Living and working in Gdansk. Is it worth it?

Location

Set on the shores of the Baltic Sea, Gdansk is part of the Tricity (Trójmiasto) metropolitan area, alongside Sopot and Gdynia.

It boasts an interesting balance of historical charm and modern urban life – though, truth be told, that almost seems like a staple for Poland’s major cities. Though Gdansk is located in the north of the county, it is well-connected thanks to the excellent transport links. If you plan to travel around Poland, or even overseas, this could prove an asset – you can just get on the ferry and spend the weekend in Sweden.

Renting an apartment in Gdansk

The good news is – renting in Gdansk is relatively affordable. The bad news? Relatively being a key word here, as a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs between 2,500-3,500 PLN per month. In the suburbs, you can try to find options for around 2,000 PLN. Shared apartments are also popular, especially among students and young professionals.

Buying an apartment in Gdansk

If you’re planning to settle down, property prices in Gdansk are attractive compared to other European cities. The city has a variety of modern housing estates, often surrounded by green spaces and well-developed infrastructure.

According to the website sonarhome.pl, the average price per square meter for February 2025 is 12418 PLN. However, as you can imagine, the cost depends on the location. In the city center the price will go up to around 17,000–18,000 PLN, while in the outskirts, it drops slightly below 10,000 PLN.

DINING IN AND DINING OUT

So now that you finally have a roof over your head, let’s talk about another important issue: how much will it set you back to fill your stomachs.

Food prices: Grocery shopping costs

Gdansk offers a mix of budget-friendly and premium grocery options. Here’s a rough idea of what you’ll pay for daily essentials:

• Milk (1L): 4 PLN
• Bread: 5 PLN
• Chicken (1kg): 20-25 PLN
• Eggs (10): 10-12 PLN

Shopping at discount stores like Biedronka, Lidl, or Auchan can help keep costs low, while specialty stores and markets offer fresh local produce.

Food prices: Bars and restaurants

Eating out in Gdansk is a delight. Whether you’re craving a traditional Polish dish or fresh fish, the city has something for everyone. A meal at a restaurant costs around 35-50 PLN, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will set you back about 150 PLN. A beer in a local pub costs around 15-18 PLN, making a casual night out quite affordable, although not exactly cheap.

WORK AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Gdansk has a solid job market, with thriving industries including shipbuilding, IT, logistics, and tourism.

Job opportunities in Gdansk

Many international companies have established offices here, offering roles in finance, customer service, and tech. The city is also a hub for startups and remote workers.

Average pay in Gdansk

The average salary in Gdansk varies depending on the industry. IT professionals can expect salaries between 12,000-18,000 PLN per month, while customer service roles typically offer around 5,000-7,000 PLN. The cost of living is lower than in Warsaw, making these salaries quite competitive.

LEISURE AND CULTURE

Now that’s talked about how to make money in Gdansk, let us finally get to the fun part – all the interesting ways we could spend it!

Spending free time in Gdansk

Gdańsk offers an excellent quality of life with plenty of leisure options. You can relax on Stogi Beach, take a scenic stroll along Długi Targ (Long Market), or enjoy a boat trip on the Motława River. The city is also great for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous cycling and hiking trails nearby.

Museums in Gdansk

History buffs will love Gdansk’s impressive museums. For historical connoisseurs, The Museum of the Second World War is a must-visit, offering a deep dive into the past. The European Solidarity Centre tells the story of Poland’s fight for democracy, while, on the lighter side, The Amber Museum showcases the region’s famous golden resin.

Cultural events in Gdansk

Gdansk has a lively cultural scene, with events such as:

• St. Dominic’s Fair – One of Europe’s oldest trade fairs, offering crafts, food, and entertainment.
• Shakespeare Festival – A celebration of theater with performances from around the world.
• Baltic Sail – A maritime festival featuring historic ships and sea-themed activities.

And also, each December, there is a pretty amazing Christmas fair. A magical affair, graced by the presence of Lucek, the wisecracking reindeer. Well, the wisecracking reindeer-head, if you want to be super technical about it.

FINAL VERDICT: Is living in Gdansk worth it?

Absolutely! Gdansk is a fantastic place to live and work. With affordable living, a thriving job market, a buzzing cultural scene, and breathtaking seaside views, Gdansk truly is a gem – or rather, er… an amber?