Last update: Oct 2026 North Macedonia 43.7K

Cost of Living in Veles

For one person, living costs in Veles are estimated at $768 a month, including rent and utilities – 18% below the national average. Rent and utilities take about a third of the total.

Monthly Cost of Living

How much you'll spend in Veles

Real prices from locals and on-the-ground checks – rent, groceries, transit and the daily extras. Here's what a month in Veles actually costs, broken down by who's living it.

Living costs for one person come to about $768 monthly including rent, or $489 excluding housing.

$768 /mo

Estimated monthly costs for a couple: $1,139 with rent, or $827 without housing.

$1,139 /mo

Monthly costs for a family of three come to about $1,510 including rent, or $1,166 for daily expenses alone.

$1,510 /mo

Veles sits 43–47% below the global median across household types. Within Europe, costs are well below average (56% lower) – one of the most affordable options in the region.

Currency
Do you live in Veles? Add cost details
🍽 Eating Out
Cost
Range
Meal at Budget Restaurant
$8.65 MKD 472
$3.64 MKD 199
$15.06 MKD 822
Three-Course Dinner for Two, Mid-Range
$18.00 MKD 982
$16.20 MKD 884
$45.00 MKD 2,455
Fast Food Meal (McDonalds, etc)
$5.43 MKD 296
$5.43 MKD 296
$8.15 MKD 445
Cappuccino
$1.50 MKD 82.0
$1.43 MKD 77.7
$2.67 MKD 146
Coke/Pepsi/Fanta/Sprite (0.33 liter bottle)
$1.32 MKD 72.0
$0.92 MKD 50.4
$2.58 MKD 141
Water (0.33 liter bottle)
$0.80 MKD 43.42
$0.48 MKD 26.15
$1.74 MKD 94.7
Local Beer (0.5 liter draught)
$1.48 MKD 80.7
$1.02 MKD 55.7
$2.96 MKD 161
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$3.03 MKD 165
$1.96 MKD 107
$4.27 MKD 233
🛒 Groceries & Markets
Cost
Range
Milk (1 liter)
$1.06 MKD 57.9
$1.02 MKD 55.7
$1.39 MKD 75.7
White Bread (500g)
$0.51 MKD 27.74
$0.49 MKD 26.68
$1.24 MKD 67.8
Rice (white) (1kg)
$1.45 MKD 79.2
$0.89 MKD 48.71
$2.14 MKD 117
Eggs
$2.48 MKD 135
$1.98 MKD 108
$3.30 MKD 180
Local Cheese (1kg)
$2.96 MKD 162
$2.96 MKD 162
$10.75 MKD 586
Chicken Fillets (1kg)
$4.07 MKD 222
$4.07 MKD 222
$9.22 MKD 503
Beef Round Steak (1kg)
$15.11 MKD 824
$11.07 MKD 604
$18.44 MKD 1,006
Apples (1kg)
$1.41 MKD 77.0
$0.71 MKD 38.79
$1.95 MKD 106
Banana (1kg)
$1.43 MKD 77.9
$1.10 MKD 60.2
$3.04 MKD 166
Oranges (1kg)
$1.38 MKD 75.2
$0.94 MKD 51.1
$2.06 MKD 112
Tomato (1kg)
$1.88 MKD 103
$1.07 MKD 58.6
$2.68 MKD 146
Potato (1kg)
$0.85 MKD 46.16
$0.53 MKD 28.98
$1.48 MKD 80.5
Onion (1kg)
$0.83 MKD 45.33
$0.75 MKD 40.85
$1.86 MKD 101
Lettuce (1 head)
$0.59 MKD 31.96
$0.52 MKD 28.29
$0.70 MKD 38.25
Water (1.5 liter bottle)
$0.59 MKD 32.06
$0.46 MKD 25.31
$1.03 MKD 56.3
Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro, Camel)
$3.33 MKD 182
$3.33 MKD 182
$3.70 MKD 202
Wine (Bottle)
$6.44 MKD 351
$4.66 MKD 254
$12.12 MKD 661
Local Beer (0.5 liter bottle)
$1.06 MKD 57.8
$0.93 MKD 50.6
$1.20 MKD 65.6
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$1.49 MKD 81.0
