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Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Poland Property Pack
Poland offers relatively affordable property prices compared to Western European markets, with apartments costing PLN 14,000-18,500 per square meter in major cities as of September 2025. The Polish property market presents significant regional variations, with Warsaw commanding premium prices while cities like Łódź and Lublin offer properties at 40-50% lower costs.
For international buyers considering Poland as an investment destination or relocation option, the country provides competitive pricing structures, reasonable maintenance costs, and favorable rental yields ranging from 4.0% to 6.5% depending on location. Understanding the complete cost structure, including taxes, notary fees, and ongoing expenses, is essential for making informed property decisions in Poland's evolving real estate landscape.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Poland, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Poland remains one of Europe's more affordable property markets, with Warsaw apartments averaging PLN 16,400-18,500 per square meter while smaller cities like Łódź offer properties at PLN 7,800-9,800 per square meter.
Total acquisition costs including taxes, notary fees, and commissions typically add 4-8% to the purchase price, while monthly maintenance expenses range from PLN 500-900 in major cities.
| Location | Average Price per m² (PLN) | Rental Yield (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Warsaw | 16,400 - 18,500 | 4.0 - 5.5 |
| Kraków | 15,000 - 20,000 | 5.8 - 6.5 |
| Wrocław | 12,500 - 15,000 | 5.5 - 6.0 |
| Gdańsk | 12,500 - 15,000 | 5.0 - 6.0 |
| Łódź | 7,800 - 9,800 | 5.8 - 6.5 |
| Lublin | 8,000 - 10,000 | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| Countryside Houses | 5,500 - 8,000 | Varies significantly |
How much does the average apartment in Poland cost per square meter right now?
As of September 2025, apartments in Poland cost between PLN 14,000 and PLN 18,500 per square meter in major cities, with significant variation depending on location and property condition.
Warsaw commands the highest prices at PLN 16,400-18,500 per square meter for standard apartments, with premium central locations reaching PLN 22,500 per square meter. Kraków follows closely with prices ranging from PLN 15,000-20,000 per square meter, reflecting its status as Poland's cultural capital and strong tourist market.
Secondary cities like Wrocław and Gdańsk offer more moderate pricing at PLN 12,500-15,000 per square meter, providing good value for buyers seeking quality urban amenities at lower costs. These cities have experienced steady growth due to strong local economies and university populations.
The most affordable major city options include Łódź at PLN 7,800-9,800 per square meter and Lublin at PLN 8,000-10,000 per square meter. These prices represent excellent value for buyers seeking entry points into Poland's property market with potential for future appreciation.
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What's the price difference between buying in Warsaw and buying in smaller cities like Łódź or Lublin?
Warsaw properties cost approximately 40-50% more than comparable apartments in smaller cities like Łódź and Lublin, representing substantial savings for buyers willing to consider alternative locations.
A typical 60-square-meter apartment in Warsaw costs PLN 984,000-1,110,000 based on current market rates of PLN 16,400-18,500 per square meter. The same size apartment in Łódź would cost PLN 468,000-588,000, while in Lublin prices range from PLN 480,000-600,000.
This price differential reflects Warsaw's status as Poland's economic center, offering higher employment opportunities, international business presence, and premium urban amenities. However, smaller cities provide excellent value propositions with growing economies, lower living costs, and strong rental demand from university students and young professionals.
The gap has remained relatively stable over recent years, though smaller cities have experienced faster percentage growth as buyers seek affordability. This trend suggests potential for continued appreciation in secondary markets while Warsaw prices face increasing affordability constraints.
Regional economic development and infrastructure investments continue supporting property values in smaller cities, making them attractive options for both investment and residential purposes.
How much are houses in the countryside compared to city apartments?
Rural houses in Poland cost significantly less than city apartments, with construction costs typically ranging from PLN 5,500-6,200 per square meter and finished properties often available under PLN 8,000 per square meter.
New construction in countryside locations averages PLN 5,500-6,000 per square meter for basic finishing, compared to PLN 14,000-18,500 per square meter for city apartments. This represents savings of approximately 60-70% for buyers choosing rural locations over urban centers.
Existing rural properties offer even greater value, with many finished houses in less developed voivodeships available at prices well below city apartment rates. However, buyers must consider additional factors including infrastructure limitations, transportation costs, and reduced access to services and employment opportunities.
Rural properties typically include larger land plots, providing additional value through gardening space, privacy, and potential for expansion or development. The total living space per złoty invested generally favors countryside purchases significantly.
Location within rural areas matters considerably, with properties near major highways or within commuting distance of cities commanding higher prices while maintaining substantial discounts compared to urban alternatives.
What are the typical extra costs when buying property in Poland, like notary fees, taxes, and agent commissions?
