Poland’s best cities to live in: where to move to in 2025

Migration to Europe is becoming more conscious: families planning long-term residence abroad consider the level of school and bachelor’s education as a decisive factor. Poland is a country that combines affordability, European quality, and wide integration into international academic processes. Before moving, it is important to understand how the education system in Poland is structured, what stages of education exist, what the structure of universities looks like, and what parents, students, and investors should pay attention to.

General structure of the education system in Poland: from kindergarten to university

Education is divided into several sequential stages. It starts with preschool education, then goes through primary, secondary, and higher education. State institutions provide services for free, private ones for a fee. Each stage is regulated by the Ministry, and operates under a unified standard.

The Polish education system implies compulsory education until the age of 18. After primary school, students move on to lyceums or technical schools. The graduation exam — Matura — gives the right to enter university.

Preschool and primary stage: stress-free start

At the age of 3 to 6, children attend przedszkole — a kindergarten equivalent. In the final year of preschool education, a child prepares for school. Parents can choose between a state or private institution.

The education system in Poland emphasizes a playful and psychological approach, fostering interest in learning from an early age. At 7 years old, a child goes to primary school, where they study for 8 years — first in junior classes, then in senior ones.

Intermediate level: specialized development and Matura

After primary school, teenagers choose to continue their education in a lyceum (academic orientation) or technikum (technical training). Education lasts for 4 or 5 years depending on the chosen direction.

The stage is completed with the Matura exam, without which it is impossible to enter university. It includes tests in Polish, mathematics, a foreign language, and additional subjects.

The features of education in Poland at this level include early career orientation, subject choice based on interests, and equal opportunities for all students.

Higher education in Poland: universities and the Bologna Process

Since 2007, the country has been fully integrated into the Bologna Process. Higher education is divided into three levels: bachelor’s (3–4 years), master’s (1.5–2 years), and doctoral (3–4 years). Universities offer education in Polish and English.

Popular fields include IT, medicine, architecture, business, and engineering. Many programs are available to foreigners on a commercial or scholarship basis. The education system in Poland includes prestigious universities such as the University of Warsaw, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, and Wroclaw University of Science and Technology.

Education system in Poland for foreigners: integration and accessibility

Every year, tens of thousands of students from Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, India, Nigeria, and Arab countries come to the country. Education in this Central European country remains one of the most accessible in the EU. There are no entrance exams — admission is based on document competition.

The internationalization of the system allows choosing programs in English, participating in exchanges, Erasmus+ projects, and obtaining a European diploma recognized throughout Europe.

Inclusivity and equal opportunities

Great attention is paid to supporting children with special educational needs. Inclusivity is implemented through access to adapted programs, educational assistants, psychologists, and speech therapists. Students with limited abilities can attend both specialized and regular schools.

The education system in Poland promotes equal rights for all participants in the process: socially vulnerable groups, migrants, children of refugees. All students have access to free knowledge regardless of family status.

Investments and housing: what parents and students should pay attention to

Many families consider investing in Polish real estate as a way to combine having a child and financial stability. Buying an apartment in a university city reduces rental expenses and can generate income from renting out. With the growing number of students, the demand for apartments near campuses remains consistently high.

To obtain permanent residency, it is important to live for a minimum of 5 years, some of which can be spent on a student visa. The educational process becomes one of the channels for legalization, and real estate becomes an asset in a stable economy.

Programs, research, and career prospects

Bachelor’s and master’s programs combine academic theory with practice. Students participate in research, internships, and projects with companies. Polish universities actively cooperate with firms from the EU, UK, and USA.

Graduates have career opportunities in Europe and beyond. With a diploma and language skills, there is a chance to work in an international company, stay on a work visa, or start a business.

Key advantages of the education system in Poland

Below are the key advantages that make studying in the country attractive:

• affordability — state education is free, private education is inexpensive;
• international recognition of diplomas;
• participation in the Bologna Process;
• emphasis on career orientation;
• inclusivity and equality of rights;
• admission without entrance exams;
• wide selection of programs in English;
• student visa — a path to legalization.

These factors make the education system in Poland a worthy alternative to other EU countries.

Important nuances to consider

Despite numerous advantages, parents and students should consider a number of points:

• education in Polish requires preparation (years of courses);
• limited program choices in small towns;
• high competition in top universities;
• some private schools and universities lack accreditation;
• the system is still adapting to modern standards;
• scholarships are limited — often paid education;
• bureaucracy in visa and document processing may take time.

These points are not considered barriers, but require advance planning and a sober assessment of one’s capabilities.

