Do you want to travel somewhere where your money can go a long way without compromising your quality of life? And are you looking to retire in a country like that? Then this article is for you.
Here’s all you need to know about retiring in the Ukraine:
- Is Ukraine a good country to live in?
- How much does it cost to retire in Ukraine?
- Can foreigners buy property in Ukraine?
- Is living in Ukraine safe?
- What language do they speak in Ukraine?
- How expensive are groceries in Ukraine?
- Can a foreigner buy a car in Ukraine?
- Do foreigners receive free healthcare in Ukraine?
- What to do in Ukraine?
Have you given any thought to these concerns about retiring to Ukraine? Then read the following information before embarking on your new life in Ukraine!
Is Ukraine a good country to live in?
Ukraine is an eastern European country and it shares its eastern and northern borders with Russia. Ukraine is bordered on the north by Belarus, on the west by Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary. Finally it is bordered on the south by Romania and Moldova and on the sea by the Azov Sea and the Black Sea.
It has a population of 42 million people. Kyiv is the country’s capital and largest city. Ukraine has a long cultural heritage and its people are known for their appreciation of delicious food, close friendships and way of life.
How much does it cost to retire in Ukraine?
Ukraine is 60 percent cheaper on average than the United States and real estate prices 75 percent lower. Food costs are quite cheap as well which means you can get groceries or go out for dinner quite cheaply.
Here’s a list of some common bills you might encounter:
| Bill | Cost |
| Utilities (Electricity & Gas) | $107 USD / month |
| Petrol (1 Gallon / 3.8 L) | $3 USD |
| Internet – 100Mbits download speed and cheapest broadband in the world | $6 USD / month |
| Rent – 3 bed / 2 bath / 2 car | $424 USD / month |
| Rent – studio apartment | $256 USD / month |
| Meal for 2 in an inexpensive restaurant | $11 USD |
| Hourly rate for cleaning help | $8 USD |
NOTE: Your expenses may be significantly lower, but these are prices for a standard of life comparable to that of the United States.
Can foreigners buy property in Ukraine?
Yes, you can. Foreigners have the same rights and freedoms, as well as the same obligations as Ukrainian citizens. The purchasing of real estate in Ukraine by foreigners is practically unrestricted under Ukrainian legislation. Foreign nationals who have achieved the age of 18 may enter into legal real estate purchasing transactions in Ukraine.
In Ukraine, there are possibilities for all budgets whether you are purchasing or renting. You can head to Facebook Marketplace if you’re looking for something incredibly inexpensive to rent or want to get real estate without an agent. Select Ukraine or the certain city you prefer from the drop-down menu and then Property Rentals or House Sales. Keep in mind that costs will be in local Ukrainian hryvnia or US dollars.
You will be working directly with the owners when looking for places to buy. If you’re buying a home in any country, make sure you seek the necessary legal guidance first to ensure everything is in order. Regardless of whether you go through an agent or not.
It is always safer to go via a real estate agent for purchases or long-term leases and I have included a few for you to consider below. They will inform you of any applicable local laws, fees, and taxes.
Here are a few real estates agents you can consider:
TIP: If you’re looking for real estate in Ukraine on Google Maps, type in “недвижимости” to search for them in your area.
NOTE: Some of these websites are in Ukrainian. Enable your auto-translate feature on Google Chrome to see the website in English
Is living in Ukraine safe?
Ukraine is a safe place to retire in general. Popular main cities in the country, such as Kiev the capital and Odessa on the coast are peaceful and pleasurable. Troubled areas touched by the war with Russia are located in the southeast of the country which is very far from the capital of Kiev so you don’t have to worry.
Pickpocketing and other petty crimes are possible but the danger is comparable to that of most cities across the world and may be avoided by using common sense. For example, not wearing or showing expensive jewellery and not wandering around unsafe areas at night.
What language do they speak in Ukraine?
Ukraine is home to about 20 different languages. According to the 2001 census, 67 percent of the population speaks Ukrainian as their first language and 30% speak Russian. Although Ukraine is a European country and some people speak English, it will be simpler if you can speak a few phrases in Ukrainian or Russian. In any country they respect that you tried and will be more helpful after that.
You can use the DuoLingo App on your phone or the DuoLingo web browser on your PC to practice and learn the basics of Ukrainian. Use this for a few months to gain a few levels by doing at least 2 to 3 lessons per day. When you arrive, this will assist you when purchasing food, going shopping and purchasing transportation tickets.
How expensive are groceries in Ukraine?
While eating out is inexpensive in Ukraine, you may prefer to prepare a meal at home on occasion. This means a trip to the supermarket or grocery shore is inevitable. Look for the terms супермаркет, ринку, and бакалія when searching on Google Maps for groceries.
| Item | Per | Price |
| Milk | 1 Liter/ 1 Quart | $2 USD |
| Bread | 1 Loaf | $1 USD |
| Eggs | Dozen | $1.30 USD |
| Beef Mince | 1 Kg/ 2.2 Pounds | $8 USD |
| Chicken Breast | 1 Kg/ 2.2 Pounds | $3 USD |
| Beer | 12 | $7 USD |
| Wine | 1 Liter | $2 USD |
Here is a common local supermarket you can look at for current prices:
LINK: fozzyshop.ua/
NOTE: These prices might vary depending on where you live, where you shop or your preferred brand. It might cost less if you choose the local brand rather than the imported goods.
Can a foreigner buy a car in Ukraine?
Yes, foreigners have the same rights as local residents when it comes to owning and purchasing a vehicle. But if you already have a car back at home, it will be cheaper if you just transfer your car to Ukraine rather than buying a new one here.
The taxes on a new vehicle in Ukraine are relatively high as well as its initial cost. Buying a used car might also be a great move instead to avoid these taxes. If you are looking for a cheap used car in Ukraine just head to the Facebook MarketPlace, select the vehicle menu and change the city to your desirable pick.
Do foreigners receive free healthcare in Ukraine?
You will not be eligible for free public healthcare as a foreigner which is below average but could access it if you become a resident or permanent citizen. The public health system is of a low standard and you are much better getting private insurance and going to a private hospital and to a private doctor and getting a rebate instead.
In Ukraine, there is an increasing number of doctors of all specialties in the private sector that are providing the best level of care, are experienced and easily available. Most services can be booked within a day or two with plenty of availability. Examples of these services are Ultrasound, X-ray, MRI, dentists and specialists.
Private health insurance plans start at $329 per month with a $1015 deductible for major surgery.
Here are several sources where you can get pricing information:
What to do in Ukraine?
There is plenty to keep you busy while retiring or even visiting the Ukraine. Skating, hiking, fishing, and hunting are all popular activities in the Carpathian Mountains in the Ukraine. The Black Sea shoreline is a popular summer vacation spot. Ukraine features vineyards where native wines are produced for the wine lovers.
It has ancient castle remains and historical statues as well as beautiful parks. It is a mix of religions with Orthodox, Catholic and Protestant churches which you can see everywhere as well as a few mosques and synagogues.
Kyiv the country’s capital, is home to several remarkable landmarks which includes the Saint Sophia Cathedral. Other tourist-friendly cities include the port city of Odesa and the historic city of Lviv in the west.
Here are a few things you can do during your day off in Ukraine:
