Moving to Poland in 2025: cost, lifestyle and opportunity for expatriates

Thinking of moving to Poland in 2025? Learn the real cost of living, rent in Warsaw and beyond, salaries, visas and work permits, safety, healthcare (NFZ vs private), and the best cities for expats.

Is Poland expensive to live in?

Short answer: compared with Western Europe and many US cities, Poland remains affordable, especially outside Warsaw. As of October 2025, crowd-sourced benchmarks put average monthly costs (excluding rent) around $812 / ~2,965 PLN for one person and $2,733 / ~9,977 PLN for a family of four nationwide. Warsaw is higher than the national average but still competitive by EU capital standards.

How much does rent cost in Warsaw vs. other cities?

Expect higher rents in Warsaw, with substantial savings in Kraków, Wrocław, Poznań, Łódź, Gdańsk or Szczecin. Current community data shows Warsaw’s everyday costs and rent trending above the national mean; living costs can be ~40% higher than average Poland in the capital per expat reports. Use these as ballparks and check current listings before signing.

What salary do I need—and what do people actually earn?

Poland’s median gross wage in April 2025 was 7,262 PLN. Published estimates for average gross pay range roughly 8,100–8,700 PLN per month depending on sector and method (official vs. private datasets). Knowing the median helps you gauge what a typical employee earns after high outliers are removed. Being native in a Western language such as French, English or German guarantees you to find jobs that offer significantly higher wages than the Polish-only ones.

Can foreigners work in Poland in 2025? What changed?

Yes—and it’s becoming more digital and streamlined. A new law (in force 1 June 2025) restructured rules for employing foreigners and moved filings online. As of October 2025, work-permit applications and employment contract submissions are mandatory online via the government portal; paper applications are not accepted. Fees and exemptions vary by permit type and nationality. Always verify current rules before applying.

Do I need a visa to move to Poland?

EU/EEA citizens don’t need a visa but must register residence after 90 days. Non-EU citizens typically need a national visa or temporary residence card tied to work, study, or family. Don’t overstay your 90-day visa-free period (if applicable); plan your residence path from day one.

Is Poland safe for expats and families?

Yes — Poland is one of the safest countries in Europe, ranked “Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions” by the U.S. Department of State — the same category as Denmark or Japan. The Numbeo 2025 Safety Index places Poland above many Western European nations, with Warsaw, Kraków and Wrocław all noted for low crime and peaceful city life. Travel studies consistently list Warsaw among Europe’s safest capitals, and publications like Nomad Sister and Time Out praise Poland as one of the safest and most affordable destinations for solo female travel. With minimal violent crime, clean public spaces, and a strong sense of order, Poland offers a calm, family-friendly, and female-friendly environment for expats.

How does healthcare work for foreigners?

Poland runs a dual system: public NFZ (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia) + private providers (e.g., LuxMed, Medicover). Foreigners usually show insurance when applying for a residence card; long-term residents often combine NFZ coverage (via employment, business, student status or voluntary contributions) with private plans for faster access and English-language clinics. EU citizens can use EHIC for medically necessary care during temporary stays.

Which city should I choose—Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław or Gdańsk?

• Warsaw: highest salaries, most jobs, fastest international links, vibrant food/tech scenes; higher rents. Also cited among top “affordable-quality” global cities in 2025 rankings.

• Kraków: rich culture, strong IT/BPO, big student population, slightly lower costs than Warsaw.

• Wrocław: superb livability, bike-friendly, growing engineering/fintech hub; comparatively low crime index.

• Gdańsk (Tri-City): seaside lifestyle, logistics/IT clusters; seasonal rental swings.

What about energy prices and inflation?

To protect households, Poland extended electricity price caps into 2025 (first nine months), helping stabilize utility bills while inflation trends down from 2023 peaks. Policy can change, but the cap signaled relief for residents through most of 2025.

How is the job market for tech and entrepreneurs in Poland?

Poland is a regional business hub in CEE: large talent pool, competitive wages, EU market access, and a strong IT/fintech/green-energy/logistics footprint. Special Economic Zones and R&D incentives support investors and startups; consult local advisors for up-to-date incentives by region.

Do I need to speak Polish?

In major cities and international firms, you’ll get by in English, but Polish accelerates integration—from admin to networking. Many employers value at least A2–B1 Polish for client-facing roles. (Tip: start with survival Polish; add private lessons once you land.)

How do banking & everyday admin work?

Opening a bank account is straightforward with a passport (and often a PESEL and proof of address for full features). Many services—from e-prescriptions to tax and immigration filings—are digital, which is a plus once you set up your trusted profile (Profil Zaufany) and learn the portals. (Move to Poland can help shoulder the bureaucracy.)

What lifestyle can I expect?

• Transport: reliable intercity rail and modern urban transit; cycling infrastructure is expanding.

• Culture & nature: UNESCO-packed cities, Baltic coast, Mazury lakes, Tatra mountains—all within weekend reach.

• Community: growing expat circles, international schools, and plenty of co-working (Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław).

Thinking about making Poland your new home? Move to Poland can help you every step of the way — from finding housing and navigating visas to setting up banking, healthcare, and business services. Let our local experts make your relocation seamless so you can focus on enjoying life in one of Europe’s safest and most welcoming countries. Discover our services and start your move with confidence.