Living in Ukraine
Last updated on Jan 10, 2024
Summary: The approximate population of Ukraine is 42.5 million people. The largest cities in Ukraine are Kiev (the capital), Kharkiv, Dnipro, Odessa, and Donetsk. Expats love living in Ukraine for its low cost of living, friendly people, and vibrant culture. Life in Ukraine is described as relaxed and laid-back, with a strong sense of community. Popular foods in Ukraine include borscht (a beetroot soup), varenyky (dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or cabbage), and salo (cured pork fat). The cons of living in Ukraine include the language barrier, the lack of reliable public transportation, and the lack of job opportunities. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000-$1,500 per month. This includes rent, utilities, food, and other expenses.
What do I need to know about living in Ukraine?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Ukraine, they said:
"Before retiring in Ukraine, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, as English is not widely spoken. It is also important to research the cost of living in Ukraine, as prices can vary significantly depending on the region. Additionally, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for retirement in Ukraine, as well as any restrictions on foreign ownership of property. Finally, expats should research the healthcare system in Ukraine, as well as any health insurance options available to them," commented one expat who made the move to Ukraine.
"Rent with an official rental agreement. It costs twice as much, but if you try the way they do, the first month is low, but you will then be asked for a LOT more, and if you don't pay, they promptly kick you out. Even if you have been there less than 24 hours, there is not a thing you can do. Well, maybe cry. Laws here are lax. You can do things that will amaze you. Even carry a concealed gun, no permit. If you are here over three months, you become an illegal alien. If you leave, you will not be allowed back. If you stay, they cannot afford to kick you out, so they will only fine you $100 upon your eventual departure. I cannot even go across the river to Moldova for lunch! Until I marry. If. If you marry a Ukrainian, you can stay here legally, and not become a UE citizen. I personally will get a UE lawyer to handle the papers. Like everything else here, it costs a lot less than the US. My very low SS Disability income is four times the national average income here. I can not afford to live in California anymore, but I can, here. At least, theoretically. They still are not paying me," remarked one expat living in Mogliv-Podilskyi, Ukraine.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Ukraine?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Ukraine?
- Will I be able to find a job in Ukraine?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Ukraine appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Ukraine?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Ukraine accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Ukraine like?
- How are healthcare services in Ukraine?
- What are medical services in Ukraine like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Ukraine?
- What are emergency services like in Ukraine?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Ukraine?
- How are local medical facilities in Ukraine?
- As a foreigner living in Ukraine, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?