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

By Joshua Wood, LPC

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: If you're moving to Opatija, understanding the the cost of living in Opatija helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Cost of Living Opatija
Apartment Rentals Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from €400 to €800 per month. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from €800 to €1,200 per month. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center can range from €300 to €600 per month. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center can range from €600 to €900 per month.
Apartment Purchases The cost of purchasing an apartment in Opatija can range from €1,000 to €2,500 per square meter. The average price for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is €100,000, while the average price for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center is €150,000. The average price for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center is €80,000, while the average price for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center is €120,000.
Transportation Public transportation in Opatija is relatively inexpensive. A single ticket costs €1.50, while a monthly pass costs €30. Taxi fares start at €2.50 and increase by €1.50 for each additional kilometer. Gasoline prices are around €1.50 per liter.
Groceries The cost of groceries in Opatija is relatively low. A loaf of bread costs around €1.50, a liter of milk costs around €1, and a dozen eggs costs around €2.50. A kilogram of apples costs around €2, while a kilogram of potatoes costs around €1.50.
Restaurants The cost of eating out in Opatija is relatively low. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around €10 per person, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around €20 per person. A pint of beer costs around €3, while a cappuccino costs around €2.
Utilities The cost of utilities in Opatija is relatively low. The average monthly cost for electricity, heating, water, and garbage is around €50. The average monthly cost for internet is around €20.
Private School Tuition The cost of private school tuition in Opatija varies depending on the school. The average cost for preschool tuition is around €200 per month, while the average cost for elementary school tuition is around €400 per month. The average cost for middle school tuition is around €500 per month, while the average cost for high school tuition is around €600 per month.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Opatija

"The cost of living in Opatija is considered moderate compared to other European cities. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite affordable, while a similar apartment outside the city center is even cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage is also relatively low. Groceries in Opatija are reasonably priced, with basic items such as bread, milk, and eggs being quite affordable. Eating out at an inexpensive restaurant is also not very costly, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant can be a bit more expensive. Public transportation in Opatija is relatively cheap, with a one-way ticket on local transport being very affordable. However, owning and maintaining a car can be more expensive due to the cost of gasoline and car maintenance. Healthcare in Opatija is of good quality and is not very expensive. Fitness club and sports memberships are also reasonably priced. Overall, the cost of living in Opatija is quite affordable, especially when compared to larger European cities. However, it's important to note that salaries in Croatia are generally lower than in Western Europe, which can affect the overall affordability of living in Opatija," said one expat living in Opatija.

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

"I've been living in Opatija for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. Opatija is a beautiful coastal town, but it's also a popular tourist destination, which means that some areas can be quite expensive. To make it work, you'll have to be smart about where you choose to live. I'd recommend looking for an apartment in the more affordable neighborhoods like Volosko or I?i?i. These areas are still close to the city center and the beach, but the rent is more reasonable compared to the more expensive neighborhoods like the city center or near the Lungomare promenade. You'll also have to be mindful of your spending on other things like groceries, transportation, and entertainment. Shopping at local markets and cooking at home can help you save on food expenses. As for transportation, Opatija is a small town, so walking or biking is often the best way to get around. If you need to travel further, public transportation is quite affordable. When it comes to entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy, like hiking in the nearby U?ka Nature Park or spending time at the beach. However, you might have to cut back on dining out at fancy restaurants or going out for drinks, as these can add up quickly. Overall, living in Opatija on $1,500 a month is doable, but you'll have to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood and being smart about your expenses, you can still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in this beautiful coastal town," commented an expat living in Opatija.

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

"I've been living in Opatija for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, you might have to make some sacrifices and adjustments to make it work. For example, you might need to cut back on eating out at fancy restaurants or going out for drinks every weekend. In terms of finding an affordable neighborhood, I would recommend looking into areas like Volosko or I?i?i. These neighborhoods are a bit more budget-friendly compared to the city center, but they still offer a good quality of life and access to modern amenities. You can find nice apartments for rent in these areas for around $500 to $800 per month, depending on the size and location. On the other hand, I would avoid neighborhoods like the city center or the more upscale areas near the Lungomare promenade, as these tend to be more expensive. Rent in these areas can easily go up to $1,500 or more per month for a decent-sized apartment. In terms of transportation, you can save money by using public transportation or even walking or biking around the city, as Opatija is not very big. Groceries and other everyday expenses are generally quite affordable in Croatia, so you shouldn't have too much trouble sticking to your budget in that regard. Overall, living in Opatija on $3,000 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices in terms of your lifestyle. If you're willing to do that, you can definitely enjoy a comfortable life in this beautiful coastal town," said one expat living in Opatija.

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

"I've been living in Opatija for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. In fact, you might not have to make too many sacrifices at all. Opatija is a beautiful coastal town with a mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences, so you'll find plenty of options for housing, dining, and entertainment.When it comes to finding a place to live, you'll want to avoid the more expensive neighborhoods like the ones near the Lungomare promenade and the city center. Instead, consider looking for an apartment or house in the more affordable areas like Volosko, I?i?i, or Veprinac. These neighborhoods are still close to the city center and have a good selection of shops, restaurants, and other amenities, but the cost of living is generally lower.As for other expenses, you'll find that groceries, utilities, and transportation are all quite affordable in Opatija. You can shop at local markets for fresh produce and seafood, or visit one of the larger supermarkets for a wider selection of items. Eating out can be a bit more expensive, especially in the touristy areas, but there are plenty of affordable local restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy delicious Croatian cuisine without breaking the bank.One sacrifice you might have to make is giving up some of the more luxurious amenities you might be used to, like high-end shopping or upscale entertainment options. However, Opatija has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural events, so you'll still have plenty of ways to enjoy your free time.Overall, I think you'll find that living in Opatija on $5,000 a month is not only doable but also quite comfortable. You'll be able to enjoy the beautiful surroundings, delicious food, and friendly local culture without having to worry too much about your budget," commented an expat living in Opatija.

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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