Finding a peaceful city to call home is a priority for many of us, and when given the choice, we seek the best options available. However, for foreigners adjusting to life in a new city, navigating daily challenges can often be a daunting experience. Fortunately, this article aims to simplify that journey by highlighting the top best 15 cities to live and work in Poland in 2025.
According to recent statistics, Poland is experiencing a significant influx of expatriates, with foreign residents accounting for approximately 3.5% of the population in urban areas. Major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław have become hubs for skilled professionals, offering a blend of career opportunities, cultural experiences, and a high quality of life.
In addition to the city rankings, we will also discuss various living costs, including rental prices. For instance, the average rent in Warsaw is around €800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, while Wrocław offers more affordable options, averaging €600. We’ll also provide tips to help you secure good accommodations in Poland in 2025.
As you read through, you can expect to gain valuable insights that will make your transition to life in Poland smoother and more enjoyable.
What are the Top Best 15 Cities to Live and Work in Poland in 2025?
- Warsaw
- Kraków
- Wrocław
- Gdańsk
- Poznań
- Katowice
- Łódź
- Lublin
- Olsztyn
- Rzeszów
- Szczecin
- Białystok
- Gdynia
- Sopot
- Bielsko-Biała
1. Warsaw
Where it is located: Warsaw is the capital city of Poland, situated in the central part of the country along the Vistula River.
What is the city known for: Warsaw is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and impressive architecture, blending historical buildings with modern skyscrapers. The city has a reputation for resilience, having been extensively rebuilt after World War II.
Notable festivals: Some notable festivals in Warsaw include the Warsaw Film Festival, the Warsaw Autumn (an international festival of contemporary music), and the Street Art Festival, which showcases urban art and performances.
Top companies you can find in Warsaw: Warsaw is home to a range of companies across various sectors, including large enterprises like PKN Orlen, PKO Bank Polski, and Orange Polska. It’s also a growing hub for startups and tech companies.
Renowned schools/universities: The city is home to several prestigious institutions, including the University of Warsaw, Warsaw University of Technology, and the Kozminski University, known for its business programs.
Estimated cost of living: The estimated cost of living in Warsaw can vary for individuals, but on average, a single person might need about $700-$1,000 per month for basic expenses, while families might aim for around $2,000 or more, depending on lifestyle.
Special fact about people living in Warsaw: People in Warsaw are known for their warm hospitality and resilience. The city has a good blend of cultures and traditions, making it a unique place to experience Polish heritage alongside modern European influences.
2. Kraków — Cities to Live and Work in Poland in 2025
Where it is located: Kraków is located in southern Poland, on the Vistula River. It is the capital of the Lesser Poland Voivodeship.
What is the city known for: Kraków is known for its rich history, stunning medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural life. It’s one of the oldest cities in Poland and features the historic Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also known for its historic Wawel Castle and significant Jewish heritage.
Notable festivals:
1. Kraków Film Festival is one of the oldest film festivals in Europe, focusing on documentary, animation, and short films.
2. Kraków Christmas Market is a beautiful market held during the holiday season in the main square.
3. Ethnographic Festival is showcasing folk culture and traditions from around the world.
4. Sacrum Profanum is a contemporary music festival that celebrates the boundary between sacred and profane music.
Top companies you can find in Kraków:
Some major companies and organizations in Kraków include:
- IBM
- Capgemini
- Shell
- UBS
- Asseco Poland
Renowned schools/universities:
Jagiellonian University is one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1364. AGH University of Science and Technology is known for engineering and technical studies. Kraków University of Economics is focused on economics and business.
Estimated cost of living: The estimated cost of living in Kraków is relatively affordable compared to other major European cities. A single person might expect to spend around 2,500 to 4,000 PLN per month, depending on lifestyle and housing choices.
Special dishes about people living in Kraków:
- Obwarzanki krakowskie is a type of bagel that is a traditional street food.
- Kraków-style zapiekanka is a long baguette topped with cheese, mushrooms, and various other toppings, usually served hot.
- Makówka is a traditional poppy seed cake commonly enjoyed during festive occasions, particularly at Christmas.
3. Wrocław
Location: Southwestern Poland, in the Lower Silesian Voivodeship.
