Living in Poland: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Poland

Summary: People generally describe life in Poland as vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunity. Expats love the low cost of living, the friendly people, the beautiful landscapes, and the rich cultural heritage. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle. The population of Poland is estimated to be around 38 million people, and the largest cities are Warsaw (1.7 million), Krakow (770,000), and Lodz (700,000). The cons of living in Poland include the cold weather, the language barrier, and the lack of job opportunities for expats. Additionally, the cost of living can be higher in some cities, and the healthcare system is not as advanced as in other countries.

What do I need to know about living in Poland?

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

"Well coincidently one just did, from Dubai, first you need to generate an income, this is a doddle as you can teach English conversation very easily, next you need to learn Polish and the culture as without you will have a very hard time. I took the easy route and have a Polish lady partner who did not speak any English but was a teacher to 'adults with learning difficulties' which is my category," explained one expat living in Bydgoszcz, Poland.

"Have a very open mind, then make the move and be prepared for the village life. It may not be easy, however, it's very rewarding and beautiful," said one expat in Siemiechow.

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How do I meet people in Poland?

When we asked people living in Poland about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"University groups, take dance classes, play sports in the beach: soccer, volleyball, jogging, etc. Sports associations, cultural associations. Nature related: hiking, wall climbing, trekking... there is a lot to do on that matter here, Oliwa (church and park), the beach that is all boarding coastline from Gdynia to Sopot is nice. Summer is nice and hot and fresh (or not, very dry) always with an umbrella in your bag, please. Nice pubs in concentrated areas - not all over. Beside that, is all quiet. They don't have dancing, parades. But, there is a Heineken festival, summer concerts, and the teathers in Gdynia and Gdanks. But, they are mostly making efforts to present attractive and massive productions, for the size of the city they pull it out quite alright. Much more than that, mmmmm nope," wrote a member in Gdynia.

"Well thats a difficult one as the most difficult problem is the languge. So would recommend just getting stuck in. The Italian Polish society strangley enough made me many contacts, Plus now there is a Chamber of Commerce and Investemnt bureau who are able to help out with contacts. If you are single I would recommend one of the free dating sites just to meet people," commented one expat who made the move to Bydgoszcz.

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What is life like in Poland?

When we asked people living in Poland what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"They are not that open, but the last generations. It is a group of small cities in one, it is not a metropolis. Last generation up to 30 years old is opening gradually and many have gone out through Erasmus or student organizations, also through student xchange programs, etc. These are the ones who look after more diversity in the city. Half of them speak English (among youngsters) in different levels, due to studies or by having lived abroad or travelled, only 2 out of 10 will practice it with you, shyness card. Since Poland is improving its life quality and people who once emigrated are coming back, there is an economic sense of well being. That's experienced in the new products and variety of lifestyles that are just starting to be experienced and share as a community. Wanna watch this and be part of it, then come. They don't have, say, Spanish style of going out in the night. There are a few pubs and mostly Sopot is the place to go, but the sense that you are in a set of small cities together by a train line never goes. They close at 16h00 in winter (stores) and night places at 03h00 (but if you're a frequent goer you can stay inside with doors closed). Gdansk is great for historical visits but then the rest of the is like any other place on this side of Europe. People are very Catholic and they keep broad stereotypes due to their slow opening to what we call globalization. But, it is like any other place, if you are polite and learn a few words of the language it is got to work, in general :-)," commented one expat who made the move to Gdynia.

"Poland is a very family orientated society so traditionally most social activities revolve around the home and family although this is changing and its now quite common to eat out although its a recent activity," remarked one expat living in Bydgoszcz, Poland.

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Is there a lot of crime in Poland?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime is a problem in Poland, with reports of theft, burglary, and violent crime occurring in some areas. Drug trafficking and organized crime are also present in the country. The government has taken steps to combat crime, including increasing police presence in certain areas and introducing tougher penalties for certain offenses," wrote a member in Poland.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Poland accepting of differences?

"Polish are not racist and nobody discriminate against anyone based on that person's ethnicity (that comes from our history but it is quite a long topic so maybe some other time) - so do not be afraid to live here if you are for example of African or Asian ancestry," remarked one expat living in Poland.

