If you’re planning to study or move to Poland in 2025, you're probably wondering: How much is the cost of living in Poland?
Indian students typically spend around PLN 2,200–3,200/month (₹44,000–₹64,000) on rent, groceries, transport, and essentials. Couples or small families should budget between PLN 4,000–6,500/month (₹80,000–₹1.3 lakh), depending on the city. Warsaw and Krakow are pricier, while Wrocław, Łódź, and Lublin offer a more affordable lifestyle.
Here, we’ll cover the Poland living cost for Indian students, monthly rent in Poland 2025, cost of living in Warsaw vs Krakow, and smart ways to manage your student expenses in Poland.
What is the Monthly Cost of Living in Poland in 2025?
In 2025, the monthly cost of living in Poland ranges from 2,500 zł (₹49,000) for Indian students in shared housing to 8,000 zł (₹1.5 lakh) for families in city apartments. Students can manage on a tight budget with public transport and dorms, while professionals and expats spend more on private rent and lifestyle.
Monthly Cost of Living in Poland (By Profile Type)
Profile
Avg. Monthly Cost (PLN/INR)
Inclusions
Indian Students
2,500–3,500 zł (₹49K–₹68K)
Shared rent, groceries, local transport
Professionals (solo)
4,000–5,500 zł (₹78K–₹1.07L)
1BHK, utilities, personal spending
Couples
5,000–6,500 zł (₹97K–₹1.25L)
Rent, food, shared bills, travel
Families (2 kids)
6,500–8,000 zł (₹1.25L–₹1.5L)
3BHK rent, school fees, healthcare, transportation
The Poland cost of living for couples and families remains competitive compared to Germany or France. Public services, low grocery prices, and affordable healthcare make Poland attractive for Indian expats.
Rent is the biggest part of the Poland living cost for Indian students and professionals. In 2025, expect to pay around 600–1,200 zł (₹11.6K–₹23K) for dorms and up to 4,800 zł (₹94K) for a family flat in Warsaw’s city centre. Suburban housing in cities like Gdańsk or Wrocław can reduce rent by 20–30%.
Rent and Accommodation Costs in Poland (2025)
Accommodation Type
Avg. Monthly Rent (PLN/INR)
Ideal For
University Dormitory
600–1,200 zł (₹11.6K–₹23K)
Budget students
Shared Flat (1 room)
1,200–1,800 zł (₹23K–₹35K)
Students, interns
1BHK – Outside City Centre
2,300 zł (₹45K)
Couples, solo expats
1BHK – City Centre
2,900 zł (₹57K)
Young professionals in Warsaw, Kraków
3BHK – Suburbs
3,600 zł (₹71K)
Families
3BHK – City Centre
4,800 zł (₹94K)
High-income expats, diplomats
Monthly rent in Poland 2025 differs sharply between cities. Kraków and Warsaw are pricier, while Wrocław and Gdańsk offer good housing options for less. University dormitory prices in Poland remain the best option for budget students.
Food and Grocery Expenses – Cost of Living in Poland in 2025
In 2025, the average food cost in Poland per month ranges from 600–1,000 zł (₹11K–₹19K) for Indian students and up to 1,500 zł (₹28K) for expat families. Students rely on discount chains like Biedronka or Lidl, while families may shop more at premium stores or local markets.
Grocery Prices in Poland (Basic Food Items, 2025)
Grocery Staple (1 kg or 1L)
Avg. Price (zł/₹)
Notes
Milk (1L)
3.92 zł/₹74
Supermarket average
Rice (1kg)
5.59 zł/₹106
Common long-grain rice
Eggs (12)
12.45 zł/₹236
Fresh, regular-grade
Chicken Breast (1kg)
24.42 zł/₹460
Boneless, lean cut
Tomatoes (1kg)
10.91 zł/₹207
Roma or local variety
Local Cheese (1kg)
34.48 zł/₹640
Gouda, Edam, or similar
Apples/Oranges (1kg)
~6 zł/₹110
In-season fruit
Bread (500g)
4.93 zł/₹91
White/brown loaf
Water (1.5L bottle)
2.44 zł/₹45
Common brand
Dining Out Costs in Poland
Inexpensive meal: 40 zł (₹750)
McMeal combo: 32 zł (₹600)
3-course dinner for 2: 180 zł (₹3,400)
Budget meals and cooking at home help reduce student expenses in Poland 2025, while weekend outings and premium groceries push up costs for professionals and families.
