Cost of Living in Sofia

Summary about cost of living in Sofia, Bulgaria:

Restaurants
Edit Range
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant 20.00 лв 12.00-40.00
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course 80.00 лв 60.00-120.00
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) 12.00 лв 12.00-15.00
Domestic Beer (1 pint draught) 4.00 лв 2.00-5.00
Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle) 5.00 лв 3.00-7.00
Cappuccino (regular) 3.88 лв 1.50-6.00
Coke/Pepsi (12 oz small bottle) 2.45 лв 1.50-3.70
Water (12 oz small bottle) 1.73 лв 1.00-3.00
Markets
Edit
Milk (regular), (1 gallon) 12.14 лв 9.84-15.14
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb) 1.70 лв 1.13-2.36
Rice (white), (1 lb) 1.63 лв 1.13-2.04
Eggs (regular) (12) 5.94 лв 3.60-8.00
Local Cheese (1 lb) 9.22 лв 5.44-14.97
Chicken Fillets (1 lb) 6.55 лв 3.63-9.07
Beef Round (1 lb) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) 9.84 лв 5.90-13.61
Apples (1 lb) 1.16 лв 0.68-1.81
Banana (1 lb) 1.43 лв 1.13-1.81
Oranges (1 lb) 1.29 лв 0.73-2.27
Tomato (1 lb) 1.88 лв 1.18-2.66
Potato (1 lb) 0.77 лв 0.45-1.13
Onion (1 lb) 0.73 лв 0.45-1.13
Lettuce (1 head) 1.64 лв 1.00-2.50
Water (1.5 liter bottle) 1.17 лв 0.80-1.80
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) 10.00 лв 8.00-20.00
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) 1.63 лв 1.00-2.20
Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle) 2.86 лв 1.60-4.00
Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro) 6.00 лв 5.50-6.50
Transportation
Edit
One-way Ticket (Local Transport) 1.60 лв 1.60-2.00
Monthly Pass (Regular Price) 50.00 лв 50.00-60.00
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) 2.20 лв 1.80-3.00
Taxi 1 mile (Normal Tariff) 1.93 лв 1.61-3.22
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) 18.00 лв 13.20-24.00
Gasoline (1 gallon) 11.79 лв 9.84-13.25
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car) 45,000.00 лв 41,086.00-50,000.00
Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car) 44,166.67 лв 40,000.00-50,000.00
Utilities (Monthly)
Edit
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 915 sq ft Apartment 237.37 лв 150.00-425.00
1 min. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local (No Discounts or Plans) 0.34 лв 0.20-0.50
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) 23.56 лв 15.66-32.00
Sports And Leisure
Edit
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult 56.85 лв 40.00-80.00
Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) 28.50 лв 20.00-40.00
Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat 15.00 лв 12.00-20.00
Childcare
Edit
Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child 822.57 лв 700.00-1,000.00
International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child 14,180.33 лв 8,000.00-25,000.00
Clothing And Shoes
Edit
1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar) 123.10 лв 70.00-200.00
1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, ...) 61.13 лв 30.00-90.00
1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range) 145.11 лв 100.00-200.00
1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes 158.85 лв 100.00-220.00
Rent Per Month
Edit
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre 845.34 лв 685.18-1,174.60
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre 649.45 лв 500.00-850.00
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre 1,505.00 лв 1,000.00-2,400.00
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre 1,036.22 лв 800.00-1,500.00
Buy Apartment Price
Edit
Price per Square Feet to Buy Apartment in City Centre 466.34 лв 278.71-650.32
Price per Square Feet to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre 305.63 лв 185.80-371.61
Salaries And Financing
Edit
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) 1,972.47 лв
Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly, for 20 Years Fixed-Rate 3.20 2.40-5.00

Prices in Sofia

This city had 5865 entries in the past 12 months by 578 different contributors.
Last update: March 2023
Distribution of Expenses Using Our Statistical Model:
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100 Comments so far
Anonymous on Mar 23, 2023:
Sofia may be called the biggest city in Bulgaria but the mentality of bulgarians is severely lacking to say the least.
Anonymous on Mar 15, 2023:
Any foreigners who would actually live in Bulgaria are brainless like DIAN living there.
Dian on Mar 15, 2023:
Bulgaria is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, if not say the world (with a little exaggeration), but whoever have lived in the rich west knows this is true in comparison.

People don't understand this perception because many come with the rich foreign currency (US dollar, GBP, Euro), which is doubled and sometimes almost tripped for them (e.g. 500 pounds is 1,100 in BG currency). The prices of food and necessary goods in Bulgaria are insane. You can look at the statistics above. Everything is converted from Euro, as majority of goods are imported, even the most of basics - milk, rice, fruits and vegetables. Clear examples of this is - you won't see the iPhone costing 2600 euros in another EU country, or pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range) for 150 euros. These things are 2-3 times cheaper in the developer west.

Let's say you go to a website and want to buy clothes from Sweden that has their prices in Euro. You select your items and your total is 200 Euros for 3-4 items. This for a Bulgarian would convert as double price due to the currency, labor market economy. Imagine that tomorrow you wake up and your milk from 1 euro is now 3 euros, jeans are from 40 euros to 80 euros, gas prices from 1.50 are 4 euros.

The explanation is very simple, at least in my opinion. The Bulgarian labor, especially in the IT sector, is considered one of the cheapest in the world, while at the same time of very high standard, quality and education. India comes first. Many companies from the US and rich west come in Sofia because an engineer or developer would cost half of the price than if they go to Barcelona, Stockholm or Amsterdam. This is nothing new as we already know the advantages abused of such economies, same as in India. This is causing a major problem because the world and Bulgaria has made itself a reputation of cheap labor, which is to nobody's advantage to ever become costly, ever in the future. It's a matter of time until young people and skilled professionals realize that they could migrate and utilize their labor for way higher salaries anywhere else in Europe.

This is why the population in Bulgaria is shrinking and with no surprise. Now after covid, with many people switched to full-remote work, come in Bulgaria and abuse the cheap economy, while their salaries remain in Euro. This causes further inflation, as this is poured into the economy, tricking it to believe the cost and standard of living have jumped but this is not the case. You can see apartment owners raise their rent prices 3 times as they are hoping a foreigner would come to rent it with their European salary.
Anonymous on Mar 14, 2023:
The data is not updated.
If you are living in Sofia and you follow the prices of basic food supplies - you can see that the inflation is well above 20%. For example eggs are close to 1 BGN a piece. Milk is 3 BGN litter.

