A Guide to Living in Batumi
Batumi is one of the most famous cities on the Black Sea coast. One of Georgia's most eclectic cities, it attracts many visitors with its unique blend of modernity with local traditions.
If the idea of settling here attracts you and you want to know what life is like in Batumi, this article is for you.
Why Choose Batumi?
Batumi is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country and attracts an increasing number of residents, many of whom are foreign expats, every year.
Firstly, Batumi is attractive due to its geographical location. The city is situated on the Black Sea coast and is surrounded by green mountains. Residents can easily get the most out of nature throughout the year, be it the seaside or mountain tourism.
Batumi's cultural life is also a significant factor. The city offers modern cultural life essentials - cafes, restaurants, clubs, cinemas, etc. - along with old cultural institutions - historical monuments, museums, theaters, and more.
There’s also its vibrant atmosphere. Batumi remains primarily a tourist city, so in summer, life here moves even faster than in the capital, Tbilisi - almost every day there are festivals, concerts, and other large-scale cultural events. But even in winter, when the pace slows, the city has its charms.
Cost of Living in Batumi
Naturally, the cost of living in Batumi is a key issue for those deciding to settle here. On average, living in Batumi can be more expensive than in smaller Georgian towns, but it's still considered affordable compared to other major European cities - including Georgia's capital, Tbilisi.
Batumi Living Expenses
Rent in Batumi depends entirely on location and season. The range is wide: renting an apartment long-term by the sea, on the boulevard, or nearby is difficult and consistently exceeds 1000 GEL. The location is profitable, and most owners prefer to rent short-term to tourists. In the city center (but far from the sea), renting a one-room apartment costs, on average, 600 to 1000 GEL. It depends on several factors: how old the building is, whether the apartment is renovated, how close it is to popular cultural establishments, etc. On the other hand, near the peripheries, you can find a one-room apartment for less than 500 GEL.
However, it's worth noting that living expenses in Batumi are increasing - largely due to steadily growing demand. If you're interested in the potential financial benefits of settling here, now is a good time to consider buying investment apartments in Batumi.
Food Expenses
The range is similarly wide. Batumi food prices are lower in peripheral markets and bazaars, while chain stores (e.g., Nikora and Carrefour), where prices are fixed and the same throughout the country, dominate the city center.
Prices in Batumi cafes and restaurants are on par with Tbilisi. In a mid-range restaurant, you'll need 35-50 GEL per person (alcohol will significantly increase the bill).
Is Batumi Safe?
Overall, Batumi is considered a safe city for both locals and foreigners. The average crime rate is low. However, it's necessary to observe elementary precautions - during high season and the increase in visitors, the crime rate also increases, mostly due to petty hooliganism (due to active nightlife and alcohol use) and pickpocketing.
Follow the same rules you would in any other big city - pay attention to your belongings, always keep your bag securely closed, carry it in front of your body, and don't leave valuable items (wallet, phone) unattended when relaxing on the beach.
Things to Do in Batumi
We can guarantee you won't get bored in Batumi. There are plenty of entertainment options here:
Stroll through the old Batumi neighborhoods: This part of the city is known for its unique architecture. Perhaps the most famous location is Europe Square with its Astronomical Clock and Neptune Fountain, always crowded with people. For regular visits, Batumi Piazza is more interesting - a square surrounded by several of Batumi's most famous historical buildings, it's pleasant to simply sit down here for a cup of coffee in one of the cafes. Also, open markets are often held in the Piazza and are always fun to explore.
Get acquainted with local culture: Batumi has numerous galleries and museums, a cinema, a theater, etc. Keep an eye on the calendar - although fewer cultural events are held during the non-tourist season, there's still a wide variety (exhibitions, performances, concerts, etc.).
Visit the Batumi Botanical Garden: One of the largest botanical gardens in Europe, with a rich and unique collection of plants collected around the world. The garden is located away from the city center, on the Green Cape.
Get acquainted with Adjarian cuisinee: Adjarian cuisine is known for its hearty dishes and strong flavors. Just think of the world-famous boat-shaped Adjarian Khachapuri. But we recommend paying more attention to local dishes not found often in other regions, especially in their authentic form - like sinori and borano.
Explore Mtirala National Park: Mtirala National Park is one of Georgia's most famous protected areas. It's about 30 kilometers from Batumi (about an hour’s drive) and is an ideal place for hiking, picnicking, camping, etc.
Save time for entertainment: Batumi nightlife is quite active, even off-season. The city has numerous bars, clubs, and casinos. Both along the boulevard and in the city center, you’ll find many establishments to enjoy techno or live music and sip on a drink or two.
Pros and Cons of Living in Batumi
Like any other city, living in Batumi has its pros and cons.
One of the city’s main advantages is its location - close to both the sea and mountains. Also, Batumi is famous for its diverse cultural life - festivals, concerts, and exhibitions are frequent here.
It's relatively easy to settle in - currently, it's considered to have affordable real estate prices compared to other European cities. But it’s rapidly growing, and may soon equal other popular resorts, so if you're planning to Buy Batumi apartments for sale, consider investing ASAP - it may not be as profitable in a few years.
Of course, there are challenges, too. In summer, the city gets overcrowded with tourists, causing some discomfort for locals. Prices skyrocket during the peak season. The noise level is high day and night. In winter, the scenario gets flipped, with the city relatively quiet and life flowing at a slow pace - those attracted to active lifestyles and entertainment opportunities will need to readjust expectations.
Living in Batumi as a Foreigner
Batumi is popular among expats. Many foreigners live here, and the number increases annually. Due to the city's touristy nature, many residents speak English to some degree. However, knowing the local language, even at a basic level, will greatly facilitate your integration. If you plan to settle here, familiarize yourself with the real estate legalization in Batumi in advance .
Despite certain challenges, Batumi remains an attractive place for both locals and foreigners. If you ask the residents, most will say that the pros of living in Batumi far outweigh the cons. The unique nature, rapidly developing convenient infrastructure, and general warm atmosphere (along with delicious local cuisine) have become sufficient reasons for many to put down roots here.
