Planning to move to Bulgaria?
If you’re wondering what your monthly budget might look like, you’re in the right place.
Bulgaria is one of Europe’s most affordable countries — and it doesn’t sacrifice quality of life.
Whether you’re moving for work, retirement, or remote life, knowing the costs will help you plan smarter.
Want to try the Bulgarian experience with a digital job? Check out our offers in Bulgaria!
Why is Bulgaria budget-friendly for expats?
- One of the lowest costs of living in the EU
- Affordable rent, even in major cities
- Low taxes and utility bills
- Great public transport
- Easy access to healthcare and services
Living Expenses in Bulgaria : Average monthly living costs
| Expense Category | Average Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apt) | €300 – €500 |
| Utilities | €80 – €150 |
| Internet & Mobile | €15 – €30 |
| Public Transport | €20 – €30 |
| Groceries | €150 – €250 |
| Dining Out | €100 – €200 |
| Health Insurance | €30 – €80 |
| Total (approx.) | €700 – €1,200 |
Your actual expenses will vary depending on your lifestyle, city, and whether you live alone or share.
Rent and utilities
Rent is usually your biggest monthly cost.
Here’s what to expect in cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, or Varna:
- €300–€500 for a furnished 1-bedroom in the city center
- €200–€350 outside the center
- Shared flats are cheaper — and common among expats
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, internet) are affordable.
But watch out for heating bills in winter, especially in older buildings.
Food & groceries
Groceries in Bulgaria are cheap and good quality.
Markets and discount stores like Lidl or Kaufland offer great value.
Rough price examples:
- Bread: €0.80
- Milk (1L): €1.00
- Eggs (12): €2.00
- Chicken (1kg): €4.00
- Fruits & veggies: €1.00–€2.00/kg
Eating out is budget-friendly too:
- Mid-range meal: €10–€15
- Fast food: under €6
Transport
Getting around is easy and cheap:
- Monthly pass in major cities: €20–€30
- Taxi (5 km): €4–€6
- Intercity bus (e.g. Sofia–Plovdiv): €7–€10
Fuel prices: €1.30–€1.50/L
Just note that rural roads can be less well maintained.
Healthcare & insurance
Public healthcare exists but often comes with long waits.
That’s why many expats prefer private healthcare — still very affordable:
- Private doctor visit: €20–€40
- Dental cleaning: €30–€50
- Full private insurance: €40–€80/month
EU citizens can use their EHIC for emergencies.
But for long-term stays, private coverage is the better option.
Leisure, fitness & lifestyle
You won’t have to spend much to enjoy life in Bulgaria.
- Gym: €20–€40/month
- Cinema ticket: €5–€7
- Museum or attraction: €3–€10
- Weekend getaway: €50–€100
Plenty of festivals, nature activities, and cultural events are free or very cheap.
Cost of living by city
| City | Monthly Budget (Single Person) |
|---|---|
| Sofia | €900 – €1,300 |
| Plovdiv | €800 – €1,100 |
| Varna | €800 – €1,200 |
| Burgas | €750 – €1,100 |
| Rural areas | €600 – €900 |
Sofia has the highest costs — but also the most jobs and services.
Smaller towns are quieter and more affordable.
Tips to save money in Bulgaria
- Shop at local produce markets
- Use buses and trams instead of taxis
- Share your flat with other expats or locals
- Cook more, eat out less
- Pick a smaller city if you want cheaper rent
Is Bulgaria right for you?
If you want:
- a low-cost lifestyle
- beautiful nature
- modern comforts
- and a growing expat community
…Bulgaria might be a great fit.
Many expats working with platforms like Expat-U choose Bulgaria for exactly that balance: affordable life and good opportunities.
Living Expenses in Bulgaria : Conclusion
Living in Bulgaria gives you access to a great lifestyle — without the high prices.
With careful planning, you can enjoy:
- nature
- culture
- a strong work-life balance
- and a solid standard of living
All for a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe.
