Bulgaria remains one of the most attractive European countries for family living. A moderate cost of living, high levels of safety, a mild climate, and accessible education make it particularly appealing for families with children. Depending on lifestyle, career goals, and educational priorities, the country offers both dynamic large cities and calm, family-friendly regions. Below are the best cities in Bulgaria for family life.

Sofia — Maximum Opportunities for Families

Sofia, the capital and largest city in Bulgaria, offers the widest range of opportunities for employment, education, and healthcare. It has the highest concentration of public, private, and international schools, as well as kindergartens offering multilingual education.

The city features a well-developed infrastructure, including a metro system, modern medical centers, shopping malls, and sports facilities. Family-friendly neighborhoods such as Lozenets, Iztok, and Boyana are known for their safety, greenery, and high living standards.

The main drawbacks of Sofia are its higher cost of living and property prices, as well as heavy traffic in central areas. However, for families focused on career development and international education, Sofia remains the top choice.

Varna — Family Life by the Sea

Varna is a major coastal city often chosen by families who want to combine urban living with proximity to the sea. The city enjoys a pleasant climate, good environmental conditions, and a developed education system that includes schools, kindergartens, and universities.

Neighborhoods such as Vinitsa, Briz, and St. Nikola are particularly popular among families due to their peaceful atmosphere and green surroundings. Varna also offers a wide range of sports, extracurricular activities, and entertainment options for children.

The main disadvantage is the increased number of tourists during the summer season, which can make some areas crowded. Nevertheless, Varna remains an excellent option for family living by the sea.

Burgas — Comfort and Tranquility

Burgas is considered one of the most comfortable cities in Bulgaria for permanent residence. It offers a relaxed pace of life, a well-organized urban environment, and numerous parks and green spaces. Its modern seaside promenade makes it especially attractive for families with children.

The city has a sufficient number of schools and medical facilities, while housing prices are more affordable than in Sofia and Varna. This makes Burgas a great choice for families seeking comfort without excessive expenses.

Limited career opportunities in international companies may be seen as a drawback, but for remote workers or families prioritizing quality of life, Burgas is an ideal option.

Plovdiv — A Balance of History and Modern Living

Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city, combines developed infrastructure, rich cultural heritage, and a high quality of life. It offers reputable schools and universities, efficient transport, and a calmer atmosphere compared to the capital.

Plovdiv is well suited for families who want the advantages of a large city without the intensity of a metropolis. While there are fewer international schools than in Sofia, the overall educational standard remains high.

Mid-Sized Cities — For a Relaxed Lifestyle

Families who prefer a quieter and more balanced lifestyle may consider mid-sized cities such as Veliko Tarnovo, Stara Zagora, Ruse, and Pleven. These cities offer safe environments, affordable housing, and essential social infrastructure.

Although career and international education options are more limited, the lower cost of living and peaceful atmosphere make these cities attractive for long-term family life.

How to Choose a City for Family Living in Bulgaria

When choosing a city, families should consider key factors such as the quality of education, healthcare services, neighborhood safety, cost of living, and transportation infrastructure.

Sofia, Varna, and Plovdiv are ideal for families focused on career growth and international education, while Burgas and mid-sized cities are perfect for those seeking tranquility, comfort, and more affordable living.