Planning to move to Sofia? Here is a complete breakdown of the cost of living for expats in Sofia, Bulgaria as of 2026. All figures are in EUR for easy cross-country comparison.
Monthly Cost Snapshot
Full Cost Breakdown
Compared to Country Average
| Category | Sofia | Bulgaria Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Rent (Centre) | €612 | €493 | +24% above avg |
| Total Single (Centre) | €1,071 | €850 | +26% above avg |
| Total Family (Centre) | €2,295 | €1,819 | +26% above avg |
| Groceries | €268 | €212 | +26% above avg |
| Transport | €64 | €51 | +25% above avg |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Sofia in 2026?
A single expat living in central Sofia should budget approximately €1,071 per month, covering rent, groceries, transport, utilities, healthcare, and entertainment. A family of four needs around €2,295/month.
How much is rent in Sofia for expats?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Sofia city centre costs around €612/month. Outside the centre, expect to pay approximately €408/month. A 3-bedroom apartment in the centre is around €1,346/month.
Is Sofia expensive compared to other cities in Bulgaria?
Sofia has a cost index of 100% relative to the capital. There are 3 cities tracked in Bulgaria for comparison.
Related: Bulgaria Guide · Bulgaria Salaries · Bulgaria Cost of Living · Visa Comparison · Compare Bulgaria · All Countries
Data sourced from numbeo. Last verified 2026-03-10.