Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Belarus
CapitalMinsk
Population9.1 million
Area207,600 km² (80,155 sq mi)
LanguagesBelarusian, Russian
CurrencyBelarusian ruble (Br)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionEurope / Eastern Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Economic Indicators

Inflation Rate5.8% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$558 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend28.5% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)5.0% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data

Belarus is generally cheaper than Ukraine, with an overall cost of living that is around 15-20% lower.

Quick Facts

Belarus GDP per Capita (PPP)20,110
Ukraine GDP per Capita (PPP)13,470
Belarus Inflation Rate5.5%
Ukraine Inflation Rate7.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Belarus

Overview: Belarus vs Ukraine

The cost of living in Belarus and Ukraine is influenced by their economic contexts, with Belarus having a more stable economy and a higher GDP per capita. Belarus's economy is more diversified, with a strong manufacturing sector, while Ukraine's economy is more reliant on agriculture and natural resources. As a result, Belarus tends to have higher prices for some goods and services, but overall, it is still cheaper than Ukraine. The main areas where Belarus is cheaper include rent, food, and transportation, while Ukraine is more competitive in terms of utilities and internet costs.

The economic context of both countries also plays a role in determining the cost of living. Belarus has a more controlled economy, with a strong presence of state-owned enterprises, while Ukraine has a more liberal economy, with a greater emphasis on private enterprise. This has led to differences in the way prices are set and regulated, with Belarus tending to have more fixed prices and Ukraine having more variable prices. Despite these differences, both countries offer a range of options for expats, students, and retirees, with Belarus being a more popular destination for those looking for a stable and secure lifestyle, and Ukraine being more attractive to those looking for a more vibrant and dynamic culture.

Rent & Housing Comparison

ItemBelarus (USD)Ukraine (USD)Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)25030016.7% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)15020025% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)40055027.3% cheaper

Food & Dining Comparison

ItemBelarus (USD)Ukraine (USD)Difference
Meal at Restaurant101216.7% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)20025020% cheaper
Beer (500ml)22.520% cheaper
Coffee1.5225% cheaper

Transport Comparison

ItemBelarus (USD)Ukraine (USD)Difference
Monthly Transit Pass202520% cheaper
Taxi (per km)0.50.616.7% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)0.60.714.3% cheaper

Utilities & Internet Comparison

ItemBelarus (USD)Ukraine (USD)Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)1009010% more
Internet (60 Mbps)151050% more
Mobile Plan10825% more

Monthly Budget Comparison

Budget TierBelarus (USD)Ukraine (USD)Savings
Budget50060016.7%
Mid-Range800100020%
Comfortable1200150020%

Where Each Country Wins

  • Belarus is cheaper for:
  • Rent, with prices up to 25% lower than in Ukraine
  • Food, with meal prices up to 20% lower than in Ukraine
  • Transportation, with monthly transit passes up to 20% cheaper than in Ukraine
  • Groceries, with monthly costs up to 20% lower than in Ukraine
  • Ukraine is cheaper for:
  • Utilities, with costs up to 10% lower than in Belarus
  • Internet, with plans up to 50% cheaper than in Belarus
  • Mobile plans, with costs up to 25% lower than in Belarus
  • Fuel, with prices up to 14.3% lower than in Belarus

Bottom Line

Belarus and Ukraine offer different value propositions for expats, students, and retirees. Belarus is a more stable and secure country, with a higher standard of living and lower prices for rent, food, and transportation. Ukraine, on the other hand, is a more vibrant and dynamic country, with a lower cost of living and more affordable utilities and internet. For those looking for a comfortable and secure lifestyle, Belarus may be the better choice, while for those looking for a more affordable and dynamic lifestyle, Ukraine may be the better option. Overall, both countries offer a range of options for different lifestyles and budgets, and the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities.