Study in Bulgaria: Housing & Living Costs

On average, living costs in Bulgaria are low. In fact, on average, they’re the lowest out of all twenty-seven EU countries. The average cost of housing is also lower in Bulgaria. 

Many international students find themselves in the capital Sofia. These costs will reflect the cost of living in the capital.

Some average costs of living in Sofia (in BGN and USD) are:

• Monthly rent (1 bedroom apartment): 710BGN ($440) *
• Utilities (monthly average): 200BGN ($125)
• Monthly public transport pass: 50BGN ($31)
• Meal (inexpensive restaurant): 12BGN ($7.50)
• Coffee: 2.60BGN ($1.60)
• Milk (1 liter): 2.10BGN ($1.30)
• Vegetables (1kg): 2BGN ($1.25)
• Eggs (dozen): 3BGN ($1.90)
• Water (1.5 liter): 0.95BGN ($0.60) **
• Chicken (1kg): 10BGN ($6.20)
• Wine (bottle): 10BGN ($6.20)
• Bread (loaf): 1.20BGN ($0.75)

* Most students, both Bulgarian and international, choose to live in university accommodation. This costs significantly less than private renting. In Bulgaria, students tend to live either in small bedsits or in larger shared apartments. 

** In cities like Sofia and Varna, the tap water is mostly safe to drink. Elsewhere, it can be patchy. It’s best to buy bottled water should you find yourself heading on a trip away from the cities.

The average cost of living in Sofia is 920BGN ($575) per month, excluding rent. Rent is normally counted as a separate cost in Bulgaria. 

As for healthcare, Bulgaria’s system is rapidly improving. Healthcare in Bulgaria is not completely free. You’ll normally need to pay something to see a doctor and to get treatment. People working in Bulgaria contribute to the healthcare system through taxation. This means that you'll need to use your medical insurance to access healthcare. Some insurers also allow you to access private healthcare. 

As you can work on your residence permit, some students take up part-time work. Do be aware, however, that it can be difficult to find work without a good knowledge of Bulgarian. Outside of Sofia and Varna, it can be tough to find work if you’re relying solely on your English skills. However, lots of tourists visit Bulgaria each summer. If you speak a common language, like German, Russian or Mandarin, then you might be able to find a job working with tourists.