Pros and Cons of Living in Poland 2024

Living in Poland can be an exciting adventure, but it also has its challenges for both foreigners and Poles. Choosing to live in Poland, especially for those with no Polish ancestors or connections and little knowledge of the country, will almost certainly involve a steep learning curve, but it may be well worth it.

Accommodation in Poland

+ PRO: Accommodation is reasonably priced and generally easy to come by.

Even in Warsaw, the capital, lodging is inexpensive in comparison to other European countries. Polish cities also have a wide range of accommodation options, from small apartments to free-standing houses, so expats won't have to look far to find something that suits their preferences, budget, and commute.

+ PRO: English-speaking realtors are available

Expats can usually find an English-speaking real-estate agent to assist them with their search, though this may be slightly more expensive.

- CON: Small apartments and limited space

People in Poland generally live in apartments, and expats may be surprised to learn that even small apartments can house entire families. As a result, many places are much smaller than one is accustomed to.

The Cost of living in Poland

+ PRO: Relatively inexpensive compared to other European countries

Poland's prices for goods, dining out, public transportation, and rent are competitive with those of other European countries. Drinks in a bar or pub are also significantly less expensive than in Western Europe.

- CON: Pricey clothing and petrol

Many Poles complain that new clothes are more expensive in Poland than in Western Europe. Petrol is also expensive, which, combined with parking fees and other associated costs, should cause expats to reconsider purchasing a vehicle.

Lifestyle and culture in Poland

+ PRO: Vibrant nightlife and entertainment in Polish cities

In some areas and government departments, communist-style bureaucracy and inefficient customer service prevail. As a result, expats should expect a lot of red tape when attempting to arrange residency or work permits.

- CON: Long working hours and high pressure in the workplace

Poles work long and hard hours at the office. The nature of one's role and the culture of one's company will determine whether this is expected. There is a lot of competition for stable, well-paying jobs, which can sometimes lead to strained and suspicious workplace relationships.

- CON: Long winters

No matter how much a person enjoys the cold and snow, the short winter days and excessive time spent indoors can be stressful. Winter can last six months in a bad year, and Poles frequently cite this as a reason for emigrating.

- CON: The language barrier

Though English speakers are not difficult to find, they may be more scarce outside of major cities. Because older Poles are less likely to speak English, learning a little Polish may be necessary.

Unfortunately, many English-speaking expats find learning Polish difficult. However, Poles are very appreciative of efforts to learn their language, so learning the basics will help you gain local respect.

+ PRO: Poles are multilingual

Most younger Poles are multilingual, and many will be fluent in English.

Healthcare in Poland

+ PRO: High standard of inexpensive private healthcare

In Poland, top-tier private healthcare is available from hospitals with outstanding medical staff and cutting-edge technology. Private healthcare is relatively inexpensive in comparison to other countries, and expats who work for an international company or a well-known Polish company usually have a private healthcare package included in their employment.

- CON: Doctors often have poor bedside manner

Polish doctors are not known for their bedside manner and may appear uncaring.

In Poland, progressive ideas about patient self-advocacy and ideas like birth plans and keeping the patient informed are uncommon. Even in the private sector, expats should expect to be treated brusquely or impatiently.

Transport in Poland

+ PRO: Developed and affordable public transport system

The majority of Polish cities have well-developed and extensive public transportation systems. Some of them, including Warsaw, have a city bicycle system that expats can use to pick up and drop off at various locations.

Transport throughout the country is also reasonably priced and comprehensive, and even small villages usually have a bus line, even if it only runs a few times per day. There is also a well-developed rail network, with fast, dependable trains connecting all major cities, as well as Warsaw and other European capitals.

- CON: Underdeveloped road infrastructure and expensive petrol

Although there are some highways, many major routes, such as the road from Warsaw to Gdask, often have only one lane in each direction, resulting in traffic congestion.

In comparison to the United States or even other Western European countries, maintaining a car in Poland can be costly, and gasoline is expensive.