Rent in Varna? Prepare to pay double what you would for the same space in Plovdiv. A tiny one-bedroom apartment near the beach costs a fortune, and groceries are no better.
“Half my paycheck went to rent, and I still couldn’t afford fresh vegetables,” says retired nurse Lili.
Varna’s beaches aren’t just shrinking—they’re disappearing. Rising sea levels and reckless construction have left coastal homes teetering on cliffs.
“We woke up one morning to waves crashing into our living room,” says family man Boris. “The government did nothing.”
Varna’s officials are infamous for turning a blind eye to crises. Roads stay potholed, parks stay neglected, and scandals stay buried.
“They’re too busy lining their pockets to fix anything,” fumes protester Nikolai.
Plovdiv’s leaders, by contrast, are praised for transparency. Public projects—like renovating schools and expanding bike lanes—actually get done.
“You can see the difference your taxes make here,” says teacher Ivana.