Accommodation Lithuania

Renting accommodation in Lithuania, whether for a short or long term, requires a careful approach and knowledge of local specifics.

Finding accommodation

Real estate agencies: Contacting agencies can simplify the search process, but note that they charge a commission for their services.

Social networks and forums: Local groups on social networks, such as Facebook, often contain rental ads from owners.

In Lithuania, concluding rental and purchase agreements for housing is mandatory and serves to protect the rights of both parties, as well as to fulfill legal and tax obligations.

Rental agreement

The rental agreement establishes the terms of use of the residential premises, the rights and obligations of the landlord and tenant, the amount of rent, the duration of the lease, and other important aspects. It serves as the legal basis for the tenant's residence in the premises and protection of their rights.

Purchase agreement

The purchase agreement confirms the transfer of property rights from the seller to the buyer. It records the terms of the transaction, including the cost, description of the object, rights, and obligations of the parties.

The rental/purchase agreement is required: For residential registration, obtaining a visa or residence permit, connecting utilities, or other official procedures.

Renting accommodation in Lithuania has its own features, which are important to consider when planning to live in this country.

Finding accommodation: In Lithuania, real estate sites are popular where you can find current offers for renting apartments and houses. Contacting agencies can simplify the search process, but their services are charged (often the fee is equivalent to a month's rent, but in some cases, it can be less or more). A list of main agencies is available on the Lithuanian Real Estate Development Association website.

Rental prices

Vilnius: Renting a one-room apartment in the city center can cost from 500 to 700 euros per month, depending on the condition and location.

Other cities: In Kaunas and Klaipeda, prices are somewhat lower; one-room apartments can be found at prices from 400 to 600 euros per month.

Small towns: In small settlements, rental fees are often several times lower than in larger cities.

Rental agreement

Mandatory: Concluding a written rental agreement is obligatory. The agreement should clearly state the rental conditions, a list of provided property, and terms of departure.

Registration: For declaring residence at the rented address, the owner's consent is required. It’s advisable to discuss this issue before signing the contract.

Deposit

Amount: A deposit of one to three months' rent is usually required. This deposit is intended to protect the landlord from possible damages related to property damage or unpaid bills.

Return: The deposit is returned at the end of the lease, provided that all terms of the contract are met.

Utilities

Payment: In most cases, the tenant pays for utilities separately. It is recommended to find out in advance the amounts of payments for gas, electricity, and heating, to clearly understand which utilities will need to be paid.

Furnishing

In most cases, especially in major cities such as Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipeda, apartments are rented with basic furniture and necessary appliances. Some landlords are willing to provide additional furniture items by agreement with the tenant.

Seasonality

Demand: In August and September, with the beginning of the academic year, rental demand increases due to students, which may lead to price increases. Therefore, it is better to plan the search for accommodation at another time of the year.

Declaring residence

Procedure: Every permanent resident of Lithuania, including foreigners with a residence permit, must declare their place of residence. If you live in a rented apartment, the owner must give written consent for your registration at the residence.

Tips for tenants

Property inspection: Before signing the agreement, it is essential to inspect the accommodation, check the condition of the furniture, appliances, and communications.

Neighbors and Infrastructure: Clarify information about neighbors and the availability of necessary infrastructure (shops, transport, schools, etc.).

Contract Translation: If you do not speak Lithuanian, ask for the contract to be provided in a language you understand or seek the help of a translator.

Buying real estate in Lithuania, whether it is an apartment, house, or land plot, is a relatively straightforward process for both locals and foreign citizens.

Foreign citizens have the right to acquire real estate in Lithuania without significant restrictions. However, there are some nuances:

Residential and Commercial Real Estate: Foreigners are allowed to freely purchase apartments, houses, and commercial properties.

Land Plots: There are restrictions on purchasing agricultural land and forest areas. Such plots can only be acquired by foreign entities meeting the criteria of European and transatlantic integration.

To search for suitable options, use popular Lithuanian real estate websites: Aruodas, Domoplius, Skelbiu, Capital, and Ober-Haus.

In Lithuania, real estate insurance is not a mandatory requirement for owners. However, in some cases, obtaining an insurance policy becomes necessary.

