Moving to Croatia

Croatia may be one of Europe’s youngest countries, but this unassuming sovereign state is culturally rich and geographically diverse. From historic forts and basilicas to azure waters and scenic nature reserves, it’s easy to see why Croatia is growing in popularity as both a tourist and expat destination.

Many expats are moving to Croatia to take advantage of the affordable cost of living and favourable foreign investment environment, allowing them to begin their entrepreneurship journey easily. Additionally, Croatia’s major cities like Zagreb and Spilt have strong expat communities that you can plug into while living in the country.

Living in Croatia as an expat

Most expats live in the Croatian capital, Zagreb, or Dubrovnik. But thanks to the growth of the tourism industry, more and more people are moving to Croatia to set up businesses along the coast and in smaller rural areas.

You may find that work opportunities in Croatia are limited. An endless amount of red tape also proves a hassle for entrepreneurs setting up their own businesses. As an expat new to the country, you should be wary of officials who promise to speed up bureaucratic processes, as corruption is widely reported nationwide. Despite this, the government’s liberal attitude towards business has attracted foreign investment and cross-border trade. Meanwhile, the tourism industry capitalises on all things nature and culture.

Favourable property prices and the availability of idyllic locations and uninhabited islands have made Croatia a hotspot for those looking to retire on its sun-soaked shores. Parts of Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula have been dubbed ‘New Tuscany’ because of its status among holidaymakers, not to mention high-profile celebrities. Unfortunately, this has been accompanied by a sharp increase in property prices.

Although public transport in Croatia is not as extensive as in other European countries, and may operate on irregular schedules in some areas, it’s easy and efficient to get around using the public system and on foot. The most popular mode of transport is buses, with routes that cover cities at reasonably low prices.

Trains and trams are also cheap and comfortable and offer services to large parts of big cities. Driving is relatively easy here, but winding mountain roads, sheers drops and foreign signage may cause anxiety. We also recommend filling up on petrol (gas) when taking long journeys to small towns, as stations may be limited.

Croatia offers subsidised healthcare, and the quality of public healthcare is relatively high. Both locals and expats can access the universal healthcare system, which is on par with Western European standards. The country is also seen as a burgeoning medical tourism destination.

Cost of living in Croatia

Overall, the cost of living in Croatia proves refreshingly affordable for many expats, particularly in terms of education and healthcare. Zagreb is ranked 137th out of 226 cities in Mercer’s 2024 Cost of Living Survey.

It’s also easy to buy farm-fresh produce at one of the local markets at low prices. Eating out is also quite affordable, but naturally, higher-end restaurants will be costlier. The biggest expenses facing expats will likely be international school fees and accommodation.

Families and children in Croatia

Primary and secondary schooling in Croatia is free. The overall quality of education is excellent, and the country boasts high literacy rates. You’ll also have the option of private or international schools if you want your children to continue learning a familiar curriculum in a familiar language. These are mostly concentrated in Zagreb and charge high tuition fees.

With a spectacular Adriatic coastline as well as densely forested mountains, Croatia offers a raft of spectacular outdoor activities, as well as city-based attractions such as museums, theme parks, art galleries and lovely beaches. The Plitvice Lakes are a must-see, with their waterfall systems cascading into stunningly clear pools.

Climate in Croatia

Croatia is home to a Mediterranean climate along the coast, while the interior has a continental climate. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures around 78°F to 86°F (26°C to 30°C) on the coast, 71°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C) in the continental region, and 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C) in the mountains. Winters are cold and often snowy, but temperatures around the coast rarely drop below 41°F (5°C). Conversely, the interior can drop below 32°F (0°C), and snow is fairly common.

Croatia is a young country full of potential. As such, you’ll find that many new arrivals are willing to ignore the areas where the country falls short and take advantage of the low-cost lifestyle and natural beauty that this Balkan state has to offer.

If you’re moving to Croatia with a taste for adventure, you can find myriad exhilarating things to see and do, making the country a brilliant new home.

Fast facts

Population: About 4 million

Capital city: Zagreb

Neighbouring countries: Croatia is bordered by Slovenia to the north, Hungary to the northeast, Serbia to the east, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the southeast, Montenegro to the southeast and the Adriatic Sea to the southwest. Italy and Croatia also share a maritime border.

Geography: Croatia has over 1,000 islands and islets scattered along its coastline, only a fraction of which are inhabited. Lowland plains characterise the geography of the mainland to the north and mountainous territory towards the south.

Political system: Unitary parliamentary constitutional republic

Major religions: Roman Catholicism

Main languages: Croatian is the main language. Many citizens speak at least one other foreign language, and English is popular among the younger generations.

Money: Euro (EUR), subdivided into 100 cents. ATMs are plentiful in Croatia, and it should be easy for you as an expat to open a bank account.

Tipping: Tips are generally expected in Croatia, even if it’s just a few euros as a symbolic gesture. For small amounts, rounding up is appropriate, and in restaurants, a standard tip is around 10 percent.

Time: GMT+1. GMT+2 during daylight savings time between March and October.

Electricity: 230 volts, 50Hz. Plugs with two round pins are used.

Internet domain: .hr

International dialling code: +385

Emergency number: 112 can be dialled in all emergencies

Transport and driving: Buses are the main form of public transport in Croatia, with ferries being used for transport between the mainland and the islands. Trains are infrequent but can be useful for regional travel. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.