The Best Places To Teach English In Poland

Poland has become one of Europe’s most attractive countries for teaching English, thanks to its strong demand for language instruction, relatively low cost of living, and welcoming visa policies. But while teaching jobs are spread across the country, the experience you’ll have can change dramatically depending on where you choose to live.

Some cities offer the hustle of big business districts and a fast-paced lifestyle, while others promise peaceful surroundings and tight-knit communities. In larger cities, you'll find a mix of international schools, corporate training programs, and thriving private tutoring markets. Smaller towns and university hubs, on the other hand, often offer lower living costs, more immersive cultural experiences, and students eager to connect with native speakers.

Whether you’re a new teacher looking to build experience or a seasoned educator in search of meaningful work and a new home base, Poland has a place that can match your goals and energy. Choosing the right city isn’t just about where the jobs are—it’s about finding a place that fits the kind of life you want to build.

🌆 1. Warsaw – The Professional and Financial Hub

Warsaw stands at the center of Poland’s economic and educational landscape. As the capital and largest city, it offers the broadest range of teaching opportunities—especially for those seeking full-time work in international schools, universities, and business English training programs. There’s also a steady flow of adult learners and corporate clients looking to improve their English for professional growth.

The city itself is a modern metropolis, with sleek public transport, international restaurants, co-working spaces, and a vibrant nightlife. While the cost of living is higher than in other Polish cities, it’s still affordable by Western standards, and salaries tend to reflect the capital’s status. Many schools in Warsaw offer structured contracts, legal visa sponsorship, and room to grow within the organization.

For teachers who want to build a long-term career or transition into other education-related roles—like curriculum design, exam prep, or teacher training—Warsaw provides the infrastructure and opportunities to make it happen.

Best for: Ambitious teachers looking for high-paying jobs, modern living, and professional development. Expect: Competitive job market, a fast-paced lifestyle, and a highly international atmosphere.

🏰 2. Kraków – Culture, History, and Student Energy

Kraków blends old-world charm with youthful energy, making it one of the most sought-after cities for ESL teachers in Central Europe. Known for its medieval architecture, vibrant café culture, and artistic spirit, Kraków draws both tourists and students year-round—creating consistent demand for English education in schools, universities, and language centers.

The city is home to Jagiellonian University, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, alongside several smaller colleges and technical schools. This fuels a strong need for English teachers, especially for academic prep, conversation practice, and private tutoring. Many language centers also cater to adults and business professionals looking to upskill.

Compared to Warsaw, the cost of living in Kraków is slightly lower, yet the quality of life is high—thanks to its walkability, scenic old town, and dynamic social scene. Teachers often find it easy to build a community here, whether through expat meetups, coworking spaces, or weekend cultural events.

Best for: Teachers who want a lively, student-rich environment paired with stunning historic surroundings.
Expect: High demand for classes, strong expat networks, and a balance of work and lifestyle.

🏞️ 3. Wrocław – Vibrant and Underrated

Wrocław is one of Poland’s hidden gems for English teachers. Set along the Oder River and dotted with charming bridges, colorful buildings, and open squares, it combines aesthetic beauty with a youthful, energetic atmosphere. It’s home to several major universities and a large student population, which fuels consistent demand for English instruction.

The city has a strong reputation for its artistic and intellectual vibe, with numerous theaters, galleries, and cultural festivals throughout the year. For teachers, that means an engaging lifestyle outside the classroom and a receptive audience inside it. Language centers often hire year-round, and many teachers also pick up private students or work with university-affiliated programs.

Compared to Warsaw or Kraków, Wrocław offers a lower cost of living without sacrificing modern amenities. It’s a walkable, bike-friendly city that’s ideal for teachers who want to enjoy a high quality of life while building their ESL career in a less saturated market.

Best for: Teachers seeking a dynamic, culture-rich city with fewer crowds and a strong sense of community.
Expect: Steady job options, affordable housing, and a well-rounded city experience.

🛳️ 4. Gdańsk – Coastal Living with a Northern Twist

Gdańsk offers something unique for ESL teachers in Poland—a chance to live and work by the sea. This historic port city on the Baltic coast blends maritime charm with modern industry, making it increasingly appealing for teachers seeking a slower, scenic lifestyle that’s still professionally rewarding.

While it may not have the sheer volume of schools found in Warsaw or Kraków, Gdańsk’s growing economy—especially in tech, logistics, and international business—has driven up the demand for English instruction. Many language centers and private companies look for teachers who can help employees communicate in global markets. There are also opportunities in local schools and universities, though competition can be a bit tighter.

Gdańsk’s Old Town is beautifully reconstructed, and the city offers easy access to beaches, bike paths, and coastal nature. It shares a metropolitan area with Gdynia and Sopot (collectively called the Tri-City), which expands your potential job options and social life while keeping the vibe relaxed and livable.

