Cost of living in Kaunas
Kaunas, Lithuania's second-largest city, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Understanding the cost of living in Kaunas is crucial for anyone considering relocating or planning an extended stay.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Kaunas, covering essential categories such as dining, groceries, transportation, housing, and utilities.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $10.54 on average, with a range between $8.43 and $15.8.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $52.68, with prices ranging from $42.15 to $84.29.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $7.82, with a range between $6.32 and $8.43.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $2.11 to $5.27, imported beer $2.63 to $5.27, cappuccino $2.63 to $4.21, and Coke/Pepsi $1.05 to $3.16.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1 and $2.11 per liter, averaging $1.38.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.05 and $2.11, with an average price of $1.71.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.01 to $3.29, averaging $2.65.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $0.73 to $2.11 per kg, while oranges range from $1.05 to $3.16 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.31 and $1.58 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.05 to $2.11 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $0.74 and $1.05, with a monthly pass priced at approximately $29.5.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.45 and $1.79 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $2.63, with a cost of $1.05 to $1.26 per km and $6.32 to $10.54 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $474.15 to $737.56, averaging $582.47.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $368.78 to $526.83, averaging $462.73.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $790.25 to $1580.5, averaging $1059.52.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $526.83 to $948.3, averaging $727.03.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $2739.53 to $5268.32, averaging $3371.73.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $2001.96 to $3160.99, averaging $2212.69.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $179.12 and $298.54, averaging $222.2.
- Internet - Internet services range from $10.54 to $29.5, with an average cost of $14.33.
Cost of Living Rankings
Kaunas ranks 2nd on the Cost of Living rankings in Lithuania. The cost of living indices for Lithuania are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in Lithuania, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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Transportation
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Rent Per Month
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Clothing And Shoes
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Salaries And Financing
Salaries And Financing
Childcare
Childcare
"Key Takeaways"
Kaunas offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many Western European cities. Dining out is reasonably priced, with a variety of options from casual to mid-range restaurants.
Grocery prices are moderate, with essentials like milk, bread, and eggs being quite affordable. Transportation costs are low, especially for public transport.
Housing costs in Kaunas are competitive, with reasonable rental prices both in the city centre and outside. Utilities and internet services are also cost-effective, making Kaunas an attractive option for those seeking a balance between cost and quality of life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kaunas presents a cost-effective living environment with a good balance of affordability and quality. The city offers diverse dining options, affordable groceries, and efficient public transportation.
Housing is accessible, with various options available to suit different budgets. Overall, Kaunas is an appealing choice for individuals and families looking for a European city with a manageable cost of living.