A 2026 Cost of Living Comparison: Poland's Higher Wages vs. Ukraine's Lower Prices.

Grocery Prices in Poland and Ukraine

According to TSN.ua: In 2026, Bohdana Kondratenko conducted a comparative analysis of grocery prices in Poland and Ukraine. Her findings revealed that while some items are more expensive in Poland, others are similarly priced. The study provided specific price examples to illustrate the cost differences between the two nations, offering a snapshot of everyday expenses.

According to Kondratenko's data, a 1.5-liter bottle of Coca-Cola costs approximately 106 UAH in Poland, compared to 50-60 UAH in Ukraine. A dozen eggs sell for 70-80 UAH in Ukraine, while in Poland, standard eggs cost 126 UAH and free-range eggs are 145 UAH. For chicken breast, the price is around 350 UAH per kilogram in Poland versus approximately 250 UAH per kilogram in Ukraine.

The minimum wage in Poland in 2026 was about 56,000 UAH, starkly contrasting with Ukraine's 8,647 UAH. This wage disparity exists alongside Ukraine's inflation rate of 7.4% in January 2026, with food prices specifically rising by 9.7% over the year. This economic context is crucial for understanding purchasing power in each country.

Additional Price Details

Kondratenko also provided further details on other product prices in Poland. For instance, washed potatoes cost about 100 UAH for 2.5 kg, unwashed potatoes are roughly 18 UAH per kg, cabbage is around 25 UAH per kg, a baguette is 30-40 UAH, and half a Lithuanian-style loaf of bread is about 120 UAH. Prices for orange juice are approximately 100 UAH, tomato paste about 42 UAH, and apples roughly 60 UAH per kg.

'Was I the only one who thought products were cheaper in Poland?' Bohdana Kondratenko

The analysis of product prices in Ukraine and Poland highlights significant differences that can influence consumer habits and economic decisions for Ukrainians. The higher prices for some goods in Poland, compared to Ukraine, point to a greater cost of living in the neighboring country, despite its substantially higher minimum wage. These factors can affect migration trends, as potential workers may reassess their employment and immigration plans by weighing real living expenses against potential earnings.