Prices of apartments are well above the declared averages. For example this
https://www.bulgarianproperties.com/Apartments_(various_types)_in_Bulgaria/AD80196PL198892BG_Apartments_(various_types)_for_sale_in_Sofia.html

It is shitty location, the living space - without walls, terraces, common parts - will be max 120 sq meter - so it is 3000 euro per meter.
If you are looking for real info - don't be fooled by this data.
Anonymous on Feb 14, 2023:
Absolutely filthy and disgusting place, full of subhuman fascist tatars. Beograd will always be the true capital of the Balkans.
Anonymous on Jan 31, 2023:
There's no attraction to Bulgaria since Bulgaria has absolutely nothing to offer.Soviet mindsets abound basically it's full of undesireables without any direction in their lives the missing link globally.
Anonymous on Jan 16, 2023:
To
Anonymous on November 30, 2022

Apparently you have a pig mentality if you don't find in Bulgaria what you don't find in your homeland.
Stay in your country of birth.
There is hardly a perfect city on earth.
Otherwise, there are many good things here, as well as not so good things, but Sofia still remains the cheapest in the EU. Many Black Sea and ski resorts and spa hotels are available.
Ivan B. on Dec 14, 2022:
I believe the cost of living data should be corrected. In the recent year the prices for housing are significantly greater than what is was in the past. One basic search in Realistimo for apartments in Sofia (both for sale or for rent) will show how much the prices have gone up.
Anonymous on Nov 30, 2022:
Isn't there hate speech moderation on this website? Most comments here are just ethnic slurs and contain zero useful information. I would like some practical information about *the cost of living* in Sofia.
Anonymous on Nov 30, 2022:
I spent one month in Bulgaria observing the mindset in larger cities and in villages.The outcome was the same.To foreigners thinking about staying in Bulgaria forget about that thought.
It's a pig pen just like Bulgarian pigs living there.
Anonymous on Nov 30, 2022:
I agree with the last post about Bulgarians living in Communist times very non progressive rude to each other in public and foreigners too is their norm.Fastest shrinking population in all of Europe and the world.Theres nothing magical about Bulgaria never was.Filthy streets trash everywhere men and women smelling like a sewer but the rest of Bulgaria smells like that too.Heavy smokers drinkers loudmouthed nobody's is what they are.Want to make a Bulgarian mad? Tell them the Ottoman is their masters.
Anonymous on Nov 28, 2022:
I would not call it a very "progressive" place. It's stuck in communist times.

the idea of "service" is take it or leave it without a smile. English speakers can get by but of course, if you plan to stay in Bulgaria over 6 months, it is very limiting without Bulgarian. Most signs are in Cyrillic alphabet.

Sidewalks are unwalkable and pollution is terrible because the smog can't clear the mountain.

I prefer Austria and Switzerland but if you like "down market" places then go ahead and live in Sofia.
Anonymous on Nov 09, 2022:
You either like Sofia or you hate it depending upon your tolerance levels.My wife and I don't speak Bulgarian language since it's very hard to learn.Many friends from the UK living in Bulgaria don't either.Best advice don't socialize with the Bulgarians because no matter where in Bulgaria it is few if any Bulgarians are happy about anything.
Anonymous on Nov 06, 2022:
Just had to laugh at a comment Bulgarians ARE BORN WARRIORS how funny.
Ottomans controlled Bulgaria for a very long time.Bulgarians begged Russia to save Bulgarians.I visited Bulgaria once several years ago they are a smoke show with their mouth nothing more lot's of wind and they run away quickly when confronted physically.
Anonymous on Oct 30, 2022:
Sofia including all of Bulgaria has never been a good thing not even close to it.Europeans and British have ruined Sunny Beach Varna and any other areas they've touched in Bulgaria.

No worries though the UK government handed pensioner's their asses on Monday telling them you're on your own meaning no more pensions
Foreigner on Oct 27, 2022:
I used to vacation in Sofia for about 10 days during the summer before 2020. Now after the world opened up again, Sofia is really crowded with western European and British tourists who take advantage of cheap flights on budget airlines.

I prefer Sofia before 2020. It's definitely gotten more congested and with the official inflation of 20%, it's not a "budget" destination anymore.

Good things come to an end sometimes.
Anonymous on Jul 30, 2022:
ATTENTION TAX FOREIGN RETIREMENT PENSIONS

I was going to retire in Bulgaria until I found out Bulgaria has a 10% flat tax rate on retirement pensions no matter where they come from. To be considered a tax resident one who stays more than 183 days per year is a tax resident. It doesn't matter if any country has a tax treaty with Bulgaria there's no exemption for retired expats living in Bulgaria.

From my end my net yearly retirement income would be a tax of $3,300 usd. Regardless of what anyone says online it's a mandatory 10% tax on annual income. This information came from a tax lawyer in Bulgaria.

Just a heads up
Casual enjoyer on Jun 15, 2022:
I just want to add that whatever you have going on here is great and that I'm loving it. One of the most hilarious reads I've had in a while
Anonymous on Apr 15, 2022:
We are wiping out your wanna be tuff guys so called mafia trash 112 so far eliminated. One things for certain they cry like babies on their knees while we ram them then we bag them and burn them alive. Never fuk with the Irish republican army. So-called tuff Bulgarian women rammed with a hot curling iron and acid poured all over them.We watch as they meltdown their screams music to our ears. Never fuk with the Irish republican army.
Anonymous on Mar 10, 2022:
Say that to my father and the Irish republic army to their face. You don't have the guts to do that. Pick a spot anywhere in Bulgaria bring your friends you'll need the help. The Irish Republic Malisha,arrived in Bulgaria January 28 after my post.Tell your supposed mafia friends to join you. We have already disposed of some at the closed down mafia club in Sofia and many more will follow. The malisha,are roaming the streets of Bulgaria looking for punks just like you. Never underestimate the precision of the Irish republic malisha,to find their targets because they always do. Hide little one we are throughout Bulgaria eliminating the trash.
Anonymous on Mar 09, 2022:
To the trash irish go back in u r country we dont want u here and to the trash bulgarian lady with arab fantasy go in iraq and be used as dog
Anonymous on Jan 25, 2022:
Knowing how my father is being a member of the Irish Republic Army and how lethal the Irish Republic Army is it wouldn't surprise me if Bulgaria males were paid a personal visit during the daytime. The most feared militia in the world hands down. Russian men learned to respect Irish women after their encounter with the Irish Republic Army not long ago.Bulgarian males hiding under your mothers dress won't save any of you Males when the Irish Republic Army pays a visit unannounced rest assured the outcome will be terminal.Russia government doesn't want to tangle with the Irish Republic Army under any circumstances because it's always personal and males will know it when the Irish Republic Army pays a visit, no mercy.
Anonymous on Jan 25, 2022:
After reading through some of the negative comments it just brings light to what I experienced going to college in Sofia as an exchange student for one year. I suppose being a polite young woman from Ireland didn't matter at all especially to Bulgarian men.Harrassed every day at the college and when just eating at a restaurant alone. To say Bulgarian men are pigs would be an understatement.From what I noticed during my year in Sofia the women are just as bad.Although I paid for two years tuition at the college I couldn't take anymore of the viscious mindset Bulgarians had, so much hatred not only for people from other countries such as myself but displays of hatred for each other. Then there were those wannabe mafia males thinking people were afraid of them. But I never feared any of those wannabe thugs.I grew up around the Irish Republic Army my dad is still a member. I can guarantee any man who disrespects any woman is taught respect forcefully without a doubt. To those Bulgarian males who think they're so bad come to Ireland and try your brand of mentality. I can guarantee you'll be dropped over Bulgaria in a cloth sack not a box,bring it I dare you.
Anonymous on Dec 23, 2021:
Ha ha ha president of Bulgaria has agreed to take 53,287 Aphghanistan men only to live in Bulgaria by April 2022 and have citizenship in Bulgarian women want husbands of middleastern decent.Plus it'll enhance the economy of Bulgaria since many Aphghanistan men coming are educated. We are so excited the men are arriving in April 2022 to be our husbands.

Irina/ Sofia Bul.
Anonymous on Dec 06, 2021:
Bulgarian men are losers my bf is from Iraq and I'm a Bulgarian woman. We go everywhere together in Sofia. I remember recently a Bulgarian man got in my face trashing my bf while we were out. My Iraqi bf beat him badly left him laying on the street he broke the Bulgarian man's face. To those Bulgarian men who think they're so tuff walk up to a middle eastern men and start talking trash I dare you. I had to stop my bf from beating that man to death, true.My Iraqi bf is extremely good in bed unlike any Bulgarian man I was ever with plus my Iraqi bf is huge below the waste knows how to use it well.
Anonymous on Oct 26, 2021:
What type site is this anyway? Someone mentioned foreign white people expecting to be treated like gods? Another mentioned killing someone for setting foot on our land,making sure people knew they were tuff? I was wondering about general costs of living that's all nothing more.

