After joining the European Union, the development of the rural areas in Poland has increased significantly. Both local communities has been given the financial support, and the European Union countries started introducing projects concerning the improvement of the living conditions in the rural areas. The funds have been invested in a number of sectors, such us: infrastructure, environment protection, culture, professional development of people living in these areas. The researches had been conducted from June to November 2012. Two methods were used as a tool for the research: the analysis of the documents, facilitated by the local authorities of Nowa Wieś Wielka, and a survey completed by 283 people, the inhabitants of Nowa Wieś Wielka commune. The questionnaire concerned the influence of the European Union on development of the rural areas and the living conditions in these regions. From the documents analysis it can be concluded that Nowa Wieś Wielka has actively participated in the European projects. It is especially visible in the numerous projects that have been introduced in this area. Also the local inhabitants have a positive opinion about the influence of European Union on the development of the rural areas, and they are satisfied with the living conditions in their region.