Cost of living in Bulgaria in 2024

For many years, Bulgaria has been considered one of the most budget-friendly countries in Europe to live in. This reputation has been supported by low prices for quality products and services, along with a comfortable climate.

Bulgaria has beautiful nature - both sea and mountains, plenty of architectural and natural landmarks, and a local population that is friendly towards tourists.

Is it cheap to live in Bulgaria, and how much money is needed per month - these questions concern almost every foreigner planning a holiday or a move. We present to you an analysis of prices and main expenses, prepared by the specialists of Bulgaria Avenue.

Standard of living in Bulgaria compared to other countries

Among all the countries in the world, Bulgaria ranks 43rd in the quality of life index. This takes into account not only per capita income, but also ecology, safety, accessibility of education, and so on.

One of Bulgaria's significant advantages is that the country has good ecology, plenty of green spaces, parks, and few industrial enterprises.

Another undeniable advantage of Bulgaria is the country's safety. The crime rate in Bulgaria is low, and residents feel safe. However, in tourist cities during the season, the number of thefts and currency exchange scams increases.

The cost of living in Bulgaria is significantly lower than in the USA, the UK, and Western European countries. 

As is well known, life in the country consists of certain expenses. These are rent for housing or taxes on your own property, expenses for food, medical services, medical insurance, mobile communications, transport, leisure, and clothing. 

The bigger the family, the higher the expenses. So, how much money is needed to live in Bulgaria. Let's look at the main price range.

Housing expenses

The most expensive housing, of course, is in the capital. Renting studios in Sofia starts from 300 euros, one-bedroom apartments from 500 euros, and for an apartment with 2 bedrooms you will have to pay around 700 euros per month. In Burgas and Varna, on average, renting a two-room apartment costs 350-450 euros per month. In Sunny Beach, Ravda, Albena, and so on, from October to May you can rent an apartment more cheaply. Out of season at the resorts, you can find housing options from 200 euros. 

If the apartment is owned, only taxes and the maintenance fee are paid. The tax amount depends on the location of the property and its area. As paradoxical as it sounds, for an apartment of the same size in Pomorie or Sunny Beach, owners will have to pay more than in Burgas. These localities are part of the resort zone, and the tax there is higher. 

In any case, the tax on your own apartment of 60-80 sq. m will be no more than 50 euros per year. Taking all components into account, it is obvious that buying property in Bulgaria is more profitable than renting it.

The maintenance fee is on average 12 euros per sq. m per year. In ordinary city buildings, it is either absent or minimal - covering current repairs, lift maintenance, and cleaning. 

Both owners living in their apartments and tenants pay for actual electricity and water consumption. If the apartment is connected to the central heating system or has gas, the corresponding expenses are paid additionally. 

In summer, utility costs for a family of three can be around 80-100  euros per month. In winter they reach 200-300 euros per month and higher due to heating. Most homes in Bulgaria are heated using air conditioners or electric heaters.

The price depends on the condition of the housing, the area in which it is located, and the rental period, which is usually one year. Landlords are reluctant to rent for a shorter period, and you will have to pay much more.

Keep in mind that when renting housing, the first payment will include a deposit equal to one month's rent. It is charged once. In addition, you need to pay the estate agent's fees, which usually amount to 50% of one month's rent. The final amount will depend on the city and the rates of the firm you choose. 

If there are no violations of the rental agreement on your part and no material damage is caused to the apartment, then after the end of the contract period the deposit will be returned to you. 

Food expenses

In recent years, Bulgaria has seen a steady rise in food prices. Meat and dairy products, vegetables, fruits, and grains have become more expensive.

While vegetables and fruits become slightly cheaper in summer and autumn, other products keep rising in price. The weekly grocery basket for a family of two is 100-200 euros.

On average, a family of 2 spends 400-800 euros per month on food in Bulgaria, depending on product preferences.

Dinner in a restaurant for two with wine will cost from 50 euros.

Transport services

In 2024, all children under 14 years old can use the bus in Bulgaria free of charge. This significantly reduces a family's transport expenses.

One working adult travelling around the city by public transport pays around 30 euros per month. Discounts are provided for large families and disabled people.

When travelling by personal car, monthly expenses will include fuel, insurance, taxes, and a fee for using intercity roads. Compulsory car insurance per month will cost from 100 euros. It is cheaper to arrange insurance for a whole year at once. In Bulgaria there are toll roads, so a vignette will be required. The cost per month will be around 20 euros. 

Medical services

Bulgarian citizens, as well as foreigners with permanent residence status, have special insurance that covers most of the expenses for medical services. 

The insurance coverage excludes a number of illnesses and procedures, as well as materials used during operations. 

Medical insurance for foreigners costs from 80 euros per year.

On average, a visit to the doctor without insurance costs 30 euros. Taking tests and medications into account, monthly expenses on medicine can reach 100 euros and more.

When planning your budget in Bulgaria, do not forget to take into account the cost of medical services.

We would like to note that the qualifications and level of training of doctors in Bulgaria are quite high. The country is also known for its health resorts, healing muds, and mineral springs.

Education

Schools in Bulgaria are free. Studying at universities and taking courses is a pleasure you will have to pay for. Universities offer state-funded places, but in most cases a fee is charged for them, amounting to 500-1000 euros per year.

If your child is at school, expenses include buying stationery, as well as a number of reference and additional materials. Per year they amount to around 150 euros. If the school requires a uniform, you need to prepare another 50 euros or so. In total, monthly expenses come to around 20-30 euros.

Diplomas obtained at Bulgarian universities are recognised in all countries of the European Union. 

How much money is needed per month in Bulgaria

If you add up all the expenses for a person living in a two-room apartment in Varna or Burgas, per month they will amount to around 600 euros. The average cost of living in Bulgaria per month for a family of two will amount to 1000 euros. 

You can significantly reduce the cost of living in Bulgaria per month with your own home. Even if you have found a not-very-expensive apartment somewhere on the outskirts, having your own in the centre is still cheaper and much better. 

Additional expenses for leisure, entertainment, travel, clothing, and other services such as spa salons and fitness depend on personal preferences and possibilities. 

Is it expensive to live in Bulgaria - everyone can answer this question in their own way. Actual expenses depend on personal wishes, choices, and income level.

In most other EU countries, the cost of living is even higher. It is for this reason that many freelancers, pensioners, and simply working people choose Bulgaria to live in. If you are looking for an apartment or a house in Burgas, Varna, Nessebar, or Sveti Vlas, contact the specialists of the Bulgaria Avenue agency. We will help you choose comfortable and affordable property for living and leisure.