$1.12 MKD 60.9
$2.23 MKD 122
🚌 Getting Around
Cost
Range
One-way Ticket (Public Transport)
$0.79 MKD 43.05
$0.64 MKD 34.79
$0.79 MKD 43.05
Public Transport Monthly Pass (Regular Price)
$23.23 MKD 1,267
$14.30 MKD 780
$23.23 MKD 1,267
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)
$1.11 MKD 60.3
$0.92 MKD 50.4
$2.54 MKD 138
Taxi (Normal Tariff) (1km)
$0.61 MKD 33.44
$0.47 MKD 25.50
$1.13 MKD 61.8
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)
$7.43 MKD 405
$5.37 MKD 293
$10.74 MKD 586
Gasoline (1 liter)
$1.46 MKD 79.8
$1.39 MKD 75.8
$1.85 MKD 101
Midsize Hatchback 1.4l (Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Prius, Honda Civic, etc)
$26.8K MKD 1.5M
$26.8K MKD 1.5M
$35.5K MKD 1.9M
Compact Sedan 1.6l (Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Kia K4, Hyundai Elantra, etc)
$24.9K MKD 1.4M
$24.4K MKD 1.3M
$30.7K MKD 1.7M
🧾 Monthly Utilities & Internet
Cost
Range
Utilities for 2 People in 2-bedroom Apartment (Heating, Electricity, Gas, Water, Garbage) (85m2)
$108 MKD 5,901
$108 MKD 5,901
$178 MKD 9,719
SIM Card Monthly Plan (Calls and 10GB+ Data)
$17.34 MKD 946
$14.75 MKD 805
$22.12 MKD 1,207
Internet (50+ Mbps, Unlimited Data)
$12.02 MKD 655
$9.05 MKD 494
$36.23 MKD 1,976
🎉 Sport & Entertainment
Cost
Range
Gym Membership (Monthly)
$25.47 MKD 1,389
$23.64 MKD 1,290
$27.28 MKD 1,488
Tennis Court (1 Hour on Weekend)
$17.82 MKD 972
$5.60 MKD 305
$17.82 MKD 972
Cinema Ticket
$3.38 MKD 184
$3.06 MKD 167
$9.27 MKD 505
🧸 Childcare & Education
Cost
Range
Preschool or Kindergarten, Full Day, Private, 1 Child (Monthly)
$221 MKD 12.1K
$221 MKD 12.1K
$510 MKD 27.8K
International Primary School, 1 Child (Yearly)
$5,716 MKD 311.8K
$4,573 MKD 249.5K
$8,434 MKD 460.1K
👕👟 Clothing & Footwear
Cost
Range
Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar)
$21.99 MKD 1,199
$18.32 MKD 1,000
$128 MKD 6,996
Summer Dress (H&M, Zara, etc)
$18.42 MKD 1,005
$18.42 MKD 1,005
$55.3 MKD 3,015
Sport Shoes (Adidas, Nike)
$72.2 MKD 3,940
$63.2 MKD 3,448
$144 MKD 7,881
Men's Leather Business Shoes
$110 MKD 5,987
$82.3 MKD 4,490
$165 MKD 8,980
🏠 Accommodation & Living
Cost
Range
1-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)
$218 MKD 11.9K
$216 MKD 11.8K
$219 MKD 11.9K
1-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)
$170 MKD 9,300
$162 MKD 8,849
$179 MKD 9,751
3-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)
$290 MKD 15.8K
$276 MKD 15.0K
$304 MKD 16.6K
3-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)
$236 MKD 12.9K
$220 MKD 12.0K
$252 MKD 13.8K
Buy Apartment in City Center (m2)
$1,174 MKD 64.0K
$895 MKD 48.8K
$1,541 MKD 84.0K
Buy Apartment Outside City Center (m2)
$933 MKD 50.9K
$807 MKD 44.0K
$1,102 MKD 60.1K
💵 Salaries & Financials
Cost
Range
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)
$594 MKD 32.4K
-
20-Year Fixed Mortgage Interest Rate (Annual %)
4.23
3
6

