If you’re considering moving to Poland, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of living. In this article, we’ll take a look at the local currency, compare the cost of living in Poland to the UK and the USA, break down costs for singles, couples, and families of 4 in different categories, and explain the most common forms of payment in Poland.
Local Currency in Poland
The local currency in Poland is the Polish zloty (PLN). One zloty is divided into 100 groszy. The Polish zloty is not widely accepted outside of Poland, so it’s best to exchange your currency when you arrive.
Cost of Living in Poland Compared to the UK and USA
According to the Numbeo cost of living index, the cost of living in Poland is generally lower than in the UK and the USA. The index takes into account factors such as housing, food, utilities, transportation, and entertainment.
As of February 2023, the index shows that the cost of living in Warsaw, the capital city of Poland, is about 48.65% lower than in London and 50.48% lower than in New York. The cost of living in other cities in Poland varies, but generally, the cost of living in Poland is lower than in the UK and the USA.
Breakdown of Costs in Poland
To give you an idea of what you can expect to pay for different expenses in Poland, let’s break down costs for singles, couples, and families of 4 in different categories.
Housing
Housing is one of the biggest expenses in Poland, but it is relatively affordable compared to other countries. The cost of housing varies depending on where you live and the type of housing you choose. According to Numbeo, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is PLN 2,800 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around PLN 6,000 per month.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find a room to rent for around PLN 1,200 per month. However, keep in mind that housing in Poland can be challenging to find, especially if you’re looking for a specific type of accommodation.
Food
The cost of food in Poland is generally lower than in the UK and the USA. You can expect to pay around PLN 20-30 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant and around PLN 50-70 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can save money by shopping at markets and cooking your meals. A week’s worth of groceries for one person costs around PLN 150-200.
Utilities
The cost of utilities in Poland varies depending on the size of your home and your usage. On average, you can expect to pay around PLN 500-800 per month for utilities such as electricity, water, and gas.
Leisure
The cost of leisure activities in Poland varies widely depending on what you enjoy doing. A movie ticket costs around PLN 25, and a fitness club membership costs around PLN 100-150 per month.
If you enjoy going out, expect to pay around PLN 7-10 for a beer in a bar or around PLN 20-30 for a cocktail. Entrance fees for museums and other attractions vary widely but usually range from PLN 10-30.
Transport
The cost of transport in Poland is relatively low, but the country’s public transportation system can be challenging to navigate. A one-way ticket on public transport in Warsaw costs PLN 4.40, and a monthly pass costs around PLN 110. If you prefer to drive, you can expect to pay around PLN 5 per liter of gasoline. Car insurance is also relatively affordable, with an average cost of around PLN 1,000-2,000 per year.
Clothing
The cost of clothing in Poland is generally lower than in the UK and the USA. The prices of clothing items depend on the brand and quality of the product. If you’re looking to buy new clothes on a budget, there are several affordable chain stores that offer reasonably priced clothing.
For example, Zara and H&M are popular stores where you can find fashionable clothes at an affordable price. A pair of jeans can cost around PLN 100-200, while a shirt can cost around PLN 50-100.
Household Goods
The cost of household goods in Poland varies depending on the item and brand. For example, a new television can cost anywhere from PLN 800 to PLN 5,000 depending on the size and features. A washing machine can cost around PLN 1,500-2,500, while a refrigerator can cost around PLN 1,500-4,000.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find used household goods on websites such as OLX and Allegro. Many people sell their used items at a fraction of the cost of new items.
Forms of Payment in Poland
The most common forms of payment in Poland are cash and credit cards. Most stores and restaurants accept credit cards, especially in larger cities like Warsaw.
Contactless payments and mobile payments are becoming more popular in Poland, and many stores now offer these payment options. Some banks offer mobile payment services, but these services are not yet widely used.
In addition to cash and credit cards, some stores in Poland accept payment through popular mobile apps like Blik and Revolut.
The cost of living in Poland is generally lower than in the UK and the USA. Housing, food, and leisure activities tend to be more affordable in Poland, while transportation and clothing are comparable in price.
When it comes to payment methods, Poland primarily relies on cash and credit cards, but mobile payment services are becoming more popular.
Before you move to Poland, it’s essential to research the cost of living in your desired location and create a budget that takes into account your income and expenses. By doing so, you can ensure that you can live comfortably in Poland without breaking the bank.