Total extra costs when buying property in Poland typically range from 4-8% of the purchase price, depending on whether you're buying new or resale property and the specific services required.
| Cost Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fees | 0.25-2% (max PLN 10,000) + VAT | Higher percentage for expensive properties |
| Land/Mortgage Register | PLN 200 per entry | Fixed government fee |
| Tax (Secondary Market) | 2% PCC | On resale properties |
| VAT (New Build) | 8% | On new construction |
| Agency Commission | 2-3% | Standard market rate |
| Legal Fees | PLN 2,000-5,000 | Due diligence and contract review |
| Total Range | 4-8% of purchase price | Varies by property type and value |
New build properties incur higher costs due to 8% VAT compared to 2% PCC tax on resale properties. Agency commissions are typically negotiable but commonly range from 2-3% of the purchase price.
Legal fees for due diligence, contract review, and closing procedures typically cost PLN 2,000-5,000, representing essential protection for buyers navigating Polish property law and documentation requirements.
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How much should I budget for monthly property maintenance and service charges in Poland?
Monthly property maintenance and service charges in Poland typically range from PLN 500-900 per month in major cities, with costs varying significantly based on building age, location, and included services.
Apartment maintenance fees ("czynsz") generally cost PLN 150-300 per month, with newer buildings and those offering premium amenities commanding higher charges. These fees cover common area maintenance, building management, security, and shared utilities.
Basic utilities including electricity, heating, water, and waste management typically cost PLN 300-500 per month for a standard apartment. Heating costs can vary significantly between central heating systems and individual gas heating, with winter months requiring higher budgets.
Additional monthly expenses including internet service, property insurance, and parking fees can add PLN 200-300 to monthly costs. Premium buildings in city centers often require higher maintenance contributions due to enhanced services and amenities.
Rural properties generally have lower maintenance costs but may require higher individual utility payments and potentially more frequent repairs due to infrastructure limitations and older building systems.
Are mortgage rates in Poland high right now, and how much deposit do banks usually require?
Polish mortgage rates as of September 2025 range from 6.2-7.9% for fixed-rate loans and 7.0-7.4% for variable-rate PLN mortgages, representing moderate levels compared to recent historical peaks.
Banks typically require 10-20% deposits for Polish residents, while foreign buyers often face higher requirements of 20-30% due to additional risk assessment factors. These deposit requirements have remained relatively stable despite interest rate fluctuations.
First-time Polish buyers can access government programs offering reduced or no-deposit options, though these programs include price limits based on location and are not available to foreign purchasers. These programs aim to support domestic homeownership in specific market segments.
Mortgage approval processes for foreigners typically require additional documentation including proof of foreign income, employment verification, and sometimes Polish tax registration. Processing times can extend 4-8 weeks compared to 2-4 weeks for domestic applicants.
Fixed-rate mortgages offer payment stability but generally carry higher initial rates, while variable-rate options provide potential savings if rates decline but include payment uncertainty throughout the loan term.
How does property in Poland compare in price to other European countries like Germany or Czechia?
Poland remains significantly cheaper than Germany while approaching closer price parity with Czechia, particularly when comparing capital cities and premium markets.
Warsaw apartments averaging PLN 16,500-18,500 per square meter (approximately €3,500-4,200) cost substantially less than Berlin properties at €6,500-7,000 per square meter, with even larger gaps compared to Munich or Hamburg markets reaching €8,000-12,000 per square meter.
Prague represents Poland's closest regional competitor with prices around €5,000-6,000 per square meter, making Polish cities significantly more affordable while offering comparable urban amenities and economic opportunities. This pricing gap has narrowed considerably over recent years as Poland's economy has strengthened.
Secondary Polish cities offer exceptional value compared to equivalent German or Czech markets, with cities like Kraków and Wrocław providing quality urban living at prices 50-60% below comparable German cities of similar size and economic importance.
The value proposition extends beyond purchase prices to include lower property taxes, maintenance costs, and overall living expenses, making Poland attractive for both investment and relocation purposes within the European context.
Is buying property in Poland cheaper if you're paying in euros compared to zloty, considering the exchange rate?
There is no specific Euro discount when buying Polish property, as sellers typically price properties in PLN and any currency advantage depends entirely on real-time exchange rate fluctuations between the Euro and Polish Złoty.
Polish property transactions are conducted in PLN regardless of the buyer's payment currency, meaning Euro holders must convert to PLN at prevailing exchange rates. Any savings or additional costs result from exchange rate movements rather than preferential pricing structures.
Euro buyers can potentially benefit if the PLN weakens against the Euro between the time of property search and purchase completion, though the opposite scenario could result in higher effective costs. Exchange rate volatility can impact purchase costs by 3-8% over typical transaction timeframes.
Foreign exchange costs including bank conversion fees and transfer charges typically add 0.5-2% to the transaction cost, reducing any potential exchange rate benefits. Using specialized foreign exchange services can minimize these additional costs.
