Living and working in Krakow. Is it worth it?

LOCATION

Situated in southern Poland, Krakow isn’t far from the borders of Slovakia and the Czech Republic. It's nestled on the banks of the Vistula River, and with the Tatra Mountains only a couple of hours away, nature lovers can enjoy hiking, skiing, and breathtaking views whenever the mood strikes.

Kraków’s location is one of its strong suits. It's roughly 300 kilometers from Warsaw, with frequent and convenient train connections making it easy to get around Poland or even venture into neighboring countries. You can also catch flights from John Paul II International Airport to many European cities. So whether you’re looking for a weekend trip to the mountains or a quick getaway to Berlin or Budapest, Kraków’s location makes travel a breeze.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Renting an apartment in Kraków

When it comes to finding a place to live in Kraków, you’ll find that the city offers a wide range of accommodation options, from modern apartments to charming, older buildings in historic districts.

Renting an apartment in Kraków is relatively affordable, though prices can vary depending on where you want to live. For example, the price of an apartment can start from 2450 PLN (around 550 EUR) per month for a one-room apartment, and around 3000 PLN (700 EUR) for two rooms, according to Otodom.pl portal.

Popular districts like Kazimierz, with its bohemian vibe, and Podgórze, known for its artistic flair, tend to be on the pricier side but offer easy access to Kraków’s cultural and social life. If you’re looking for a quieter, family-friendly area, districts like Dębniki or Ruczaj could be great options, and they’re still close enough to the center to make commuting easy.

Buying an apartment in Kraków

If you’re thinking of making a longer-term investment, buying an apartment in Kraków can also be a great option. According to the real estate portal Sonarhome.pl, prices in the city center are high, averaging around 14 500 PLN (3100 EUR) per square meter, but suburban areas offer better value, with prices as low as 9000 PLN (1900 EUR) per square meter.

In recent years, Kraków’s real estate market has been booming, driven partly by an influx of expats and international companies setting up shop in the city. This means buying property here is not only an opportunity to settle in, but also potentially a good investment.

DINING IN AND DINING OUT

Grocery shopping cost

Grocery shopping in Kraków is reasonably priced, especially if you stick to popular chains like Biedronka, Lidl, or Carrefour. You’ll find that local markets like Stary Kleparz are also excellent for fresh produce at affordable prices.

A typical month’s grocery bill for one person might be around 800-1200 PLN (175–260 EUR), depending on habits.

Prices at bars and restaurants in Kraków

Dining out in Kraków is one of the true pleasures of living here, and it’s surprisingly affordable. A meal at a mid-range restaurant will typically cost around 30-40 PLN (6.50-8.80 EUR), while a three-course dinner for two at a fancier restaurant might set you back between 150 and 200 PLN (33-44 EUR).

Kraków’s food scene is diverse, with everything from traditional Polish pierogi to vegan cafes and international cuisine. You can enjoy a hearty Polish meal, a quick pizza, or experiment with Indian, Thai, or Italian food at relatively low prices compared to Western European cities.

WORK IN KRAKOW

Job opportunities in Kraków

The IT sector is booming, and there’s a constant demand for software developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts.

Large global companies like Shell, IBM, and HSBC have set up their hubs in Kraków, offering positions in finance, customer service, and HR, often with English as the primary working language.

According to recent data, Krakow is home to 284 modern business service centers, with nearly 98 000 people currently employed, representing 22.5 percent of Poland's total workforce in that sector.

This makes Kraków a great place for expats looking for job opportunities in international environments.

For those fluent in Polish, there are even more options, especially in smaller businesses or public sector roles. English-speaking jobs tend to be concentrated in international companies, but knowing Polish can open doors to a broader range of career opportunities.

Average pay in Kraków

The average salary in Kraków is similar to that in Warsaw.

According to the July 2024 data from the Statistical Office in Krakow, the average gross monthly salary in the enterprise sector is 10 173.41 PLN (around 2380 EUR). However, it is worth noting that this amount varies greatly by industry.

While wages may not be as high as in Western Europe, it still offers a comfortable standard of living given the lower cost of living in the city.

LEISURE AND CULTURE IN KRAKOW

Museums and historical sites

Kraków’s rich history is on full display through its many museums and historical landmarks.

The Wawel Royal Castle, sitting majestically by the Vistula River, is a definite must-visit. Although – beware of the fire-breathing wyvern lurking underneath, even if it’s only a statue of a dragon. According to Polish legends, the beast used to live beneath the castle before was slain by a humble sheep herder with a penchant for explosions and big dreams of marrying into the royal family.

Nearby, we can admire the Main Market Square, the largest medieval town square in Europe.

Art lovers will appreciate the MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art, while history enthusiasts can dive into the past at the National Museum.

Cultural events and festivals

Kraków has a vibrant cultural scene that includes everything from film festivals to live music events. The annual Kraków Film Festival is a big draw for cinema enthusiasts, while the Unsound Festival brings electronic music lovers from across the globe. Classical music fans will enjoy the Kraków Philharmonic, and there’s always something happening in the city’s lively theater scene.

Spending time outdoors

Kraków is also known for its green spaces. The Planty Park, which encircles the Old Town, is perfect for a relaxing stroll, while the Vistula Boulevards offer beautiful views for cycling or jogging along the river. If you're feeling more adventurous, take a weekend trip to Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains, or visit the nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine for a unique underground experience.

For nightlife, Kazimierz and the Old Town are packed with bars, cafes, and clubs. From cozy cafes to jazz clubs and trendy cocktail bars, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a long day.

FINAL VERDICT: Is living in Kraków worth it?

Kraków combines affordable living, a rich cultural scene, and plenty of job opportunities, especially for those in IT or finance. And while salaries might not be as high as in other European cities, the lower cost of living makes it easier to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

So whether you’re looking to explore Poland, settle into a thriving career, or simply enjoy life in a city steeped in culture and history, Krakow is a great place to call home.

Sources:

Główny Urząd Statystyczny w Krakowie, „Kraków, lipiec 2024”

Krknwes.pl, „98 tys. osób w Krakowie pracuje w centrach usług”, 2024

Otodom.pl, Mieszkania na wynajem: Kraków

Sonarhome.pl, Ceny mieszkań, Kraków