Moving from to
Complete relocation analysis: taxes, real prices, quality of life, and what salary to ask for.
The verdict
Poland is 28% cheaper to live in. Tax rate goes from 29.8% to 30.1%. Quality of life drops by 1 points.
Italy and Poland present a narrow 1-point difference in overall Quality of Life, 63 vs 62, yet the underlying metrics reveal divergent expat experiences. Climate emerges as the most significant differentiator, with Italy's 63 (14°C) commanding a 16-point lead over Poland's 47 (9°C), a crucial factor for those sensitive to weather. Healthcare also sees Italy ahead, scoring 62 compared to Poland's 51, suggesting better medical infrastructure or access. Poland, however, offers a considerably lower cost of living, with a price level of 53 against Italy's 85, making it a more budget-friendly option. Taxation is also more favorable in Poland, at 35 compared to Italy's 26, albeit still high for many.
Italy is marginally preferable, predominantly due to its more appealing climate and superior healthcare system.
Tax Comparison
At $37,769 USD equivalent gross salary
🇮🇹 Italy
🇵🇱 Poland
Net difference: $89/year in Poland.Full calculator →
What Things Actually Cost
Price Index: Italy = 89, Poland = 64 (US = 100)
Big Mac
Starbucks Tall Latte
Beer 500ml (bar)
iPhone 16 128GB
Netflix Standard (monthly)
1L Gasoline (95)
Single Transit Ticket
Airbnb Studio (city center)
What Salary to Ask For
If you earn €34,650 gross in Italy ($37,769USD), here's what you need in Poland depending on your goal:
Same net income (tax only)
zł151,594
You keep the same $26,494/yr net in both countries. But Poland taxes 0.3% more.
Same purchasing power (recommended)
zł109,011
Accounts for the fact that Poland is 28% cheaper than Italy. This is the number to negotiate.
Net Life Value at $38K
🇮🇹 Italy
51
🇵🇱 Poland
61
NLV combines net income, cost of living, and quality of life into one score. Moving to Poland improves your overall quality of life.
Quality of Life
Italy: 63/100 vs Poland: 62/100
Moving to Poland: Practicalities
Visa Openness
55/100
English Level
58/100
Expat Community
2.2%
Digital Nomad Visa
No