The 14 Best Places to Live in Poland for Expats and Digital Nomads
Warsaw, Kraków, Poznań, Wrocław, Gdańsk, Bielsko-Biała, Lodz, Gdynia, Sopot, Lublin, Katowice, Szczecin, Rzeszów and Toruń are the best places to live in Poland for expats and digital nomads in 2026.
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As one of the fastest-growing countries in Europe, Poland boasts a low cost of living, high quality of life, and good internet connectivity. You can find everything in Poland that makes a big city like London or New York great but for a much lower cost.
This Pacific Prime article will guide you to discover the country that was formerly a member of the Warsaw Pact and today a full NATO and EU member. Naturally, to truly enjoy your time in Poland as an expat, sufficient health insurance is a must.
Warsaw
The capital of Poland is the place to be if you are looking to build a career in Poland. Here, you’ll find the head offices of Polish companies, as well as the Polish head offices of foreign companies like Google and J.P. Morgan.
Warsaw is also a magnet for Poles from other parts of the country as well as foreigners in Poland. Thus, locals are used to seeing new faces, and fitting in won’t take long. Warsaw also boasts a modern infrastructure, a well-run public transport system, and numerous quality schools and hospitals.
Originally built for King John III Sobieski, the centuries-old Wilanow Palace has changed hands a number of times since his death. Now it is a museum where Poland’s royal and artistic heritage is on display. Music festivals, such as the summer concerts, are also held in the garden.
You should also see the Royal Castle, Palace of Culture and Science, Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Warsaw Uprising Museum where the story of how Warsaw withstood the Nazis is told. The Old Town Market Square and Lazienki Park are good to hang out in, especially on the weekend.
Kraków
Kraków, the second-largest city in Poland, is a beautiful and historic city and a major economic center and industrial base. At the heart of Kraków is an old medieval town where you’ll find numerous preserved buildings, museums and galleries.
As the city develops, job opportunities are plentiful for people in IT, finance, services and manufacturing. If you speak English or French, you will also be sought after by the tourism industry.
The Market Square is at the heart of the Kraków Old Town, a UNESCO world heritage site, and there are bars in the cellars of medieval buildings. The Barbican is the only remnant of the fortifications instrumental in the city’s defense against the Mongol horsemen in the 13th century.
The Wawel Castle situated on an elevated point in the city is where the kings and queens of Poland had lived until the 17th century. The Jewish ghetto memorial and Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, meanwhile, are sorrowful reminders of the darkest days in the city’s past.
Poznań
With one in every 40 residents actively engaged in entrepreneurship, Poznań is the mecca for entrepreneurs in Poland. The city’s top-notch conditions for doing business have also led to one of the lowest unemployment rates and above-average salaries.
The city is also among the most beautiful in Poland, and its historical center is breathtaking. The colorful houses, discos, restaurants and bars in the city center create a lively atmosphere. Moreover, it only takes two hours to get to Berlin from Poznań.
You’ll see old tanks and sculptures in the Old Market Square and magnificent Baroque ornaments and a crucifix dating back to the 16th century in the chapels of the Holy Cross of the Parish Church of St. Stanislau. Want to try your hand at making croissants? Then don’t miss the Croissant Museum!
Wrocław
Wrocław is the capital of Lower Silesia, and it has about 670,000 inhabitants and a rich history. The city is also one of Poland’s science centers, hosting one of the largest universities in Poland, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, and is home to over 600 startup companies.
The unemployment rate in Wrocław is below the Polish average, and there are plenty of job opportunities in Wrocław and the surrounding area. The cost of living is also low, making it a great city for expats and digital nomads who want to live abroad but keep more cash in their pockets.
Don’t miss the boutiques and markets or Wrocław’s many interesting museums like the Galleria M and the DNA Gallery! Visiting the Market Square, drinking beer in one of the many pubs, and getting lost in the cobblestone streets also make for a good way to spend an enjoyable weekend.
Gdańsk
Gdańsk is one of the top cities in Europe for expats, digital nomads and entrepreneurs. So, if you are looking for job opportunities in an international environment, have an entrepreneurial spirit, or simply enjoy the European lifestyle, Gdańsk is right for you.
Plenty of innovative coworking spaces and incubators are available to entrepreneurs. This vibrant city also offers plenty of activities and events to enjoy year-round.
