How Living Expenses Stack Up Between Batumi and Varna
Anna Dobrovolska, a Ukrainian who lived in Varna, Bulgaria for three years before relocating to Batumi, Georgia, provides a detailed comparison of daily costs in these two cities. She analyzed expenses including rent, utilities, transportation, groceries, and overall lifestyle, highlighting notable differences in the cost and pace of life.
Housing Costs and Utilities
In Batumi, renting a one-bedroom apartment (1+1) starts at about 400 USD (around 18,000 UAH), with no need for a deposit or realtor fees. In contrast, similar accommodations in Varna begin at 500 euros (approximately 25,500 UAH).
Utility bills also vary significantly:
- Batumi: $50–$70 (2,000–3,000 UAH)
- Varna: €150–€200 (5,000–10,000 UAH)
Transportation and Food Expenses
Taxi fares in Batumi start from $2 to $4, whereas in Varna they range between 4 and 10 euros. When it comes to groceries, markets in Georgia offer especially affordable fresh produce, meat, and fish. However, Ukrainian specialty stores in Batumi carry prices similar to those in Ukraine.
“Prices in Ukrainian stores here match those back home, unlike the 'Berezka' shops. The markets have incredibly low prices, making them the best places to buy fresh fish, vegetables, fruits, and meat,” Anna shares.
Beyond finances, Anna remarks on the livelier everyday rhythm in Batumi. She appreciates that many venues stay open late or even operate around the clock, a stark contrast to Europe where shops often close by 7 or 8 PM. This dynamic nightlife and bustling atmosphere make Batumi feel far more vibrant compared to the calmer pace she experienced in Varna.
Anna summarizes her experience: “These are two entirely different lifestyles. Varna meant peace, the sea, and a more predictable routine. Batumi brings city energy, skyscrapers, heavy traffic, and a completely different vibe. Honestly, Georgia feels noticeably cheaper to me than Bulgaria right now.” Her insights reflect both economic and cultural contrasts between the two countries.
This comparison sheds light on the distinct living conditions and cultural atmospheres in Batumi and Varna, factors that can influence relocation decisions. For Ukrainians exploring opportunities abroad, the lower housing and utility costs in Georgia combined with an active urban lifestyle could offer an appealing alternative to Bulgaria’s more tranquil environment.