Gdańsk vs Krakow: Cost of Living Compared
A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Gdańsk (Poland) and Krakow (Poland). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.
Bottom line: Krakow is about 17% cheaper than Gdańsk on a typical 1-bedroom — averaging zł3,450 versus zł4,150 per month. Full side-by-side breakdown below.
| Category | Gdańsk | Krakow |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Poland | Poland |
| Currency | PLN (zł) | PLN (zł) |
| 1BR Rent Range | zł3,100 - zł5,200 | zł2,700 - zł4,200Cheaper |
| 2BR Rent Range | zł4,200 - zł6,800 | zł3,500 - zł5,500Cheaper |
| Groceries / mo | zł1,350 | zł1,300Cheaper |
| Transport Pass / mo | zł105 | zł100Cheaper |
| Dining Out / mo | zł540 | zł500Cheaper |
| English Level | 4/5 (Good) | 4/5 (Good) |
| Neighborhoods Tracked | 5 | 11 |
| Healthcare System | Public (NFZ) | Public (NFZ) |
What does your salary buy in Gdańsk?
Enter your gross monthly salary to see your take-home pay, affordable neighborhoods, and savings potential
Free calculator with 2026 tax rates. No data stored.
Not sure where to start? See minimum salary needed
Start guided calculatorVerdict
Overall, Krakow tends to be more affordable when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, the two cities use the same currency, so exchange rates and local salary levels also play a significant role. Use our calculator to see what your specific salary means in each city.
Explore Gdańsk
5 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Poland
View Gdańsk detailsExplore Krakow
11 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Poland
View Krakow detailsCalculate your salary in both cities
Enter your gross salary to see net pay, rent affordability, and savings potential in Gdańsk and Krakow.
Open the comparison calculatorRelated comparisons
Other cost-of-living comparisons featuring Gdańsk or Krakow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gdańsk or Krakow cheaper to live in?
On a typical 1-bedroom, Krakow is about 17% cheaper than Gdańsk — averaging zł3,450 versus zł4,150 per month. Overall, Krakow is generally cheaper to live in across rent, groceries, transport, and dining, though costs vary by neighborhood and lifestyle.
What is rent like in Gdańsk vs Krakow?
In Gdańsk, 1-bedroom rents range from zł3,100 to zł5,200 per month across 5 neighborhoods. In Krakow, 1-bedroom rents range from zł2,700 to zł4,200 per month across 11 neighborhoods.
How do transport costs compare in Gdańsk vs Krakow?
A monthly public transport pass costs zł105 in Gdańsk and zł100 in Krakow. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.
Which city is better for expats, Gdańsk or Krakow?
Gdańsk has an English proficiency rating of 4/5 (Good) and Krakow rates 4/5 (Good). Gdańsk uses Public (NFZ) healthcare, while Krakow uses Public (NFZ). Both factors are important for expats considering a move.