Retire in Poland
Last updated on Mar 07, 2024
Summary: Retirees are attracted to Poland for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and affordable cost of living. Poland also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from skiing in the mountains to sailing on the Baltic Sea. The weather in Poland varies depending on the region, but generally the summers are warm and sunny with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit, while the winters are cold and snowy with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-30s Fahrenheit.
What is it like to retire in Poland?
"Retirement in Poland and its surroundings can be an enjoyable experience for retirees. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from other countries living in the area. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the many castles and churches in the area, as well as museums and galleries. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and skiing in the nearby mountains. For those looking for a more active nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore," explained one retiree living in Poland.
Get Quote
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Get Quote
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Poland?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Poland is the language barrier. Many people in Poland speak Polish as their first language, and it can be difficult for those who do not speak the language to communicate with locals. Additionally, the cost of living in Poland is relatively high, which can make it difficult for retirees to make ends meet. Furthermore, the healthcare system in Poland is not as advanced as in other countries, which can be a concern for retirees who may need medical care. Finally, the cultural differences between Poland and other countries can be a challenge for those who are used to a different way of life," said one retiree in living in Poland.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Poland?
"Retiring in Poland can be a rewarding experience due to its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes. The cost of living in Poland is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for retirees on a budget. The country also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from skiing in the mountains to exploring the many historical sites. Additionally, the healthcare system in Poland is highly rated, providing retirees with access to quality medical care. Finally, the friendly and welcoming people of Poland make it a great place to settle down and enjoy a peaceful retirement," explained a retiree in Poland.
What are healthcare services like in Poland?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Poland. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Poland are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed public healthcare system, which is free for all citizens and provides access to a wide range of medical services. Private healthcare is also available, and many people opt for this option due to shorter waiting times and more personalized care. Poland also has a number of specialized medical centers and clinics that offer advanced treatments and procedures. In addition, the country has a well-developed network of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications," explained a retiree in Poland.
How do I meet people in Poland?
When we asked people living in Poland about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Poland often join local clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as these can be great ways to connect with other expats and locals," said a person in Poland.
"Attend the local village festivals, the bi-annual town hall meetings, and attend the local parish if you are Catholic," remarked one retiree in Siemiechow.
What is life like in Poland?
When we asked people living in Poland what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Poland as an expat or digital nomad can be a rewarding experience. The country offers a unique blend of culture, history, and modern amenities. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country also offers excellent public transportation, making it easy to get around. Additionally, the country is home to a large expat and digital nomad community, providing plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make connections," said a retiree who moved to Poland.
"Life in this village really focuses first on family values, then working (on the job and at home), local farming, socializing at the local 'pub', Church, and football (soccer)," said one retiree in Siemiechow.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
What do I need to know before retiring in Poland?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Poland, they said:
"Have a very open mind, then make the move and be prepared for the village life. It may not be easy, however, it's very rewarding and beautiful," explained one retiree living in Siemiechow.
"Before retiring in Poland, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, as English is not widely spoken. It is also important to research the cost of living in the area they plan to retire in, as prices can vary significantly from city to city. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Poland and make sure they have adequate health insurance coverage. Finally, expats should also research the tax laws in Poland to ensure they are compliant with all regulations," said one retiree in living in Poland.
"If you plan to settle here try to avoid expat populated areas (even thought it seems like a good plan to stick with people from your country only) as that will impede your assimilation with Poland and Polish culture. One can easily survive with English language only in all big cities and the general command of English is at ok-ish level for 40 yrs old and younger (the younger the generation the better their English) in the whole country. What is more - expect people to be interested in talking back to you in English as everybody tries to improve their language skills. Learn a few Polish words - that will open more doors to Polish hearts than the best English diplomacy. We know our language is deemed to be the most difficult to learn by non Slavic people so we appreciate all "Dzien dobry" from foreigners. And it is generally frowned upon if we learn that a given expat lives in Poland for a few years and still does not even try to speak Polish," explained a retiree in Poland.
What type of recreational activities are there in Poland?
"In Poland, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks are a popular destination for families, offering a variety of activities such as walking, biking, and picnicking. Beaches are also a popular destination for residents, offering swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Sports complexes are also popular, offering a variety of activities such as basketball, tennis, and soccer. Additionally, many cities in Poland have public swimming pools, which are a great way to cool off during the summer months," explained one member in Poland.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Poland?
"People living in Poland typically buy groceries from supermarkets, convenience stores, and local markets. Other shopping can be done at department stores, shopping malls, and specialty stores. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular in Poland," explained one retiree living in Poland.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Poland Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Poland
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Poland
- Best Places to Live in Poland
- Real Estate in Poland
- Guide to Real Estate in Poland
- Pros & Cons of Living in Poland
- Cost of Living in Poland
- Having a Baby in Poland
- Health Insurance for Expats in Poland
- Best Places to Visit in Poland for Christmas Cheer
- Christmas in Poland
- 2024 Guide to Living in Poland
- Pros and Cons of Living in Poland 2024