Population
There are nearly 1.4 million people living in the South Central Region as of 2022, with the population living 45 minutes from the Plovdiv industrial zones being almost 800 000.
The high quality of life in Plovdiv attracts people from all over the country and abroad, with latest official data showing that the City of Plovdiv is the fastest growing among the big cities in Bulgaria.
Moreover, trends in the last few years show that the number of people moving in from abroad and Sofia to Plovdiv is much higher than those leaving. Record-breaking 18 000 people settled in the City in 2020 and 2021, highest of all big cities in Bulgaria – even the capital.
Plovdiv is also home to over 20 000 foreigners who live, work and study here – with the vibrant expat community increasing with 10% every year. The great work-life balance and unique cultural atmosphere draw in people from all over the world with statistics showing that nearly 30% of the migration towards the district is from other countries.
The rapid economic development, the success of the industrial zones and business services, winning the title of European Capital of Culture and the high quality of life are among the main reasons for the positive development of the city.
(metropolitan area)
Labor Market
Industrial leader in Bulgaria with 15% of all jobs in manufacturing and a booming IT&BPO destination.
Companies that choose Plovdiv for their new investment destination have access to human capital consisting of many well-trained specialists, with potential to create high added value for various sectors. The labor market in the District of Plovdiv outnumbers 200 000 people most of whom are in the manufacturing (71 200) and the business and consumer services sectors (83 500).