Bulgaria is a country located in Southeast Europe that offers a relatively low cost of living compared to many other European countries. It is a popular destination for expats looking for an affordable place to live and work, as well as for retirees looking for a warm climate and a low cost of living. Here are some details about the cost of living, wages and salary, housing costs, and other expenses in Bulgaria.
The general cost of living in Bulgaria is relatively low compared to other European countries. The cost of groceries, eating out, and transportation are all lower than the European average, making it an affordable country to live in. However, the cost of utilities and healthcare can be higher than in some other countries.
The general cost of living in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is considered to be one of the most affordable countries to live in Europe, with a lower cost of living than many other European countries. The general cost of living in Bulgaria can vary depending on the location, lifestyle, and spending habits of an individual or family.
Wages and salary in Bulgaria
The average monthly salary in Bulgaria as of 2021 is around 1,306 BGN (approximately 670 EUR). However, salaries can vary greatly depending on the industry and profession. The highest salaries tend to be in the IT and finance sectors, while salaries in fields such as hospitality and retail tend to be lower. Keep in mind that the cost of living in Bulgaria is relatively low compared to other European countries, so a lower salary can still go a long way.
Housing costs in Bulgaria
Housing costs in Bulgaria vary depending on the location, type of accommodation, and condition of the property. Generally, the cost of housing is relatively low compared to many other European countries.
Rental costs in Bulgaria
The rental costs in Bulgaria vary depending on the location, size, and quality of the property. In general, rental prices are lower in smaller cities and rural areas, and higher in larger cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna.
As of 2023, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sofia ranges from 400 to 700 BGN (200-350 EUR), while a two-bedroom apartment can cost between 600 and 1,200 BGN (300-600 EUR) per month. In smaller cities, a one-bedroom apartment can be rented for around 250-400 BGN (125-200 EUR) per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost around 400-600 BGN (200-300 EUR) per month.
It is worth noting that some landlords may require a deposit equivalent to one or two months’ rent, and may also charge additional fees for utilities and maintenance.
Property prices in Bulgaria
The cost of property in Bulgaria varies greatly depending on the location, type of property, and condition. In general, prices are lower than in many other European countries, making Bulgaria an attractive option for those looking for affordable real estate.
According to data from the National Statistical Institute of Bulgaria, the average price of a dwelling in Bulgaria in the fourth quarter of 2021 was 1,091 BGN per square meter (approximately 557 EUR/sq.m). However, prices can be much higher in popular tourist areas or in the larger cities such as Sofia, Varna, or Plovdiv.
It is worth noting that there are restrictions on purchasing property in Bulgaria for non-EU citizens, which may affect some expats. However, there are ways around these restrictions, such as setting up a Bulgarian company to own the property.
Cost of domestic bills in Bulgaria
The cost of domestic bills in Bulgaria can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and type of the property, location, and usage.
Utility bills in Bulgaria
The cost of utility bills in Bulgaria can vary depending on the size and location of your home, as well as your usage of electricity, gas, and water.
Electricity bills in Bulgaria are typically calculated based on a tiered pricing system, with the price per kilowatt-hour increasing as you use more electricity. The average cost of electricity in Bulgaria is around 0.16 BGN (0.10 USD) per kWh.
Natural gas is commonly used for heating and cooking in Bulgaria, and the cost of gas bills can vary depending on usage and location. The price of natural gas in Bulgaria is around 0.50 BGN (0.31 USD) per cubic meter.
Water bills in Bulgaria are usually calculated based on the amount of water you use, and the price can vary depending on your location. On average, the cost of water in Bulgaria is around 2.00 BGN (1.24 USD) per cubic meter.
It’s important to note that many utility bills in Bulgaria are subject to VAT (Value Added Tax), which is currently set at a rate of 20%. Additionally, some municipalities may charge additional fees for waste management or other services.
Telecommunications in Bulgaria
Telecommunications services in Bulgaria are generally affordable and reliable, with a good variety of providers to choose from. Mobile phone service is widely available and the coverage is generally good, including 4G and 5G networks in many areas.
The major telecommunications companies in Bulgaria include Vivacom, A1, Telenor, and Bulsatcom. These companies offer a range of mobile phone plans and internet packages, including fiber-optic broadband. Prices for mobile phone service vary depending on the provider and the plan, but it is possible to find plans with unlimited data starting at around 20-25 BGN per month (as of May 2023).
Internet service is widely available in Bulgaria, with many providers offering fiber-optic broadband. Prices vary depending on the speed and the provider, but a basic package with speeds of 100 Mbps can be found for around 20-30 BGN per month (as of May 2023).
There are also many internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots available in larger cities and towns, as well as in cafes, restaurants, and other public places. Many of these services are free, but some may require a purchase or a fee for access.
