Košice is a beautiful city located in eastern Slovakia, near the Hungarian border. As Slovakia's second-largest city, Košice boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and numerous cultural attractions. The city is home to approximately 240,000 residents and is an excellent location for expats looking for a more affordable alternative to larger European cities.
Tips for expats in Košice
Visa requirements
Expats moving to Košice will need to apply for a residence permit, which can be obtained at the local immigration office. The process typically takes several weeks.
Language resources
Slovak is the official language of Slovakia, but English is widely spoken in Košice. Language courses are available at several universities in the city.
Cost of living for expats in Košice
Housing
Housing in Košice is very affordable compared to other European cities. A room in a shared house can cost around €200-€300 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment can be found for €350-€500 per month. Two and three-bedroom apartments typically rent for €500-€800 and €700-€1,200 per month, respectively.
Groceries
Groceries in Košice are also very affordable. A weekly grocery budget for a family of four, including fresh produce, dairy, and meat, can be as low as €50-€70.
Transportation
Public transportation in Košice is extensive and affordable, with monthly passes costing around €15. Taxis are also reasonably priced, with an average ride costing €5-€8. For those who prefer to drive, a used car can be purchased for as little as €2,000, and gasoline costs approximately €1.30 per liter.
Climate in Košice
Košice has a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summers are mild and pleasant, with average high temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F). The city experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and June.
Job market in Košice
The job market in Košice is diverse, with key industries including automotive, IT, telecommunications, and tourism. Major employers in the city include U.S. Steel Košice, T-Mobile, and Continental. The city is also home to several universities and research institutions, providing ample opportunities for those in the academic and research fields.
Healthcare in Košice
Košice has an extensive network of healthcare facilities, including several hospitals and medical centers. Public healthcare is available to all residents, with private options also available. Expats should have health insurance, which can be obtained through their employer or purchased privately.
Transport in Košice
Košice has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trams. The city is also home to the second-largest international airport in Slovakia, providing easy access to other European destinations.
Safety in Košice
Košice is a safe city with relatively low crime rates compared to other European cities. However, like any city, it is important to take precautions, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Neighborhoods in Košice
Downtown Košice
The heart of Košice, with its beautiful historic center, shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
Sever
A modern and rapidly developing neighborhood with new housing and commercial developments.
Šaca
A peaceful neighborhood with plenty of green spaces and affordable housing options.
Attractions in Košice
Historic Center of Košice
Košice's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring stunning architecture, museums, and galleries.
St. Elisabeth Cathedral
The largest church in Slovakia, St. Elisabeth Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
East Slovak Museum
This museum features exhibits on the history and culture of eastern Slovakia, including natural history, archaeology, and art.
International Schools in Košice
International School of Košice
Košice, Slovakia
An English-language international school offering the International Baccalaureate program.
Useful expat resources in Košice
Košice Expat Facebook Group
A community for expats living in Košice to connect and share information.
Košice English-Speaking Book Club
A group for expats in Košice who love reading and discussing books in English.
