The cost of living in Georgia for students in 2025 is among the lowest in Europe. On average, international students spend 1,200–1,800 GEL (INR 39K–58K) per month on essentials like housing, food, transport, and utilities. Cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi offer affordable lifestyles, safe environments, and growing student communities.
In this guide, you'll read more about monthly living expenses, accommodation costs, food and grocery prices, transport options, utility bills, healthcare, entertainment, and student-specific expenses. You'll also find city-wise comparisons, lifestyle cost ranges, and tips to manage your budget effectively.
Average Cost of Living in Georgia (Monthly Breakdown)
Living in Georgia offers a budget-friendly lifestyle for international students. As of October 2025, the average monthly cost of living in Georgia for students ranges between 1,200–1,800 GEL (INR 39K–58K) depending on the city and lifestyle. Essentials like rent, food, transport, and utilities are significantly cheaper than in Western Europe, with Tbilisi being slightly more expensive than Batumi and Kutaisi. Students can comfortably manage their expenses with smart budgeting and city-specific choices.
Monthly Living Costs in Georgia:
Expense Category
Approximate Monthly Cost (GEL)
Approximate Monthly Cost (INR)
Accommodation
800–1,200 GEL
INR 26K–39K
Food & Groceries
400–600 GEL
INR 13K–19K
Transport
40–80 GEL
INR 1.3K–2.6K
Utilities
180–250 GEL
INR 6K–8K
Internet & Mobile
75 GEL
INR 2.4K
Miscellaneous
200–300 GEL
INR 6.5K–10K
Students living in shared flats or dormitories can save up to 30% on monthly rent compared to private apartments.
Accommodation expenses in Georgia vary based on city, housing type, and proximity to universities. The accommodation cost in Georgia for students is generally affordable, especially in cities like Kutaisi and Batumi. Tbilisi, being the capital, has slightly higher rent but offers more student-friendly options.
City-Wise Accommodation Costs:
City
Housing Type
Approx. Monthly Rent (GEL/INR)
Tbilisi
Private Apartment
1,000–1,200 GEL (INR 32K–39K)
Tbilisi
Shared Flat
600–800 GEL (INR 19K–26K)
Tbilisi
On-Campus Dorm
300–500 GEL (INR 10K–16K)
Batumi
Private Apartment
800–1,000 GEL (INR 26K–32K)
Kutaisi
Shared Flat / Dorm
400–600 GEL (INR 13K–19K)
Note: Students can save significantly by choosing shared flats or university dorms, especially in Kutaisi and Batumi where rents are 20–30% lower than Tbilisi.
The food cost in Georgia is highly affordable for international students, especially those living in cities like Kutaisi and Batumi. On average, students spend 400–600 GEL (INR 13K–19K) per month on groceries and occasional dining out. Cooking at home is significantly cheaper than eating out, and local markets offer fresh produce at low prices.
Common Grocery Prices in Georgia:
Item
Average Price (GEL/INR)
Milk (1L)
5.08 GEL (INR 165)
Bread (1 loaf)
1.43 GEL (INR 46)
Rice (1 lb)
2.01 GEL (INR 65)
Eggs (12 pcs)
6.50 GEL (INR 210)
Chicken (1 lb)
7.09 GEL (INR 230)
Apples (1 lb)
1.46 GEL (INR 47)
Restaurant Meal
30 GEL (INR 975)
McDonald's Combo Meal
23 GEL (INR 745)
Note: Buying groceries from local markets and cooking at home can reduce monthly food expenses by up to 40% compared to eating out regularly.
Transportation Cost in Georgia
Public transportation in Georgia is reliable, affordable, and widely used by students. The transport cost in Georgia is among the lowest in Europe, with metro, buses, and ride-hailing services like Bolt available in major cities. Monthly transport expenses typically range between 40–80 GEL (INR 1.3K–2.6K) depending on usage and city.
Transport Type & Average Cost:
City
Transport Type
Approx. Monthly Cost (GEL/INR)
Tbilisi
Metro + Bus Pass
40 GEL (INR 1.3K)
Batumi
Bus + Occasional Taxi
60 GEL (INR 2K)
Kutaisi
Bus Only
30–40 GEL (INR 975–1.3K)
Note: Students can apply for discounted monthly transport passes in Tbilisi, which cost around 25 GEL (INR 810) and cover unlimited metro and bus rides.
Utility and Internet Costs in Georgia
The utility cost in Georgia is manageable for international students, especially those living in shared flats or dormitories. Monthly expenses for electricity, water, heating, and garbage services range between 180–250 GEL (INR 6K–8K) depending on the city and season.