Bye
To the Afghanistan fella and his guy alla on Sep 10, 2021:
Ayo Afghani we will just kill you all If you set foot on our land and behave badly , even give wrong looks .. most of us will tear your heads off bare handedly . Don't mistake our kindness for weakness we killed lots of Arabs before check our history. Bulgarians we are born warriors . I don't care from where you from if you do evil here you will get super violated. And don't come with this manmade alla in the land of the true God Tangra, you are the infidel ... Don't mistake us for Western Europeans, theyou are soft . We are tuff maafakkas on a everyday level. OK? Shoo then ..

About the prices yes they are correct almost . You can get lower prices by walking around the small grocerie stores and small restaurants. Rent wise depends which neighborhood you want. It ranges from 400 to 2000 leva.
If you get around 2000 3000 leva you will be alright. Ideally you want 4000 5000 but hey we want that wage too. It's rarely. Average is 2000 levs. The minimal wage is 640 leva. People do survive with that money here so you make your judgments. As I said tuff people we are .
Hope that's helped.
Reel Sofia Kang on Jul 25, 2021:
Foreign white people coming here (remember us Slavs are not white as you say)expecting to be threaten like gods you're not special, most of you come here because you're cheap, well you get what you deserve, somade
Greek boy on Jul 11, 2021:
To be fair I moved out of Greece because we literally don't have jobs at all. I spent several years in Poland, UK and Czech Republic and now from 2 years I'm in Sofia. Young Bulgarians have. A lot more opportunities than the young Greeks. It's full with jobs and if the wages are lower, comparing to the purchase power it is higher for the Bulgarians. However there is another picture and these are the gypsies and the older generations. They are living extremely poorly. I'm quite happy here and already told some friends who moved to Sofia and we enjoy the good nightlife.
Latest situation on May 03, 2021:
Well due to the covid situation probably or the fact that Bulgaria is preparing for the EURO currency or both some prices are going up, mostly the grocery prices.But I guess that prices are going up like everywhere these days. The good thing is that salaries are going up as well, most of my friends and relatives now earn quite well, so they don't struggle financially. Don't trust the official data about the average salary in the country, there are many people who're working illegally, so they pay minimal taxes but earn 5-10 times more than the minimal salary. The government is still corrupt, but hopefully we'll have a new one soon, for better or worse.

As for foreigners if you plan to come here because of an offer just make sure that this offer is good and that it's worth it, do your research in advance. If you're not pretentious and you're alone the absolute minimum that you'll need for a basic living is approximately 1200-1400lv, 500-600lv for rent, 100-200 for utilities, 400-600 for food and transportation. That's just a rough calculation of course, but it's a close one. As for the attitude towards you from the locals you'll see a better attitude from the younger generation under 40, rather than the older one, because the older generation grew up during the socialism and they've been through hard times, so don't be surprised if you see grumpy old people here and there. It's nothing personal :)
Tim Cleary on Apr 18, 2021:
I have to say here and now - I had a fantastic time in Bulgaria. I'm London Irish and I lived there three and a half years. I have to say it was a 'Blast'. I only left because of my health issues. Yes - the country - like all countries - has had/got it's problems. But when you see the trauma of their history and their economic situation - you have to wonder that the people are as friendly and as gracious as they are. The countryside is pristine - Not for nothing was it known as - 'Bulgaria the beautiful' - The prices are really reasonable - lots of the people speak perfect English. There is no problem getting round. Transport is efficient and cost effective. Their hotels are an absolute bargain by Western standards. Sofia, Varna and the other major Cities are packed with museums, concert halls, parks etc. The country is riddled with history and culture! Lots of Bulgarians are anxious to talk to you as so many of them have either worked in countries such as the US/UK or have relatives there. Bulgaria really is a "Great" country. It's people make it "Great". Whats more - it has a wonderful future! Make no mistake about that! My only regret is I'm not back there!
edin on Mar 29, 2021:
I have heard that brits are notorious for being haters and I am not going to go down to your level blaming your entire nation like you do, but you guys are obvious haters. I gave my comment like yesterday and on the same day you've replied back with your hate once again. It's like you've been following this page making sure that nobody counters your comments. What normal people will do in such case is to leave their comment and will go on with their lives, but you took the bashing of a nation as a mission, you are the exact definition of haters. And I don't really buy your story or at least your side of the story. I am in a business with plenty of foreigners and more and more serious companies are coming here, big companies, thank God that small economic slave owners wannabes with a hater attitude like you are leaving. We don't really need you.

PS: Don't forget to reply back as soon as possible and to turn this personal. I know that you'll be following this page on a daily basis. Come on.
Edin on Mar 28, 2021:
This page turned to a complaint box for some people. I know foreigners and I have been working with such for years and most of them do find the life here good. They work hard, earn quite well, have bulgarian friends and live a normal life. You wont' see them here commenting of course. Many people have had bad experience abroad but they don't bash the entire country or nation because of that. I have had bad experience in Spain, England, Greece and Germany but you won't see me bashing their countries and nations just because of that. I have seen many brits throw up or fighting next to me, yelling, screaming, ugly stuff, but you won't see me spreading BS on their page in Numbeo or generalizing the entire nation. As for the so called businessmen who bankrupted well it seems that you haven't planned or managed your business right, because business in Sofia is booming and many foreign companies are succeeding. Blaming the people for your failure is a cheap excuse. Grow up.
Anonymous on Mar 28, 2021:
Anonymous post March 26 correct

Foreigners are treated badly by Bulgarians is all I ever experienced and other foreigners that lived in Bulgaria. We had an expat group of 53 in Sofia.We met often to discuss difficulties dealing with Bulgarians and their lazy nature workwise.Some of us foreigners like myself owned business that employed people. Mine alone employed 37.Skills are severely lacking ie motivation even though they are trained properly. In all 31 of us owned businesses in Sofia. We all closed our businesses in 2018 through 2019 and we all left Bulgaria. Only 2 or 3 expats stayed in Sofia since they were married to Bulgarians. What can I say Bulgarians are very difficult to communicate with overall even though we speak Bulgarian which we learned.
To any future foreigners intending to live or open businesses in Bulgaria just don't you'll regret it
Sava Parvanov on Mar 22, 2021:
As a local, born and raised in Sofia, who has lived in 3 other countries, currently again in Sofia, Bulgaria, I feel at least a bit obliged to counter the nonsensical, hateful and totally biased opinions of the last (of course anonymous) users below. Not out of sense of pride, or something, but for the sheer purpose of giving some useful information for all who are interested in visiting or living in this city, coming from someone who knows more than enough about it and who is able to compare it with the rest of the world:
- Bulgaria is NOT the “most unhappy” country in the world. Check the last World Happiness report – we are pretty much in the middle. The negativity of Bulgarian people is mostly in the shape of skepticism and criticism and mostly directed against the government. Regarding the attitude towards foreign people, Bulgarians in general are very hospitable, interested, accepting and accommodating. Plus, Sofia is a capital of an EU country and is a part of a common civilizing, cultural and economic processes. When I walk the streets in the center quite often I hear more foreign speech (English, Spanish, Italian, French) than Bulgarian, because of all support jobs available here and all the tourists.
- “Rude” is a totally inappropriate term for Bulgarians. Call them “mildly sour” for their own reasons, but people are, at least the overwhelming majority, nice and very nonviolent. For example street violence, quite common in the most developed western countries, is very, very diminished in Sofia, almost nonexistent. It feels safe to walk the streets and it is safe.
- During my humble life I have witnessed a great improvement in peoples’ body odor in Sofia. The people (man+women) take a bath regularly and smell immaculately.
I can affirmatively say that as an expat in SOFIA you can live a pretty decent life, not just because of assumed good ratio between your salary and the prices, but mostly because of the attitude – there are great men and women who will appreciate you not just because of your qualities but additionally from the fact that you are foreign – it is still somehow exotic, unlike in the much more multicultural west. In other words, you can feel BIG in Sofia.
The digits here in Numbeo, are almost entirely correct.
Anonymous on Jan 18, 2021:
I'm going to start giving away soap many men and women smell like body odor especially the women smell like rotted fish in Bulgaria YUK !!!!!!
Anonymous on Jan 10, 2021:
We had similar experiences as you did with extremely rude people. We were thinking about buying a house in Bulgaria but we decided not to.We try to understand how many hardships Bulgarians have had but that was long ago.
Anonymous on Dec 10, 2020:
I believe the majority just post prices but have never lived in Sofia like LOCAL FROM Sofia and I do. Numbeo depends upon prices others give but I agree with you LOCAL FROM SOFIA on costs of things currently because it's not cheap anymore unless people live in remote areas away from Sofia and even then it's not much cheaper.
Local from Sofia on Nov 10, 2020:
Meal for 2 people in a mid-range restaurant for 29 Euro?! Multiply by 2 and you will get a good estimate. Same for most of the grocery prices if you want some decent quality.