Notable festivals: Wrocław Jazz Festival, Theater in the City, and the Wrocław Multimedia Fountain.
Top companies you can find in Wrocław: IBM, Nokia, and Credit Suisse.
Renowned schools/universities: University of Wrocław, Wrocław University of Technology, and Wrocław Medical University.
4. Gdańsk
Location: Northern Poland, situated on the Baltic Sea coast.
What is the city known for: Its rich maritime history and as a center for the Solidarity movement.
Notable festivals: St. Dominic’s Fair, Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival, and the Gdańsk City of Winds Festival.
Top companies you can find in Gdańsk: LPP, Energa, and Polpharma.
Renowned schools/universities: University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk University of Technology, and Medical University of Gdańsk.
Estimated cost of living: Generally lower than in larger Polish cities, with average monthly costs around 3,000-4,000 PLN.
Special dishes about people living in Gdańsk: Żurek (sour rye soup), Pierogi (dumplings), and fresh seafood dishes like herring and cod.
5. Poznań
Location: Poznań is located in western Poland, along the Warta River. It is one of the oldest and largest cities in the country.
Notable Festivals: The Malta Festival, the Jazztopad Festival, and the Ethno Port Festival are popular events that celebrate arts, culture, and music.
Top Companies: Notable companies include Solaris Bus & Coach, Volkswagen Poznań, and various tech startups.
Estimated Cost of Living: The cost of living in Poznań is relatively affordable compared to other major Polish cities, with average monthly expenses for a single person ranging between €600 and €800.
Tourist Attractions: Key attractions include the Old Market Square, the Poznań Croissant Museum, the Imperial Castle, and the Malta Lake.
6. Katowice
- Location: Katowice is situated in southern Poland, in the Silesian Voivodeship. It serves as a major cultural and economic center of the region.
- City Overview: Katowice is known for its industrial heritage and has transformed into a cultural hub with a focus on art, music, and technology.
- Notable Festivals: The OFF Festival, the Rawa Blues Festival, and the Silesian Jazz Festival attract music lovers from around the world.
- Top Companies: Major companies include Silesian University of Technology, Grupa Lotos, and various tech firms and startups.
- Renowned Schools/Universities: The University of Silesia, Katowice School of Economics, and the Silesian University of Technology are prominent educational institutions.
- Estimated Cost of Living: Living costs in Katowice tend to be lower than in other Polish cities, with monthly expenses for a single person averaging between €550 and €750.
- Unique Fact About Residents: Katowice has a diverse population with a rich tapestry of cultures, partly due to its historical significance as a melting pot of various ethnic communities in Silesia.
7. Łódź — Cities to Live and Work in Poland in 2025
Location: Central Poland, approximately 135 kilometers southwest of Warsaw.
Popular places: Manufaktura (a former textile factory turned shopping and arts complex), Piotrkowska Street (one of the longest commercial streets in Europe), and the EC1 Łódź – City of Culture.
What is the city known for: Łódź is known for its rich industrial history, particularly in textiles, and its vibrant arts scene. It has become a center for film production, often referred to as the “Polish Hollywood.”
Notable festivals: Plus Camerimage (an international film festival), Łódź Design Festival, and the Urban Forms Festival (street art festival).
Top companies you can find in Łódź: Inditex (Zara), Procter & Gamble, and Amazon have significant operations in the city.
Renowned schools/universities: Łódź University, Academy of Fine Arts in Łódź, and the Film School in Łódź.
Estimated cost of living: The cost of living in Łódź is generally lower than in major cities like Warsaw, with average monthly expenses around 3,000-4,000 PLN.
8. Lublin
Where it is located: Southeastern Poland, approximately 170 kilometers from Warsaw, near the border with Ukraine.
What is the city known for: Lublin is known for its rich history, beautiful old town, and multicultural heritage. It played a significant role in Polish and Jewish history.
Notable festivals: Carnaval Sztukmistrzów (Street Art Festival), Lublin Jazz Festival, and the Jagiellonian Fair.
Top companies you can find in Lublin: Lublin is home to companies like Lubelskie Węgiel Bogdanka, which operates one of Poland’s largest coal mines, and various tech startups.
Renowned schools/universities: Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin University of Technology, and John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin.
