When pensions in Germany are barely enough to make a big move, many Berlin seniors pack their bags. But if you don’t want to give up culture, excellent food, walks by the sea, and financial security in your old age, you don’t have to move to the far reaches of Europe.
The true gem for savvy retirees is closer than you think. Gdańsk combines a high quality of life with a low cost of living
Gdańsk on the Polish Baltic coast is a dream for retirees!
From Berlin to Gdańsk: A new life in just 5 hours
While you have to hop on a plane to get to the Canary Islands , this new retiree paradise is easily accessible by land. From Berlin, the trip by car or direct EuroCity (EC) train takes just under five and a half hours.
This proximity to Germany is a decisive advantage for many seniors: Family can visit easily, and in an emergency, you can quickly return to your old home.
Berlin far ahead: Living well on less than 1,200 euros a month
While in Berlin you have to watch every penny on a 1,200-euro pension, you can live very well on that amount in Gdańsk .Poland offers people with euro-denominated incomes an enormously high purchasing power.
A beautiful, modernly renovated two-room apartment in a nice neighborhood of Gdańsk or in the neighboring cities of the so-called “Tri-City” (Sopot and Gdynia) can be had for 500 to 600 euros, utilities included.
You’ll have around 600 euros left for groceries, leisure, and healthcare! Since dining out, fresh produce at the market, and hair salons or tradespeople are significantly cheaper than in Germany, that’s enough for a carefree and comfortable daily life!
Enjoying retirement by the sea: Baltic Sea breezes instead of record-breaking heat
Another factor making Berlin increasingly unattractive is the climate. Do you really want to spend the summer in a concrete jungle at 40 degrees? (Not to mention the gray winter!) The Polish Baltic coast offers a mild, healthy, invigorating climate.
The sea air is ideal for the respiratory system and circulation. The neighboring town of Sopot, in particular, is considered a historic spa town with miles of sandy beaches, beautiful seaside architecture, and the longest wooden pier in Europe.
Top-notch healthcare at a fraction of the price
For retirees, medical care is essential. The Polish healthcare system has made tremendous strides in recent years. Many German retirees use private clinics and specialists locally.
Even if you pay for these services out of pocket, the costs are often far lower than the copayments in Germany. Dental treatments, physical therapy, and spa treatments are of extremely high quality, and the medical staff often speak fluent German or English.