Local cheese for 5 Euro/kg? This used to be 15 years ago. Currently, be ready to pay 10-12 Euro.
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment: If you want a good location, 2000 Euro is the minimum.
Same for most of the other prices.

Numbeo figures are totally wrong.
Anonymous on Sep 22, 2020:
President Radev is rushing to have the Euro instead of the Lev for this reason.Bulgaria overall cannot afford to take on bad loans with covid19.Although Bulgaria is very cheap cost of living expect it to quadruple in price for everything within the next two years or less.Foreign pensioners will feel the brunt of the new regulations eurozone will impose once the Euro is put in place permanently and many will leave as a consequence.
Денис ван Донкелаар on Aug 24, 2020:
Go to Sofia if you are on wellfare in the Netherlands or cannot do anything. Then you are better of here in Sofia.
Денис ван Донкелаар on Aug 24, 2020:
In my opinion you need about 4000 leva minimum to live a middle class life by yourself. So you can save, buy a house and a car.
The Dutch and Belgium companies don't pay much. In fact you will belong to the lower class with a salary of only 1200 euro. They say you earn much here, but the reality is very different. People drive a lot of AMG's here. Also a car electronics and everything else cost almost the same as in The NEtherlands, except for food, because it is a big agricultural country off course.
Lub26 on Aug 09, 2020:
American in Sofia, your comment is far far away from the truth. First - the most Bulgarian families in Sofia earn 2500-4000 bgn net, which is 1000-2500 USD net. The income you've mentioned is for not more than 10-15% of the families. I think, you live in your own world, but this is not the real situation in Sofia. The numbeo prices above are correct. And family with 2500 EUR net income can live comfortable life in Sofia.
American in Sofia on Jul 26, 2020:
All of the cost of living figures on the site are ridiculously low. I've lived here for 15 years, have 2 free-and-clear apartments and no car. I spend a minimum $8000 a month (food, utilities, family assistance and travel). All things held equal, my spend rate in the US was twice that ~$16000/mo. Most Bulgarian families in Sofia earn ~$4000 to $5000/mo total, and live better than I do. I have only been able to ascertain that they thrive through their network, rely on there village home (they all have one) and obtained services at a very low percentage cost. In fact, I know people making <$1000/mo that live better than I do. It is pretty amazing. BTW, now is the time to buy real-estate in Sofia as people are becoming a little more desperate for more cash. BUT they almost never bargain. Hope this helps... Also, I speak the language, but I do not recommend learning the language, as it will not help you in any way, in fact it 'hobbles' you, and only places you in a disadvantaged position (position matters here).
Yulia on Jul 24, 2020:
If moving to Sofia alone with 2 kids, would life be possibly good and comfortable with 3000lv neto salary (1500eur netto) if living in city center in nice area? Possibility to set kid in international kindergarden, pay all bills and food as well as occasional traveling? It is difficult to compare salary in BG with other ER country (where i am now) but as my roots are from Balkan, and culture is similar, I'd like to consider the option? Thanks in advnace for the inputs
Maite on Jul 20, 2020:
I might move to Sofia next month with a job. I would like to know, if anyone can tell me, would I be able to lead a comfortable life earning around 1800 BGN a month?

By comfortable I just mean being able to rent a decent apartment and eat, not a lot of unnecessary expenses.
Ivan Dimitrov on May 23, 2020:
Hi,
You would be able to afford luxury with that income. A large flat in the center or house in the suburbs. Nothing under 100 square meters. Best childcare. I am not sure how it will match the child's language development.
I assume that you drive and have at least 1 car, so go for the suburbs. Less traffic, fewer people, more space. For 1500-2500 Euros you can get 200-400 square meters house. Please account for an additional expenses for a good lawyer and a security company (especially since you are going for business purposes). A relocation company is also an option, I still know the only the "consumer" market. They might offer a higher quality property that I can't even find.
After rent you are left with enough money to eat every meal in a high class restaurant, your child included :D.
Filipinite on Apr 11, 2020:
I want to travel next year in bulgaria to see the beauty of the country and enjoying my life so much and more food to eat, even exotic food.
to D.P on Feb 29, 2020:
Not every country is and could be rich as the ones in the West Europe or the ones in North America. According to your logic only 20-30 countries in the world are worth it, screw the rest. It's good to compare with the richest, but be real, different history, different situations, different development/progress, different rule, different systems through the years, there are many factors so every country has it's path, good or bad.
D.P on Feb 24, 2020:
No need to justify simple statistics when you simply use the 'compare' option on this website. Try using - Quality of Life comparison between Sofia and Amsterdam or Stockholm for example. Comparison of pollution between Sofia and another west EU capital. The difference is not big, it's huge, gigantic, cosmic, and all possible synonyms of huge.

Also change currency to euros always and see salaries between Sofia and other west EU capitals. If salary for example is +260% bigger than in Sofia then compare everything, like food, clothes, rent, and everything basic to exist (bills - electricity, water etc.), and if it doesn't exceed the +260% then make the assumption for yourself.

Every essay written here by the blinded population that "used to" or still "live" in Bulgaria, trying to justify how we have a perfect quality of life and how "it's not that bad and expensive as others make it seem to be" just prove to every other human being left with a small bit of brain living on this planet all the facts in statistics published on this website. Keep writing so we make statistics stronger and make it obvious for young people how of a bad quality of life Bulgaria has for them. Thank you very much!
MvK on Jan 13, 2020:
The comments here are awful, so I'm bumping this for anyone who cares. I've lived in Sofia for several years (coming from the U.S.) and can say that Bulgarians as a whole are quite kind, friendly, and dedicated. People will generally treat you with courtesy and respect if you are polite and respectful yourself. YOU SHOULD LEARN POLITE GREETINGS AND PHRASES IN BULGARIAN no matter if you're a tourist or intending to be here long-term - because it's the right thing to do, and people appreciate it greatly. That said, if you're in the city center, most people speak at a little English - or are willing to try to communicate, as a kindness. JUST DON'T BE A JERK.

