The cost of living in Lithuania in 2025 is one of the most attractive in Europe, making this small Baltic nation a top choice for students, expats, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs. As a member of both the European Union and the Eurozone, Lithuania combines affordability with stability – a rare balance that appeals to individuals and businesses alike.
This guide offers a comprehensive look at the cost of living in Lithuania. We’ll break down housing, food, transportation, salaries, and lifestyle expenses. You’ll also find comparisons of the cost of living in Lithuania vs the US, as well as insights into city-specific differences like Vilnius and the more affordable cost of living in Kaunas.
Whether you’re moving for work, expanding a company, or simply curious about life here, this article provides the details you need to make informed decisions.
Overview of the Cost of Living in Lithuania (2025)
The question many people ask is simple: what is the cost of living in Lithuania in 2025? The answer depends on lifestyle and location, but overall Lithuania remains one of the most affordable EU destinations for individuals and businesses.
Compared to Western Europe, everyday expenses are noticeably lower, yet residents enjoy modern infrastructure, Eurozone membership, and access to the single market. When comparing the cost of living in Lithuania vs. the US, the difference is even more dramatic, especially for housing and healthcare.
Here’s a general picture of monthly expenses in 2025:
- Rent: €400–€1,200 depending on city, apartment size, and neighborhood.
- Utilities and internet: €120–€180 for heating, water, electricity, and broadband.
- Groceries: €250–€400 per person, depending on diet and shopping habits.
- Transport: €30–€40 for unlimited monthly passes; private cars cost more due to fuel (~€1.60/L).
- Dining & leisure: €10–€15 for a casual meal; €40–€60 for a restaurant dinner for two.
Overall, the average cost of living in Lithuania remains 30–40% below Western Europe. While rising rents and prices in Vilnius have closed the gap slightly, Lithuania continues to offer excellent value compared to both the EU and the United States.
Monthly Budget Breakdown in Lithuania
Breaking the living expenses in Lithuania into lifestyle profiles provides a clearer understanding:
Single professional in Vilnius
€1,000–€1,400 per month covers rent in a one-bedroom apartment, utilities, food, transport, and modest leisure. Professionals in higher-paying sectors like IT or finance may find they can live comfortably while saving money.
Family of four in Kaunas
€2,200–€2,800 per month typically includes a larger apartment or house rental, groceries, utilities, schooling, transport, and weekend entertainment. Families often find Kaunas appealing because costs are lower than in Vilnius, but the city still offers strong services and infrastructure.
Students in Vilnius or Kaunas
€700–€900 monthly budget usually covers shared housing or dormitories, basic groceries, public transport, and student social life. Lithuania is considered highly affordable compared to other EU study destinations, making it attractive to international students.
This breakdown highlights how the average cost of living in Lithuania adapts to lifestyle, making the country versatile for singles, families, and students.
Housing and Accommodation
Housing is the single most important factor influencing the cost of living in Lithuania. Prices vary depending on the city, neighborhood, and whether you are renting or buying.
Vilnius
- One-bedroom apartment in the city center: €650–€800.
- Outside the city center: €450–€600.
- Three-bedroom family apartment in city center: €1,200–€1,500.
Kaunas
- One-bedroom in center: €400–€550.
- Outside center: €300–€450.
- Three-bedroom apartment in good location: €800–€1,000.
Utilities
Expect €120–€150 monthly for heating, electricity, water, and garbage. In winter, heating costs rise significantly due to the climate.
Internet and TV packages
Fast broadband ~€20/month, among the cheapest in Europe.
Rental demand in Vilnius remains high due to foreign investment and students, which has pushed rents up. However, when comparing the cost of living in Lithuania vs the US, even Vilnius prices are a fraction of what you would pay in New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco.
Food Costs and Dining Culture in Lithuania
Food and dining are affordable, and they make up a moderate portion of the cost of living in Lithuania.
Groceries:
- Bread: €1.50
- Milk: €1.20/L
- Chicken breast: €6/kg
- Potatoes: €1.20/kg
- Fresh seasonal vegetables: €1.50–€3/kg
- Cheese: €7–€10/kg
Monthly groceries for one adult typically range between €200 and €300, depending on whether you buy local or imported goods. Local produce is affordable, while imported goods and specialty items are priced higher.
Dining out:
- Budget lunch menu: €10–€12.
- Mid-range restaurant dinner for two: €40–€60.
- Cappuccino: ~€3.
- Domestic beer in a pub: €3–€4.
Lithuania’s food culture is evolving quickly. Traditional cuisine features hearty dishes like cepelinai and cold beetroot soup, but cities such as Vilnius and Kaunas also boast international restaurants, vegan cafes, and coffee culture.
Dining out is cheaper than in Western Europe, making it easy to enjoy regularly without straining your budget.
Getting Around: Transportation Costs in Lithuania
Transport is one of the most cost-efficient aspects of the cost of living in Lithuania.
Public transport passes:
- Vilnius: €30–€32 for unlimited monthly use.
- Kaunas: ~€28–€30.