Healthcare costs in Bulgaria
Healthcare costs in Bulgaria can vary depending on whether you choose to use the public or private healthcare system.
The public healthcare system is funded by the government and offers free or low-cost medical services to Bulgarian citizens and permanent residents. However, the quality of care and access to advanced medical treatments can be limited.
If you choose to use the private healthcare system, you can expect to pay higher fees for medical services. The cost of private health insurance can also vary depending on your age, health status, and the level of coverage you require.
It’s important to note that if you are an EU citizen, you can access public healthcare in Bulgaria with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This card will cover emergency medical treatment, but you may need to pay for certain services upfront and then be reimbursed later.
Overall, the cost of healthcare in Bulgaria is generally lower than in many other European countries. However, it’s important to research and compare the costs of both public and private healthcare options before making a decision.
Childcare costs in Bulgaria
Childcare costs in Bulgaria can vary depending on the type of childcare and the location.
In general, daycare centers and kindergartens are more affordable than in many other European countries, with costs ranging from about 200 to 500 BGN (approximately 100 to 250 EUR) per month.
Nannies and babysitters are also relatively inexpensive, with hourly rates typically ranging from 5 to 10 BGN (approximately 2.50 to 5 EUR) per hour.
It’s worth noting that some employers in Bulgaria offer childcare benefits or subsidies as part of their employee benefits packages, which can help to offset the costs of childcare.
Study costs in Bulgaria
Bulgaria has a well-developed education system with a large number of universities and colleges. Tuition fees in Bulgaria vary depending on the institution and the program of study. Public universities and colleges have lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. The average cost of tuition fees for undergraduate programs ranges from 1,000 to 8,000 BGN (510 to 4,100 USD) per year, while for graduate programs, the fees range from 2,000 to 12,000 BGN (1,020 to 6,120 USD) per year.
There are also additional costs for textbooks, materials, and other academic resources. However, these costs are generally lower in Bulgaria compared to other European countries.
There are also various scholarships and financial aid programs available to Bulgarian and international students to help offset the costs of studying in Bulgaria.
The cost of food and drink in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is known for its fresh and tasty food, and the cost of food and drink in Bulgaria is generally quite affordable.
Groceries
Here are some approximate prices for common food and drink items in Bulgaria:
- Loaf of bread: 0.80-1.20 BGN
- 1 liter of milk: 2.00-2.50 BGN
- 1 dozen eggs: 2.50-3.00 BGN
- Local cheese (1 kg): 10.00-15.00 BGN
- Chicken breasts (1 kg): 10.00-12.00 BGN
- Beef (1 kg): 12.00-16.00 BGN
- Tomatoes (1 kg): 1.50-2.50 BGN
- Potatoes (1 kg): 1.00-1.50 BGN
- Bottle of local beer (0.5 liter): 1.50-2.50 BGN
- Bottle of mid-range wine: 10.00-15.00 BGN
- Bottle of imported beer (0.33 liter): 2.00-3.00 BGN
- Bottle of water (0.33 liter): 0.70-1.00 BGN
- Cup of coffee: 1.50-2.50 BGN
Of course, prices can vary depending on the location and type of establishment. In general, dining out in Bulgaria can be quite affordable compared to many other countries.
Restaurants in Bulgaria
The cost of dining out in Bulgaria varies depending on the type of restaurant and the location. In Sofia, the capital city, a mid-range meal for two people in a restaurant can cost around 50-60 BGN (30-35 USD), while a three-course meal for one person in a mid-range restaurant can cost around 20-25 BGN (12-15 USD). In smaller towns and rural areas, prices may be lower.
Fast food chains such as McDonald’s and KFC also have a presence in Bulgaria, with prices similar to those in other European countries.
Local Bulgarian cuisine is generally affordable, with traditional dishes such as banitsa (a savory pastry), shopska salad (a tomato and cucumber salad with cheese), and kebapche (a grilled meat dish) costing around 10-15 BGN (6-9 USD) in mid-range restaurants.
Alcohol is relatively cheap in Bulgaria, with a local beer costing around 2-3 BGN (1-2 USD) in a bar or restaurant. Imported beer and wine are also widely available, but can be more expensive.