Long-term Euro holders considering Polish property investment should factor exchange rate risk into their investment calculations, as rental income and future sale proceeds will be in PLN, creating ongoing currency exposure.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Poland versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
What are the average rental yields in Poland if I buy a flat and rent it out?
Polish rental yields range from 4.0-6.5% gross annually depending on location, with smaller cities and specialized market segments offering higher returns than premium Warsaw locations.
Warsaw rental yields typically range from 4.0-5.5% gross, reflecting higher property purchase prices balanced against strong rental demand from professionals, expatriates, and students. Premium central locations often yield toward the lower end of this range due to higher acquisition costs.
Secondary cities like Kraków and Łódź offer higher yields of 5.8-6.5% gross, benefiting from lower purchase prices while maintaining solid rental demand from university populations and growing local economies. These markets often provide better cash flow potential for investors.
Smaller apartments and studio units generally achieve higher yields per square meter due to strong demand from young professionals and students willing to pay premium rates for convenient locations. This segment requires active management but can produce yields exceeding 7% in optimal locations.
Net yields after accounting for maintenance costs, vacancy periods, property management fees, and taxes typically range 2-4 percentage points below gross yields, requiring careful financial planning for investment viability and cash flow management.
Are there restrictions or extra costs for foreigners buying property in Poland?
EU nationals can buy Polish apartments freely with no restrictions, while house and land purchases may require ministerial consent depending on rural or urban classification and intended use.
Non-EU buyers face more extensive paperwork requirements and longer due diligence processes, though these typically add time rather than significant costs to the purchase process. Processing times can extend 2-4 weeks beyond standard timelines for complex applications.
Purchase costs including agent fees, taxes, and notary charges remain identical for foreign and domestic buyers, ensuring no price discrimination based on nationality or residence status. Legal representation costs may be slightly higher due to additional documentation requirements.
Foreign buyers should budget additional time and potentially higher legal fees for comprehensive due diligence, particularly for properties requiring permits or involving agricultural land classifications. Professional legal advice becomes essential for navigating regulatory requirements.
It's something we develop in our Poland property pack.
How much does renovating or furnishing an apartment in Poland usually cost?
Apartment renovation costs in Poland typically range from PLN 2,000-5,000 per square meter depending on the quality of finishes and extent of work required.
Basic renovation including flooring, painting, basic kitchen and bathroom updates costs approximately PLN 2,000-3,000 per square meter, suitable for rental properties or budget-conscious buyers seeking functional improvements without premium finishes.
Premium renovation with high-quality materials, custom kitchen installations, luxury bathroom fixtures, and designer finishes ranges from PLN 4,000-5,000 per square meter, creating modern living spaces comparable to new construction standards.
Complete fit-out of a 60-square-meter apartment typically costs PLN 100,000-120,000 including renovation and basic furnishing, though costs vary significantly based on regional pricing and specific requirements. Major cities generally command higher renovation costs due to labor and material pricing.
Furnishing costs for a fully equipped 60-square-meter apartment range from PLN 30,000-80,000 depending on quality preferences, with IKEA-level furnishing at the lower end and premium furniture and appliances at the higher range.
Is the market in Poland still growing, or are property prices starting to slow down?
The Polish property market experienced strong growth with prices rising approximately 14% nationally during 2024-2025, though growth is now moderating as supply increases and affordability constraints emerge in premium segments.
Current market conditions show increasing inventory levels and longer selling periods in high-end Warsaw and Kraków markets, suggesting price stabilization or minor corrections in premium segments while mid-market properties continue experiencing moderate appreciation.
Secondary cities and affordable market segments continue showing growth potential due to ongoing economic development, infrastructure investments, and demographic trends favoring urbanization from rural areas. These markets may outperform premium segments in coming years.
Supply-side pressures include new construction completions and increasing developer activity, providing more options for buyers while moderating price growth. This rebalancing represents healthy market normalization rather than concerning decline.
It's something we develop in our Poland property pack.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Poland remains one of Europe's most accessible property markets for international buyers, offering significant value compared to Western European alternatives while providing strong economic fundamentals and growth potential.
The combination of reasonable purchase prices, manageable ongoing costs, and attractive rental yields makes Polish real estate suitable for both investment and residential purposes, particularly for buyers willing to consider locations beyond Warsaw's premium market segments.
Sources
- InvestRopa - Average Apartment Price per Square Meter Warsaw
- Poland Insight - Average Apartment Prices in Poland's Largest Cities
- TS2 Tech - Poland Real Estate Market 2025 Trends
- InvestRopa - Poland Price Forecasts
- Atlant Estates - Cost to Build House Poland 2025
- Poland Insight - Primary Housing Market Poland May 2025
- InvestRopa - Average Apartment Price per Square Meter Krakow
- Global Property Guide - Poland Square Meter Prices
- Finding Poland - Buy Flat Poland
- Polish Descent - Poland Real Estate for Foreign Investors