Long Read

Why Odesa is Ranked One of the Fastest Growing Cities

@Sophia Berg2/8/2026blog
Why Odesa is Ranked One of the Fastest Growing Cities

so, i've been bouncing around europe for a bit, and i found myself in odesa, ukraine. it's not your average tourist spot, but trust me, it's got its charm. first off, the weather is pretty mild, especially compared to other eastern european cities. right now, it's a bit overcast, but i've heard the summers can get pretty warm. and, fun fact, bucharest and istanbul are just a short flight away, so you can easily pop over for a visit.

i've been talking to some locals, and they all seem to love it here. one guy told me that the job market is actually pretty great, especially in the tech industry. apparently, the cost of living is relatively low, with rent starting from around $200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. you can check out some reviews on TripAdvisor or Yelp to get a better idea.

white and blue dome building

i've also been exploring the city, and there's some really cool spots to check out. like, have you ever heard of the potemkin stairs? they're this crazy-long staircase that leads down to the water, and the views are insane. and, if you're feeling adventurous, you can take a stroll along the odesa beach, which is just a short walk from the city center.

a large building with a tree in front of it

according to some stats i found, odesa has seen a significant increase in foreign investment over the past few years, with many international companies setting up shop here. you can find more info on the odesa subreddit, which has a pretty active community of expats and locals. and, if you're curious about the safety situation, i've heard it's pretty stable, with low crime rates compared to other major cities. just, you know, be smart and take normal precautions, like avoiding walking alone at night and keeping an eye on your belongings. one local told me that the city is actually really safe, especially in the tourist areas, and that you can easily get around using public transport or ride-hailing apps. anyway, that's my two cents on odesa. it's not perfect, but it's got a lot of character, and i'd definitely recommend checking it out if you're in the area. oh, and if you're looking for some more advice, i've heard the odesa expat group on facebook is a great resource, with tons of helpful tips and recommendations from people who've been living here for years.


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About the author: Sophia Berg

Exploring the intersection of technology and humanity.

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