Moving from Bucharest to Sofia (2026)

Sofia has a COL index of 48 vs 47 for Bucharest (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 3% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$60 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
47 โ†’ 48
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$600 โ†’ $540
per month
State tax
10% โ†’ 10%
income tax
COL difference
47 โ†’ 48
3% more expensive

Salary needed in Sofia to match your Bucharest lifestyle

Based on the 3% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in BucharestEquivalent in Sofia
$40K$41,290
$50K$51,613
$60K$61,935
$75K$77,419
$80K$82,581
$100K$103,226
$120K$123,871
$150K$154,839

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Save ~$65/moon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Bucharest vs Sofia

ExpenseBucharestSofia
Monthly take-home$4,116$4,116
1BR rent$600$540
Groceries$380$380
Transport$150$150
Utilities$85$75
Internet$15$20
Left after essentials$2,886$2,951

Frequently asked questions

Is Sofia cheaper than Bucharest?

No. Sofia has a cost of living index of 48 vs 47 for Bucharest (100 = US average). That's about 3% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Bucharest to Sofia?

On a $75K salary, moving from Bucharest to Sofia saves roughly $60/month on core expenses. That's ~$720/year.

What salary do I need in Sofia to match my Bucharest lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Bucharest, you'd need roughly $77,419/year in Sofia. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only