National Average Salary
As of the second quarter of 2024, the average monthly salary in Bulgaria is 2,296 BGN, (€1 174) reflecting a 17.3% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Average Salaries in Major Bulgarian Cities
- Sofia: The capital city boasts the highest average salary in the country, with an average of 3,129 BGN (€1 600) per month.
- Plovdiv: In the second-largest city, the average monthly salary is approximately 1,800 BGN. (€920)
- Varna: The average salary in this coastal city is around 1,850 BGN (€946) per month.
What Constitutes a Good Salary in Bulgaria?
Determining what qualifies as a "good" salary depends on various factors, including the cost of living and individual lifestyle choices. Given that the national average is 2,296 BGN, a salary more than this could be considered good. However given the large discrepancy between Sofia and the rest of the country in terms of costs and income, it’s not really accurate to make such a blanket statement.
So in Sofia a good salary would be considered anything above 3,300 BGN whereas in Plovdiv and Varna, salaries exceeding 2,500 BGN are considered good, given the relatively lower cost of living compared to the capital.
Conclusion
While still lower than in western Europe, salaries in Bulgaria have been on an upward trend, although there are significant variations across different regions. While Sofia offers the highest salaries, it's important to consider the corresponding cost of living. Understanding these dynamics is essential for making informed career decisions in Bulgaria.