The cost of living in Poland is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. The prices of goods and services vary depending on the city or region, with larger cities generally having higher costs of living. Warsaw, the capital city, is considered the most expensive city to live in Poland, while smaller cities and towns have lower costs of living.
Wages and salary in Poland
The wages and salaries in Poland vary depending on the industry, job position, and location. According to the Central Statistical Office of Poland, the average gross monthly wage in Poland in March 2021 was 5,555.49 PLN (about 1,463.61 USD). However, it’s important to note that the wages may be lower in some regions, particularly in rural areas, compared to larger cities such as Warsaw, Krakow, or Wrocław.
Some industries in Poland have higher average salaries than others. For example, the IT, finance, and consulting sectors tend to pay more than the retail, hospitality, or customer service sectors. Additionally, people with higher levels of education and more experience can expect to earn higher salaries.
It’s also worth noting that Poland has a progressive income tax system, which means that the more you earn, the higher percentage of tax you’ll pay. The tax rate ranges from 17% to 32%, depending on the income level.
Housing costs in Poland
The cost of housing in Poland varies depending on the location, type of housing, and size of the property. In general, housing in major cities such as Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk is more expensive than in smaller towns and rural areas.
Rental costs in Poland
Rental costs in Poland can vary greatly depending on the city and the location within the city. In general, the biggest cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk tend to have higher rental costs than smaller cities and towns.
For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Warsaw, expect to pay around 2,500-3,500 PLN per month (approximately $650-$900 USD). In smaller cities and towns, this cost can be as low as 1,500-2,500 PLN per month (approximately $400-$650 USD).
Outside of city centers, rental costs can be significantly lower. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in a suburb of Warsaw may only cost around 1,800-2,500 PLN per month (approximately $470-$650 USD).
It’s important to note that rental costs can vary greatly depending on the quality and location of the apartment, as well as the time of year. In popular tourist destinations, rental costs may increase during peak season.
Property prices in Poland
The property prices in Poland vary depending on the location, size, and type of the property. The prices are generally lower in smaller cities and rural areas, while they tend to be higher in larger cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk.
As of 2021, the average price per square meter for an apartment in Warsaw is around 12,000 PLN (approx. 3,000 USD), while in Krakow, it is around 9,500 PLN (approx. 2,400 USD). In other cities, the prices can range from 5,000-10,000 PLN (approx. 1,300-2,600 USD) per square meter.
The prices for houses and villas can also vary widely depending on the location and size. In Warsaw, the average price for a house is around 1.5-2 million PLN (approx. 400,000-500,000 USD), while in smaller cities, it can be as low as 500,000-800,000 PLN (approx. 130,000-210,000 USD).
It’s worth noting that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused some fluctuations in the real estate market in Poland, with some areas experiencing a drop in prices while others have remained stable or even increased slightly.
Cost of domestic bills in Poland
The cost of domestic bills in Poland varies depending on the location, size of the apartment/house, and the type of utilities used. Generally, the cost of utilities including electricity, gas, water, and garbage collection, can range from 250 to 700 PLN (60 to 170 USD) per month for a typical apartment or house. However, it’s important to note that these costs can significantly increase during the winter months when heating is needed. It’s also worth mentioning that the cost of internet and TV packages can vary from around 50 to 150 PLN (12 to 36 USD) per month depending on the package and provider.
Utility bills in Poland
The cost of domestic bills in Poland includes various utility bills such as electricity, gas, water, and internet. The average cost of utilities for a standard 85m2 apartment in Poland is around PLN 500-700 ($130-180) per month, but it may vary depending on the region and the specific services used. The cost of electricity in Poland is around PLN 0.6-0.7 per kWh, while the cost of gas is around PLN 1.6-1.8 per cubic meter. The cost of water is usually around PLN 10-15 per cubic meter. Internet service with unlimited data costs around PLN 50-100 ($13-26) per month.