Estimated cost of living: The cost of living in Lublin is moderately priced, with average monthly expenses around 3,000-3,800 PLN.
Special dishes about people living in Lublin: Lublin is famous for its “pszczelnik” (a type of honey dessert) and “lubelskie pierogi” (dumplings), showcasing traditional Polish flavors.
9. Olsztyn
Where it is located: Northern Poland, approximately 60 kilometers from the Baltic Sea and around 180 kilometers from Warsaw, in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship.
What is the city known for: Olsztyn is known for its beautiful lakes, medieval architecture, and as a vibrant cultural and academic center. It is surrounded by lush natural landscapes.
Notable festivals: Olsztyn’s “Olsztyńskie Noce Teatralne” (Theatrical Nights), the Olsztyn Festival of Good Music, and the Olsztyn Jazz Festival.
Top companies you can find in Olsztyn: Major employers include Olsztyn Brewery and regional governmental offices, as well as several manufacturing companies.
Renowned schools/universities: University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn School of Public Health, and various vocational schools.
Estimated cost of living: Olsztyn has a relatively low cost of living, with average monthly expenses ranging from 2,800 to 3,500 PLN.
Special dishes about people living in Olsztyn: They are known for “sękacz” (also known as tree cake or branched cake), “czernina” (duck blood soup), and regional fish dishes due to the nearby lakes.
10. Rzeszów
Where it is located: Rzeszów is located in southeastern Poland, serving as the capital of the Subcarpathian Voivodeship.
What is the city known for: Rzeszów is known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and as a center for business and education in the region. It’s also recognized for its modern architecture and historical landmarks, such as the Rzeszów Castle.
Notable festivals: Key festivals include the Rzeszów Festival of Street Art, the Film Festival, and various cultural events celebrating local traditions.
Top companies you can find in Rzeszów: Major companies include Pratt & Whitney, a leading aerospace manufacturer, and various tech startups and research institutions.
Renowned schools/universities: The University of Rzeszów and the Rzeszów University of Technology are well-known educational institutions.
Estimated cost of living: The cost of living in Rzeszów is generally lower than in larger Polish cities, with affordable housing and everyday expenses.
Special dishes about people living in Rzeszów: Traditional dishes include “szarlotka” (apple pie) and “pierogi” (dumplings), often filled with potatoes, cheese, or meats.
11. Białystok
Where it is located: Białystok is situated in northeastern Poland, serving as the capital of the Podlaskie Voivodeship.
What is the city known for: The city is known for its multicultural heritage, being home to various ethnic groups and languages. It boasts beautiful parks and is often called the “green city” due to its many green spaces.
Notable festivals: Important events include the Białystok Cultural Festival, the International Classical Music Festival, and the Theatre Festival.
Top companies you can find in Białystok: Key companies include the Białystok-based brewing company, companies in the agricultural and food sectors, and technology firms.
Renowned schools/universities: The University of Białystok and the Medical University of Białystok are prominent educational institutions.
Estimated cost of living: The cost of living in Białystok is relatively low compared to bigger cities, making it an affordable place to live.
Tourist attractions: Notable tourist attractions include the Branicki Palace, the Opera and Philharmonic Orchestra, and various parks such as Planty Park.
12. Gdynia — Cities to Live and Work in Poland in 2025
Where it is located: Gdynia is located on the Baltic Sea in northern Poland and is part of the Tri-City metropolitan area, together with Gdańsk and Sopot.
What is the city known for?: Gdynia is known for its modernist architecture, shipbuilding industry, and as a popular seaside resort with beautiful beaches.
Notable festivals: Gdynia hosts the Gdynia Film Festival, the Open’er Festival (a major music event), and the Gdynia Sailing Festival.
Top companies you can find in Gdynia: Significant companies include shipbuilding firms, logistics companies, and maritime services.
Renowned schools/universities: Gdynia Maritime University and the Gdynia School of Art are key educational institutions.
Estimated cost of living: The cost of living in Gdynia is moderate but can be higher in coastal areas.
Special dishes about people living in Gdynia: Local specialties include fresh seafood, particularly herring dishes, and “zupa rybna” (fish soup).
