Relocating from Poland to London: Living Costs, Lifestyle & More

One of the first changes you’ll notice when relocating from Poland to London is the difference in lifestyle. Poland’s cities, like Warsaw, Kraków, and Gdańsk, offer a balance of historical charm and modern amenities. London, however, provides a much larger, faster-paced environment with endless opportunities.

• Pace of Life: Polish cities tend to have a slower, more relaxed pace. While cities like Warsaw are busy, London is much faster and more intense, especially in areas like The City or Canary Wharf. London’s residents are always on the move, and the pace of life can feel a bit overwhelming at first, especially if you’re coming from a smaller Polish city.
• Work-Life Balance: Poland is known for maintaining a good work-life balance, with shorter working hours and a stronger focus on family and personal time. In contrast, London’s demanding industries—like finance, tech, and media—can involve longer hours. However, Londoners place a high importance on leisure, with many residents enjoying the city’s green spaces and cultural offerings during weekends.
• Social Scene: Socializing in Poland often revolves around family gatherings, local cafés, and weekend trips to the countryside. In London, the social scene is much more varied, with pubs, world-class restaurants, theaters, museums, and a vibrant nightlife scene. For those looking for diverse cultural and social experiences, London offers endless options that cater to all interests.

If you’re relocating from Poland to London for career opportunities or to experience a new way of life, the city’s fast pace, diversity, and vast opportunities will be exciting, though it may take some time to adjust to the speed and intensity.

Understanding the cost of living is essential when relocating from Poland to London. Poland is known for its affordable living costs compared to other European countries, while London ranks among the most expensive cities in the world. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect when comparing costs in these two regions:

• Utilities: In Poland, monthly utility bills (including electricity, heating, water, and internet) for a two-bedroom apartment typically range between 300 PLN and 500 PLN (€65-€110). In London, utilities for a similar property average between £150 and £250 (€175-€290) per month. The higher costs in London reflect the city’s size and energy consumption, especially during colder months.
• Groceries: Grocery prices in London are generally higher than in Poland. In Polish cities like Warsaw and Gdańsk, basic items such as bread, vegetables, and dairy products are significantly cheaper. In London, you’ll find a wider variety of grocery options, but prices tend to be 20-30% higher. However, budget-friendly supermarkets like Lidl and Aldi help keep costs lower, similar to what you might be used to in Poland.
• Dining Out: Dining out is much more affordable in Poland. A meal at a mid-range restaurant in Warsaw or Kraków will typically cost around 50 PLN (€11), while in London, the same meal can cost between £15 and £25 (€17-€30). While dining out in London is more expensive, the city offers a wider range of dining experiences, from street food markets to Michelin-starred restaurants.
• Monthly Living Costs: For a family of four, the average monthly living costs in Warsaw are approximately 10,000 PLN to 12,000 PLN (€2,200-€2,650), while in London, a similar family can expect to spend between £3,500 and £5,000 (€4,100-€5,800) monthly. The higher expenses in London are mainly due to rent, dining, and transportation costs, but higher salaries can help balance out these differences.

While relocating from Poland to London means facing a higher cost of living, the potential for higher earnings and greater career opportunities can make the move worthwhile.

Housing and rental prices are one of the most significant differences between Poland and London. Rental costs in London are much higher than in major Polish cities, but with careful planning, you can find housing that fits your budget.

• Rent in Poland: In cities like Warsaw, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment ranges from 3,000 PLN to 4,500 PLN (€660-€990) per month. In smaller cities like Kraków or Łódź, rent is often lower, averaging around 2,000 PLN to 3,500 PLN (€440-€770).
• Rent in London: London’s rental prices are significantly higher. In central areas like Kensington or Chelsea, a two-bedroom apartment can cost anywhere between £2,500 and £4,500 (€2,900-€5,200) per month. However, more affordable options are available in outer boroughs like Croydon, Ealing, or Greenwich, where rent averages between £1,800 and £3,000 (€2,100-€3,500) per month.

While the rent in London is more expensive than in Poland, the city offers a wide range of neighborhoods with varying costs. Public transport connections allow residents to live in more affordable outer areas while still having easy access to central London.

London’s public transport system is one of its biggest advantages compared to most Polish cities. While Warsaw, Kraków, and other major Polish cities have efficient public transport services, London’s system is much more extensive and well-connected.

• Public Transport in Poland: In Poland, public transport systems are reliable, with buses, trams, and metro lines available in major cities. Warsaw’s metro and tram systems are especially efficient, with a monthly public transport pass costing around 120 PLN (€25). While public transport in Poland is affordable, it doesn’t have the same reach or frequency as London’s system.
• Public Transport in London: London’s public transport system is world-renowned for its scale and efficiency. The London Underground (the Tube), buses, overground trains, and trams provide extensive coverage throughout the city and its surrounding areas. A monthly travel card for zones 1-3 costs between £150 and £200 (€175-€230), making it easy to get around without needing a car. While transport costs are higher in London, the comprehensive system makes commuting straightforward and convenient.

For those relocating from Poland to London, the extensive public transport options will be one of the biggest perks, although the higher costs should be factored into your budget.

If you’re relocating from Poland to London with children, the education system will be a top priority. Both Poland and the UK offer strong public education systems, but London has a wider variety of school options, especially for expat families seeking international curricula.

• Education in Poland: Poland’s public education system is free and well-regarded, with students excelling in subjects like science and mathematics. However, many expats in Poland choose private or international schools, particularly in cities like Warsaw and Kraków. Tuition for private schools in Poland ranges from 25,000 PLN to 60,000 PLN (€5,500-€13,000) per year, depending on the school.
• Education in London: London’s education system offers more options for families relocating from abroad. Public (state) schools are free for residents, but the quality can vary depending on the area. Many expats prefer private or international schools, where tuition fees range from £15,000 to £40,000 (€17,500-€47,000) per year. These schools often offer international curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), making it easier for children to transition between countries.

Relocating from Poland to London offers families more education choices, with both public and private schools providing excellent learning environments.

Culturally, Poland and London offer distinct experiences. Polish cities are known for their historic architecture, traditional festivals, and family-oriented lifestyles, while London’s diversity and global status make it a melting pot of cultures and experiences.

• Culture in Poland: Polish culture places a strong emphasis on family, tradition, and community. Cities like Kraków and Warsaw are filled with historical sites, and local festivals are common. People in Poland often enjoy a quieter, more intimate social life, centered around family gatherings and local events.
• London’s Cultural Scene: London is a fast-paced, global city with a rich cultural scene. From world-renowned museums and galleries to West End theater productions and international music festivals, there’s always something to do. London’s multiculturalism means that you can experience the traditions, food, and customs of different countries without leaving the city.

Relocating from Poland to London will expose you to a much broader range of cultural experiences, making the city a vibrant and exciting place to live.