Internet services are fast and affordable across Georgia, with unlimited broadband plans available for around 75 GEL (INR 2.4K) per month.
Utility & Internet Cost by City:
City
Service Type
Approx. Monthly Cost (GEL / INR)
Tbilisi
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Heating)
250 GEL (INR 8K)
Batumi
Utilities
200 GEL (INR 6.5K)
Kutaisi
Utilities
180 GEL (INR 6K)
All Cities
Internet (Unlimited, 60 Mbps+)
75 GEL (INR 2.4K)
Students living in shared accommodations can split utility bills, reducing individual costs by up to 50%. Internet providers often offer student discounts on long-term plans.
Healthcare and Insurance Expenses
Healthcare in Georgia is accessible and affordable for international students. Most universities require students to have valid health insurance, which typically costs around 100–150 GEL (INR 3.2K–4.9K) per month.
The cost of doctor visits ranges from 30–50 GEL (INR 975–1.6K), while common prescription medicines are available at reasonable prices. For those wondering what is the cost of living in Georgia, healthcare and insurance form a small but essential part of the monthly budget.
Healthcare & Insurance Costs in Georgia:
Service Type
Average Monthly Cost (GEL / INR)
Remarks
Health Insurance
100–150 GEL (INR 3.2K–4.9K)
University or private plans
Doctor Visit
30–50 GEL (INR 975–1.6K)
General consultation
Prescription Medicines
20–40 GEL (INR 650–1.3K)
Common medications
Some universities offer subsidized insurance plans that cover basic medical services and emergency care, helping students save on out-of-pocket expenses.
Entertainment and Lifestyle Expenses
The living expenses in Georgia include more than just rent and groceries, students also spend on entertainment, fitness, and social activities. On average, monthly lifestyle costs range between 200–400 GEL (INR 6.5K–13K) depending on personal preferences and city.
For those exploring the cost of living in Georgia Europe, lifestyle expenses are notably lower than in Western European countries. Students can enjoy weekend outings, fitness memberships, and occasional dining out without overspending.
Common Lifestyle Costs:
Activity
Average Monthly Cost (GEL / INR)
Gym Membership
100 GEL (INR 3.2K)
Movie Ticket
20 GEL (INR 650)
Café Visit (2–3/week)
120 GEL (INR 3.9K)
Weekend Outings
150 GEL (INR 4.9K)
Students can reduce lifestyle costs by using student ID discounts at gyms, cinemas, and restaurants across major cities.
Cost of Living in Major Georgian Cities
The cost of living in Georgia varies across its major cities: Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi, each offering a distinct lifestyle and price range.
Tbilisi, the capital, is the most popular among international students due to its modern infrastructure and vibrant culture, but it also has the highest living costs. Batumi offers a coastal lifestyle with slightly lower rent, while Kutaisi is the most affordable, ideal for students seeking a quieter and budget-friendly environment.
City vs Monthly Cost Comparison for major Georgian Cities:
City
Approx. Monthly Cost (GEL/INR)
Lifestyle Overview
Tbilisi
1,500–1,800 GEL (INR 49K–58K)
Popular, modern, slightly expensive
Batumi
1,200–1,500 GEL (INR 39K–49K)
Coastal, balanced, student-friendly
Kutaisi
1,000–1,200 GEL (INR 32K–39K)
Quiet, affordable, academic-focused
Tips to Manage Living Costs in Georgia
Managing the cost of living in Georgia for international students becomes easier with smart budgeting and lifestyle choices.
Students who cook at home, use public transport, and opt for shared housing often spend 30–40% less than those living solo or eating out frequently.
For those exploring how to save money as a student in Georgia, here are some practical tips to reduce expenses without compromising comfort:
Choose shared flats or university dorms to cut down on rent.
Cook meals at home instead of dining out regularly.
Shop at local markets for fresh and affordable groceries.
Use student ID cards for discounts on transport, entertainment, and shopping.
Apply for student transport passes in cities like Tbilisi.
Track monthly spending using budgeting apps.
Reduce utility bills by conserving electricity and water.
Conclusion
Georgia continues to be one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe. With monthly expenses ranging from 1,000–1,800 GEL (INR 32K–58K), students can enjoy a balanced lifestyle without financial strain. From budget-friendly housing and groceries to low-cost transport and utilities, the overall cost of living in Georgia is significantly lower than in Western Europe.
With smart planning and city-specific choices, international students can make the most of their time in Georgia, both academically and financially.
What is the minimum monthly budget a student needs to live in Georgia comfortably?
A student can live comfortably in Georgia with a monthly budget of 1,000–1,200 GEL (INR 32K–39K). This covers shared accommodation, groceries, transport, and basic utilities. Budgeting smartly and using student discounts can help reduce costs further, especially in cities like Kutaisi and Batumi.