13. Sopot
- Where it is located: Sopot is located on the Baltic Sea coast, situated between Gdańsk and Gdynia in northern Poland.
- What is the city known for: Sopot is known as a popular tourist destination for its beaches, spa facilities, and vibrant nightlife. It is famous for its wooden pier, one of the longest in Europe.
- Notable festivals: Sopot holds numerous events, including the Sopot Festival and various music and art festivals.
- Top companies you can find in Sopot: The city is home to various tourism and hospitality businesses, as well as some IT firms.
- Renowned schools/universities: The Sopot School of Higher Education is notable; however, many students also attend universities in nearby Gdańsk.
- Estimated cost of living: The cost of living in Sopot is higher due to its premium location and tourist popularity.
- Special dishes about people living in Sopot: Specialties include local seafood dishes and traditional Polish cuisine served in beachside restaurants.
14. Bielsko-Biała
Where is it located? Nestled at the foot of the Beskidy Mountains, Bielsko-Biała is a city in southern Poland, situated in the Silesian Voivodeship. Its strategic location, only a short drive from the Czech border, makes it a gateway to beautiful mountain landscapes.
What is the city known for:
Bielsko-Biała is renowned for its rich history of textile manufacturing, stunning architecture, and picturesque settings. The city showcases a unique blend of modern industry and historical legacy, with notable influences from Austrian and Czech culture, evident in its stunning buildings and vibrant street life.
Notable festivals:
The city hosts several colorful festivals throughout the year, including the Bielsko-Biała City Days, which feature concerts, parades, and cultural exhibitions. The Bielsko-Biała Film Festival celebrates independent cinema, drawing film lovers from all over the region, while the Beskidy Mountains Festival promotes outdoor sports and nature appreciation.
Top companies you can find in Bielsko-Biała:
Bielsko-Biała is home to several leading companies, particularly in the textile, automotive, and technology sectors, including renowned brands like Kompania Piwowarska and Bielsko-Biała Railway Works. The city has a strong industrial base, making it an attractive place for businesses and startups alike.
Renowned schools/universities:
The city boasts reputable educational institutions like the University of Finance and Administration and the Bielsko-Biała School of Finance, which draw students from across Poland and abroad, fostering a vibrant academic community dedicated to innovation and research.
Estimated cost of living:
Living in Bielsko-Biała is relatively affordable compared to major Polish cities like Warsaw or Kraków. The estimated monthly cost for a comfortable lifestyle can range from 2,500 to 4,000 PLN, depending on personal spending habits, making it an attractive option for students and families alike.
15. Szczecin
Where it is located:
Szczecin is a vibrant port city located in the northwest of Poland, near the border with Germany. It sits on the banks of the Oder River, just a short distance from the Baltic Sea, offering stunning waterfront views and a rich maritime history.
What is the city known for:
Known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, Szczecin is a hidden gem with a unique blend of Polish and German influences. The city is famous for its expansive parks, including the lovely Jasne Błonia, and impressive landmarks like the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle and the National Museum of Szczecin.
Top companies you can find in Szczecin: Szczecin’s economy is bolstered by key industries such as shipbuilding, logistics, and information technology. Major companies, including the Szczecin Shipyard and several logistics firms, make the city a hub for innovation and trade.
Renowned schools/universities: Home to esteemed institutions like the University of Technology and the Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin is an academic center that provides high-quality education in various fields, attracting students from all over Poland and beyond.
Special fact about people living in Szczecin: Szczecin’s residents are known for their open-mindedness and cultural consciousness. This diverse city is a melting pot of traditions and lifestyles, where people are eager to celebrate their cultural heritage while embracing modern influences, resulting in a unique and dynamic living environment.
How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Poland
Finding accommodation in Poland can be a significant challenge for workers, especially in major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław. According to recent data, nearly 30% of monthly income is typically spent on housing, making it essential to find affordable options.
While you may come across various accommodation listings, many can be out of your budget range. In fact, rental prices in Warsaw have increased by approximately 15% over the past year, putting considerable pressure on individuals seeking affordable living spaces.
To help navigate this situation, we’ve curated a guide focused on finding not just accommodation but specifically budget-friendly options across Poland. Let’s dive in and discover the best strategies for securing a great place to live without breaking the bank.