Public transport is reliable and affordable in Polish cities. The monthly travel card costs around 119 zł (₹2,260) and offers unlimited access to buses, metros, and trams. Students often get a 50% discount, making it a budget-friendly option in cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław.
Transportation Costs in Poland (2025)
Transport Type
Avg. Cost (zł/₹)
Notes
One-way ticket (bus/tram/metro)
4.20 zł/₹80
Valid for 20–75 minutes
Monthly pass (adult)
119 zł/₹2,260
Unlimited rides
Monthly pass (student)
~59 zł/₹1,100
50% discount with ISIC/student ID
Taxi start fare
9 zł/₹170
Normal tariff, base fee
Taxi per km
3.90 zł/₹75
Excludes traffic wait charges
Gasoline (1L)
6.35 zł/₹120
Varies slightly across regions
Bike-share/electric scooter
1–2 zł per ride/₹20–₹40
Common in Warsaw, Kraków, Poznań
Public transport in Poland is punctual and safe - helping students and expats cut down on commuting expenses. For short stays or budget-friendly travel, inter-city trains and promo bus tickets (e.g., FlixBus) are excellent alternatives.
Utility and Internet Costs in Poland
Utility bills form an important part of the Poland living cost for Indian students and families. Expect to spend 750–1,700 zł/month (₹14,500–₹33,000) on basic utilities like heating, water, and electricity for an 85 m² apartment in Poland.
In winter, heating alone can make up 50% of the bill. Internet remains affordable at around 62 zł (₹1,150) for a 60 Mbps connection, while mobile plans with data and calls start at 36 zł (₹660). Shared student housing reduces individual utility costs to 200–300 zł/month (₹3,800–₹5,800).
Utility and Internet Costs in Poland
Service
Typical Cost (zł/₹)
Season/Note
Electricity + heating + water
1,108 zł/₹20 K
Winter peak ±30 %
Fibre internet 60 Mbps+
62 zł/₹1,150
24-month contracts
Mobile plan (10 GB)
36 zł/₹660
Prepaid SIM, unlimited calls
Health Insurance and Medical Costs in Poland
Don’t forget medical insurance when calculating the cost of studying and living in Poland. Student NFZ (public) insurance in Poland costs just 55 zł/month (₹1,000) and covers GP visits and emergency care. For broader coverage, many international students and professionals opt for private plans costing 150–250 zł/month (₹2,700–₹4,500). Emergency care without insurance can exceed 500 zł (₹9,000) per visit. Health insurance is mandatory for visa and university registration.
Health Insurance Costs for Students and Expats
Cover Type
Monthly Cost (zł/₹)
What You Get
NFZ student plan
55 zł/₹1 K
GP, hospital, basic meds
Private add-on
150–250 zł/₹2.7 K–₹4.5 K
Specialist visits, diagnostics, dental
Travel/short-term
200 zł+/₹3.6 K
30-day policy, required for visa
A valid NFZ or private insurance is necessary for student expenses in Poland and avoids large out-of-pocket costs during emergencies.