Beer, wine, and spirits in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is well known for its wine and spirits, and it’s a popular destination for beer lovers as well. The prices for alcohol in Bulgaria are generally quite affordable compared to Western European countries. Here are some approximate prices for beer, wine, and spirits in Bulgaria:
- A domestic beer in a bar or restaurant: 2-3 BGN (1-2 USD)
- A domestic beer in a supermarket: 1-2 BGN (0.5-1 USD)
- Imported beer in a bar or restaurant: 3-4 BGN (1.5-2 USD)
- Imported beer in a supermarket: 2-3 BGN (1-2 USD)
- A bottle of Bulgarian wine in a restaurant: 15-20 BGN (8-10 USD)
- A bottle of Bulgarian wine in a supermarket: 8-15 BGN (4-8 USD)
- Imported wine in a restaurant: 25-30 BGN (13-15 USD)
- Imported wine in a supermarket: 15-25 BGN (8-13 USD)
- Rakia (traditional Bulgarian brandy) in a bar or restaurant: 3-5 BGN (2-3 USD) per shot
- Rakia in a supermarket: 10-20 BGN (5-10 USD) per bottle
- Whiskey, vodka, gin, etc. in a bar or restaurant: 5-10 BGN (3-5 USD) per shot
- Whiskey, vodka, gin, etc. in a supermarket: 20-50 BGN (10-25 USD) per bottle
Coffee in Bulgaria
In Bulgaria, coffee is a popular beverage and can be found in many cafes and restaurants. The cost of coffee can vary depending on the type of establishment and location. A cup of coffee in a café or restaurant can cost between 1-2 BGN (0.5-1 EUR), while a cup of coffee from a street vendor or kiosk can cost as little as 0.5 BGN (0.25 EUR).
Bulgaria also has a rich tradition of producing and consuming herbal teas, which can be found in many specialty tea shops and markets. Prices for herbal tea can vary depending on the type and quality, but typically range from 1-3 BGN (0.5-1.5 EUR) per 50-gram package.
Transport costs in Bulgaria
Transport costs in Bulgaria can vary depending on the mode of transportation and the distance traveled. Here are some estimated costs:
- Public transport: In Sofia, the capital city, a single ride on the metro costs 1.60 BGN (about 0.80 EUR). A single ride on a bus or tram costs 1.60 BGN as well. If you purchase a monthly pass, it costs around 50 BGN (about 25 EUR). Outside of Sofia, the prices may be slightly lower.
- Taxis: Taxis in Bulgaria are relatively inexpensive. The starting fare is around 0.80 BGN (about 0.40 EUR) and the rate per kilometer is around 0.70 BGN (about 0.35 EUR).
- Gasoline: As of May 2023, the average price of gasoline in Bulgaria is around 2.53 BGN (about 1.26 EUR) per liter.
- Car rental: The cost of renting a car in Bulgaria can vary depending on the type of car, the rental company, and the duration of the rental. On average, a mid-size car rental can cost around 60-80 BGN (about 30-40 EUR) per day.
It’s worth noting that Bulgaria has an extensive railway network that connects most major cities and towns. Train travel can be a cost-effective option for longer journeys.
Public transport in Bulgaria
Public transport in Bulgaria is widely available and generally affordable. The most common forms of public transport in the country include buses, trams, and trolleybuses, as well as the metro system in Sofia.
The cost of a single ticket for public transport varies depending on the city, but in general, it ranges from around 1 to 2 BGN (0.50 to 1 EUR) per ticket. Many cities also offer discounted tickets for students and senior citizens.
In addition to single tickets, many cities in Bulgaria also offer daily or weekly passes, which can be a more cost-effective option for those who use public transport frequently. Monthly passes are also available and can offer even greater savings.
It’s worth noting that public transport in Bulgaria can sometimes be overcrowded, particularly during peak hours, so it’s important to plan accordingly and allow extra time for your journeys.
Private transport in Bulgaria
In Bulgaria, owning a car can be relatively expensive due to the high import taxes and the cost of fuel. However, public transport is generally affordable and widely available, with buses, trams, and metro systems operating in major cities.
The cost of purchasing a car in Bulgaria can vary depending on the make and model, with prices ranging from a few thousand euros for a used car to tens of thousands for a new luxury vehicle. In addition to the cost of the car itself, there are also fees and taxes to consider, such as registration, road tax, and insurance.
Fuel prices in Bulgaria are comparable to other European countries, with petrol and diesel costing around 1.30-1.50 euros per liter as of May 2023.
For public transport, most cities in Bulgaria have a reliable and extensive bus network, with tickets costing around 0.60-0.90 euros per ride. Many cities also have trams and metro systems, which offer similar fares. Monthly passes for regular use of public transport can be purchased for around 25-35 euros.
Taxis are also available in Bulgaria, with fares starting at around 0.50-0.70 euros per kilometer and increasing depending on the distance and time of day. Uber and other ride-sharing services are also available in major cities.
Leisure activities in Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers a range of leisure activities, both indoor and outdoor, which are generally affordable compared to other European countries. Here are some examples of leisure activities and their costs:
- Cultural activities: Bulgaria has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many opportunities to explore it. The cost of admission to museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions varies, but is generally low. For example, the cost of admission to the National Museum of History in Sofia is around 6 BGN (3 EUR).
