Utility Costs in Bulgaria 2024–2025: What You Need to Know

Bulgaria has increasingly become a hub for Ukrainians and other foreign nationals seeking permanent residency or lucrative real estate investments. A critical aspect of relocating is understanding utility costs. As in other European countries, utility tariffs in Bulgaria can vary based on region and type of service. Below is an analysis of the primary utility expenses in Bulgaria for the 2024–2025 period.

Core Utility Services: The key utilities in Bulgaria include:

• Electricity
• Heating
• Water supply
• Gas
• Waste disposal
• Internet and TV

Electricity: Electricity costs in Bulgaria remain among the lowest in Europe. As of September 2024, the average price per kilowatt-hour is approximately 0.214436 BGN/kWh, excluding VAT (about €0.1). A standard apartment of 60–80 m² may incur electricity expenses ranging from €40 to €70 monthly, depending on consumption and season.

Heating: Heating costs vary significantly by region and system type. Common heating methods include:

• Centralized heating: ~€180/month for an 80 m² apartment.
• Electric heating (high-class air conditioners): Surprisingly affordable at ~€100/month for 80 m².
• Firewood or pellets: The most economical, costing €3–€4 per kilogram.

On average, heating expenses in winter months range from €70 to €200 per month.

Water Supply: As of 2024, the cost per cubic meter of water rose to €1.8, varying by region. Monthly water expenses for a family generally range from €10 to €20.

Gas: Gas is less popular compared to electricity or firewood but is utilized in larger cities. As of autumn 2024, the cost is approximately €32 per megawatt-hour, with monthly expenses for heating or cooking ranging from €20 to €40.

Internet and TV: Bulgaria offers fast and affordable internet services. A standard package, including internet and cable TV, costs €15–€30 per month, delivering speeds of up to 100–200 Mbps.

Waste Disposal: Waste disposal fees differ by region:

• Burgas: Fees are calculated based on property tax assessments.
• Plovdiv: 1.8‰ of property tax for individuals, 5.3‰ for businesses.
• Veliko Tarnovo: 1.7‰, with costs averaging €1–€2 monthly, depending on property tax size.

A family of four in an 80 m² apartment typically spends €3–€8 per month on waste disposal.

Total Utility Costs:

For a 60–80 m² apartment, monthly utility costs in Bulgaria range from €100 to €200, influenced by region, season, and heating type.

Regional Differences: Utility costs vary by location:

• Cities with centralized heating (e.g., Varna) may have higher expenses but benefit from energy efficiency over time.
• Resort areas like Sunny Beach or Burgas may have lower costs due to less heating demand and access to local resources.

Utilities in Residential Complexes: Sunny Beach’s “Fort Noks” residential complex provides an example of comfortable living with reasonable utility fees. Below are indicative costs for 2023–2024:

• Electricity: €30–€50 (summer), €50–€100 (winter).
• Heating: €50–€120 (winter).
• Water: €10–€20 monthly.
• Internet and TV: €15–€20 monthly.
• Waste disposal: €30–€50 annually.
• Complex maintenance (swimming pools, greenery, security): €8–€12/m² annually (€480–€720 for a 60 m² apartment).

Monthly utility expenses in “Fort Noks” average:

• Summer: €80–€100.
• Winter: €130–€220.

To delve further into specifics, “Fort Noks” offers informational tours, including insights into annual maintenance fees, legal aspects of property ownership, and bespoke apartment options tailored to taste and budget. Additional perks include three nights in a luxury hotel, comprehensive support, and coastal excursions.