Note:
- Lease Agreements (Umowa Najmu): Ensure you have a written lease agreement in Polish that clearly outlines the terms of your tenancy, including rent, duration, and responsibilities. Understand your rights as a tenant.
- Registration of Address (Zameldowanie): Your landlord might be required to register your address (zameldowanie). This is often needed for official purposes.
- Be Aware of Scams: Be cautious of suspiciously low-priced offers and never send money without seeing the property in person or having a trustworthy contact verify it.
1. Renting a Room in a Shared Apartment (Pokój do Wynajęcia)
This is often the most affordable option for longer stays. Look for listings on local Polish real estate portals (like OLX.pl, Otodom.pl, Gratka.pl – you might need translation tools), Facebook groups for expats or housing in specific cities, and by word of mouth.
2. Flatsharing with Locals or Other Foreign Workers
Sharing an apartment significantly reduces individual costs for rent and utilities. Again, online portals and social media groups are good places to find flatmates.
3. Consider Accommodation Provided by Your Employer
Some employers, especially in sectors like agriculture or manufacturing, might offer basic accommodation, which can be very cost-effective, though the quality can vary. Inquire about this when accepting a job offer.
4. Worker Hostels or Dormitories
Some industries or agencies might have dedicated housing for their workers, which can be cheaper than private rentals. Ask your employer or recruitment agency about this possibility.
5. Join Expat and Local Housing Groups on Facebook
These groups are great for finding room shares, short-term rentals while you search for something permanent, and getting advice from others. Search for groups like “Expats in [City Name], Poland” or “[City Name] – Mieszkania, Pokoje, Noclegi.”
6. Connect with Other Foreign Workers: Ask colleagues or other foreign workers for advice and leads on affordable housing.
7. Visit Local Notice Boards: Sometimes, local landlords or individuals looking for roommates will post ads on physical notice boards in supermarkets, universities, or community centers.
Budgeting and Cost-Saving Tips
- Factor in Utility Costs: When comparing rental prices, always ask about utility costs (czynsz, prąd, woda, gaz, internet) as these can significantly impact your monthly expenses. Sometimes “czynsz” includes some utilities.
- Be Prepared for a Deposit (Kaucja): Landlords usually require a security deposit, which can be equal to one or two months’ rent. Factor this into your initial costs.
- Consider Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Unfurnished apartments might be cheaper to rent, but you’ll need to factor in the cost of buying furniture.
- Be Flexible with Your Requirements: Be open to different neighborhoods and slightly smaller spaces to find more affordable options.
- Negotiate (Politely): In some cases, especially with private landlords, there might be room for polite negotiation on the rent, particularly for longer leases.
How can a Foreigner Get a Job in Poland?
Firstly, as a foreigner, you need to secure a job offer from a Polish employer. Following this, if you are not an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, the employer must obtain the necessary work permit. Subsequently, you can then apply for the appropriate work visa and, upon arrival, complete the required registration.
Top Websites to Find Poland Jobs
- Fasthire: Fasthire is a career and educational platform offering global job listings and resources for professionals. It provides services such as CV writing, LinkedIn optimization, and interview preparation. Additionally, Fasthire offers career advice, ebooks, and information on career events, aiming to connect job seekers with international vacancies and help employers find qualified talent.
- Pracuj.pl: One of the largest and most popular job portals in Poland, offering a wide range of job opportunities across various sectors.
- LinkedIn: A global professional networking platform where many Polish companies actively post job openings for various roles.
- No Fluff Jobs: Specializes in IT jobs in Poland, known for its transparent job descriptions and salary information.
- OLX Praca: A widely used classifieds platform in Poland that includes a significant section for job offers across different industries.
- Indeed: A major international job search engine with a strong presence in Poland, aggregating listings from various sources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Poland is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for expatriates, with major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław leading the way. Each city offers its unique blend of history, culture, and job opportunities, making them ideal places to live and work.
Notably, the cost of living varies, with Warsaw being the most expensive, while Wrocław provides more affordable options. The festivals and esteemed educational institutions in these cities further enhance their appeal.
As Poland continues to grow as a hub for skilled professionals, newcomers can look forward to a rewarding experience in this dynamic country.
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