Best for: Teachers who want coastal charm, history, and work-life balance.
Expect: Fewer but well-paying jobs, a peaceful atmosphere, and professional roles tied to international business or adult learners.

🎓 5. Poznań – Academic Energy and Affordable Living

Poznań strikes a solid balance between opportunity and lifestyle. As one of Poland’s major university cities, it has a strong student population, which keeps the demand for English education high—especially for conversational practice and exam prep. Language schools are well-established, and freelance tutoring is popular among both students and professionals.

What sets Poznań apart is its livability. It’s not as fast-paced or crowded as Warsaw, but it still offers reliable public transport, lively nightlife, and an expanding business scene. This makes it especially appealing for teachers who want a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing city comforts.

Living costs are lower than in Poland’s largest cities, making it easier to save or simply enjoy your income. The city’s green spaces, riverfront trails, and historic old town add to the charm, and there’s a growing international community that’s easy to plug into.

Best for: Teachers who value a strong education focus and a manageable pace of life.
Expect: Reliable work options, low living expenses, and a welcoming academic environment.

🧳 6. Lublin – Smaller City, Big Cultural Appeal

Lublin offers something different from Poland’s more touristy or business-heavy cities. Situated in the east, it has a strong local identity shaped by centuries of multicultural heritage. With fewer international visitors and a slower rhythm, Lublin is ideal for teachers who want to immerse themselves in day-to-day Polish life.

English education is growing steadily here, especially in local universities, private institutes, and language schools. While the job market is smaller than in Warsaw or Kraków, qualified teachers can still find consistent work—particularly those who enjoy building community ties and contributing to long-term language development.

Lublin’s affordability is another draw. Rent, food, and transport are all more budget-friendly, which allows for a comfortable lifestyle on a teacher’s salary. The city's old town, cultural festivals, and historical sites give it plenty of charm and depth.

Best for: Teachers looking to escape the crowds and connect with authentic Polish culture.
Expect: A smaller but welcoming ESL scene, meaningful community connections, and low living costs.

🗺️ 7. Other Noteworthy Cities

Poland has a wide range of smaller or lesser-known cities that are quietly becoming great places to teach English—especially for those looking to avoid saturated markets or enjoy a different pace of life.

• Łódź (pronounced “woodge”) is in the midst of a creative and economic revival. Once a major industrial hub, it's now attracting new businesses, startups, and students. This transformation has spurred demand for English, particularly in private schools and tech-focused training centers. It’s a gritty but evolving city with character and potential.

• Katowice is the heart of a larger urban area in Silesia and leans heavily into tech, commerce, and academia. Though often overlooked by tourists, it’s modern, organized, and offers jobs in both language schools and corporate English training. It’s ideal for teachers who want to be part of a forward-looking city with fewer expats.

• Rzeszów is a rising star in southeastern Poland. Compact, clean, and increasingly welcoming to foreigners, it has a modest but steady demand for English teachers—especially those willing to work with local schools or do freelance tutoring. It offers excellent quality of life at a low cost and is great for newcomers to the region.

Best for: Teachers seeking unique placements, quieter cities, or up-and-coming ESL markets.
Expect: Less competition, lower costs, and the chance to help shape growing ESL communities.

💡 8. How to Choose the Right Polish City for You

Poland offers something for nearly every type of English teacher—but finding your perfect match means weighing your priorities.

If your focus is on career growth, networking, and access to a wide range of schools or corporate clients, bigger cities like Warsaw, Kraków, or Wrocław are the strongest contenders. They come with higher salaries and modern infrastructure but also more competition and a faster-paced lifestyle.

Prefer a slower rhythm and a deeper cultural experience? Mid-sized cities like Lublin, Poznań, or Torun provide a mix of charm, community, and affordability. These are often ideal for first-time teachers or those who want a more personal, grounded experience.

Cost of living can vary significantly, so weigh housing, transit, and entertainment prices against what schools are offering. And don't underestimate the value of local expat communities or ease of travel—both can make your time abroad more enriching and sustainable.

Ultimately, ask yourself: where will I thrive both professionally and personally? The right place isn’t just where the jobs are—it’s where you feel at home.

Tips to guide your choice:

• Bigger cities = more jobs, higher cost, fast pace
• Mid-sized towns = fewer jobs, lower cost, local charm
• University cities = more young learners and tutoring demand
• Border towns or regional capitals = niche opportunities, fewer expats

✅ Conclusion: Find Your Polish Home Base

Poland has quietly become one of Europe’s most rewarding destinations for English teachers. Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Kraków, the buzzing capital energy of Warsaw, or the creative calm of a smaller town like Lublin or Poznań, you’ll find a setting that fits your goals—and your lifestyle.

The variety of cities means you don’t have to settle. You can build a career in a competitive market, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply enjoy a beautiful place to live while making a difference in the classroom. Poland is a place where modern opportunity meets Old World charm—and where teachers are truly valued.

👉 Learn More About Teaching English in Poland