Telecommunications in Poland
Telecommunications in Poland are well-developed, and the country has a good infrastructure for mobile and internet services. There are several mobile network providers, including Orange, Play, T-Mobile, and Plus, offering a range of packages and plans for calls, texts, and data. The prices for these services are generally competitive and affordable.
As for internet services, Poland has a good selection of providers offering a range of packages with different speeds and prices. The prices for these services can vary depending on the provider and the package selected, but overall, they are reasonably priced.
Poland also has a good selection of television providers, including cable, satellite, and internet-based services. These providers offer a range of packages with different channels and prices, and there are many options to choose from.
Overall, telecommunications in Poland are of a high standard, and expats should have no problem finding a suitable provider to meet their needs.
Healthcare costs in Poland
Poland has a public healthcare system that provides free or low-cost medical care to all citizens and residents of the country. The National Health Fund (NFZ) is the organization responsible for funding and administering the public healthcare system in Poland.
Citizens and permanent residents of Poland are eligible to receive free or low-cost medical care under the public healthcare system, but private healthcare options are also available for those who wish to pay for additional or specialized medical services. The cost of private healthcare in Poland varies depending on the type of service and provider.
Additionally, it is important to note that non-EU citizens are required to have health insurance to cover the cost of medical care while in Poland. This can be obtained through a private insurance provider or through a policy offered by their employer if they are working in Poland.
Overall, the cost of healthcare in Poland is relatively affordable compared to other European countries, with most basic medical services being covered by the public healthcare system. However, the cost of private healthcare and specialized medical services can vary widely depending on the provider and type of service needed.
Childcare costs in Poland
The cost of childcare in Poland can vary depending on various factors such as location, type of childcare, and age of the child.
Childcare options include:
- Public nurseries and kindergartens – These are subsidized by the government and the fees are income-based. The cost can range from around 200 to 600 PLN per month.
- Private nurseries and kindergartens – These can be more expensive, with fees ranging from around 800 to 2500 PLN per month.
- Nanny or au pair – Hiring a nanny or an au pair can be a more expensive option, with costs ranging from around 2000 to 4000 PLN per month.
- Babysitter – The cost of a babysitter can range from around 15 to 40 PLN per hour.
Overall, the cost of childcare in Poland is generally lower than in many other European countries, but it can still be a significant expense for families.
Study costs in Poland
Higher education in Poland can be relatively affordable compared to other countries in Europe, especially when it comes to tuition fees. However, the exact cost of studying in Poland will depend on several factors such as the institution, the course of study, and whether you are an EU or non-EU student.
For EU students, education in public universities is free of charge, and they only need to pay a small fee for their course materials. For non-EU students, tuition fees vary depending on the institution and the program of study. On average, tuition fees for non-EU students can range from 2,000 to 6,000 euros per year for undergraduate programs and 3,000 to 9,000 euros per year for graduate programs.
In addition to tuition fees, students will also need to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses. The cost of living in Poland is generally lower than in Western Europe, but it can still vary depending on the city and lifestyle.
There are several scholarships available to help cover the costs of studying in Poland, including the Polish government scholarships, Erasmus scholarships, and scholarships offered by individual universities.
The cost of food and drink in Poland
The cost of food and drink in Poland can vary depending on where you are in the country and what type of establishment you are dining in. Generally speaking, prices for food and drink in Poland are lower than in many other European countries, making it a budget-friendly destination for travelers.
Groceries
In Poland, the cost of groceries can vary depending on where you shop and the types of food you buy. Generally, local markets and discount stores like Biedronka and Lidl tend to have lower prices than larger supermarkets like Carrefour or Auchan. Additionally, the cost of groceries can vary depending on the season and availability of certain items.