Single tickets: €1–€1.50 depending on the city.
Taxi and ride-hailing: Starting fare ~€3; city rides average €6–€10.
Car ownership:
- Fuel: ~€1.60/L.
- Parking in city centers: €1–€3/hour.
Lithuania’s cities are compact and walkable, while public transport networks are reliable and inexpensive. Many residents also use bicycles and e-scooters, which have become a major part of urban mobility.
For those traveling frequently within Europe, Lithuania’s airports (Vilnius, Kaunas, Palanga) offer low-cost flights to most EU destinations, further reducing overall travel expenses.
Income and Salaries in Lithuania (2025)
The balance between salaries and the cost of living in Lithuania is improving steadily. While wages are lower than in Western Europe, they have grown significantly over the past decade.
- National average net salary in 2025: ~€1,500/month.
- Vilnius: €1,700+ for professionals in IT, finance, and multinational firms.
- Kaunas: €1,300–€1,400.
- Other cities: €1,000–€1,200.
When considering the cost of living in Lithuania compared to the US, salaries are lower but expenses are dramatically cheaper.
A professional earning €1,700 in Vilnius can live comfortably, with savings potential, whereas a similar salary in Western Europe or the US may barely cover housing and healthcare.
This balance makes Lithuania particularly appealing for remote workers and expats with international income, as their money stretches much further here.
Vilnius Cost of Living
As the capital, Vilnius’ cost of living is the highest in the country, but it also offers the most opportunities.
- Housing: €650–€800 for a one-bedroom in the center; €1,200–€1,500 for family apartments.
- Dining: Lunch ~€12–€15 in the business district; dinner for two €50–€70.
- Transport: €30 monthly public pass.
- Entertainment: Cinema tickets ~€8; gym memberships ~€40/month.
Vilnius attracts international businesses, startups, and students, so the cost of living reflects this demand. Still, compared to other European capitals, it is relatively affordable. For professionals, the combination of career opportunities and manageable costs makes Vilnius a popular choice.
Cost of Living in Kaunas
The cost of living in Kaunas, Lithuania is 15–20% lower than in Vilnius, making it a great alternative for families and young professionals.
- Rent: €400–€550 for a one-bedroom in central Kaunas; €800–€1,000 for larger family apartments.
- Dining: Lunch ~€8–€12; dinner for two €35–€50.
- Public transport: €28–€30 monthly.
- Groceries: Slightly cheaper than Vilnius, especially in local markets.
Kaunas combines affordability with cultural life, a growing tech scene, and improving infrastructure. As Lithuania’s second city, it provides many of the same advantages as Vilnius at a lower cost.
Lithuania Cost of Living vs the US
| Category | Lithuania (Vilnius, 2025) | United States (Major Cities, 2025) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | ~€700/month (1-bed in center) | €2,500–€3,500/month (NYC, SF) | ~70% cheaper in Lithuania |
| Food | €250–€400 monthly groceries; lunch €10–€15 | €500–€800 monthly groceries; lunch $15–$25 | 40–50% cheaper in Lithuania |
| Healthcare | Public healthcare system; minimal personal cost | Private insurance €500–€1,000/month | Major savings in Lithuania |
| Transport | €30 monthly public pass | $120–$150 monthly pass | 70–80% cheaper in Lithuania |
For American expats and businesses, the cost of living in Lithuania compared to the US makes relocation financially attractive and cost-efficient.
Cost of Living in Lithuania Compared to Other EU Countries
| Category | Lithuania (2025) | Germany/France | Poland | Nordic Countries (Sweden, Denmark) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | €400–€800 (1-bed) | €1,200–€2,000 | €400–€700 | €1,500–€2,500 |
| Food & Dining | €250–€400/month; dinner for two €40–€60 | €500–€700/month; dinner for two €70–€100 | €250–€400/month | €600–€900/month; dinner €90–€120 |
| Transport (monthly pass) | €30–€40 | €80–€100 | €30–€40 | €70–€120 |
| Currency | Euro (€) | Euro (€) | Polish złoty (PLN) | Local currencies or Euro |
Lithuania offers up to 50% lower costs than Germany or France, maintains parity with Poland while benefiting from euro adoption, and is far cheaper than Nordic countries. This makes Lithuania a stable yet affordable EU base for professionals and businesses.
Conclusion
The average cost of living in Lithuania in 2025 proves that this Baltic country delivers one of the best lifestyle-to-cost ratios in Europe. Housing remains affordable, food and transport are inexpensive, and salaries are steadily increasing.
For expats, families, and businesses, Lithuania offers a rare mix of affordability, EU stability, and growth opportunities.
At Lawhill, we help international clients turn Lithuania’s advantages into real opportunities. With over 13 years of experience in company formation, corporate law, and ready-made company services, we support entrepreneurs and investors establishing themselves in Lithuania. Our team ensures a smooth transition while you focus on enjoying the country’s affordability and high quality of life.If you are considering relocating or expanding into Lithuania, partner with Lawhill to make the move seamless and strategic.
