Moving to Croatia
Last updated on Aug 07, 2023
Summary: Expats and digital nomads move to Croatia for its stunning natural beauty, its vibrant culture, and its low cost of living. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Croatia are Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik. People looking for a place to live in Croatia can search online for rental listings, contact local real estate agents, or look for postings on expat forums.
What do I need to know before moving to Croatia?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Croatia, they said:
"Croatia is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. It is important to research the local customs and laws before moving to Croatia. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Croatia, as it can be higher than in other countries. Additionally, it is important to learn some of the local language, as English is not widely spoken in Croatia. Expats should also be aware of the climate in Croatia, as it can be quite hot in the summer and cold in the winter. Finally, it is important to research the job market in Croatia before moving, as the economy is still recovering from the recession," remarked one expat who made the move to Croatia.
How do I find a place to live in Croatia?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"The best way to find a place to live in Croatia is to research online. There are many websites that offer listings of apartments, houses, and other types of accommodation in Croatia. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live. You can also look for rental postings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in public places. Additionally, you can ask friends and family who live in Croatia for advice and recommendations," said one expat in Croatia.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Croatia?
"Expat homes and apartments in Croatia tend to be modern and comfortable, with many featuring balconies or terraces with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Expats can expect to find well-equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and comfortable bedrooms. Many apartments also come with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and other amenities. Expats can also find homes and apartments in Croatia with access to swimming pools, fitness centers, and other recreational facilities," replied a member in Croatia.
What is the average cost of housing in Croatia?
If you are thinking about moving to Croatia, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Croatia varies depending on the location and type of accommodation. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in Croatia is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. Prices for apartments in larger cities such as Zagreb and Split tend to be higher than in smaller towns and villages. Additionally, the cost of buying a house in Croatia is usually higher than renting, but can still be quite reasonable," commented one expat who made the move to Croatia.
Should I buy or rent a home in Croatia?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Croatia, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"We built one, and no, it's not an easy process. Building is a bargain over here, the quality is ok, but the paper shit may kill you. And more important, the registration of ownership in Croatia still is horrible, so TAKE CARE that your dream property does not become a nightmare," remarked one expat who made the move to Dubrovnik.
"Buying a home in Croatia can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and a growing real estate market. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as closing costs, taxes, and maintenance fees. Renting a home in Croatia can be a more cost-effective option, as it allows you to enjoy the benefits of living in Croatia without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting a home can provide more flexibility, as you can move to a different area or change your living arrangements more easily. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Croatia should be based on your individual needs and preferences," explained one expat living in Croatia.
What should I pack when moving to Croatia?
We asked people living in Croatia to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Croatia, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack clothing that is appropriate for the season, such as light layers for the summer and warm layers for the winter. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the country. Make sure to bring any necessary medications and toiletries. It is also important to bring items that will help you feel at home, such as photos, books, and other personal items. Don't forget to bring an adapter for your electronics, as Croatia uses a different type of plug than many other countries," remarked one expat who made the move to Croatia.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Croatia?
We asked people in Croatia if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Croatia. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Avoid making negative comments about the country or its people. It is also important to dress modestly and to be aware of local religious customs. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or to be overly loud in public. It is also important to be aware of local tipping customs and to be respectful of the environment," explained one expat living in Croatia.
Why do people move to Croatia?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Croatia, they responded:
"Croatia is an attractive destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life. The country boasts a diverse landscape of mountains, islands, and beaches, making it a great place to explore and relax. The cost of living in Croatia is also relatively low compared to other European countries, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, Croatia is a safe and welcoming country with a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place to settle down and start a new life," replied one expat when asked about moving to Croatia.
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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
How are healthcare services Croatia?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Croatia, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Croatia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all Croatian citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Croatia can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats can also opt to use private healthcare services, which are generally more expensive but may offer a higher quality of care," commented one expat living in Croatia.
What are medical services in Croatia like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Croatia, they replied:
"Croatia has a well-developed healthcare system that provides quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of public and private hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment. Croatia also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions. Additionally, Croatia has a number of highly trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are dedicated to providing quality care to their patients," commented one expat living in Croatia.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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Digital Nomad Visa for Croatia
Learn about the Digital Nomad Visa for Croatia and what is involved in obtaining one. This is one of the most important aspects of moving to Croatia as a digital nomad.
Croatia Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Croatia on our Croatia forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Croatia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Croatia.
Digital Nomads in Croatia offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Croatia.
Advice for people renting and buying real estate in Croatia.