To give you an idea, here are some approximate prices for common grocery items in Poland as of 2023:
- Loaf of bread (500g) – 2-3 PLN
- Milk (1 liter) – 2-3 PLN
- Eggs (10) – 7-10 PLN
- Chicken breast (1kg) – 20-30 PLN
- Ground beef (1kg) – 20-30 PLN
- Potatoes (1kg) – 2-4 PLN
- Tomatoes (1kg) – 4-8 PLN
- Apples (1kg) – 3-6 PLN
- Bananas (1kg) – 4-8 PLN
- Pasta (500g) – 3-6 PLN
- Rice (1kg) – 4-8 PLN
- Cheese (1kg) – 30-50 PLN
- Yogurt (1kg) – 4-8 PLN
- Beer (0.5L) – 2-5 PLN
- Bottle of wine – 20-50 PLN
Again, these prices can vary depending on where you shop and the time of year.
Restaurants in Poland
The cost of dining out in Poland varies depending on the type of restaurant and the location. In general, restaurants in major cities like Warsaw and Krakow tend to be more expensive than those in smaller towns and rural areas.
In a mid-range restaurant, a three-course meal for two people can cost around 120-200 PLN (30-50 USD). However, there are also many budget-friendly options, such as fast food outlets, small cafes, and local diners, where you can get a meal for around 20-30 PLN (5-8 USD).
If you enjoy a drink with your meal, expect to pay around 10-15 PLN (2.5-4 USD) for a beer or glass of wine in a mid-range restaurant. In bars and pubs, the price of drinks varies depending on the type and location, but generally, you can expect to pay around 10-15 PLN (2.5-4 USD) for a beer or cider, and 20-30 PLN (5-8 USD) for a cocktail.
Beer, wine, and spirits in Poland
The cost of beer, wine, and spirits in Poland varies depending on the brand and location. In general, alcoholic beverages are relatively affordable in Poland compared to many other European countries. The average price of a beer in a local pub or restaurant is around 10-15 PLN (2.5-4 USD), while the price of a bottle of wine in a supermarket ranges from 20-100 PLN (5-25 USD) depending on the quality and origin of the wine. Hard liquor prices also vary depending on the brand and can range from 30-100 PLN (8-25 USD) per bottle.
Coffee in Poland
In Poland, the cost of coffee can vary depending on where you buy it. In a cafe, a cup of coffee can cost between 5 and 10 PLN (approximately 1.3 to 2.6 USD), depending on the type of coffee and the location. In more touristy areas, the prices can be slightly higher. If you prefer to make your coffee at home, the cost of a 250g bag of coffee beans ranges from 15 to 30 PLN (approximately 4 to 8 USD) in supermarkets, while the price of ground coffee ranges from 8 to 15 PLN (approximately 2 to 4 USD) per 250g.
Transport costs in Poland
Transport costs in Poland can vary depending on the mode of transportation used and the distance traveled. Generally speaking, public transportation is relatively affordable in Poland, particularly in larger cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk. The cost of a single ticket for a bus, tram or metro in Warsaw is currently 4.40 PLN (around 1 USD). A monthly pass costs around 110 PLN (around 29 USD).
Taxis in Poland are also fairly affordable, although prices can vary depending on the city and time of day. In Warsaw, the starting fare is 8 PLN (around 2 USD) and then 2.40 PLN (around 0.60 USD) per kilometer.
If you plan to drive in Poland, keep in mind that the cost of petrol and diesel is higher than in many other countries, due to relatively high taxes on fuel. However, tolls on Polish highways are generally lower than in neighboring countries like Germany and the Czech Republic.
Public transport in Poland
Poland has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. The cost of public transportation varies depending on the city and the mode of transportation. In larger cities such as Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk, the cost of a single bus or tram ticket is usually around 3-4 PLN (0.70-0.90 USD). In smaller cities, the cost may be slightly lower.
Poland also has an extensive rail network that connects cities throughout the country. Train tickets can be purchased online, at train stations, or at travel agencies. The cost of train tickets varies depending on the distance traveled, the type of train, and the class of service. Generally, train travel in Poland is affordable, and there are often discounts available for students and seniors.
Taxis are also widely available in Poland, with fares typically starting at around 6-8 PLN (1.40-1.80 USD) and increasing based on distance and time. Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt are also available in major cities.
