and can be a good option for those who want to control their expenses.
Internet access is widely available in Belarus, and there are several providers offering various plans with different speeds and data limits. The prices are generally affordable, and the quality of the service is good.
As for TV and radio, there are several public and private channels available in Belarus, and the service is generally free. Cable and satellite TV are also available, with prices starting from around 10-15 USD per month.
Overall, the cost of telecommunications services in Belarus is relatively low, and expats should be able to find affordable plans that suit their needs.
Healthcare costs in Belarus
In Belarus, healthcare is free of charge for citizens, and this includes medical consultations, hospital stays, and most treatments and medications. However, there are some limitations to the healthcare system, such as long waiting times, shortages of certain medications, and a lack of modern equipment and facilities in some areas.
Private healthcare is also available in Belarus, and costs can vary depending on the level of care and the specific services required. Private health insurance is also an option for those who wish to have access to additional services or more modern facilities. The cost of private healthcare and health insurance in Belarus can be relatively affordable compared to other countries.
Childcare costs in Belarus
The cost of childcare in Belarus can vary depending on the type of care and location. In general, childcare in a public kindergarten is affordable, with fees ranging from around $10 to $50 per month depending on family income. Private kindergartens can cost more, ranging from $100 to $200 per month.
Nannies and babysitters are also available and their rates can range from $5 to $10 per hour. It’s worth noting that there are government subsidies available to help families with the cost of childcare, especially for families with low incomes.
Study costs in Belarus
In Belarus, higher education is free for citizens of the country, but international students have to pay tuition fees. The cost of tuition varies depending on the university and the program of study. However, the fees are generally lower than in many other countries, and international students can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000 per year for their studies.
There are also additional expenses associated with studying, such as books and materials, accommodation, and living costs. These will vary depending on the location of the university and the individual lifestyle of the student. It’s important to do thorough research before choosing a university and program in Belarus to make sure that the overall cost of studying is affordable.
The cost of food and drink in Belarus
The cost of food and drink in Belarus can vary depending on where you are, with prices generally higher in major cities such as Minsk. Here are some examples of food and drink costs in Belarus:
- A loaf of bread: 0.50-0.70 BYN ($0.20-$0.27 USD)
- 1 liter of milk: 1 BYN ($0.39 USD)
- 1 kilogram of potatoes: 1-1.50 BYN ($0.39-$0.59 USD)
- 1 kilogram of chicken: 4-6 BYN ($1.57-$2.36 USD)
- 1 kilogram of beef: 8-10 BYN ($3.15-$3.94 USD)
- 1 bottle of domestic beer: 1-1.50 BYN ($0.39-$0.59 USD)
- 1 bottle of imported beer: 2-3 BYN ($0.79-$1.18 USD)
- 1 bottle of mid-range wine: 10-20 BYN ($3.94-$7.87 USD)
- 1 liter of bottled water: 0.50-1 BYN ($0.20-$0.39 USD)
- 1 cup of coffee: 2-3 BYN ($0.79-$1.18 USD)
- 1 meal at an inexpensive restaurant: 10 BYN ($3.94 USD)
- 1 meal at a mid-range restaurant: 20-30 BYN ($7.87-$11.81 USD)
Groceries
The cost of groceries in Belarus is generally affordable compared to many other countries. The prices may vary depending on the location and the type of store, but generally, prices are lower in smaller towns and higher in larger cities.
Some common grocery items and their average prices in Belarus in USD are:
- Bread (loaf): $0.30-$0.50
- Milk (1 liter): $0.60-$0.80
- Eggs (12): $1.50-$2.00
- Chicken (1kg): $2.50-$3.50
- Potatoes (1kg): $0.30-$0.50
- Tomatoes (1kg): $0.80-$1.20
- Cheese (1kg): $5.00-$7.00
- Rice (1kg): $1.50-$2.00
- Pasta (500g): $0.50-$1.00
Overall, the cost of groceries in Belarus is considered to be relatively low.
Restaurants in Belarus
Belarus has a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, with varying prices depending on the location and type of establishment. In general, the cost of dining out in Belarus is considered to be relatively inexpensive, especially compared to Western Europe.
In a mid-range restaurant, a three-course meal for two people can cost around 40-60 BYN (approximately 16-24 USD). A fast food meal at a popular chain restaurant can cost around 6-10 BYN (approximately 2.5-4 USD), while a local cafe can offer a cheaper option with prices ranging from 3-5 BYN (approximately 1.2-2 USD) for a meal.
In addition, many bars and pubs offer affordable drink prices, with local beers and spirits generally costing less than imported brands.
Beer, wine, and spirits in Belarus
Alcoholic beverages are widely available in Belarus, with a range of options for beer, wine, and spirits. Prices can vary depending on the brand, location, and type of establishment. Generally, beer is the cheapest option, with a bottle of local beer costing around 1-2 BYN (Belarusian rubles), while imported beers can be more expensive. Wine is also available, with a bottle of local wine costing around 5-10 BYN, and imported wines being more expensive. Spirits such as vodka are also popular in Belarus, with prices ranging from 10-20 BYN for a bottle. It’s worth noting that alcohol prices have increased in recent years due to government regulations aimed at reducing alcohol consumption.
Coffee in Belarus
Coffee is a popular beverage in Belarus, and it can be found in many cafes and restaurants. The cost of a cup of coffee varies depending on the location and the quality of the coffee. In general, a cup of coffee can cost anywhere from 1 to 4 Belarusian rubles (0.4 to 1.6 USD), depending on whether you order it in a small café or a more upscale establishment. Belarus also produces its own coffee brands, which can be found in supermarkets and shops. The cost of a 250-gram bag of ground coffee is around 7 to 10 Belarusian rubles (2.8 to 4 USD), while a 1-kilogram bag can cost between 20 to 30 Belarusian rubles (8 to 12 USD).