One of the places you must visit is the city center. This historic district boasts charming architecture set against the backdrop of Poland’s Old Town and Gdańsk Bay. The sandy beaches are inviting and a lot of fun for the whole family!
You may want to take a cruise along the port as well as dine at one of the many restaurants in this area. Other attractions include the Town Hall with Neptune Fountain, Panorama of Gdańsk, St. Mary’s Church and the Oliwa Cathedral.
Bielsko-Biała
Bielsko-Biała is located in the southern part of Poland. The city offers everything you are looking for in terms of job opportunities for expats and digital nomads including low costs of living, good quality life, and friendly people.
It is one of the largest industrial cities in Poland and a well-known tourist destination. With high rates of internet connection and a diverse economy, Bielsko-Biała is one of the most vibrant Polish cities.
The city is one of art and culture, with numerous buildings, monuments, and other architectural objects remaining from ancient times. The city also has plenty of museums and galleries, including the Automotive Museum and the BWA Gallery.
You can also enjoy the beautiful parks and natural reserves in the suburbs, and skiing is another favorite activity here.
Lodz
Once the industrial hub of Poland, Łódź remains a vibrant city with ample job opportunities for expats. Łódź boasts the highest population density in the country and has a wide array of industry, technology, and business startups. It’s also just a short train ride away from Warsaw.
The city offers friendly people and lots of conveniences, such as parks, good food, and comfortable accommodation. The city is rapidly developing with new cafes and restaurants opening every month, so there’s never a dull moment!
Łódź boasts historic monuments, interesting architecture, and beautiful parks too. There are a lot of places to visit and for hanging out: you can stroll along the riverside quarter, go wine tasting, or see exhibitions at the Museum of Art.
When the weather is fine, few things are as satisfying as relaxing on sports courts or playing table tennis at the outdoor terrace of W Biegu Cafe. From its rich history to its delicious cuisine, Łódź has something for everyone.
Gdynia
A beautiful seaside city on the Baltic coast of Poland, Gdynia is an exciting, modern, and friendly city with a high standard of living in Poland and one of the best places to live abroad or run a business for expats and digital nomads.
With a booming real estate market and access to both the Baltic and German markets, Gdynia is truly open for business. It is also one of the most attractive cities in Poland and Northeastern Europe. The city is full of life, youth, and prospects.
Gdynia is where digital nomads can start their own businesses, offering a wide range of services such as web design, internet marketing, and IT solutions. You’ll find a large number of bars, restaurants, and cafes offering delicious Polish cuisine and even foreign dishes like Chinese or Italian.
Sopot
Sopot, a charming coastal city in Northeastern Poland, offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for jobs, business, and recreation. The city has a very active and fast-growing tech sector and attracts expatriate professionals from all over Europe.
The city of sea and mountains is only twelve km from Gdansk. It’s a place with beautiful seaside and sandy beaches, picturesque national parks nearby (including the Biebrza National Park), and long summer nights (where you can enjoy your meals outside until midnight).
It’s also perfect for people who love hiking in low mountain areas, with beautiful forests surrounding the city, or skiing in winter time.
Sopot is a popular summertime destination. Known for its beaches, stunning architecture, lively nightlife, and more, the area is also home to the Sopot International Song Festival. You can visit the many museums here, including the Sopot Wax Museum and the City of Sopot Museum.
Lublin
Lublin is the vibrant heart of Eastern Poland: known as the cultural capital of Eastern Poland, it strikes the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. Home to a prestigious university and a growing startup scene, the city offers ample opportunities for professionals and academics alike.
Meanwhile, its charming Old Town, with cobblestone streets and picturesque cafés, invites you to slow down and soak up the local atmosphere.
History comes alive at the Lublin Castle and the nearby Open Air Village Museum, while the vibrant street art and numerous festivals ensure there’s always something to explore. Lublin’s affordable housing and emerging business opportunities make it a prime choice for many.
Katowice
Once known for its coal mining and heavy industry, Katowice is now a center for innovation and culture. The city boasts a thriving creative scene with its rich musical heritage, buzzing nightlife, state-of-the-art concert halls, art galleries, and trendy coworking spaces.