As for cost of living - prices here are AVERAGES. They are accurate, but they don't take into consideration the fact that a lot of goods here (especially name-brands produced elsewhere) are actually inferior quality. You'll pay the same price OR MORE, for example, for a pair of Nikes, but they'll be super shitty compared to the "same" model sold in the US. Daily goods (groceries, toiletries, meals out) are affordable if you're coming from somewhere else - but out of reach for a lot of folks who actually live and work here.

Medical care is accessible and high-quality for preventative care and non-life-threatening issues. Don't get cancer here, or you're screwed. Hospitals just don't have access to the technology or the equipment you'd find in the States, UK, etc. But if you have a typical health challenge, the care is quite good. Doctors here also aren't focused only on prescriptions, because they aren't subsidized by pharmaceutical companies - which for me was a refreshing change.

As for economics and politics - the government here still has issues with corruption and Bulgarians understand it better than you ever will, so don't pretend to know anything about their political system. You don't. Most people are very disillusioned with the government, and for good reason - the difference between here and other places is that people here speak about it willingly and freely, and then carry on with life.

As for economics - if you're coming to Bulgaria from somewhere like UK or the States, you can leverage the differences in currency, and you'll find it very easy to establish a business here. Remember that typical salaries for most Bulgarians are low (around $1000 per month) and cost of living is comparably high (especially since most younger workers are supporting aging parents or grandparents who get very little in pensions or social security) - so if you're selling products or services TO BULGARIANS they need to be very cheap. People do not have lots of disposable income. Bulgaria doesn't need your b.s. - what they need are jobs. So if you're coming here to EMPLOY Bulgarians, pay them a decent living wage (at least $2400 month) and you'll find people are incredibly skilled, educated, qualified - and loyal. Bulgarians are also incredibly tech savvy, compared to the average Westerner - and technology is a quickly growing industry here. Don't expect to pay people peanuts and get gratitude, though - people here are proud and hard-working and they know what they are worth.

Basically, show up politely and with the perspective you know nothing, be willing to help and contribute to the lives of people around you - and actually walk the talk - and you'll find you're warmly welcomed and accepted. If you can't do that? Don't bother to come, because Bulgaria doesn't need you.
D.D. on Oct 08, 2019:
#Kalman Balog

I am a Bulgarian, born in Sofia, used to live here till 2002, then I moved to Germany (Frankfurt) and returned to Sofia exactly one year ago. Therefore I have a very good overview over the situation and can compare life in both countries. I'll try to answer your questions.

No, unfortunately the prices here are not correct - it is much more expensive. That's what I'm trying to say all the time but nobody is listening. The main problems are:
1) Numbeo displays the prices as average of what users input. For example local cheese - there are local cheeses for 8 BGN/KG and such for 25 BGN/KG. Taking the average of both is wrong since those are totally different in terms of quality and ingredients.
2) Numbeo measures the quality of life based on basic needs (food, accommodation etc.). If you spend your whole salary just on rent and food in both countries, then most probably 1000 Euro in Germany will equal 1000 BGN in Bulgaria. But if you earn 5000 Euro net in Germany, it will be much more than 5000 BGN net in Bulgaria, since luxury goods have the same price everywhere (cars, travels, watches, expensive brands etc). Or if you want just to save money on your bank account, be sure that with 5000 Euro in Germany you will save much more than with 5000 BGN in Bulgaria.

Regarding the prices: Big supermarkets (Billa, Kaufland) are more expensive in Bulgaria than in Germany. Especially if you want to buy quality goods. Everything produced for the Bulgarian market has much lower quality and worse ingredients than the same product in western Europe. Therefore, if you want comparable quality, you need to buy imported goods, which are at least 50% more expensive. You want to eat a Döner Kebab? For 7 Euro you have a big Dönerteller in Germany with great meat, for 11 BGN you get half the portion and crappiest meet ever in Bulgaria. But yes, Numbeo says Bulgaria is 25% cheaper, wow!
Same for restaurants. If you want to eat a good steak, you pay at least 40-50 BGN at the few places where it is offered. If you want to drink good beer (the local ones are absolute crap), you buy an imported one from Belgium or Czech Republic or Germany for 3 BGN, which is 2 times more expensive than in Germany. Cosmetics, Ariel, Persil, Colgate etc. - same brand, crap quality and 20-30% more expensive.

Anyway, those aspects are the bad ones, which are neglected very often. The good ones are:
- There are a lot more small groceries and markets in Sofia, fish shops (with fresh fish, quite affordable), small butcher meat shops (quality varies, ask the locals for the best ones) etc. Very good selection of vegetables and fruits. Small shops for shoes and clothes as well - you can always find a good deal somewhere. Good leather shoes, tailor made suits - for half the price than in Germany. Always open, on public holidays and Sundays as well.
- Public transportation becomes better and better and is extremely cheap (monthly pass 25 Euro). New metro lines are being constructed, connecting more and more districts.
- Taxis are cheap too, but beware the scams
- Rent: Maybe the most important point. Good locations have their price. Best locations in the top town center cannot be found below 8-10 Euro/sqm. If you allow some compromises, you can get something quite good for 5 Euro/sqm. Good districts are Losenetz, Iztok, Javorov, Ivan Vazov, Strelbishte and around the South Parc.
- Buy property: The prices currently are at least 50% higher than what they should be. The banks are flooding the market with credits even for people with very low income. Brokers are speculating, increasing the prices and hoping to catch a stupid fish who pays it. Lot of new construction with very questionable quality. 30% of all flats are unused currently - just bought by speculators. If the new crisis comes (and it will come soon for sure) this balloon will burst and the impact will be horrible.

Income Levels: I always measure what remains after spending on rent and food/clothing/utilities/transportation. For a 2 rooms flat in Stuttgart, you most probably spent around 800 Euros. Same you can get in Sofia for 300 Euros. For food and restaurants/bars, I had absolute same cost in both countries - 500 Euro p.m. (but I go to very good places and buy quality goods). From transportation cost I save 100 Euro in Sofia. From utilities (Internet, electricity, water supply I save further 50 Euros. Which means, that after considering the cost of living, you will be able to save around 650 Euro, or 2200 Euro in Germany will equal 1500-1600 Euro in Bulgaria.