Transport costs in Belarus
Belarus has a relatively inexpensive public transport system. The cost of public transport varies depending on the mode of transport and the city you are in. Here are some general estimates:
- One-way ticket on local transport: 0.5-1 BYN ($0.20-$0.40)
- Monthly pass for local transport: 25-30 BYN ($10-$12)
- Taxi start tariff: 2-3 BYN ($0.80-$1.20)
- Taxi fare per km: 0.6-1 BYN ($0.24-$0.40)
For long-distance travel, the cost will depend on the mode of transport and the distance you are travelling. Buses are usually the cheapest option for intercity travel, while trains are more expensive but more comfortable. Flight tickets can be expensive, especially if you are travelling during peak season.
Public transport in Belarus
Public transport in Belarus consists of buses, trolleybuses, trams, and the metro system. The fares for these modes of transport are relatively cheap, with a single ticket costing between 0.25 to 0.35 BYN (Belarusian rubles) depending on the city. There are also various monthly passes and tickets that offer discounts for frequent users. The metro system is only available in the capital city of Minsk and has a separate fare system, with a single trip costing 0.65 BYN. The public transport system is generally reliable and well-maintained, although some older buses and trams may be less comfortable than newer models.
Private transport in Belarus
Private transport options in Belarus include owning a car or using taxi services. Owning a car can be relatively expensive due to high taxes and import duties. However, there are also many affordable used cars available for purchase in the country. Gasoline prices in Belarus are moderate compared to other European countries.
Taxis are widely available in Belarus, and the fares are generally affordable. There are both traditional taxi services and ride-sharing apps available, such as Uber and Yandex.Taxi. Additionally, there are car rental services available in major cities, although prices may vary depending on the provider and type of vehicle rented.
Leisure activities in Belarus
Belarus has a variety of leisure activities available for residents and visitors. Some popular options include:
- Visiting national parks and nature reserves: Belarus has several national parks, including Belovezhskaya Pushcha, the oldest national park in Europe. These parks offer hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
- Cultural events: Belarus has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums, theaters, and other cultural institutions. Minsk, the capital city, hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and exhibitions.
- Sports: Belarusians are passionate about sports, and the country has a strong tradition in several sports, including ice hockey and football. There are many sports facilities throughout the country, including indoor and outdoor stadiums, ice rinks, and swimming pools.
- Nightlife: Minsk has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night. Other cities and towns also have their own nightlife scenes, with a variety of venues catering to different tastes and preferences.
- Shopping: Belarus has many shopping centers and markets where visitors can purchase a variety of goods, including locally made crafts, souvenirs, and fashion items.
The cost of leisure activities in Belarus can vary depending on the activity and location, but generally, they are affordable compared to many other European countries.
Clothing in Belarus
The cost of clothing in Belarus varies depending on the quality and brand of the clothing item. Overall, clothing prices in Belarus are relatively affordable, especially compared to Western Europe or North America. In general, the prices for clothing in Belarus are similar to those in other Eastern European countries.
In larger cities like Minsk, there are shopping malls and department stores where you can find a range of clothing options, from high-end designer brands to more affordable fast-fashion chains. There are also markets and bazaars where you can find cheaper clothing options.
The cost of clothing in Belarus can also depend on the season, with winter clothing typically being more expensive than summer clothing. Additionally, Belarus has a thriving second-hand clothing market, which can be a great option for those looking for more affordable clothing items.
Sports in Belarus
Sports are an important part of Belarusian culture and there are many opportunities for sports and physical activities in the country. Football, ice hockey, basketball, volleyball, and handball are some of the most popular team sports in Belarus. The country has produced many successful athletes in various sports, including tennis player Victoria Azarenka and biathlete Darya Domracheva.
There are many sports clubs and gyms throughout Belarus, and membership fees vary depending on the location and facilities offered. Public sports facilities, such as outdoor soccer fields and basketball courts, are usually free to use.
Belarus also has many parks and natural areas where people can go hiking, biking, and engage in other outdoor activities. Skiing and snowboarding are popular winter sports in Belarus, and there are several ski resorts throughout the country.
In terms of equipment and clothing, prices for sports gear are generally comparable to other European countries, and there are both local and international brands available in stores.
Taxation and social security in Belarus
In Belarus, the tax system consists of several types of taxes, including personal income tax, corporate income tax, value-added tax (VAT), property tax, and social security contributions.
The personal income tax rate is a flat rate of 13%. Corporate income tax is also a flat rate of 18%. The VAT rate is 20%.
Social security contributions are payable by both employees and employers. The employee contribution rate is 1% of their gross salary, while the employer contribution rate is 28.3% of the employee’s gross salary. The social security contributions fund the state pension system, as well as other social benefits.
In addition to these taxes and contributions, there are also local taxes that vary depending on the region and municipality.
Assistance with living costs in Belarus
There are various forms of assistance available to help with living costs in Belarus:
- Social security: Belarus has a social security system that provides various benefits to those who are eligible, such as pensions, disability benefits, and maternity allowances.
- Subsidies: The government of Belarus provides subsidies for housing, public transport, and certain food items, such as bread and milk.
- Family allowances: Families with children can receive monthly family allowances, as well as one-time allowances for childbirth and adoption.
- Free medical care: In Belarus, medical care is free for all citizens, including expats who have obtained temporary or permanent residency.
- Reduced utilities: Some categories of citizens, such as those on low incomes, receive reduced rates for utilities, such as gas and electricity.
It is important to note that the availability and eligibility criteria for these forms of assistance may vary depending on your individual circumstances. It is recommended to consult with the relevant authorities to determine which benefits you may be eligible for.