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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Dubrovnik 2024
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Cost of Living in Dubrovnik

By Joshua Wood, LPC

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Dubrovnik helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Cost of Living in Dubrovnik - Cost of Living in Dubrovnik

Apartment Rentals The average cost of renting an apartment in Dubrovnik is around €800-€1,000 per month. This can vary depending on the size and location of the apartment.
Apartment Purchases The average cost of purchasing an apartment in Dubrovnik is around €2,000-€3,000 per square meter. This can vary depending on the size and location of the apartment.
Transportation Public transportation in Dubrovnik is relatively inexpensive. A single ticket costs around €1.50 and a monthly pass costs around €20. Taxis are also available and the cost of a ride is around €10-€15.
Groceries The cost of groceries in Dubrovnik is relatively inexpensive. A loaf of bread costs around €1.50, a liter of milk costs around €1.00, and a dozen eggs costs around €2.00.
Restaurants The cost of eating out in Dubrovnik is relatively inexpensive. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around €15-€20 per person.
Utilities The cost of utilities in Dubrovnik is relatively inexpensive. The average cost of electricity, water, and garbage is around €50-€60 per month.
Private School Tuition The cost of private school tuition in Dubrovnik varies depending on the school. Preschool tuition is around €2,000-€3,000 per year, elementary school tuition is around €3,000-€4,000 per year, middle school tuition is around €4,000-€5,000 per year, and high school tuition is around €5,000-€6,000 per year.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Dubrovnik

"The cost of living in Dubrovnik is considered to be relatively high compared to other parts of Croatia, mainly due to its popularity as a tourist destination. The cost of housing can be quite expensive, especially in the city center or near the coast. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite costly, while it is somewhat less expensive in the outskirts of the city.When it comes to groceries, prices are moderate. Basic items such as bread, milk, and eggs are reasonably priced, but imported goods can be more expensive. Eating out in Dubrovnik can also be quite pricey, particularly in restaurants in the Old Town or those with views of the sea. However, there are cheaper options available, such as local bakeries and fast food outlets.Public transportation in Dubrovnik is relatively affordable, but owning and maintaining a car can be costly due to high fuel prices and parking fees. Utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water are not particularly cheap either, and internet prices are average compared to the rest of Europe.Despite the high cost of living, many people find that the beauty of the city, the pleasant climate, and the relaxed lifestyle make it worth the expense. However, it's worth noting that salaries in Dubrovnik, as in the rest of Croatia, are often lower than in many Western European countries, which can make the high cost of living more challenging for locals," said one expat living in Dubrovnik.

Can I live in Dubrovnik on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Dubrovnik for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices and adjustments to your lifestyle. The cost of living in Dubrovnik is relatively high compared to other cities in Croatia, mainly due to its popularity as a tourist destination. First, you'll need to find affordable accommodation. I'd recommend looking for apartments in neighborhoods like Lapad, Gruz, or Montovjerna, where the rent is more reasonable compared to the Old Town, which is quite expensive. You can find a decent one-bedroom apartment in these areas for around $500-$700 per month. Next, you'll need to be mindful of your spending on groceries and dining out. Eating out in Dubrovnik can be pricey, especially in the touristy areas. I usually cook at home and shop at local markets like the one in Gruz, where you can find fresh produce at reasonable prices. When I do eat out, I try to find local, less touristy spots where the prices are more affordable.Transportation is relatively cheap in Dubrovnik, with a monthly bus pass costing around $40. However, I often walk or bike to save even more money. As for entertainment and leisure activities, you'll need to be selective. Going out for drinks or attending events can add up quickly. I usually take advantage of the beautiful natural surroundings and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, or exploring the nearby islands, which are either free or low-cost.In summary, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Dubrovnik is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, cooking at home, and enjoying low-cost or free activities, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Dubrovnik.

Can I live in Dubrovnik on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Dubrovnik for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll want to avoid living in the Old Town, as it's the most expensive area in Dubrovnik. Instead, consider neighborhoods like Lapad, Gruz, or Babin Kuk, which are more affordable and still offer a good quality of life. These areas have plenty of shops, restaurants, and other amenities, so you won't feel like you're missing out on anything.One of the biggest expenses in Dubrovnik is housing, so you'll want to find an apartment that fits within your budget. You can expect to pay around $800 to $1,200 per month for a decent one or two-bedroom apartment in the more affordable neighborhoods. Keep in mind that utilities and internet are usually not included in the rent, so you'll need to budget for those as well.When it comes to transportation, you can save money by using public buses, which are quite reliable and affordable. A monthly bus pass costs around $50, and it will get you anywhere you need to go within the city. If you prefer to drive, keep in mind that gas prices can be quite high, and parking can be challenging in some areas.Eating out can also be expensive in Dubrovnik, especially in the touristy areas. To save money, try cooking at home more often and shopping at local markets for fresh produce. When you do eat out, look for local restaurants that offer daily specials or fixed-price menus, as these can be more budget-friendly.Finally, you'll need to be mindful of your entertainment and leisure expenses. While there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Dubrovnik, such as hiking, swimming, or exploring the city's beautiful parks, you'll want to limit your spending on things like movie tickets, concerts, and other events.Overall, living in Dubrovnik on $3,000 a month is doable, but you'll need to be conscious of your spending and make some sacrifices to ensure you stay within your budget. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, being smart about transportation, and being mindful of your entertainment expenses, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in this beautiful city," said one expat living in Dubrovnik.

Can I live in Dubrovnik on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Dubrovnik for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, there might be some sacrifices you'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll want to avoid living in the Old Town, as it's the most expensive area in Dubrovnik. Instead, consider neighborhoods like Lapad, Gruz, or Ploce, which are more affordable and still offer a good quality of life. Lapad, in particular, is a great choice as it has a nice mix of residential areas, parks, and beaches, while still being close to the city center.When it comes to housing, you can find a decent apartment for around $1,000 to $1,500 a month, depending on the size and location. Keep in mind that utilities and internet might not be included in the rent, so you'll need to budget for those expenses as well.As for transportation, Dubrovnik is a relatively small city, so you can get around easily by walking or using public transportation. A monthly bus pass costs around $50, which is quite affordable. Owning a car can be expensive due to parking fees and fuel costs, so I'd recommend sticking to public transportation if possible.Eating out can be pricey in Dubrovnik, especially in touristy areas. However, if you cook at home and shop at local markets, you can save a lot on food expenses. A monthly grocery bill for a single person can range from $300 to $400, depending on your eating habits.Entertainment and leisure activities can also add up, but there are plenty of free or low-cost options available. For example, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches, parks, and hiking trails in the area without spending much money. If you're into cultural activities, there are also museums and galleries that offer discounted or free admission on certain days.In conclusion, living in Dubrovnik on a $5,000 monthly budget is definitely doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices in terms of housing and entertainment. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, cooking at home, and taking advantage of free or low-cost activities, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in this beautiful city," commented an expat living in Dubrovnik.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


William Russell
William Russell

William Russell
William Russell

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