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Bydgoszcz, Poland

Moving to Poland

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 08, 2023

Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Poland due to its low cost of living, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant culture. Additionally, Poland is a great place to live for those looking to explore Europe, as it is centrally located and has easy access to other countries. People looking to move to Poland can find a place to live by searching online for rental properties, or by using a real estate agent. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Poland are Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw, as they offer a wide range of activities and attractions.

What do I need to know before moving to Poland?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Poland, they said:

"Expats should be aware that the official language of Poland is Polish, so it is important to learn some basic phrases before moving. It is also important to research the cost of living in Poland, as prices can vary significantly depending on the city. Additionally, expats should be aware that Poland is a predominantly Catholic country, so it is important to respect local customs and traditions. Finally, expats should be aware that the weather in Poland can be quite extreme, with cold winters and hot summers, so it is important to be prepared for all seasons," said one expat who made the move to Poland.

"It depends where are you going to work. If you choose a district with a bad commute you can travel 2 hours to your work-place. I suggest close to the metro stations - Ursynow district is cheap, Zoliborz and Srodmiescie are quite expensive. Zoliborz is one of the locations with most parks in Warsaw," explained one expat living in Warsaw, Poland.

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How do I find a place to live in Poland?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Poland is to use online resources such as websites and classifieds. Websites such as Gumtree, OLX, and Otodom are popular in Poland and offer a wide range of rental properties. Additionally, you can search for rental properties on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live. Finally, you can also look for rental properties in newspapers and magazines," explained one expat living in Poland.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Poland?

"Expat homes and apartments in Poland tend to be modern and comfortable, with a range of amenities to make life easier. Many expats choose to live in larger cities such as Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk, where they can find a variety of housing options, from luxury apartments to more affordable options. Expat homes and apartments typically come with modern appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, and air conditioning, as well as high-speed internet access. Expats can also find a range of furniture and decor to make their home feel like their own," remarked one expat in Poland.

"Appartment of 80 m2 top floor. Zoliborz distrcit, close to the park. Mostly Expats live in the center of the city," said one expat in Warsaw.

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What is the average cost of housing in Poland?

If you are thinking about moving to Poland, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Poland is generally considered to be quite affordable compared to other European countries. Prices vary depending on the location and size of the property, but generally, a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can cost around 500-700 euros per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in a suburban area can cost around 800-1000 euros per month," replied a member in Poland.

"Average cost - 400 USD to 1500 USD a month depending on the standard and location," commented one expat who made the move to Warsaw.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Poland?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Poland, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Poland can be a great investment, as the country's real estate market is growing steadily. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as closing costs, taxes, and other fees. Additionally, it is important to consider the length of time you plan to stay in Poland, as buying a home may not be the best option if you plan to move in the near future. Renting a home in Poland can be a great option for those who are looking for a more flexible living situation. Renting can be a more affordable option, and it can also provide more flexibility if you plan to move in the near future," remarked one expat in Poland.

"This applies to any country... but always rent first. It's a chance to "try before you buy" and get to know a city or an area before you dive into long term property ownership," said one expat in Poland.

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What should I pack when moving to Poland?

We asked people living in Poland to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Poland, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the climate can be quite cold in the winter months. It is also a good idea to bring a few items of comfortable, casual clothing for everyday wear. Additionally, it is important to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and any other paperwork required for your stay. It is also a good idea to bring any necessary medications, as well as any other items that you may need for your stay. Finally, it is important to bring any items that will help you feel at home, such as photographs, books, and other personal items," said one expat in Poland.

"More sun and warmer weather. Better roads. Italian food, especially fresh sea-food. I wish all present Polish politician to go to another country," remarked one expat who made the move to Warsaw.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Poland?

We asked people in Poland if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Poland. To avoid making a cultural faux pas, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. For example, it is considered rude to be late for social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. Additionally, it is important to dress modestly and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion. It is also important to remember to greet people with a handshake and to use polite language when speaking with others. Finally, it is important to remember to take off your shoes when entering someone's home," said one expat in Poland.

"Many times, usually language related. Whilst at a prestigious Dinner sat next to the Bishop of the Kujavia Pomorski region I described the dish we were eating as 'Siuper Duper' to him. There was a stunned silence throughout the dinning room as I had called the dish 'Big Arse'. I was severely reprimanded later by the people who had invited me. Eventually they did see the funny side though," remarked one expat who made the move to Bydgoszcz.

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Why do people move to Poland?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Poland, they responded:

"Poland is an attractive destination for expats due to its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and excellent job opportunities. The country is also known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and friendly people. Additionally, Poland is a great place to learn a new language, as it is home to many universities and language schools. With its strong economy and growing infrastructure, Poland is an ideal place for expats to settle down and start a new life," stated one expat who made the move to Poland.

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How are healthcare services Poland?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Poland, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Poland are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all Polish citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare in Poland is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and pharmacies. Expats in Poland can access the public healthcare system by registering with the National Health Fund (NFZ) and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to receive free or discounted medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications. Expats can also opt for private healthcare, which is more expensive but offers more comprehensive coverage and shorter waiting times," stated one expat who made the move to Poland.

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What are medical services in Poland like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Poland, they replied:

"In Poland, medical services are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Patients can access both public and private healthcare, with the public system providing free or low-cost care. The country also has a number of highly-regarded medical universities, which provide excellent training for medical professionals. Additionally, Poland is home to a number of world-class hospitals and clinics, offering a range of treatments and services," said one expat.

"I have had three operations while living here. Two were very good but the third went wrong, due to an error, or rather lack of understanding off my medication needs, by the head surgeon. This mea.nt I spent fifteen days extra in hospital, recovering from massive internal bleeding. In future I will research the hospital I am going into," said one expat living in Rzeszów, Poland.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Bydgoszcz, Poland

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