Education system in Poland: the main points

For many families, young professionals, and students, the education system in Poland is not just a step towards knowledge, but also a strategy for long-term integration into Europe. The combination of quality, affordability, and international recognition makes it a logical choice in 2025.

When choosing a school or university, it is important to consider the location, accreditation, program language, and goals — academic or immigration. With a thoughtful approach, the Polish state can become a reliable start for a child, investor, or professional!

It is impossible not to notice how the property market in Poland is booming – attractive conditions for buying a home, a stable economy and a high standard of living make the country a real boon for investors. It offers the opportunity to invest in the future with confidence and significantly improve the quality of life. From affordable flats in Warsaw to luxury villas on the coast, there is something for everyone.

Advantages of buying property in Poland

The country has long ceased to be a “dark horse” in the European property market. Its advantages – from a stable economy to friendly legislation – create ideal conditions for buying a home. The state offers low interest rates on mortgage loans for foreign citizens, which makes the process of buying a home as affordable as possible. Flexible legislative norms allow foreigners to easily purchase living space and even obtain a residence permit.

Benefits:

1. Affordable mortgage interest rates starting at 3.5 per cent.
2. Possibility of obtaining a residence permit on the basis of a property purchase.
3. High level of security and access to European standards of living.
4. Continuous growth in property values, which provides a stable return on investment.

Data shows that the value of housing in Warsaw has increased by 15 per cent over the past five years – a loud signal to potential investors.

Property in Warsaw: the heart of European investment

The gold standard for those looking for profitable investments in Europe. The capital of Poland is a dynamic city that every year attracts more and more investors looking to invest in its rapidly developing infrastructure and economy. It is not only a business centre, but also the cultural heart of the country. It combines modern skyscrapers and historic buildings to create a unique atmosphere for living and working.

One example of a successful investment is the purchase of an office building in the city centre by a company from Germany, which increased its value by 25% after three years. Developed infrastructure, transport hubs and cultural centres make Warsaw attractive for both commercial and residential investments.

Property prices in Poland: what to expect?

The cost of Polish square metres continues to grow steadily despite global economic fluctuations. According to data for 2024, the average price per metre is around PLN 12,000, while in smaller cities such as Wrocław or Poznań, the price tags are between PLN 8,000 and 10,000. The market is stable, and experts predict a further increase in value, especially in larger cities and on the coast.

One of the reasons for such dynamics is the increasing demand for residential property for permanent residence and growing interest from foreign investors. This is due to the high quality of life and the availability of mortgage lending.

Investing in commercial property in Poland: prospects and benefits

Investments bring tangible benefits due to the stable demand for office and retail space. The white-red land is a leader among Central and Eastern European countries in attracting investment in commercial facilities. High profitability and attractive lease terms ensure a quick return on investment.

A successful example is an investment in a shopping centre in Krakow, which paid off within five years with a return of 8-10% annually. A developed economy, high level of consumption and steadily growing rental demand make commercial space an excellent choice for long-term investments.

Property in Poland for permanent residence: comfort and stability

A wide choice – from cosy apartments in historical centres to modern cottages in the suburbs. The Western Slavic state is renowned for its high quality of life, access to quality medicine and education, and safe ecology.

Life here is European-level stability, where affordable housing is combined with high quality services and developed infrastructure. For example, in cities such as Gdansk and Krakow, the combination of sea air and cultural heritage creates ideal conditions for a stay.

Villa in Poland: a luxurious investment in the future

The bold purchase of a premium estate is a smart move for those who want to secure their family’s future. There are many luxury properties to be found along the Baltic Sea coast that offer stunning sea views and a high level of privacy. Prices for such mansions range from 1.5 to 3 million euros, but the potential for growth in value makes it a worthwhile investment.

Apartments in Poland: urban comfort for those who appreciate convenience

Apartments are an ideal option for those looking for comfortable living in the centre of large cities. Modern apartment complexes offer everything you need for life: 24-hour security, car parks, fitness centres and even swimming pools. Such premises are in high demand among tenants, which makes their purchase a profitable investment with a steady income.

Conclusion

Property in Poland is not just square metres, it is a confident step into the future, providing stability and comfort. Buying a home here is an opportunity to live in the centre of Europe, enjoying a high quality of life, security and access to the best services. A favourable purchase opens the door to new opportunities, be it investing in commercial property or choosing a cosy home for permanent residence. Investing in Polish residential property is a smart choice for those who want to preserve and multiply their assets and ensure a stable future for their family.