The city prides itself on its efficient public transport system and green initiatives, which are reshaping urban living. For those seeking a blend of business opportunities and vibrant cultural experiences, Katowice offers an impressive array of modern amenities, all rooted in its unique history.
Szczecin
Szczecin is the scenic gateway between Poland and the Baltic. With its strategic port and maritime tradition, Szczecin is a hub for trade and commerce. Its innovative spirit is evident in the modern infrastructure and revitalized waterfront, where you can enjoy scenic views along the Oder River.
Architectural marvels such as the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle and a mix of contemporary design are reminders of Szczecin’s storied past. Its growing business district, coupled with affordable living and an inviting cultural scene, makes Szczecin ideal for expats and entrepreneurs wanting a fresh start.
Rzeszów
Rzeszów is a rising star for tech enthusiasts and culture seekers. In southeastern Poland, Rzeszów offers an expanding IT industry, a young demographic, and a welcoming atmosphere for digital nomads and tech professionals. Rzeszów’s modern business parks and startup incubators symbolize its forward-thinking mindset.
You can wander through its historic streets, visit charming local markets, or explore the Rzeszów Castle for a taste of Rzeszów’s rich heritage. With a balanced mix of career prospects and cultural heritage, Rzeszów keeps pace with modern trends without forgetting its past.
Toruń
Toruń, the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus, is renowned for its enchanting Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage site—with plenty of well-preserved Gothic architecture and winding streets. Toruń is also reinventing itself as a dynamic city with emerging tech startups and innovative coworking spaces.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Vistula River or sample the famous gingerbread that has made Toruń a culinary landmark. Blending its medieval legacy with a contemporary vibe, Toruń is perfect for enjoying culture, education, and a forward-looking community—all under one picturesque sky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a visa for digital nomads who want to live in Poland?
Poland does not offer a digital nomad visa. If you are an EU citizen, you can work in Poland without restrictions. For non-EU citizens, the Type D national long-stay visa is a suitable option, as it permits stays of up to one year and can often be renewed if certain conditions are met.
Is English commonly spoken in Poland?
English is widely understood in Poland and to some degree spoken. However, learning a bit of Polish will go a long way towards making your time there more enjoyable.
Who is entitled to free healthcare in Poland?
In Poland, one can seek treatment by the public healthcare system (free of charge) or in the private sector (in which case you must pay for the treatment). All people employed in Poland, foreigners included, must have compulsory health insurance.
How long will it take to become a naturalized citizen of Poland?
A foreigner residing continuously in Poland for at least three years on an establishment permit, an EU long‑term resident permit, or a permanent residence permit, with a stable income within Poland and a legal title to the occupied living premises, can apply.
Conclusion
Poland has a rich history and culture. The country is also poised for rapid growth. Don’t let the opportunity pass you by if you are one of the lucky few who get to see the country up close!
If you decide to move to Poland, don’t forget to secure comprehensive international health insurance solutions for yourself and your loved ones. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you will be covered no matter what health issue comes up is priceless.
With more than 25 years of experience as a well-respected global health insurance broker, we can create affordable and customized solutions that cater to the specific needs of expats in Poland. So contact us today for unbiased advice or a FREE plan comparison!
If you have enjoyed reading this article, make sure to also read our article on expat living in Malta too. The archipelago to the south of Italy with its breathtaking landscapes is very popular with international tourists.
Since joining Pacific Prime, Martin has become even more aware of the gap between the true value of insurance products and most people’s appreciation of it, and developed a passion for demystifying and simplifying matters, so that more people get the protection they need at a cost they can easily afford.
In his free time, Martin attends concerts of various genres, and plays the violin with piano accompaniment he pre-recorded himself or played live by his niece.
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How does the healthcare system work for expats in Poland, and what options are available for obtaining comprehensive health insurance?
Expats in Poland have access to the public healthcare system through the National Health Fund (NFZ) if they are employed and contribute to social security, which covers most basic medical services. However, many expats opt for private healthcare for shorter wait times and higher-quality care, often supplemented with comprehensive private health insurance. International health insurance plans are widely available and can offer expats access to top-tier private hospitals and clinics, ensuring they receive the best care while living in Poland.
For tailored advice on securing a health insurance plan that fits your needs, reach out to Pacific Prime through our Contact Us page. We’re here to help you compare plans and find the best coverage for your budget.
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