LifeCost Blog
Kaunas

Kaunas

Lithuania

Updated on August 16, 2025

Overview

Kaunas is Lithuania's second-largest city, located at the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers. It was the European Capital of Culture in 2022 and serves as an important cultural, educational and industrial center. The city features a well-preserved old town and hosts prestigious universities.

Average cost of living€1,135.00
Quality of Life80/100

Accommodation

Rent room (flat-share)€200.00
1-bed flat (center)€400.00
1-bed flat (outside)€300.00
3-bed flat (center)€750.00
3-bed flat (outside)€550.00

Utilities

Basic utilities€120.00
Internet€25.00
Mobile plan€15.00

Transportation

One-way ticket€1.00
Monthly pass€25.00
Taxi start€3.00
Gasoline (1 l)€1.35

Leisure

Cinema ticket€8.00
Fitness club€35.00

Education

Preschool (month)€0.00
Intl. primary (year)€0.00

Buying House

sqm in city center€2,100.00
sqm outside center€1,400.00

Advantages

  • Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe
  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Important educational center with renowned universities
  • Good connectivity to other European cities
  • Green city with nearby natural spaces
  • European Capital of Culture 2022

Disadvantages

  • × Long and cold winters
  • × Language barrier for non-Lithuanian speakers
  • × Fewer job opportunities than in larger capitals
  • × Declining population
  • × Limited services compared to European metropolises