- Outdoor activities: Bulgaria is known for its beautiful nature, and there are many opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The cost of outdoor activities depends on the season and the location. For example, a day pass for skiing in Bansko, one of Bulgaria’s most popular ski resorts, costs around 60 BGN (30 EUR).
- Nightlife: Bulgaria’s major cities have a lively nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. The cost of going out depends on the venue and the drinks and food you consume. A beer in a local pub can cost around 2 BGN (1 EUR), while a cocktail in a fancy bar can cost around 10-15 BGN (5-8 EUR).
- Sports: Bulgaria has a strong sporting tradition, and there are many opportunities to play sports, such as football, basketball, and tennis. The cost of playing sports varies depending on the location and the sport. For example, the cost of renting a tennis court for an hour in Sofia is around 20 BGN (10 EUR).
- Cinemas: Going to the cinema is a popular leisure activity in Bulgaria, and the cost of a ticket is generally low. For example, a ticket to see a movie in Sofia costs around 10-12 BGN (5-6 EUR).
Overall, Bulgaria offers a range of leisure activities at affordable prices, making it a popular destination for tourists and expats alike.
Clothing in Bulgaria
Clothing prices in Bulgaria can vary depending on where you shop and what brands you prefer. Generally, clothing in Bulgaria is cheaper than in many other European countries. In larger cities like Sofia or Plovdiv, there are plenty of shopping malls and high street stores that offer a range of clothing styles and prices. You can also find local markets and smaller shops that sell clothing at lower prices.
The cost of clothing in Bulgaria can range from a few euros for basic t-shirts or simple dresses to hundreds of euros for designer brands or high-end products. However, on average, you can expect to pay around 20-30 euros for a pair of jeans or a dress, 10-15 euros for a t-shirt, and 50-100 euros for a good quality coat or jacket.
Second-hand shops and thrift stores are also becoming more popular in Bulgaria, offering cheaper prices for second-hand clothing items. These can be a great way to save money on clothing while still finding stylish and unique pieces.
Sports in Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers a variety of sports and outdoor activities for people of all ages and fitness levels. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in the country, and there are many local teams and a national league. Other popular team sports include basketball and volleyball.
Individual sports are also popular, with tennis and swimming being particularly well-represented. Bulgaria has produced several successful Olympic athletes in wrestling, weightlifting, and gymnastics.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of Bulgaria’s natural beauty by hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding. The country has several ski resorts, including Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo. There are also opportunities for rock climbing, caving, and kayaking.
Fitness centers and gyms are also widely available in urban areas, with membership fees varying depending on location and facilities.
Taxation and social security in Bulgaria
In Bulgaria, income tax is levied at a flat rate of 10% for all taxpayers, both residents, and non-residents. The social security contributions for employees are around 18.5% of their gross salary, and employers contribute an additional 17.9%. The contributions cover health, pension, unemployment, and disability insurance.
For self-employed individuals, the social security contributions are around 31% of their taxable income. Employers are also required to make additional contributions for occupational health and safety, as well as for the National Guarantee Fund.
Value-added tax (VAT) in Bulgaria is 20% for most goods and services, with a reduced rate of 9% for some essential items such as food, medicines, and books. Certain goods and services are exempt from VAT, such as healthcare and financial services.
There is also a local tax in Bulgaria called the “municipal tax,” which varies from one municipality to another and can range from 0.01% to 0.75% of the property’s tax assessment value. The tax is usually paid by property owners, but tenants may also be responsible for paying it under certain circumstances.
Assistance with living costs in Bulgaria
There are some forms of financial assistance available in Bulgaria to help with living costs, especially for those who are considered vulnerable. Here are some examples:
- Social assistance: Bulgarian citizens and permanent residents can apply for social assistance if they are in need of financial aid. The amount provided is based on the family’s income, expenses, and assets.
- Child benefits: Families with children under the age of 18 may be eligible for monthly child benefits. The amount depends on the number of children in the family and their ages.
- Heating allowance: The government offers a heating allowance during the winter months to households with low income or families with children. The amount provided is based on the size of the household and the type of heating used.
- Subsidized housing: Low-income families and individuals may be eligible for subsidized housing. The government provides financial assistance for rent or for the purchase of a home.
- Free or reduced-cost medical care: Bulgarian citizens and permanent residents have access to free or reduced-cost medical care. Certain groups, such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities, may be eligible for additional benefits.
It’s important to note that the eligibility requirements and application procedures for these forms of assistance can vary. To learn more, it’s recommended to contact the relevant government agencies or seek assistance from local non-profit organizations.