1200 Euro net salary is nothing exceptional for Sofia - even some call centers pay within that range. As a foreigner with native language other than Bulgarian, the experience you have in Germany and your education you can get much higher than this. Try to find something for at least 3000 BGN net, don't sell yourself for a low price! As an IT specialist, I earn much more than in Germany, mainly because of the low taxes and social expenses. You can be cheap for your employer and at the same time, earn quite a lot! Depends on your skills. If you tell what skills/experience you have, I can give you exact salary ranges since I know the market very very well.
Kalman Balog on Oct 08, 2019:
Quite disgusting these last comments, you people should go either to Twitter or to Facebook, this is not the place. I’m not interested in your politics and your bullshit take it somewhere else..Now I would like to know if these prices on Numbeo are legit.For example: I see much higher prices for rent when I google for apartments then I see on here. Also: if I compare my net salary from Stuttgart DE which is €2200 I would have the same living standard when my salary would be around 1200,- euro in Sofia..Imagine that but is this true?
who cares on Oct 03, 2019:
#Anonymous on Sep 08, 2019
Don't worry about the Bulgarians in the so much praised "great" west and your fake-polite-transgender-loving "culture".
Very few people understand the real concequences of Brexit.
There are much more UK citizens living in EU than Bulgarians or other nationals in UK.
Good also to know that the gypsies that you see are not Bulgarians, the same like your former colonies pupulation you so much love like Indians are not Britsih people. Of course because your fake politeness you will never say that to them but that's OK 'cause Bulgarians are there to be blamed for your problems.
I don't see here anything about your trash people that populated Bulgaria and mix with the gypsies, eeewww, void in the wilderness, at least we have dignity.
Oh, wait what, there are actually no genuinely British people, there are only Anglo-NAGGsons, at least Welsh take off part of the shame and are much better.
Western europeans overall have very low common sense and general awareness of the history and culture of Europe and the world let alone that you can compete in this matter very well with the Americans.
Only the old people really want UK to leave EU but their ignorance is not my problem and not the topic here.
So why you keep bulshiting a country that has 0 relevance to you?
Anonymous on Sep 08, 2019:
Being a Western European I agree with Anonymous comments Aug 9.Bulgarians are well known for having salty dispositions and personalities.However their mad dash for other parts of Europe that are fairing much better will come to an end when the full force of Brexit comes calling and expells them for not meeting strict requirements Brexit offers even though Bulgarians took jobs in Western Europe circumstances from the beginning matter most where Brexit is concerned.Few if any Bulgarians can honestly say they brought prosperity to Western Europe nothing substantial as in investments.Brexit was put into place by expelling undesirables not only from Western Europe but worldwide,a great thing to protect Western Europeans interests we've solely created instead of becoming a welfare resting place for others.Even though others arrived in Western Europe before Brexits inception means nothing Brexit supercedes all former arrangements,as it should and will be.As for bad decisions concerning refugees Brexit will send them back from wence they came.
Anonymous on Aug 09, 2019:
So many comments and advice on living in Sofia in general or Bulgaria for that matter.I'd say the majority of the posters here have only visited Bulgaria online, not personally as I've done and lived in Sofia almost 5 years.To those of you who haven't noticed Bulgaria has the fastest reduction of population in the world not just in Europe.Learning Bulgarian language is admirable but nobody ever fits in that are from places other than Bulgaria and even then it's a stretch to say Bulgarians get along.Oh it's very cheap to live in Bulgaria even Sofia.People are naturally cold natured not only in Sofia but throughout Bulgaria for that matter.Don't get all uptight about the cold natured people residing in Bulgaria because it's really intentional.
Anonymous on Aug 01, 2019:
D.D is right. I am also moving to Sofia for the next 2 years n max 3 yrs. I have done my first touch and what I can also advice which I will do is to take heart and learn there language. Once it is done you will enjoy Sofia for sure.
to RajeshKumar on Jul 12, 2019:
Hi Rajesh,
D.D. is right in general but a little bit overracting. Sofia is becomming a better place and you'll be having a nice life with this salary. Bulgaria may be poor compared to Western-European countries but it's still an european country. Private schools are indeed expensive, like 600-800 euro per month, just checked a few. It really depends on what options you have. Compared to India it could be better indeed, compared to Western-Europe of course it's worse in most things.
Rajeshkumar on Jun 20, 2019:
D.D. Thanks for your suggestions. Which will sure help me.
D.D. on Jun 19, 2019:
If I was you, I'll send the kids to a normal Bulgarian government school, which is free of charge. They are small and will adapt quite fast. Maybe you can hire a private teacher to teach them the language even pre-school. Learning Bulgarian will make them (and you) feel much more comfortable here since the cultural difference is huge. Only with English you'll have big difficulties living here.
D.D. on Jun 19, 2019:
A friends family pay around 15.000 BGN for a private school per year/kid. So for 2 kids in theory it would mean almost half of your income. If your wife gets an admin job for lets say around 2.000 BGN net, you could still make it. The bigger question is if it is worth or not.
According to the Bulgarian educational system the Bulgarian language will still be one of the major classes in order to get a Bulgarian diploma. I'm not sure If there are any fully international schools with everything in English and without the need of learning Bulgarian (except maybe aas-sofia, but here the fees are as I know around 40.000 BGN, so not really an option for you).
Anonymous on Jun 18, 2019:
D.D. I think air pollution is same like India. But water is good and availabilty is well. Here in India getting water is a big trouble.

My only worry is my kids education and its cost. Do you know about education in Sofia. i saw in some websites government schools education in Bulgarian language. If we want English school we have to pay a lot.

SO if my wife also go for a job in admin level we can manage right?

You told that the whole state force is being controlled by the mafia. Can you pls. explain little bit detailed.
D.D. on Jun 18, 2019:
rajeshkumar: Ok, this explains the high salary then.
Financially, you will not have much problems. Just make sure that you will feel comfortable here. Sofia and Bulgaria in general are by far not comparable with western European countries. Bad streets, huge number of old cars, very bad traffic conditions, dirt and pollution everywhere. No green areas, each small peace of land being used from "investors" to build real estates with dubious quality and sell it fully overpriced to young ITs like me and you. State is basically not functioning since the whole state force is being controlled by the mafia. And a huge cultural difference. Since you are coming from India, you know very well what I mean. Just don't have too much expectations, since you cannot buy health, clean air and social contacts with money. And those are more important than 1000 BGN more salary.
rajeshkumar on Jun 18, 2019:
D.D. I am into Information Technology. As a Sr. Developer demandware.
D.D. on Jun 18, 2019:
rajeshkumar: To survive? Honestly? Most similar bulgarian families survive with less than 1/3 of this amount.
With 5600 you'll live like a king and your wife will not need to work.
May I ask what kind of position are you applying for?
rajeshkumar on Jun 17, 2019:
Hi i am planning to settle in sofia i got a offer letter from a Bulgarian company net salary is 5600 lev.

we are a couple with 2 kids ages are 6 & 3. Can you suggest this salary is enough to survive in sofia where i am leaving from Chennai india.
D.D. on Jun 17, 2019:
23% flat tax in Sofia? This is bullshit.

For salaries up to 3000 BGN gross, 22,402% are the total deductions: 13,78% is social security and 10% is income tax, where the social security is deductible. This means: 1-(1-0,1378)*0,9=1-0,77598=22,402%.
This percentage goes down for salaries above 3000 BGN since the social security is capped at 3000.
Therefore:
For Gross <=3000: Net=Gross*0,77598
For Gross >3000: Net=0,9*Gross-372,06
A salary of 10.000 BGN gross will lead to 8.627,94 NET, or total deductions will be 13,72% only.

