WarsawvsCalgary
Overall
💰+44.0%
Warsaw is 44.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+25.0%
Housing is 25.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+78.6%
Restaurants 78.6% pricier
Groceries
🛒+77.8%
Food shopping 77.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Warsaw, Poland and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Warsaw is more expensive than Calgary by approximately 44.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Warsaw are lower than in Calgary by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Warsaw's city center costs around PLN 3,500, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Warsaw offers significant savings compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs PLN 40 in Warsaw versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Warsaw is more affordable, with monthly passes at PLN 110 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Purchasing power in Calgary is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Warsaw.
Grocery shopping in Warsaw is more affordable by approximately 44%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Warsaw can expect to spend approximately PLN 1,578 per month (excluding rent), while in Calgary, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$730. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about PLN 5,523 monthly in Warsaw versus CA$2,555 in Calgary. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Warsaw to Calgary, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Calgary to Warsaw requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Warsaw
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Warsaw more expensive than Calgary?
Yes, Warsaw is approximately 44.0% more expensive than Calgary overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Warsaw compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Calgary salary when living in Warsaw. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $72,000 in Warsaw for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Warsaw and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 44%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Calgary offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Calgary provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Warsaw if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Warsaw vs Calgary?
In Warsaw, a single person needs approximately PLN 4,078 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about PLN 10,023. In Calgary, these figures are CA$2,030 for singles and CA$4,755 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Warsaw and Calgary in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Warsaw
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