"I do not think they are diverse, this is a young population, but foreigners are still looked at as the exception. Certainly they have been in touch with non locals much more intensevely in the last decade than in all their history. It is easy to understand, and also it is not a big place (Gdynia) is basically residential. Do not expect London!. If you find your niche and stick to it, and like I said young people are the most active into walking the diverse side, it would be fine for you. They are interested in mingling, socializing with other cultures, they find exotic or appealing, e.g. Latinamericans, Spanish, Italians, etc. Any Western in sum. People from India, Africa or Asia are viewed more suspiciously and you have to gain their trust and let them get their guard down. You are part of a process they are living now, you are generating the change! hehe," wrote one member in Gdynia.

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What are the schools in Poland like?

"If you want your child to be fluent in 2-3 languages, make Polish, English and international friends- and have a highest probability in the country to enter world renown universities... this is the place," explained one expat living in Warsaw, Poland.

"The Elementary School is really very good and the kids and teachers very obviously enjoy their time there. The Middle School is awful - the adminstration is arbitrary and scattershot. The make discussions and change policy without informing the parents or the students. Even something as minor as the grade average needed to reach the Prinicpal's List was changed after the Trimester ended and without informing any student or parent of the change. Surprise! In general you will find people in the community telling you "well it's not really an academic school but my child enjoys himself" and that's the truth. They do not seek to retain teachers with high academic standards and although they have set curriculum standards (for example) one 5th grade teacher will pile on homework, the next will give none. This is a once great school that has suffered over the past few years from poor leadership at the top and a general dumbing down of their standards," said one parent with children at American School of Warsaw in Warsaw.

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Is the cost of living in Poland high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Poland, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Poland is generally considered to be quite affordable. Groceries, transportation, and utilities are all relatively inexpensive compared to other European countries. Rent prices vary depending on the city and the size of the apartment, but are generally lower than in other European countries. Eating out is also relatively inexpensive, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around 10-15 euros," said one expat in Poland.

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"The cost of living in Poland is generally quite affordable compared to other European countries. The cost of living varies depending on the city, with larger cities such as Warsaw and Krakow having a higher cost of living than smaller cities and rural areas. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Poland is typically around $500-700 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is usually around $700-900 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Poland typically costs around $10-15 USD per person," said one expat living in Poland.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Poland?

When we asked people living in Poland about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Poland, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks are a popular destination for families, offering a variety of activities such as walking, biking, and picnicking. Beaches are also a popular destination for residents, offering swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Sports complexes are also popular, offering a variety of activities such as basketball, tennis, and soccer. Additionally, many cities in Poland have public swimming pools, which are a great way to cool off during the summer months," said an expat in Poland.

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What is the weather like in Poland?

"The weather in Poland is generally mild, with warm summers and cold winters. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 25°C, while in the winter months temperatures can drop to as low as -10°C. Rainfall is fairly common throughout the year, with the most rain occurring in the summer months. Snowfall is also common in the winter months, especially in the mountainous regions," commented one expat living in Poland.

"Northern Poland is usually colder, winters are milder but because of the humidity (Baltic Sea) it may feel like 10C lower than actual temperature," remarked one expat living in Poland.

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Are there good restaurants in Poland?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Poland is U Fukiera, located in the heart of Warsaw. U Fukiera is known for its traditional Polish cuisine, such as pierogi, bigos, and kotlet schabowy. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as Italian pasta and French crepes. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Another popular restaurant in Poland is Restauracja Karczma Polska, located in Krakow. This restaurant specializes in traditional Polish dishes, such as pierogi, bigos, and kotlet schabowy. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as Italian pasta and French crepes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Finally, Restauracja Pod Baranem is a popular restaurant in Warsaw. This restaurant specializes in traditional Polish dishes, such as pierogi, bigos, and kotlet schabowy. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as Italian pasta and French crepes. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive," wrote one expat living in Poland.

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Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Poland?

"People living in Poland typically buy groceries from supermarkets, convenience stores, and local markets. Other shopping can be done at department stores, shopping malls, and specialty stores. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular in Poland," mentioned an expat living in Poland.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Poland?

"In order to visit Poland, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from a Polish embassy or consulate prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting a completed application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, and a travel itinerary. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Poland, foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit. The process of applying for a residence permit involves submitting a completed application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, proof of health insurance, and proof of accommodation. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required," mentioned an expat living in Poland.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Poland?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Poland are generally considered to be affordable. The cost of healthcare services is relatively low compared to other European countries, and the government subsidizes a large portion of the cost. Health insurance is also relatively inexpensive, with most plans costing less than $100 per month. Additionally, the government provides free healthcare to those who are unable to afford it. Overall, healthcare and health insurance in Poland are considered to be quite affordable," remarked one expat living in Poland.

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