Corporate tax and private income tax are both 10%. Tax on interest - 8%, tax on dividends - 5%.
From tax perspective, Bulgaria is the most attractive country to do business in the whole EU.
Anonymous on May 28, 2019:
A friend works for the taxation department for the Bulgarian government.After reading your message here I called my friend.He said the information I read is true.I own a small custom shoe shop in Sofia.I'm going to close my shoe shop and sell it next month after I finish the orders of shoes for my customers.Theres no way I can be profitable paying a 23% flat tax.Thank you for the information I really appreciate it.I own a small commercial building downtown in Bucharest and I'll open there in August.
Anonymous on May 12, 2019:
D.D. Alla understands your delima little one Alla cares for all.
Anonymous on May 12, 2019:
# D.D. The breeding process has been ongoing in Germany, Sweden, France, and other areas repeatedly over the past three years including Spain and Portugal.Women are bread by 50 Afghanistan men within a 24 hour period to share our precious seed Alla has blessed.Alla likes a controlled environment we obey Allas wishes always.The offspring will enhance our bloodline and broaden Allas mission.To subdue infadels into Allas likeness.Do not dispair little one Alla cares for all.
Anonymous on May 12, 2019:
# D.D. I can see you're quite distressed little one but don't dispair Alla will heal your emotional wounds.I believe you read too many falshoods about Afghanistan infadel but Alla always forgives.Quite the contrary myself and four other Afganistanis own three businesses in Bulgaria and are quite wealthy.Theres no comparison between Afghanistan and Bulgaria ecomony wise especially since the bulgarian government was very happy to receive 12 million USD for our quest in Bulgaria in cash.Alla understands all remember that.You cannot upset Alla or Afganistanis with mere mortal words.Like I mentioned before much work needs to be done to transition Bulgarians into Allas fold but Alla will subside. I agree Bulgaria is a poor country but rich in spirit.Bulgarians negative energy will only enhance Allas mission to subdue into submission Allas great work which you'll be honored in time to adhere to.Where there's strong spirit there is power little one because Alla cares for all and understands the ways of infadels discention in their lives,Alla is love.
Anonymous on May 11, 2019:
To D.D. Calm down little one we don't come through your border want your money.Your president Boyko sold Bulgarians out.Alla will make your life complete.You will service Afganistanis bow to Alla and show respect to Alla.Alla has no borders payment has been made 54,000 Afganistainis are already in remote small towns in Bulgaria.Your soldiers have been paid well Alla always provides.Afganistainis know much work needs to be done but Alla guides us to heal stricken Bulgarians who've lost their way in life.Bulgarians will obey Alla just as Germany,Switzerland,and other countries in Europe have obeyed the wisdom of Alla.Your border gate was open for us and Alla was welcomed by your own people.Prepare to obey Alla,and obey Afganistanis every wish and desire.Infadels comit no sins by not understanding Alla with Allas help we teach infadels just like you the way to your future.Alla cares for all little one, even you.
Anonymous on May 10, 2019:
To # D.D. Bulgarians have a lack of understanding economic things intentionally.But do not dispair little one Afghanistani people will show Bulgaria who Alla chose to rule Bulgarians.We will saturate all of Bulgaria within the next five years take any jobs you may have and show Bulgarians the way to Alla.Do not dispair infadel Alla will care for all.Over 100,000 Afganis will arrive this year in Bulgaria.My Afghanistani outlook is supreme to any infadels living in Bulgaria or anywhere worldwide.
D.D. on May 10, 2019:
Very interesting when some foreign "investors" come to Bulgaria. Mostly, they assume the Bulgarians will work for free and the market has an unlimited number of slaves to offer.
When f.e. the average Bulgarian employer in that specific sector offers 600 Lev, the so called "investor" offers 700 Lev and claims that he is offering a "great" salary. At the same time, he starts selling his crap at a more expensive price than in Western Europe and at a significant lower quality. And of course, when he starts facing difficulties, the nasty and unfriendly Bulgarians are the main reason for this.

If you are one of those, please go away, we don't need you here!
Anonymous on May 07, 2019:
#Bill it's hard to say if 3,084.31 would be enough four person family since prices vary so wildly.Do you or a family member speak fluent Bulgarian? If not the language barrier would be greater than cost of living since few Bulgarians speak English.Sofia is fairly proficient in English but the farther away from Sofia less English is spoken.
Bill on May 01, 2019:
Hello everyone, please help to understand how to use these figures.

It is said here that "Four-person family monthly costs": 3,084.31 lev without rent (using our estimator).

Does it mean that this amount doesn't include also Kindergarden and School for Kids, Utilities, Mobile and Internet costs?
Das308 on Apr 27, 2019:
re the 2 posts bellow: 15 years ago, i tried to start a small pharmaceutical company in BG. just wanted to help but it did not wok. i initially felt offended, then realized that it does not (and should not) work with presents. one has to suffer - in the case the BGs - to succeed. best from the states.
Anonymous on Apr 27, 2019:
Hey Das 308 I read the post below about the Australian couple that was planning on opening two manufacturing companies with great wages in Bulgaria.I suppose you think you can speak for Bulgarians like myself that'd love a job that pays that much? Well you can't speak for any Bulgarian so keep your trolling self in Russia where it belongs.NOTE: To the Australian couple we hope you'll still consider Bulgaria for your manufacturing companies because Das 308 cannot speak for any Bulgarian.
Anonymous on Apr 26, 2019:
# To Das 308 We have many friends in Australia and around the world.We have no hatred for anyone always passive regardless.We were going to open two manufacturing companies that would've employed 3,000 people in Bulgaria minimum wage 1,500 euros per month per employee.We gave no reasons for people not to like us Everyone has a right to their opinions, you included. Best regards
Das308 on Apr 26, 2019:
@anonimous, April 25, 2019

Dear anonymous, Bulgarians clearly did not like you. It happens. Often with a reason. Be happy in Australia. Try to make friends there. Best, another Anonymous.
Edin on Apr 25, 2019:
The data in Numbeo is correct, ignore the trolls.
Das308 on Apr 21, 2019:
Dear Johnny Bee, if you are coming from a country where people are rude, you will find that Bulgarians are worst. Or, if your countrymen are polite, you will find that Bulgarians are more so. That said, please stop with the cheap trolling. U r getting credit for that but I t’s really boring. Best regards to you & the poor Russian girl & the offended anonymous couple.

P.S. The data published by Numbeo about Bulgaria are correct.
Anonymous on Apr 06, 2019:
Hey dude Johnny Bee Numbeo isn't bloating prices or misleading anyone.After reading some of your posts you got too much time on your hands dude.
Anonymous on Apr 04, 2019:
# JOHNNY BEE Why concern yourself with bulgarias economy?I read you visited 20 years ago.Bulgaria really has never been considered an economic factor in anything throughout it's history.Besides Bulgaria is at the bottom of the list of places to vacation.
Johhny Bee on Apr 02, 2019:
#D
The point is not if prices affect YOU or YOU holidays but the majority of Bulgarians! Are you a millenial bro/sis?
Johhny Bee on Apr 02, 2019:
This site is bloating net salaries misleading people and leading them to wrong/damaging decisions. Also, some of my comments,hmm how to say it, have mysteriously disappeared?
Anonymous on Mar 31, 2019:
I live in Sofia since 1990. Numbeo needs to adjust some prices. It is far more expensive than this site is suggesting. Let me try to summarize the following points:

Restaurants:
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 20 LV (instead of 11).
Meal for 2, average restaurant: 80 LV (instead of 50). Salad: 2X10, Main Course: 2x25, Dessert: 2x5
Domestic Beer 0,5L: 4 lv (instead of 2,50).
For Vitoshka street, multiply by 1,5
Just check any restaurant card, they are all online.

Markets:
Local Cheese: 20-25 lv (instead of 11,43). For 11 lev, you get fake crap.
Local Beer: 2 Lv (instead of 1,29). For 1,29 again you get just crap beer.
Beef Round: 25 Lv (instead of 15,88). It used to be 15 lv maybe 5 years ago.

Just take any prospect from Billa or Kaufland - prices are higher than in Germany for sure.

Rent per month: At least 20% higher than suggested.
Price per Square Meter to Buy: Again, at least 20-30% higher. You can get a shitty hole in Lulin district for 900 EURO, in better districts multiply by 1,5 to 2.

