Georgia, a country at the intersection of Eastern Europe and Asia, has emerged as an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads and expatriates. With a population of approximately 3.7 million people, Georgia combines rich cultural heritage with modern development, particularly in Tbilisi and Batumi, while maintaining relatively low living costs.

Georgia's economy has shown significant growth in recent years, driven by tourism, services, and an emerging tech sector. The country has positioned itself as a digital nomad hub through initiatives like its remote worker visa program and business-friendly policies. Recent infrastructure improvements and growing international connections have made the country increasingly accessible to foreigners.

The expatriate community in Georgia is concentrated primarily in Tbilisi, with a growing presence in Batumi and other regional cities. Many are drawn by the combination of low living costs, minimal visa requirements, and an emerging startup ecosystem. The country's strategic location and improving business environment have also attracted entrepreneurs and remote workers.

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Regional Comparison

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Housing Costs in Georgia

Housing costs in Georgia vary significantly between Tbilisi's central districts and other areas. In Tbilisi's popular expatriate areas like Vake or Saburtalo, a modern one-bedroom apartment typically rents for 800-1,200 GEL monthly, while similar accommodations in other districts range from 500-800 GEL. Batumi offers comparable prices, though they can spike during the summer tourist season. Most rentals require one month's deposit, and utilities are usually paid separately.

Summary:

• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (Tbilisi center): 800-1,200 GEL/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (Tbilisi outer): 500-800 GEL/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (Batumi): 600-1,000 GEL/month

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Food Costs in Georgia

Food expenses in Georgia are quite reasonable, particularly when enjoying local cuisine. A meal at a traditional restaurant costs 15-25 GEL, while dinner at an upscale establishment might run 40-70 GEL per person. Monthly grocery shopping at supermarkets like Carrefour or Spar typically costs 300-500 GEL for one person, though shopping at local markets can reduce costs significantly. Georgian wine and fresh produce are particularly affordable.

Summary:

• Traditional restaurant meal: 15-25 GEL
• Upscale dinner: 40-70 GEL
• Monthly groceries (1 person): 300-500 GEL

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Transportation Costs in Georgia

Public transportation in Georgian cities is affordable and improving. In Tbilisi, metro and bus fares cost 1 GEL per journey, with reloadable cards available for regular users. Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available and reasonably priced, with most inner-city journeys costing 5-10 GEL. Many expatriates use apps like Bolt or Yandex Taxi for convenience and fixed pricing.

Summary:

• Public transport fare: 1 GEL
• Taxi/ride-hailing (short trip): 5-10 GEL
• Monthly transport card: 40 GEL

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Healthcare Costs in Georgia

Healthcare in Georgia operates through a mix of public and private facilities, with most expatriates opting for private care. Private health insurance typically costs 80-150 GEL monthly per person, depending on coverage. A consultation at a private clinic costs 60-100 GEL, while specialist visits range from 80-150 GEL. Many private clinics in Tbilisi have English-speaking staff and modern facilities.

Summary:

• Private health insurance: 80-150 GEL/month
• Doctor's consultation: 60-100 GEL
• Specialist visit: 80-150 GEL

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Utility Costs in Georgia

Utility costs in Georgia are moderate, with seasonal variations for heating and cooling. Monthly utilities including electricity, water, gas, and garbage collection typically range from 100-200 GEL for an apartment. Internet service is reliable and affordable, with high-speed connections costing 50-70 GEL monthly. Mobile phone plans with data typically range from 20-40 GEL monthly.

Summary:

• Basic utilities: 100-200 GEL/month
• Internet: 50-70 GEL/month
• Mobile phone plan: 20-40 GEL/month

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Example Monthly Expenses in Georgia

Average monthly expenses for a single person living in Tbilisi:

• Rent (1-bedroom, good area): 1,000 GEL
• Utilities: 150 GEL
• Food: 400 GEL
• Transportation: 100 GEL
• Healthcare (insurance): 100 GEL
• Internet/Phone: 80 GEL
• Entertainment: 300 GEL
• Total: 2,130 GEL

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Cost of Living vs Quality of Life Correlation

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If you want to know more about Georgia and the cost of living there you can also check out the Georgia page.