Private transport in Poland
Private transport in Poland can be quite expensive, especially if you plan to purchase a car. The cost of a new car can vary depending on the make and model, but generally, it is comparable to the prices in other European countries. Additionally, there are taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs to consider.
Alternatively, you can choose to lease or rent a car, which can be a more affordable option if you only need a car for a short period. However, the cost of renting a car can also be quite high, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Another popular option is to use ride-sharing services such as Uber or Bolt, which are widely available in major cities in Poland. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance traveled and time of day.
If you prefer to use a bicycle for transportation, many cities in Poland have bike-sharing programs where you can rent a bike for a short period. This can be a more affordable and environmentally-friendly option.
Leisure activities in Poland
Poland has a wide range of leisure activities for people of all ages and interests. Here are some popular options:
- Sightseeing: Poland is a country with a rich history and culture, and there are many fascinating sights to see. Some of the top attractions include the Old Towns of Krakow and Gdansk, Wawel Castle, the Warsaw Uprising Museum, the Malbork Castle, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
- Sports: Poland has a thriving sports scene, with soccer (football) being the most popular sport. Other popular sports include basketball, volleyball, handball, and ice hockey.
- Outdoor activities: Poland has beautiful natural scenery, and there are many opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, skiing, and kayaking.
- Music and theater: Poland has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many opportunities to enjoy music and theater performances. Some of the most popular events include the Chopin Piano Competition, the Warsaw Film Festival, and the Theater Confrontations festival.
- Nightlife: Poland’s major cities have a lively nightlife scene with a range of options for entertainment, including clubs, bars, and pubs.
- Food and drink: Poland is known for its hearty cuisine, and there are many delicious dishes to try, such as pierogi (dumplings), kielbasa (sausage), and bigos (hunter’s stew). Polish vodka is also famous and is a must-try while in the country.
- Festivals: Poland hosts many festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to culture to food. Some of the most popular festivals include the Krakow Film Festival, the Open’er Festival, and the Pierogi Festival.
Overall, there is no shortage of leisure activities in Poland, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Taxation and social security in Poland
In Poland, taxation is progressive and based on a person’s income. The current tax rates for 2021 are as follows:
- 18% on income up to PLN 85,528 (approx. $22,300)
- 32% on income exceeding PLN 85,528
In addition to income tax, employees are also required to pay social security contributions, which are deducted directly from their salaries. The current rate for social security contributions in Poland is 19.52% for employees, and 22.82% for employers.
It is worth noting that Poland has signed several international tax treaties that aim to prevent double taxation for individuals and businesses with cross-border interests. This can help to minimize tax liabilities for expats who are working or investing in Poland.
In terms of social security, employees in Poland are entitled to benefits such as healthcare, disability insurance, and pension contributions. The Polish social security system is financed through a combination of employee and employer contributions, as well as state funding.
Overall, Poland has a relatively low tax burden compared to other European countries, which can be a significant advantage for expats looking to relocate or do business in the country.
Assistance with living costs in Poland
There are various types of assistance available to people living in Poland, including:
- Family and child benefits: Poland provides a range of family and child benefits to help families with children. These benefits include child allowances, maternity and paternity benefits, and child care benefits.
- Housing benefits: The Polish government provides housing benefits to help people with the cost of renting or buying a home. These benefits are means-tested and are available to low-income families and individuals.
- Social assistance: People who are unable to work or who are on a low income may be eligible for social assistance. This can include cash benefits, help with housing costs, and assistance with health care costs.
- Disability benefits: People with disabilities may be eligible for disability benefits to help cover the cost of care, treatment, and other expenses related to their disability.
- Unemployment benefits: If you lose your job in Poland, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits. These benefits can provide financial support while you look for a new job.
- Education grants and loans: The Polish government provides grants and loans to help students cover the cost of education.
- Tax relief: The Polish government provides tax relief to people on low incomes or with certain types of expenses, such as medical expenses.
It is important to note that eligibility for these types of assistance will depend on individual circumstances, such as income, family size, and employment status.