Salaries: 1300 Net Average??? Maybe, If you average the big boss (who earns 10.000 lev) with the 30 slaves, who earn 1.000 Lev. The truth is: 80% of bulgarians earn 1000 or less and struggle to survive, spending their whole salaries just on food an basic needs. And the older people need to survive from 300-400 BGN state pensions, from which they need to buy food, utilities and overpriced medicine.
Anonymous on Mar 28, 2019:
TO #D I live in Manchester and after reading your rendition of costs according to your misinformation I must say that I agree with Anonymous and the other chap Johnny Bee.I was lucky to sell my second home in Italy before the fallout came along.I agree with them on all levels of economic disasters that has befallen Europe in general.The Euro instrument isn't at fault as both so plainly stated,but instead the beast that controls it HOLY ROMAN EMPIRE amoung other rogues within the mix.Instead of calling names TROLLS you should listen to voices of knowledge instead of spinning your brand of trivial persuits out of control with falsehoods that actually make no sense at all.
Anonymous on Mar 28, 2019:
Thank you # JOHNNY BEE we're on the same FACTUAL PAGE !!!As you and I know NUMBERS never lie but instead dictate the outcome regardless of anywhere in the world.I have several friends in Italy that are drowning financially along with the rest of the country.
Johhny Bee on Mar 28, 2019:
Furthermore another mistake #D

Bulgaria unfortunately is extremely expensive for locals EXACTLY because of the rubbish salaries, (280 euros for the minimal) not because of the expensive NIKE or ADIDAS that you don't have to buy after all (you will survive without them, trust me)

Unfortunately it's extremely cheap for foreigners, to the point that I would prefer double prices at the moment, something I hated when i visited this country 20 years ago. But of course EU (sorry i meant Holy Roman Empire) doesn't allow that, it's against the jungle laws (sorry, i meant competition)

The Uk restricted BG/ROM workers for many years
BG Government is not defending Bulgraia against hordes of Middle class Brits who make price damping explosive because of the obvious price difference in the two countries.
On the contrary it promotes, advertises and encourages retiring in BG, instead of promoting demographic regeneration. BG is collapsing at the moment. Fast!
Johhny Bee on Mar 28, 2019:
Also, D, your analysis on the "good Euro" is also a failure, unfortunately the EURO trashed every peripheral country it was imposed on with exorbitant prices/taxes/service fees without the equivalent salary increase. If the Euro comes to Bulgaria there are going to be hundreds of dead people in one week. 50 stotinki tomatoes will become 50 cents tomatoes in one night. People that survive on dog foof (Sorry I meant Austrian/German salami of 2 leva per kilo) won't be able to even buy that. Bread 80 eu/cents instead of 80 stotinki? Red Cross, get ready!

Even colossal Italy kneeled to the EURO. Spain, Greece, Portugal are still suffering.

Warland (sorry, Germany I meant) and satelite servants of course profit with the Euro.
I dare to say that even countries outside Europe suffer because of the Euro. Of course Anybody who is shooting at the currency is mistaken, it's how you use the knife (cut bread or kill?) not the fault of the instrument (euro) itself.
Anyways why not rename Euro to Global Deutsch Mark so that we don't get confused.
Johhny Bee on Mar 28, 2019:
And since when has avocado become a unit of PPP?
Johhny Bee on Mar 28, 2019:
Sorry D , your text is full of inaccuracies and "missing the forest, while staring at the tree". I have to agree with anonymous. Prices for second hand clothes in BG compare to Asia/Africa. Super market food is very expensive (flea market is cheap, though you risk getting beaten up by the gypsy sellers if they are on their period) Renting/buying apartments in Sofia at the moment is worse than getting ROBBED! Economics is not football brothers! Study Data, Analyze, Reach Conclusions, Repeat.
D on Mar 27, 2019:
@Anonymous the difference between your commend and mine is that my comment is full of facts based on research and on living life in Sofia, compared to 3+ years of living abroad. Yours is purely in opinion and pseudo-facts. Go get educated and do argue with a person if you don’t have a reasonable argument.
Anonymous on Mar 27, 2019:
#D If you actually bothered to do factual research on how the Eurozone is behaving with the Euro you wouldn't throw numbers out there that make no sense whatsoever.Do your research before making statements about other countries in Europe that haven't joined the Eurozone.Regardless of what Bulgarians are supposed to be or anyone else for that matter the Euro is what it is,no getting around that.Its normal for currencies to fluctuate, that's a given, however any currency that continues to slide downward over the past 8 months and not rebound is a failing currency.Look at Italy and how the Euro has affected them.No country in the Eurozone is thriving, rest assured.Instead of being an advocate for Bulgarians or anyone else for that matter know the facts before mentioning anything.Numbers never lie because regardless of what the news says numbers dictate how the economy is doing regardless of where it's at in the world.Bulgaria like other countries throughout Europe is declining rapidly but Bulgaria just happens to be the shining star being the fastest declining population in the world.Do your research this site is updated every 24 hours and it's not tainted by any measure.Google this currency site then scroll down and look at the update in real time.Type in BGN to USD for example then type THE MONEY CONVERTER.You can shut up after reading the real time numbers.I swear Bulgarians will go to great lengths to try to make themselves appetizing, but the BS doesn't work with many of us, and especially not me since I'm an accountant of 21 years.Numbers are my business, to say the least.
Anonymous on Mar 24, 2019:
Bulgarians continue to slam their fingers in the door and they side with the Bulgarian governments approach.There's alot of countries doing that though.I'm not PRO any country including the country I'm from.Many people use the term it's POLITICAL,but reality being it's the opposite.It's each countries responsibility to create their own economies whether it's good or bad.People like to test the waters, so to speak and live in other countries to experience different cultures but it rarely works out,and although visitors or people who live in other countries for a prolonged period of time would never admit it openly deep down they regret their decision to live abroad.Many people want to see how life is in other parts of the world and to some that may be curiosity or a country being pumped up as a great place.But at the end of the day or life the countries they came from are where they fit into.If I had my way nobody would visit anyone in any country because history has shown that other cultures don't mix well no matter how hard they try.Polution, costs of living,no country is balanced, there's always cons to be considered but many ignore the cons.All they know is they're in a new place that's foreign to them.Maybe it's exciting to live or visit a new place they're unfamiliar with.Many people call it adventurous but it's stupidity on their part no matter what part of the world they come from. I'm not from the U S nor have I ever visited either but I'll say one thing for certain.The U S is rapidly closing the door on the world and in the not too distant future nobody will even be allowed to visit or live there for that matter.I believe that's a step in the right direction, and other countries should pay attention, to repeat the same, PEACE ON EARTH
Anonymous on Mar 22, 2019:
It's not about being politically correct and it never will be.What it's really about is separating people and countries from each other with different cultures,a good thing especially since there's no peace between them.The only issue the majority of people see here is you #HM.I agree with the post about taking a petition to ban anyone from visiting or living in Bulgaria.It'd be a BALLZY move to follow through with that.Put up or shut up #HM start the Petition in Bulgaria to ban all foreigners.
hm on Mar 21, 2019:
Well folks, as you can see there are people in this world with ... well let's be politically correct , with issues.
Anonymous on Mar 21, 2019:
Well said JOHNNY BEE my sentiments exactly.Downward spirals happen throughout the world no secret.Digital nomads will just be that digital nomads.Every country isn't exempt from issues regardless of capital.Conspiracy theorists are always hunting for information on the end of the world.To be honest I wish those people we're actually right for once so earth could be cleansed once again.The day the internet no longer works will finally be the day of Independence.Let us all hope it happens sooner not later.
Anonymous on Mar 17, 2019:
I totally agree most Bulgarians have an arrogant way about them naturally.I attended college in Sofia for one year.All I mostly heard was how Russia rescued Bulgarians from the Ottoman yoke. I noticed Bulgarians for the most part are very unhappy and hold a grudge against anyone who doesn't agree with them even if they know what they're saying isn't true.My parents visited me for two weeks while I attended college in Sofia.They asked what's wrong with these people? Everyone is so negative they said.Bulgaria has the fastest shrinking population in the world.Maybe just maybe some Bulgarians woke up and decided they've had enough too.FYI visitors and foreigners had nothing to do with the past Ottoman yoke.