
Poland has become an increasingly attractive destination for expats, students, and professionals looking for a high quality of life at an affordable price. Whether you’re moving for work, education, or simply an adventure, understanding the cost of living in Poland is essential for financial planning.
Compared to Western Europe and the United States, living in Poland is significantly more budget-friendly while still offering modern amenities, rich history, and vibrant city life. In this guide, we’ll break down the estimated monthly costs for housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and more to give you a clear picture of what to expect in 2025.
Also read: How to Open a Bank Account in Poland
Overview of the Cost of Living in Poland

The cost of living in Poland varies depending on the city you choose and your lifestyle. Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław tend to be more expensive due to their size and economic opportunities, while smaller cities like Poznań and Lublin offer a lower cost of living without sacrificing quality.
For example, in Warsaw, the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from PLN 3,000 to PLN 5,500 per month, whereas in Lublin, you can find similar accommodations for as low as PLN 1,800 to PLN 3,000 per month. Groceries, utilities, and transportation also vary in price, but Poland remains affordable compared to many Western European countries.
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Housing Costs in Poland
Housing is often the biggest expense when living in Poland. Prices vary significantly based on location and whether you’re renting alone or sharing accommodation. Warsaw and Kraków are the priciest cities, with one-bedroom apartments in the city center ranging from PLN 3,000 to PLN 5,500 per month. In contrast, cities like Poznań and Lublin offer more budget-friendly options, starting at PLN 1,800 per month.
For those looking to save money, shared apartments are a popular option, with room rentals costing between PLN 800 and PLN 2,000 per month. Additionally, utilities and internet typically add another PLN 500 to PLN 1,200 to monthly expenses.
Transportation Costs
Poland has a well-developed and affordable public transport system, making it easy to get around without a car. Monthly public transport passes cost between PLN 80 and PLN 180, depending on the city. Ride-sharing services and taxis are also widely available, with base fares starting at PLN 8 to PLN 12, plus PLN 2 to PLN 4 per kilometer. For those who prefer driving, fuel costs around PLN 6.20 per liter, and car insurance ranges from PLN 200 to PLN 400 per month.
Food & Grocery Prices
Grocery shopping in Poland is relatively affordable, especially if you buy locally. A loaf of bread costs between PLN 5 and PLN 8, a liter of milk is around PLN 4 to PLN 7, and a kilogram of chicken costs between PLN 18 and PLN 30. Dining out is also an option, with an inexpensive meal costing around PLN 40 to PLN 80, while a three-course dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant costs PLN 120 to PLN 250.
Education & Tuition Fees
Poland is home to many top universities offering affordable tuition fees. Public universities charge international students between PLN 10,000 and PLN 25,000 per year, while private institutions can cost between PLN 15,000 and PLN 40,000 annually. Additionally, students should budget between PLN 2,000 and PLN 5,000 per month for housing, food, and other expenses.
Healthcare Costs
Poland offers both public and private healthcare options. Public healthcare is free for residents covered under Poland’s National Health Fund (NFZ). However, many expats and students opt for private insurance, which costs between PLN 200 and PLN 800 per month. Private doctor consultations typically range from PLN 150 to PLN 400 per visit.
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Cost of Living for Different Groups
The cost of living in Poland varies based on individual circumstances. Workers can expect to spend between PLN 4,000 and PLN 7,000 per month, depending on their city and lifestyle. Students generally require between PLN 2,000 and PLN 4,500 per month, especially if they stay in university dormitories. Families face higher costs, typically ranging from PLN 6,000 to PLN 12,000 per month, depending on household size and schooling choices.
Money-Saving Tips in Poland
Living in Poland can be even more affordable with smart budgeting. Using public transportation instead of owning a car can significantly cut costs. Cooking at home rather than dining out is another way to save money. Shopping at local markets offers fresh produce at lower prices. Sharing accommodation with roommates also helps reduce monthly expenses. Many services, such as transportation and cultural attractions, provide discounts for students and employees, so taking advantage of these opportunities is recommended.
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Poland offers ideal balance between affordable and high quality living cost, making it an interesting destination for expats, students, and workers. If you’re looking for a cheap lifestyle or even a more frugal one, Poland offers a lot of options for you and your needs. Also if you need to send money to Poland and 70 other countries, use Transfez for a quick, safe, and cheap transfer.