With mortgage lending: If you acquire real estate through a mortgage loan, banks usually require insurance for the property.

For tenants: Although tenants are not obliged to insure rented housing, some landlords may include this requirement in the lease agreement. In such cases, tenants are advised to take out liability insurance to cover potential damage to third-party property.

Main utilities

In Lithuania, the main utilities include:

- Electricity: Supplied by various companies, and consumers can choose between fixed and variable rates.

- Heating: Typically centralized in apartment buildings, and bills depend on weather conditions and the building's energy efficiency.

- Water supply and sewage: Payment depends on the volume of water consumed.

- Gas supply: Used for heating and cooking; rates may vary depending on market prices.

- Waste disposal: Rates are set by local authorities and depend on the number of residents and the type of housing.

Payment methods

Internet banking: Most residents use online banking to pay bills, either manually or by setting up automatic debits.

Aggregator services: Platforms such as vienasaskaita.lt allow consolidating bills from different providers and paying them at once.

Bank branches and post offices: Payment is possible through bank counters or at Lietuvos Paštas branches.

Contractual relationships

To receive utility services, contracts must be concluded with the respective suppliers:

Individual contracts: A separate contract is concluded with the supplier for each type of service.

Residence registration: A declared place of residence may be required to conclude contracts and receive services.

Living in apartment buildings in Lithuania is regulated by certain rules aimed at ensuring comfortable and safe coexistence for all residents.

Maintaining silence

Lithuania has established norms regulating noise levels in residential premises:

Nighttime: From 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, noise levels should not exceed 30 decibels.

Daytime: From 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, the acceptable noise level is up to 40 decibels.

During these periods, it is recommended to refrain from playing loud music, using noisy tools, and conducting repair work.

Conducting repair work

As of January 1, 2017, Lithuania has regulations governing repair work in apartment buildings:

Approval: Before starting repairs, especially if they affect load-bearing structures or communal systems, appropriate approvals must be obtained and neighbors notified.

Work hours: It is recommended to carry out noisy work on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, avoiding weekends and holidays.

Smoking

As of January 1, 2021, additional restrictions on smoking in multi-apartment buildings were introduced in Lithuania:

Balconies and terraces: Smoking on balconies, terraces, and loggias is prohibited if at least one neighbor has objected.

Common areas: Smoking is prohibited in common areas such as stairwells, corridors, and elevators.

For current information about smoking bans in your building, it is recommended to contact the local municipality or management company.

Use of common areas

Residents are required to maintain cleanliness and order in common areas:

Stairwells and corridors: It is prohibited to clutter passageways with personal items, such as bicycles, strollers, or furniture.

Escape routes: They must be free and accessible at all times to ensure safety.

Pets

The keeping of pets is allowed under the following conditions:

Maintaining order: Animals should not disturb the peace of neighbors or pollute common areas.

Safety: Owners must ensure that their pets do not pose a threat to other residents.

Parking and surrounding areas

Parking: Cars should only be parked in designated areas, not blocking driveways and entrances.

Maintenance: Residents are required to keep the surrounding area clean and participate in its maintenance.

Responsibility for rule violations

Fines: Violations of public order, such as exceeding permissible noise levels or smoking in prohibited areas, lead to fines.

Other measures: In cases of systematic violations, more serious measures may be taken, up to eviction by court decision.

The Lithuanian real estate market demonstrates dynamic development, characterized by price increases, active construction, and regional differences.

Volume of new construction

In recent years, Lithuania has seen a significant increase in new construction volumes, especially in major cities. However, in 2023, sales of new buildings decreased by 70%, despite a 25% price increase.

Comfort of rental and sales housing

Modern new developments in Lithuania meet European quality standards, offering comfortable living conditions. Many properties are equipped with modern engineering systems, energy-efficient solutions, and convenient layouts. A wide range of rental options is available on the market — from budget options to premium class.

Prices by region

The cost of real estate in Lithuania varies depending on the region:

Vilnius: The most expensive market. In March 2023, the average price per square meter in the primary market was 3,445 euros.

