Living in Tbilisi: the ultimate expat guide

Tbilisi's job market has evolved significantly in recent years, driven by growth in technology, tourism, and financial services. While local salaries remain modest by Western standards, the cost of living makes employment here financially viable. Remote workers and entrepreneurs find particular advantages thanks to Georgia's business-friendly policies and flat 20% income tax rate.

Key industries and employment sectors

The IT services sector has emerged as a major economic driver, contributing approximately 5.2% of Georgia's GDP in 2023. Companies benefit from the International Company Status, which offers reduced tax rates of just 5% on profit for businesses that export services. Tourism, hospitality, finance, and professional services round out the main employment sectors. The city hosts annual events like Global Tech Weekend Tbilisi, attracting thousands of tech professionals and investors.

Work permits and remote work options

The "Remotely from Georgia" digital nomad program allows freelancers and remote employees to live and work legally for up to one year. Requirements include proof of USD 2,000 monthly income or USD 24,000 in savings, health insurance, and remote employment outside Georgia. The application is entirely online with no fee and processing takes approximately 10 business days. After 183 days of residence, you become a tax resident subject to income tax.

The following table summarizes key employment indicators:

Sources: Trading Economics, Numbeo 2025

Tbilisi serves as Georgia's academic hub, home to the country's most prestigious universities and a growing international student population. With approximately 25,000 international students enrolled across Georgia's 62 universities, the city offers diverse programs in English at significantly lower tuition fees than Western institutions. Degrees follow the Bologna Process, ensuring recognition across Europe.

Leading universities for international students

Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University (TSU), founded in 1918, is the oldest and largest university in the Caucasus region, with over 23,000 students. It ranks in the top 800 globally according to QS Rankings and participates in Erasmus+ mobility programs. Tuition for international students starts at approximately USD 2,500–5,000 per year depending on the program. Ilia State University, established in 2006, focuses on research and hosts around 17,000 students across seven faculties. The University of Georgia (UG), a leading private institution, offers numerous English-taught programs and modern facilities. Georgian Technical University provides over 250 programs, including several in English, German, and French.

Admission and tuition information

International students are generally exempt from entrance exams and typically need only a diploma or certificate plus an interview in the language of instruction. Application fees average around USD 100. Medical programs, particularly popular among international students, cost approximately USD 5,000 per year at institutions like Tbilisi State Medical University. Student visas (Category D3) are processed within 30 calendar days, and proof of financial means is required.

Sources: Tbilisi State University, Global Admissions

Families relocating to Tbilisi will find a range of educational options, from local Georgian schools to well-established international institutions following British, American, and European curricula. Public education is free and compulsory from ages 6 to 14, but most expatriate families opt for private international schools where instruction is in English.

International schools in Tbilisi

The British International School of Tbilisi (BIST) follows the English National Curriculum, preparing students for IGCSEs and A-Levels. Located in the Digomi district near Lisi Lake, it offers modern facilities including science labs, sports fields, and a multicultural community. QSI International School of Tbilisi, founded in 1995, provides an American-style education from preschool through high school, with Advanced Placement (AP) courses available for older students. The Guivy Zaldastanishvili American Academy charges approximately 28,000 GEL (USD 10,200) annually for non-Georgian students and employs the Harkness teaching method with small class sizes. St. George's British-Georgian School combines British and Georgian curricula with fees ranging from 10,290 to 19,670 GEL per year.

European language schools

The German International School Tbilisi offers German curriculum instruction and is supported by the Federal Republic of Germany. The French School of the Caucasus (École Marie Brosset) follows French National Education standards and is accredited by the French Ministry of Education. Both schools provide bilingual programs integrating Georgian language and culture. Enrollment typically requires previous academic records, and most schools conduct interviews as part of the admission process.

Sources: BIST, QSI Tbilisi, U.S. Department of State

Tbilisi offers diverse housing options across distinct neighborhoods, from renovated Soviet-era apartments to modern high-rise developments. Rental prices have stabilized after the surge caused by migration waves in 2022–2023. Most expatriates choose between the upscale Vake district, the affordable and practical Saburtalo, or the trendy central Vera neighborhood.