Personal Expenses and Lifestyle Spending – Cost of Living in Poland
Aside from rent and food, personal spending adds to the monthly cost of living in Poland 2025. Students spend an average of 300–600 zł/month (₹5,700–₹11,500) on personal and leisure activities. Gym memberships cost around 140 zł (₹2,550), movie tickets are 30 zł (₹550), and a mid-range dinner for two is about 180 zł (₹3,300). Shopping from high-street brands like Zara or H&M typically ranges from 150–300 zł (₹2,700–₹5,500) per item. Weekend getaways within Poland or to nearby EU cities can cost 200–500 zł (₹3,600–₹9,000).
Lifestyle and Personal Spending in Poland
Expense Type
Average Cost (zł/₹)
Notes
Gym Membership
140 zł/₹2,550
Monthly
Weekend Cinema Trip
30 zł/₹550
1 seat
Mid-range Restaurant
180 zł/₹3,300
For two
Fashion/Shopping
150–300 zł/₹2.7K–₹5.5K
Zara, H&M
Weekend Getaways
200–500 zł/₹3.6K–₹9K
Poland or EU
Education Costs in Poland for International Students in 2025
The Poland budget for international students is more affordable than many other EU countries. Public university tuition for international students ranges between 9,000–18,000 zł/year (₹1.8–3.6 lakh). English-taught private programs charge up to 36,000 zł/year (₹7.2 lakh). Application fees are 85–200 zł (₹1,500–₹3,600). Students must also show visa proof of funds around 30,000 zł (₹6 lakh) and budget 200–400 zł/month (₹3,600–₹7,200) for books, supplies, and local travel.
Education Costs in Poland for International Students (2025)
Fee Type
Estimated Cost (zł/₹)
Details
Public University Tuition
9,000–18,000 zł/₹1.8–3.6 L
Bachelors, Masters
Private/English Program Fees
18,000–36,000 zł/₹3.6–7.2 L
Annual
Application Fee
85–200 zł/₹1.5K–₹3.6K
Per university
Visa Financial Proof
~30,000 zł/₹6 L
Yearly
Study Materials & Transit
200–400 zł/₹3.6K–₹7.2K
Monthly
These costs make Poland a budget-friendly destination for international students.
City-Wise Cost of Living in Poland in 2025
Living costs in Poland vary significantly by city. In 2025, Warsaw remains the most expensive, with monthly expenses for professionals crossing 7,000 zł, mainly due to high rent and dining costs. On the other hand, cities like Łódź and Poznań offer much lower living expenses—ideal for students and families on a budget. For example, monthly rent in Poland 2025 ranges from 2,000 zł in Łódź to over 4,000 zł in Warsaw for a one-bedroom flat.
City-Wise Cost of Living in Poland (Students vs Professionals)
City
Students (avg/month)
Professionals/Families (avg/month)
Warsaw
3,200–3,800 zł (₹64,000–₹76,000)
5,500–7,200 zł (₹1.1L–₹1.44L)
Kraków
2,900–3,500 zł (₹58,000–₹70,000)
5,000–6,200 zł (₹1L–₹1.24L)
Wrocław
2,700–3,300 zł (₹54,000–₹66,000)
4,800–5,800 zł (₹96,000–₹1.16L)
Gdańsk
2,600–3,100 zł (₹52,000–₹62,000)
4,600–5,600 zł (₹92,000–₹1.12L)
Poznań
2,500–3,000 zł (₹50,000–₹60,000)
4,400–5,400 zł (₹88,000–₹1.08L)
Łódź
2,300–2,800 zł (₹46,000–₹56,000)
4,000–5,000 zł (₹80,000–₹1L)
If you're comparing cost of living in Warsaw vs Krakow or planning long-term, secondary cities can offer similar amenities with better cost efficiency.
How to Reduce Monthly Cost of Living in Poland
The average student expenses in Poland 2025 range between 2,500–3,500 zł/month, depending on your city and lifestyle. But with smart choices, you can easily reduce that by 20–30%.
Here’s how to lower your monthly rent in Poland, food, and transit costs:
Live in university dorms (600–1,200 zł/month) or shared flats outside city centers.
Use student cards to slash public transport cost in Poland by half (monthly passes from 59 zł).