Kaunas and Klaipeda: Prices are lower than in the capital. In March 2023, the average price per square meter in Kaunas was 1,308 euros, in Klaipeda — 1,259 euros.

Other regions: Housing prices are significantly lower but are rising. In rural areas, prices for new buildings are around 1,555 euros per square meter, on the secondary market — about 725 euros.

Types of residential real estate

Apartments: The most popular type of housing, especially in cities. In 2023, 75% of real estate transactions were for apartments.

Private houses: The demand for individual residential homes is about 25% of the total number of transactions.

Land plots: In demand for the construction of private homes, especially in suburban areas.

Supply and demand balance

The Lithuanian real estate market strives to meet the growing demand, however:

Supply deficit: In 2023, there was a supply deficit in the primary market, leading to price increases.

Demand decrease: In 2023, the total number of real estate transactions decreased, but prices continued to rise.

Thus, the Lithuanian real estate market is characterized by active development, price growth, and regional differences. Buyers and renters are advised to carefully study current trends and consult with experts before making decisions.

The cost of living in Lithuania depends on the region and lifestyle, but overall it is lower than in most Western European countries. Let's consider the main expense aspects.

Accommodation

Rent: In Vilnius, renting a one-room apartment in the city center costs about 772 euros per month, in distant areas — about 250 euros.

Utilities: For an 85 m² apartment, bills for electricity, heating, water, and waste removal range from 148.75 euros in Šiauliai to 210.31 euros in Kaunas.

Groceries

Food prices in Lithuania are comparable to other Baltic countries:

Milk (1 liter): 1.27 euros

Bread (500 g): 1.49 euros

Eggs (12 pcs.): 2.45 euros

Chicken fillet (1 kg): 6.59 euros

Apples (1 kg): 1.31 euros

Potatoes (1 kg): 0.79 euros

Transportation

Public transport: A one-way ticket costs about 1 euro.

Fuel: The cost of gasoline (95) is approximately 1.28 euros per liter, diesel fuel — around 1.17 euros per liter.

Restaurants and Leisure

Lunch in an inexpensive restaurant: 12 euros

Combo meal in fast food: 8 euros

Imported beer (0.33 L): 4.50 euros

Cappuccino: 2.67 euros

Average Income

The average salary: 2,097.3 euros per month before taxes.

The minimum wage: 924 euros per month.

General Expenses

The minimum monthly living expenses in Lithuania are around 700 euros for one person and 2,400 euros for a family of four, excluding rental costs.

Thus, Lithuania offers a relatively affordable standard of living compared to other European Union countries; however, expenses can vary significantly depending on the region and personal preferences.

Lithuania has a range of government support programs and subsidies aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens and assisting various social groups.

Social assistance for the needy

Cash benefits: Provided to families and individuals with low income to meet basic needs.

Reimbursement of utility costs: Includes compensation for heating, cold, and hot water costs.

Social services: Offered to support individuals in need of assistance, including home care, meal provision, and supply of necessary items.

Eligibility for this aid is granted to Lithuanian citizens, foreign nationals with EU permanent residency permits, as well as EU or EEA citizens residing in Lithuania for at least 3 months. The main criteria are compliance with established property and income value standards.

Support for young families purchasing housing

The state provides support to young families deciding to purchase their first home in Lithuania's regions. However, the process of obtaining this support can be complicated, and some residents report difficulties in its acquisition.

Subsidies for utility payments

In the winter period, the government provides subsidies for utility payments for low-income residents. In September 2023, social cards of almost 180,000 recipients were credited with the appropriate funds.

Employment assistance programs

Professional development courses: Free programs to enhance professional skills.

Internships: Opportunities to gain practical experience in various companies.

Subsidies for employers: Financial support for companies hiring unemployed individuals, making candidates more appealing for employment.

These measures are aimed at energizing the labor market and supporting unemployed citizens.

Scholarships and grants for students

The Ministry of Education, Science, and Sports of Lithuania provides state grants for master's studies for citizens of certain countries, including Belarus, Ukraine, Georgia, and others.

These programs are designed to support various social groups and aid in improving their well-being in Lithuania.