How do student spending habits vary across different Georgian cities?
Students in Tbilisi tend to spend more due to higher rent and lifestyle costs, averaging 1,500–1,800 GEL (INR 49K–58K) monthly. Batumi offers a coastal lifestyle with moderate expenses, while Kutaisi is ideal for budget-conscious students, with monthly costs around 1,000–1,200 GEL (INR 32K–39K).
Is it cheaper to live in Georgia as a student compared to Poland or Hungary?
Yes, Georgia is generally 30–40% cheaper than Poland or Hungary. Monthly student expenses in Georgia range from 1,000–1,800 GEL (INR 32K–58K), while similar costs in Poland or Hungary often exceed €600–€800 (INR 54K–72K), especially in capital cities.
What are the most affordable neighborhoods for students in Tbilisi?
Areas like Gldani, Samgori, and Isani in Tbilisi offer lower rent and easy metro access, making them popular among students. Monthly rent in these neighborhoods ranges from 600–800 GEL (INR 19K–26K) for shared flats, compared to higher rates in central districts.
How do seasonal changes affect student living costs in Georgia?
Winter months can increase utility bills due to heating, especially in Tbilisi and Batumi. Heating costs may rise by 30–40%, adding 50–80 GEL (INR 1.6K–2.6K) to monthly expenses. Summer months are generally cheaper, with reduced energy usage and more outdoor activities.
Are there any free or low-cost student activities available in Georgia?
Yes, students can enjoy free museum days, university-hosted events, hiking trails, and cultural festivals. Cities like Tbilisi and Kutaisi offer low-cost access to libraries, parks, and student clubs. These activities help students socialize and explore Georgia without straining their budget.
What kind of student discounts are available on food, transport, and entertainment?
Students in Georgia can access discounts on public transport, cinema tickets, gym memberships, and select restaurants. Tbilisi offers a student metro pass for 25 GEL (INR 810). Many cafés and bookstores also provide 10–15% discounts with valid student ID cards.
Can students in Georgia open a local bank account easily?
Yes, international students can open a Georgian bank account with a valid passport, residence permit, and university enrollment proof. Banks like TBC and Bank of Georgia offer student-friendly accounts with no maintenance fees and easy access to mobile banking services.
Are there any hidden costs international students should be aware of in Georgia?
Students should budget for visa renewals, residence permits, academic materials, and occasional medical expenses. These hidden costs can add 200–300 GEL (INR 6.5K–10K) annually. Currency conversion fees and emergency travel costs are also worth factoring into the overall budget.
What is the average cost of student visa processing for Georgia?
The student visa processing fee for Georgia is approximately 100 USD (INR 8.3K). Additional costs may include document translation, courier charges, and biometric appointments. Students should also budget for residence permit fees, which range from 30–50 GEL (INR 975–1.6K).
How much do students typically spend on clothing and personal care in Georgia?
Monthly spending on clothing and personal care ranges from 150–250 GEL (INR 4.9K–8K). Local brands and seasonal sales help students save. Essentials like shampoo, toothpaste, and laundry detergent are affordable, costing around 50–70 GEL (INR 1.6K–2.3K) monthly.
Is it possible to live in Georgia on a part-time student job income?
While part-time jobs can supplement income, they may not fully cover living costs. Students earning 500–800 GEL (INR 16K–26K) monthly from part-time work can manage basic expenses but still need financial support for tuition and emergencies.
How do students manage money transfers from India to Georgia?
Students use services like Wise, Western Union, or bank wire transfers to send money from India to Georgia. Transfer fees vary, and exchange rates impact final amounts. Opening a local bank account helps manage funds efficiently and avoid high ATM withdrawal charges.
Are there any apps or tools students use to track expenses in Georgia?
Yes, apps like Mint, Splitwise, and Money Lover are popular among students for tracking daily expenses. These tools help categorize spending, set monthly budgets, and monitor savings. Some Georgian banks also offer built-in expense tracking in their mobile apps.
What is the cost of weekend travel or short trips within Georgia for students?
Weekend trips to places like Kazbegi, Borjomi, or Batumi cost around 100–200 GEL (INR 3.2K–6.5K) including transport, food, and accommodation. Shared taxis, budget hostels, and group travel help reduce costs. Students often travel during holidays to explore Georgia affordably.
How does the cost of living in Georgia compare to India for students?
Georgia is slightly more expensive than India in terms of rent and imported goods, but cheaper for transport, utilities, and healthcare. Monthly student expenses in Georgia range from INR 32K–58K, while similar costs in Indian metro cities average INR 25K–45K.
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