Moving to Burgas? This relaxed coastal city on Bulgaria’s Black Sea is a hidden gem for long-term living — affordable, sunny, and surprisingly international.
Burgas is one of Bulgaria’s most underrated gems. Located on the Black Sea coast, it’s less flashy than Varna or Sunny Beach — but more authentic, more livable, and surprisingly affordable. If you’re looking for a calm seaside lifestyle in Europe without breaking the bank, Burgas might just be your perfect match.
But what’s it like to live here long-term? Let’s break it down.
Key Facts About Burgas (Bulgaria)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | ~200,000 people |
| Language | Bulgarian |
| Currency | Bulgarian Lev (BGN) — pegged to the Euro |
| Average Rent | €400–700/month (1-bedroom in good areas) |
| Average Net Salary | ~€800–1,100 |
| Health Insurance | Mandatory (public or private – ~€20–60/month) |
| Safety Level | High – calm and low-crime coastal city |
| Public Transport | Buses and minibuses. Monthly pass |
| Climate | Mild coastal – hot summers, gentle winters |
| Residence Permit / Long Stay | Available via freelance, retirement, business, or study |
| Education | Local universities, schools, kindergartens |
| Grocery Prices | Low – affordable produce and seafood |
| Access to Nature | Black Sea, lakes, parks, mountains nearby |
| City Atmosphere | Laid-back, cozy, with a seaside and small-town vibe |
Housing in Burgas: Cheap, Simple, and Surprisingly Modern
Whether you’re planning to rent a beachfront apartment or a compact city studio, Burgas offers great value for money. Most properties come furnished, with functioning kitchens and basic appliances.
Monthly rent (2025 estimates):
- Studio apartment in central Burgas: €250–350
- One-bedroom near the beach: €400–600
- Larger family apartments: €600–900
- Utilities: €80–120/month
Need help getting started? Check current long-term rentals in Burgas here — listings by size, location, and budget.
Residency and Visas: Bulgaria is EU, But Rules Vary
Bulgaria is in the European Union — which simplifies things for EU citizens, who can move freely, register, and work without a visa. For non-EU citizens, you’ll need to apply for long-term residence based on:
- Work contract
- Study
- Marriage or family reunification
- Self-employment
- Pensioner/retiree status
- Real estate investment (in some cases)
The process usually requires:
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance
- Sufficient income (around €500–700/month)
- Background check and visa type D for initial entry
Once approved, you’ll receive a residence card valid for one year, renewable annually. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency.
Language: A Mix of Bulgarian, Russian, and Basic English
Burgas is not Sofia — don’t expect fluent English everywhere. But many locals, especially older generations, speak some Russian, and younger people often understand basic English.
That said, learning Bulgarian will open doors — at the bank, the doctor’s office, and when dealing with local services. It’s a Slavic language and relatively approachable if you speak Russian, Ukrainian, or Polish.
Where to Live in Burgas
- Lazur – quiet, green, family-oriented, near the Sea Garden
- Center – walkable, historic buildings, close to cafés and markets
- Zornitsa – modern high-rises, sea views, easy transport
- Sarafovo – beachside suburb near the airport, popular with foreigners
- Meden Rudnik – affordable, residential, less walkable but developing
The Sea Garden — a massive park along the coast — is the city’s soul. Living near it adds daily beauty to your routine.
Top 5 Best Districts in Burgas for Long-Term Living
| District | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|
| 1. Lazur | Central and near the Sea Garden. Green, beautiful, and well-located. Great for professionals and families. |
| 2. Sarafovo | Quiet beachside area near the airport. Feels like a resort year-round. Ideal for retirees and remote workers. |
| 3. Zornitsa | New buildings, great parks, and amenities. A modern neighborhood close to everything. |
| 4. Meden Rudnik | Largest district in Burgas. Self-sufficient and budget-friendly with all services available. |
| 5. City Center | Historic heart of the city. Walkable, full of life, with cafes, shops, and culture. |
Cost of Living in Burgas
Burgas is one of the cheapest coastal cities in the EU.
- Rent: €250–600/month
- Groceries: €150–250/month
- Lunch in a local restaurant: €5–8
- Public transport pass: €15/month
- Mobile + internet: €15–25/month
- Health insurance (private): €30–50/month
You can live comfortably on €800–1,200/month, even less if you own your property.
Work and Income
If you’re an EU citizen, you can legally work in Bulgaria without a permit. Non-EU citizens will need a work visa or freelance permit. But most expats in Burgas either:
- Work remotely for companies abroad
- Run online businesses
- Live on pensions or passive income
Job options within the city are limited unless you speak Bulgarian — but remote work opportunities are booming thanks to reliable internet and low living costs.
| Profession | Avg. Gross Salary per Month (EUR) |
|---|
| Software Developer | €1,800 |
| IT Project Manager | €2,200 |
| UX/UI Designer | €1,600 |
| Architect | €1,400 |
| Mechanical Engineer | €1,500 |
| General Practitioner (Doctor) | €2,300 |
| Nurse | €900 |
| High School Teacher | €1,000 |
| Marketing Specialist | €1,500 |
| Accountant | €1,400 |
Healthcare: Simple, Accessible, and Inexpensive
Burgas has several public and private clinics. Expats often choose private healthcare, which is affordable and efficient. Common prices:
- GP consultation: €10–20
- Specialist visit: €20–40
- Full dental checkup: ~€30
- Monthly private insurance: €30–50
For serious care, some people travel to Sofia — but for daily needs, Burgas works well.
Final Thoughts: Who Is Burgas For?
Burgas is for people who want peace, sea air, and low prices — not wild nightlife or big-city stress. It’s ideal for freelancers, remote workers, retirees, and families seeking a quiet, European pace of life with beach access and decent infrastructure.
If you want EU residency, a stable base by the sea, and the freedom to live on your own terms — Burgas is a surprisingly smart choice.
Also check out our guide on Moving to Vienna