Cost of Living in Bulgaria
Last updated on Apr 04, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in Bulgaria is generally quite affordable. A nice one bedroom apartment in Bulgaria can cost anywhere from $200 to $400 per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost from $300 to $600 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Bulgaria is usually around $10 to $15 per person.
Is the cost of living in Bulgaria high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Bulgaria, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Bulgaria is generally quite affordable compared to other European countries. Groceries, transportation, and utilities are all relatively inexpensive, while rent and dining out can be more expensive. Prices for goods and services vary depending on the city and region, but overall, Bulgaria is a great place to live if you're looking for a budget-friendly lifestyle," remarked one expat in Bulgaria.

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Will I save money living in Bulgaria?
"Living in Bulgaria can be significantly cheaper than living in the United States. The cost of living in Bulgaria is generally lower than in the United States, with rent, groceries, and other everyday expenses costing much less. Additionally, Bulgaria has a lower tax rate than the United States, which can help to reduce the overall cost of living," said one expat in Bulgaria.
What is the average cost of housing in Bulgaria?
If you are thinking about moving to Bulgaria, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Bulgaria is generally quite affordable compared to other European countries. The average cost of renting an apartment in Bulgaria is usually around €200-400 per month, while the average cost of buying a property is around €1,000-2,000 per square meter. Prices vary depending on the location and size of the property," remarked one expat in Bulgaria.
"House taxes are way way lower, electric is about the same, most heating that people use is by wood, same as mine that heats up the seven radiators to keep the house warm. Water is cheap, and if you have a well like me watering the garden doesn't cost you anything, but I am lucky that mine is drinkable to which a lot isn't," explained one expat living in Pleven.

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, whose plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Allianz's flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget.
What are typical rental prices for expats in Bulgaria?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Bulgaria can vary depending on the location and amenities, but generally ranges from around $400 to $800 per month. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment, the rental price can range from around $600 to $1,200 per month," remarked one expat in Bulgaria.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Bulgaria what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"In Bulgaria, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and dishwasher. Other common appliances may include a microwave, toaster, and coffee maker. Depending on the property, some landlords may also provide air conditioning, heating, and other amenities," commented one expat who moved to Bulgaria.
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.
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