How Much Money Do You Need to Live in Poland?
Planning to move to Poland? Use our calculator to find out your monthly expenses. Get realistic budgets for Warsaw, Krakow, and other Polish cities based on your lifestyle.
LOCATION
HOUSING
LIFESTYLE
Monthly Cost Estimate
Quick Answer: Monthly Budget for Poland
Student/Budget Living
Shared apartment, home cooking, public transport
Comfortable Living
Own apartment, dining out, entertainment
Luxury Lifestyle
City center, car, premium services
These are net salary requirements for Warsaw. Other cities are 20-50% cheaper. Use our calculator above for exact estimates based on your preferences.
Is Poland Expensive? Real Cost Comparison
What's Cheap in Poland
What Costs More
Bottom Line
Poland is 40-60% cheaper than Western Europe overall. Services, food, and rent are very affordable. Electronics and cars cost about the same as anywhere in the EU.
Polish Cities: Where to Live for Your Budget
Most Expensive Cities
Warsaw
Monthly budget: 5,000-10,000 zł
Highest salaries, best job market, most expensive rent
Krakow
Monthly budget: 4,000-8,000 zł
Tourist city, beautiful but pricey, lots of expats
Gdansk
Monthly budget: 4,000-7,500 zł
Coastal city, growing tech hub, rising costs
Best Value Cities
Wrocław
Monthly budget: 3,500-6,500 zł
Great for students and young professionals
Poznań
Monthly budget: 3,000-6,000 zł
Business hub, affordable, good quality of life
Łódź
Monthly budget: 2,500-5,000 zł
Cheapest major city, close to Warsaw
Monthly Budget Breakdown by Lifestyle
Budget Living
Comfortable Living
Premium Living
Note: These are estimates for Warsaw. Other cities are typically 20-50% cheaper. Actual costs vary based on specific neighborhoods, personal choices, and seasonal factors.
How to Save Money Living in Poland
Housing Hacks
- •Live in suburbs: Save 30-50% on rent with just 20 minutes extra commute
- •Share apartment: Cut housing costs in half, meet people
- •Look for "all inclusive": Avoid surprise utility bills in winter
Daily Savings
- •Shop at Biedronka/Lidl: 40% cheaper than premium stores
- •Cook at home: Restaurant meal = 5 home-cooked meals
- •Get student discounts: 50% off transport, museums, events
Common Questions About Living Costs in Poland
Can I live in Poland on 1,000 EUR per month?
Yes, but it depends where. In cities like Łódź or Lublin, 1,000 EUR (4,300 zł) covers rent, food, and transport. In Warsaw, you'd need shared accommodation and careful budgeting. It's definitely doable.
What salary do I need for a comfortable life in Warsaw?
Around 8,000-10,000 zł net monthly for a single person. This gets you a nice apartment, regular dining out, entertainment, and savings. Many expats live well on 6,000-7,000 zł with some compromises.
Is Poland cheaper than Germany or UK?
Much cheaper. Your money goes about twice as far in Poland. A lifestyle that costs €3,000 in Berlin costs about €1,500 in Warsaw. The biggest savings are on rent, food, and services.
How much should I budget for groceries in Poland?
About 800-1,200 zł monthly for one person if you cook at home. Shop at Biedronka or Lidl for best prices. Local bread, dairy, and meat are very cheap. Imported foods cost more.
Do I need a car in Polish cities?
Not really. Public transport is excellent and cheap (110 zł/month). Most expats use trams/buses/metro. A car adds 800-1,200 zł monthly (fuel, insurance, parking). Only get one if you travel outside cities often.
What about healthcare costs for foreigners?
EU citizens use their European Health Card for free healthcare. If you work in Poland, public healthcare (NFZ) is free. Private insurance costs 200-400 zł monthly and gives faster access to doctors.