Popular neighborhoods for expatriates

Vake is the city's most prestigious district, home to embassies, universities, and designer boutiques along Chavchavadze Avenue. Expect modern apartments, excellent parks, and walkable streets. However, there is no metro access, and traffic can be heavy. Saburtalo attracts families and students with its metro line, shopping infrastructure, and more affordable rents. The area includes Lisi Lake for outdoor activities and several international schools. Vera offers a central location with a bohemian atmosphere, wine bars, coworking spaces, and proximity to Rustaveli Avenue. Old Town (Sololaki) suits those who prefer historic charm, though apartments tend to be smaller and more tourist-oriented.

Rental prices and procedures

Rentals are typically found through platforms like myhome.ge and ss.ge, or through Facebook groups and local agents. Leases are usually for one year, with one month's deposit required. Utilities (electricity, heating, water) are paid separately and average USD 75–115 monthly for an 85 m² apartment.

Sources: Numbeo 2025

Tbilisi offers an extraordinary range of cultural experiences, from world-class museums and Soviet-era architecture to wine bars, thermal baths, and mountain hikes just minutes from downtown. The city's nightlife has gained international recognition, and its food scene blends traditional Georgian cuisine with contemporary influences.

Museums and cultural attractions

The Georgian National Museum on Rustaveli Avenue houses treasures spanning from the Bronze Age to modern times, including the famous Dmanisi skulls—1.8-million-year-old human remains. The Art Palace of Georgia showcases Georgian fine arts in a stunning 19th-century mansion. For wine enthusiasts, the Tbilisi Wine Museum offers guided tastings and explains Georgia's 8,000-year winemaking heritage. The Open Air Museum of Ethnography above Vake Park features 70 traditional buildings from across the country. Don't miss the Gabriadze Theater, internationally acclaimed for its puppet performances.

Parks, recreation, and nightlife

Mtatsminda Park sits atop the city's highest peak, accessible by funicular, offering amusement rides and panoramic views. Vake Park and Mziuri Park provide green escapes for jogging, picnics, and family outings. Turtle Lake, reached by cable car, is perfect for swimming in summer. The sulfur baths in Abanotubani date back centuries and remain a quintessential Tbilisi experience. For nightlife, the Fabrika complex in Marjanishvili combines creative studios, bars, and a hostel, while clubs in the old town attract electronic music fans from around the world. Annual events include the Tbilisoba harvest festival in October and the Art-Gene folk festival in summer.

Sources: Georgian National Museum, Wander-Lush

Daily life in Tbilisi moves at a relaxed pace, with strong café culture, late dinners, and a vibrant social scene. The city is increasingly walkable in central areas, though hilly terrain and traffic congestion mean most residents rely on a combination of metro, buses, and ride-hailing apps. Internet connectivity is fast and affordable, making remote work straightforward.

Getting around the city

The Tbilisi Metro has two lines and 23 stations, operating from 6:00 AM to midnight. A single ride costs just 1 GEL (USD 0.36), and the MetroMoney card (2 GEL to purchase) allows 90-minute transfers between metro, buses, and cable cars without additional charges. City buses cover most areas, and the app TTC provides real-time schedules. Ride-hailing services Bolt and Yandex Go are widely used and very affordable—airport transfers cost around USD 10–15. Four scenic cable cars connect hillside attractions including Narikala Fortress and Turtle Lake. The Mtatsminda Funicular offers spectacular views from 710 meters elevation.

Lifestyle and cultural norms

Georgian hospitality is legendary, and newcomers often find locals warm and welcoming. Dinner typically starts late, around 8–9 PM, and extended meals with wine are common. The traditional supra (feast) features multiple toasts led by a tamada (toastmaster). Grocery shopping is convenient through chains like Carrefour, Nikora, and Spar. Banking is accessible, with most services available in English, and contactless payments are widely accepted. Mobile internet packages cost approximately USD 12–18 monthly with fast 4G/5G coverage throughout the city.

Sources: Tbilisi Transport Company, Wander-Lush

Tbilisi remains one of Europe's most affordable capitals, though prices have risen since 2022. The cost of living is approximately 50–65% lower than in major Western European cities. With careful budgeting, a single person can live comfortably on USD 1,000–1,500 monthly, while families should plan for USD 2,500–3,500 depending on housing choices and schooling.

Monthly budget for a single person

Monthly budget for a family of four

Sources: Numbeo 2025, International Schools Database