Shop at budget chains like Biedronka and Lidl for essentials; this cuts your average food cost in Poland per month to around 700 zł.
Avoid peak-season rent hikes in cities like Kraków or Gdańsk; consider affordable cities in Poland for students like Łódź or Poznań.
Join Facebook groups or OLX for second-hand deals on clothes, books, and appliances.
Choose NFZ public healthcare instead of private insurance unless necessary.
With careful budgeting, many Indian students manage their Poland living cost under ₹60,000/month (≈3,000 zł), even in major cities.
Is Poland Cheaper Than Other EU Countries in 2025?
Yes, Poland is one of the more affordable EU countries to live in. Daily expenses like rent, groceries, and transport cost less than in Germany or the Netherlands. A student or professional can live well without overspending. Cities like Wrocław or Poznań offer a good balance—decent salaries, low rent, and strong public services. The Cost of Living Index is 43.24, much lower than the EU average. Despite this, Poland ranks high in quality of life (156.94), which makes it a value-for-money option for international students and expat families in 2025.
What is the average cost of living in Poland for Indian students in 2025?
The Poland living cost for Indian students in 2025 ranges from PLN 2,000 to 3,000 per month, including rent, food, transport, and basic expenses.
Which Polish city is most affordable for international students—Kraków, Wrocław, or Warsaw?
Among the three, affordable cities in Poland for students include Wrocław and Kraków. Warsaw has higher housing and dining costs by comparison.
Can Indian students manage cost of living in Poland with part-time jobs?
Yes, but only partially. The part-time job income vs living cost in Poland still leaves a gap—most students need savings or scholarships to cover rent.
Is Poland cheaper than Germany or the Netherlands for Indian students in 2025?
Absolutely. Poland budget for international students is lower than in Germany or the Netherlands, especially for housing and public transport.
How much should a working professional budget monthly in Poland?
A professional should budget PLN 3,500–5,000 monthly, factoring in housing, commuting, and food. The total budget for Indians in Poland is still lower than most EU countries.
What is the monthly living cost for a couple in Poland?
The Poland cost of living for couples and families starts at PLN 4,500/month. Costs vary by city, especially with private apartments.
How expensive is it to live in Poland as a family with kids in 2025?
Living in Poland as an Indian family with school-aged children may cost between PLN 6,000–8,000 per month, depending on city, schooling, and rent.
Do Polish universities offer scholarships that cover living costs for Indian students?
Some do. But most scholarships only partially offset rent and meals. The rest of the student expenses in Poland 2025 must be covered independently.
What is the cost of living in Poland for Indian PhD students?
Many PhD candidates receive stipends, but the cost of studying and living in Poland still ranges from PLN 2,500–3,500/month in cities like Kraków.
Do most rental apartments in Poland include utilities like heating and electricity?
Not always. The monthly rent in Poland usually excludes heating and water, which can add PLN 300–500 to your bill depending on usage.
Is public transport in Poland affordable for students and professionals?
Yes. The public transport cost in Poland is among the lowest in the EU. Student monthly passes start around PLN 50, while adults pay PLN 100–150.
Is it cheaper to cook or eat out regularly in Polish cities?
Cooking is always more affordable. With the average food cost in Poland per month at PLN 600–800, daily dining out can easily double your expenses.
How much do Indian students typically spend on food and groceries in Poland?
The groceries and essentials cost in Poland 2025 for Indian students typically ranges from PLN 600–900 per month, depending on diet and location.
What are the hidden or unexpected costs while living in Poland as a student?
Besides tuition and rent, students should plan for health insurance, visa renewals, and admin fees—common but often overlooked in student expenses in Poland.
Can a local Polish salary cover the cost of living for Indian professionals relocating in 2025?
Yes, especially in smaller cities. But in Warsaw or Gdańsk, Poland budget for international students and professionals must account for higher rent and transport costs.
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