CityCost data is based on AI and user input – minor inaccuracies may occur.

Last update: October 12, 2026

Monthly budget structure
Share of the monthly basket for one person, rent included.
Veles $768
Groceries & Markets
$171
Accommodation & Living
$170
Monthly Utilities & Internet
$138
Eating Out
$125
Clothing & Footwear
$100
Sport & Entertainment
$32
Getting Around
$31

Cost Breakdown

Expect to pay about $218 for a central one-bedroom, or $170 outside the center. At 37% of the average salary ($594), rent is manageable but leaves limited room for savings.

Average take-home pay sits at $594, while typical expenses reach $768. The gap means tight budgeting for locals, though expats with foreign income can live comfortably.

Expect to spend about $171 monthly on groceries. Dining out at a mid-range restaurant costs roughly $18.00 for two – well below the European average of $73.0.

Public transport is priced at around $23.23 per month – among the cheapest in Europe (average $49.00).

Cost Highlights

Three-course dinner for two, mid-range is cheaper than 100% of cities in Europe

Chicken fillets is cheaper than 99% of cities in Europe

3-bedroom apartment, outside city center is cheaper than 99% of cities in Europe

Good to know
🕒 Local time
00:34 12:34 AM
🌤 Weather
👥 Population
43,716
💱 Currency
Exchange rates and currency converter

USD, EUR to MKD – North Macedonian Denar Converter

North Macedonian Denar exchange rates as of October 17, 2026: 1 USD = 54.55 MKD (100 MKD = 1.83 USD). 1 EUR = 61.33 MKD (100 MKD = 1.63 EUR).

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Veles Median Internet Speeds (Updated April 2026)

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Cost of Living in Veles - Frequently Asked Questions
Is Veles affordable for travelers and expats, and how does it compare to larger Balkan cities?
Veles offers a quiet, livable pace that many travelers and expats find good value for a Balkan town. When you weigh options, costs for housing, meals, and everyday services tend to be lower than in larger hubs, while essential amenities and a welcoming community remain easy to access. Cost of Living in Veles, North Macedonia often feels approachable for short stays and longer setups, especially if you choose a modest apartment near the center and shop at local markets. Public transit is straightforward, eateries outside tourist zones stay affordable, and neighborhood strolls reveal a mix of historic charm and practical convenience. Tip: Start with a flexible plan and test different neighborhoods on foot.
What does daily life look like in Veles for housing, food, transport, and remote work?
From a daily life angle, you'll map out housing by location preference: near the old town for walkability, or near the river for a calmer vibe. Rental options usually lean toward compact apartments in traditional blocks rather than ultra-new builds. Food comes from fresh markets and modest eateries where you can sample local dishes at predictable prices. Local transport is straightforward through buses and connections to nearby towns, while co-working spots or cafes can suit remote work needs. For a longer stay, plan how you'll run errands, do laundry, and access postal services. you'll notice the Veles, North Macedonia living cost remains manageable for most routines. Tip: Build a flexible weekly plan, use local markets for staples, and choose a neighborhood that suits your work rhythm.
How would you describe the overall quality of life in Veles, and what budgeting approach and seasonal factors should you consider?
You'll find the quality of life in Veles balances small-town charm with practical access to services. A simple budgeting approach works well here: allocate essentials first, keep a modest discretionary sleeve, and build a small buffer for seasonal needs. Summer days invite outdoor dining and festivals, while winter months emphasize heating costs and cozy indoor routines. Neighborhood fit varies by vibe: the historic center for easy walks and cafe culture, or quieter blocks near the park for longer work sessions. Practical ways to save include cooking at home, buying from local markets, and using public transport or bike-friendly routes. Tip: map a two-week trial in a couple of neighborhoods to feel the pace and timing of local services.
What percentage of income goes to rent in Veles?
About 37% of the average paycheck in Veles goes to rent, which is fairly typical worldwide. It's not dirt cheap, but most residents manage housing costs alongside everyday expenses without major sacrifices.
What is the average cost of living in Veles?
A single person in Veles typically spends $768 per month once rent is factored in. Strip out housing, and everyday essentials like groceries, utilities, transport, and personal spending land around $489. The final number shifts depending on your neighborhood, eating habits, and general lifestyle.
Is the average salary in Veles enough to cover living costs?
An average salary of $594 technically covers the $768 monthly cost of living in Veles, but just barely. There's little room for surprises – a rent hike, medical bill, or unexpected repair can throw things off quickly at this income level.
What are typical rents in Veles?
Where you live in Veles makes all the difference. Central one-bedrooms cost about $218; commute-friendly outer districts come in around $170. Overall, the market runs from $170 to $218 depending on size, location, and apartment condition.
How expensive is a gym membership in Veles?
Fitness in Veles is cheap at around $25.47 monthly for a standard gym. It's one of the lighter items in the budget, making it easy to stay active without worrying about the cost.
How cheap is food in Veles?
Veles is great for eating affordably at home. Monthly grocery bills run about $171, and local produce is plentiful and well-priced, making home cooking both practical and cost-effective.
Can you live on $800 a month in Veles?
$800 stretches far in Veles – all-in monthly costs average only $768. The surplus means you can build savings, travel a bit, and live above the local average without much effort.
What is quality of life like in Veles?
Veles offers genuinely appealing day-to-day living. Residents value low crime rates, café culture, great local cuisine, and at around $768 per month, it's accessible to a broad range of incomes. Most people find the cost-to-quality balance sustainable long-term.
Can you save money living in Veles?
Monthly expenses in Veles run around $768, so putting money aside takes more than $1,151 in income. Keeping housing costs low and avoiding lifestyle creep are the keys to building a decent savings rate here.
Is Veles good for backpackers on a budget?
Budget travelers love Veles – low prices across accommodation, food, and transport make it one of the most backpacker-friendly cities around. Long-stay costs come to just $768 monthly; short-term visitors can get by on even less with hostels and local food.

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