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With a mix of charming villages, bustling cities, beautiful mountains, and stunning coastal towns and cities, Bulgaria has become increasingly popular among people looking for a more affordable lifestyle but still having a good quality of life in safe and beautiful surroundings.
Whether you're a family of four, a couple, or a retiree, this guide breaks down the average cost of living in Bulgaria for 2025, with specifics for both city and village life.
You may also like to read: How to Buy Property in Bulgaria. In this guide, we breakdown the process of buying a property in Bulgaria into simple steps.
Where Do Expats Choose to Settle in Bulgaria and Why
Living in a City vs. a Village
Bulgaria's cost of living varies a lot depending on where you settle, and if you purchase a home, in which case your monthly expenses will be considerably lower.
What's Healthcare Like in Bulgaria
Here's a quick comparison:
| Category | Sofia (Capital) | Regional Cities | Villages & Small Towns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (2BR Apt) | €600–€900 | €400–€700 | €150–€300 |
| Utilities | €100–€150 | €80–€130 | €60–€100 |
| Internet | €10–€15 | €10–€15 | €10–€15 |
| Groceries (Family) | €350–€500 | €300–€450 | €250–€400 |
| Car Expenses | €150–€250 | €150–€250 | €100–€180 |
| Eating Out | €8–€15/person | €6–€12/person | €4–€10/person |
Many expats from the U.S. are surprised at how affordable everyday life can be. See a full breakdown of motivations in why Americans are moving to Bulgaria for lower living costs and better lifestyle balance
You may also like to read: The Pros and Cons of Moving to Bulgaria. In this guide, we look at what is great and not so great about living in Bulgaria.
Family of Four
A family of four living in Sofia or Plovdiv can expect their monthly outgoings to be about:
• Rent (2–3 bedroom): €600–€900/month
• Groceries: €400–€500/month
• Utilities: €100–€150/month
• Transportation/Car: €200/month
• Miscellaneous (school, entertainment, clothes): €300–€500/month
• Estimated Monthly Total: €1,600–€2,200 (City)
In a village, the same family might get by on €1,000–€1,400/month, largely due to lower rent and food costs.
You may also like to read: The Pros and Cons of Moving to Sofia. If you want to move to a cosmopolitan European city on a budget, then this guide is invaluable.
Couples (Working or Digital Nomads)
Couples have it easier financially and often live in 1-bedroom apartments or studios.
• Rent: €400–€700 (city), €150–€300 (village)
• Groceries: €200–€300
• Utilities & Internet: €100
• Car/Public Transport: €100–€200
• Entertainment, cafes, etc.: €150–€300
• Estimated Monthly Total: €950–€1,500 (City)
• In a village or small town, a couple can comfortably live on €700–€1,000/month.
You may also like to read: The Pros and Cons of Living in Varna. If you want to live in a vibrant city with beautiful beaches, then Varna is the place for you. Read all you need to know about this great city in this invaluable guide.
Retirees
Retirees often prefer the slower pace of rural Bulgaria but can also enjoy city life with a modest pension.
• Rent: €150–€400
• Utilities: €60–€100
• Groceries: €180–€250
• Healthcare (private insurance + visits): €50–€100
• Transport/Car: €100
• Estimated Monthly Total: €700–€1,200 (City)
• In a village, retirees can live well on €600–€900/month, and many grow their own food or barter locally.
You may also like to read: The Pros and Cons of Living in Veliko Tarnovo. Many retirees love living in the historic city of Veliko Tarnovo (but watch out for those hills!). In this guide, we look at why this is such a popular place to live.
Owning a Car in Bulgaria
Car ownership is relatively affordable compared to Western Europe:
• Fuel: €1.30/L on average
• Insurance: €200–€400/year
• Annual Road Tax & Inspection: €100–€200
• Maintenance: €20–€50/month (varies)
• For those living in villages or towns with less public transport, having a car is almost essential.
Bulgaria offers a great quality of life at a fraction of the cost you'd pay in most of Europe. You can live comfortably on:
• €1,000/month in a village
• €1,500–€2,000/month in a city
• And with the right planning, a family of four can thrive on under €2,200/month.
Applying for a D Visa for Bulgaria
Whether you're a digital nomad in Sofia, a family enjoying life in Plovdiv, or a retiree growing tomatoes in the Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria offers a lot of value and a great way of life.
Whether you are looking to rent or buy a new home, be sure to check out our property listings to see what amazing value homes are in Bulgaria.
What's the Average Cost of Living in Bulgaria
