Poland is one of the most affordable destinations to live in within the European Union, which holds a high standard of living for citizen countries.
As a central European country, Poland is becoming an attractive destination for students, retirees, and ex-pats who want a change of culture and environment.
When determining the cheapest places to live, it’s important to consider rent or housing, entertainment, utilities, health insurance, transportation, and food costs.
Housing consumes the largest portion of living costs, so finding inexpensive rents or real estate is critical to maintaining a low cost of living.
If you’re interested in moving to Poland, it’s important to understand the cheapest places to live in the country.
Keep reading to learn more!
10 Cheapest Places to Live in Poland
1. Bydgoszcz
Bydgoszcz is a favorite destination for ex-pats, especially retirees, due to its excellent healthcare facilities, affordability, and historic charm.
Situated on the scenic Brda River, green spaces are an important part of daily life for residents and make the city more appealing for those thinking of relocating.
The cost of living for an individual is around 900 Euros per month with rent costing around 500 Euros per month.
2. Gdansk
The port city of Gdansk has become a cultural hub with countless live music venues, art galleries, theaters, and museums.
The city also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, where visitors and new locals can get a taste of Poland’s cultural heritage.
Other benefits of living in Gdansk include pleasant waterfront areas and beautiful beaches.
The seaside promenades can be enjoyed year-round, but the best outdoor activities are in the summer.
Furthermore, the city has a deep history, and the population has a multi-ethnic makeup, resulting in a small city with an international feel.
The result has been excellent restaurants and cafes, as well as quirky districts.
Those looking to relocate to Poland can live in Gdansk for between 850 and 1,250 Euros per month.
3. Lodz
Lodz is not as affordable as many other Polish cities, but it’s incredibly friendly, aesthetically stunning, and culturally rich.
The city has many festivals during the year, extensive green spaces, and a modern healthcare system.
Lodz experiences a continental climate with chilly winters and warm summers.
The average cost of living for an individual in Lodz is around 1100 Euros per month, with only 400 Euros per month needed for rent.
4. Krakow
Krakow has been the most popular city in Poland for many years.
Established in the 7th Century, Krakow has grown to be the country’s second-largest city and has one of the most picturesque old towns on the continent.
The complicated and long history makes it an intriguing place to learn and get to know better.
Since Krakow has a reputation for being a tourist destination, foreigners can more easily settle and get to know the locals compared to smaller cities where English isn’t used often.
Krakow is a little cheaper than Warsaw but still highly affordable for those on a budget.
Studio apartments hover around 560 Euros per month.
The estimated cost of living for a single individual ranges from 900 to 1300 Euros per month.
5. Lublin
Commonly referred to as the “Gate to the East, Lublin is an ideal destination for those who are on a fixed income or tight budget but want a new experience.
The city boasts culture and history, especially in the preserved old town, which is home to the Trinity Tower and Metropolitan Cathedral.
Lublin University is the largest, making the city a think tank of ideas and innovation.
Just a short trip outside of Lublin and the beautiful architecture becomes greenery, ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities.
The healthcare facilities are top-notch and highly modern.
The cost of living for an individual is around 1200 Euros per month, with an average rent price of 550 Euros per month.
6. Szczecin
If you’re prioritizing saving money while working remotely, then Szczecin offers excellent value.
Sitting in the far northwest of the country, only 10 miles from the German border, Szczecin is a riverside city with a laid-back attitude and plenty of green spaces to enjoy.
English is commonly spoken throughout the city, but it lacks the same fun factor as other Polish cities.
However, if you’re seeking a more tranquil environment with a slower pace of life but with fast internet speeds, then this is the best place in Poland for you to settle.
The biggest attraction is the low cost of living, with apartments available for under 600 Euros per month.
The estimated costs for a single person range from 800 to 1200 Euros per month.
7. Torun
Torun is a great place to live because of the impressive Gothic architecture, cobblestone streets, impressive medieval Old Town, and cost of living hovering around 900 Euros per month.
A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs only 400 Euros per month, which is a bargain compared to most other cities of similar size.
The city is best known for its friendly and accepting local community, affordable living, and exceptional healthcare facilities.
The emerging culinary scene is diverse, with many international and Polish restaurants.
Outdoor activities are at the center of residents’ daily lives, with numerous green spaces and outdoor activities.
8. Warsaw
Warsaw is the largest city in Poland and the capital of the country.
It’s also in the top ten largest in the European Union, making it an easy choice for those looking for big city amenities in Poland.
Since the fall of communism, Warsaw has changed drastically through rebuilding after almost destruction during World War II.
Today’s Warsaw boasts a business district with tall skyscrapers and historic neighborhoods.
Each year, the capital continues to add to the cultural and economic renaissance that has been nonstop for decades, which is drawing international attention.
Although Warsaw is a major city, it has excellent value compared to most other similar-sized European cities.
You can live comfortably off of 950 – 1450 Euros per month in Warsaw.
9. Wroclaw
Wroclaw is a smaller city than Warsaw but still offers plenty of activities.
With a population of one-third of the capital, the city’s vibrancy and culture make up for the lower population.
Wroclaw is a university city with a significant student population, so there’s plenty of entertainment and nightlife during the week and on weekends.
When walking around Wroclaw, you don’t get the sleepy feel as with other smaller cities.
Wroclaw is also consistently ranked as one of the country’s most beautiful cities.
The city was built across 12 islands so there are countless bridges, canals, and rivers, with comparisons to Venice.
You can live in Wroclaw with a budget of 850 to 1250 Euros per month.
10. Zakopane
This stunning resort town sits in the Tatra Mountains and is considered one of the top small towns in the country due to the slow pace of life, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty.
An individual can live comfortably in Zakopane for around 1500 Euros per month, which gives access to the verdant forests, picturesque landscapes, and snow-capped mountains.
The town has a mild climate during most of the year, but the winters can be harsh due to the altitude, so those who don’t enjoy the cold weather shouldn’t consider Zakopane.
Poland Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Poland Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some tips on budgeting the cost of living in Poland?
Although the country is generally inexpensive, it’s still important to maintain a budget to avoid regular splurging.
One of the best cost-saving tips is to use public transportation to get around town and the country.
Poland has an excellent network of affordable mass transit like trams, buses, and trains, with monthly tickets costing under $75.
Students receive the benefit of discounted tickets.
Another important tip is to cook at home more frequently.
Most Polish towns have a central market or farmer’s markets where meat and vegetables are less expensive than the grocery store.
Students should use student ID cards for various discounts on mass transit, at museums, theme parks, restaurants, and shopping.
Can a U.S. citizen move to Poland?
A U.S. citizen can move to Poland and live long-term but must apply for a long-stay visa (D visa).
Once the D visa is acquired, you can live in Poland and apply for temporary residence to keep your stay legal and documented.
The temporary residence allows you to remain in Poland for between one and three years, depending on your reason for moving – school, work, or family.
Does Poland have a high quality of life?
According to the Better Life Index, Poland outperforms the average in social connections and education but underperforms in life satisfaction, environmental quality, health, and income.
Depending on the reason for moving to Poland, the quality of life may differ.
