Bulgaria or Italy: what to choose? The convenience of transactions, the cost of housing, the climate and the prospects for investing in real estate are very different. Want to know where you can save money, enjoy a unique culture and life? Let's compare these two countries in our review:
Comparison of the real estate market in Italy and Bulgaria
When choosing real estate for living or investment, it is important to consider the peculiarities of both countries:
Price of objects
 Bulgaria
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 Italy
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In the second quarter of 2024, the average price of housing in Sofia was about 1,837 euros per square meter. The average price in Varna was 1,443 euros per square meter. |
In December 2024, the average price of housing in Italy was 2,067 euros per square meter. In Trentino Alto Adige, the average price reached 3,219 euros/sq.m, in Liguria - 2,513 euros/sq.m, in Tuscany - 2,328 euros/sq.m. |
The average cost of housing in Bulgaria is lower than in Italy. However, the rate of price growth in Bulgaria is ahead of Italy. This indicates increased interest of investors in the real estate market in the country.
Simplicity of transaction execution
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Bulgaria
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Italy
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Once a property has been selected, the buyer pays a reservation deposit, usually between €1,000 and €2,000, to remove the property from the market. A preliminary purchase and sale agreement is signed. The property is checked for potential risks. The final stage is the signing of a notarial deed on the transfer of ownership. |
The buyer makes a deposit, which is usually 5-10% of the value of the property. The parties sign a preliminary contract. The foreign buyer is required to obtain an Italian tax code to carry out the transaction. The final stage is the signing of the final contract and registration of the property rights. |
Other differences :
- Reservation deposit . In Bulgaria the deposit is around 1,000-2,000 euros, while in Italy it is usually 5-10% of the property value.
- Tax code . In Italy, it is mandatory to obtain a tax code (Codice Fiscale) to carry out a transaction, while in Bulgaria there is no similar procedure.
- Legal due diligence . In Bulgaria, more attention is paid to checking the property for encumbrances and legal purity before signing the preliminary contract.
Financial stability
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Bulgaria
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Italy
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In 2024, the Bulgarian economy demonstrated GDP growth of 2.2%, which indicates stable development of the country. In 2024, inflation in Bulgaria decreased, which contributes to strengthening purchasing power and price stability. |
In 2024, Italy's economy showed GDP growth of 3.2%, indicating a recovery from previous economic downturns. |
Climate and nature
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Bulgaria
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Italy
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In winter, the temperature in Sofia drops to -2...-4 °C, and in summer it reaches +27 °C. Bulgaria's nature is rich in mountains, forests and clean beaches. Thanks to this, you can choose an apartment for yourself near ski resorts or close to the coast. Such a location gives you the opportunity to enjoy your favorite type of vacation without leaving the country or renting out housing to tourists. |
Most areas of Italy have a mild climate with rainy winters and dry summers. Average temperatures in winter are from 0 to +12 °C, and in summer they reach +25...+30 °C. The landscapes here are varied – mountains, plains and long coastlines. |
Convenience of living
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Bulgaria
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Italy
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Bulgaria is known for its low cost of living. The average monthly cost per person is about €605 excluding rent. The average salary in the country is €945. Since joining the European Union in 2007, Bulgaria has significantly improved its infrastructure, including quality roads, an efficient public transport system and wide access to medical and educational facilities. |
The average salary in the country is €1,572, while one person needs €1,200 per month (excluding rent). Italy has a well-developed infrastructure. |
Culture and language
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Bulgaria
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Italy
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Bulgaria has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional customs, music and dance. The locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness. The official language is Bulgarian, written in Cyrillic. According to Eurostat data for 2024, 86.1% of students study English, 27.7% study German, and 26% study Russian. |
The official language is Italian. The level of English proficiency varies across the country and may be below the European average in some regions. Italy is known for its rich cultural heritage. There are noticeable differences between the northern and southern regions of the country: the north is more industrialized and urbanized, while the south retains a more traditional way of life. |
Why is it better to choose real estate in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria has several important advantages:
Low taxes
In Bulgaria, the tax on rental income from real estate is 10% (one of the lowest rates in Europe). Property tax (ownership fee) - from 0.01% to 0.45% , depending on the municipality.
This is an additional incentive for investors who plan to earn income from renting out their property.
Wide range of real estate
Bulgaria offers a wide range of properties, from budget apartments in tourist areas to luxury villas.
Prospects for growth in property prices
In recent years, the Bulgarian real estate market has shown stable price growth – up to 5-10% per year in popular regions. Joining the Eurozone in the future could further increase the attractiveness for investors.
High rental profitability
Popular tourist destinations (Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, Bansko) provide stable demand for rentals. The yield from renting out housing is 5-8% per annum , in some tourist areas it can reach 10% .
Benefits for EU citizens
Because Bulgaria is part of the European Union, EU citizens can freely reside, work and invest in the country without the need for a visa or additional permits.
Visa-free regime for citizens of third countries
Citizens of many countries, including Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and others, can stay in Bulgaria for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. This simplifies the purchase of real estate, the conclusion of transactions and the management of properties.
Resident card
Investors who buy real estate in Bulgaria worth at least 300,000 leva (~153,000 €) can obtain a residence permit. It allows living in Bulgaria all year round and enjoying all the benefits of residents.
Real examples of housing costs in Bulgaria
- ID 12937 Studio apartment in Biala
- Byala
- 42 000 €
- Rooms: 1
- Distance to sea: 700 m.
- Floor: 3
- Area: 36 sq. m.
- ID 12663 One-bedroom apartment in Pines Beach Resort
- Byala
- 65 500 €
- Rooms: 2
- Distance to sea: 150 m.
- Floor: 2
- Area: 61 sq. m.
Reviews from those who bought real estate in Bulgaria
I would like to express my deep gratitude to the BolgarskiyDom company for helping me purchase real estate in Sunny Beach.
The company that was recommended to me are great guys. They found an option that suits us.
Frequently asked questions
The following are in high demand:
- Apartments on the Black Sea coast are suitable for summer holidays and renting out.
- Ski apartments are popular among winter tourists in Bansko or Pamporovo.
- Country houses and villas are ideal for a quiet life away from big cities.
Property maintenance is considerably cheaper than in Italy or other EU countries. Approximate costs:
- Utilities: 50–100 € per month .
- Property tax: 0.01–0.45% of the cadastral value of the property .
Average rental income:
- Summer resorts - 6-10% per annum .
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Winter resorts -
5-7% per annum .
Seasonal rentals are in high demand due to the flow of tourists during peak seasons.
No, in Bulgaria property management services are developed: renting out, paying utility bills, minor repairs. The cost of such services is about 10% of the rental income .
