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

By Joshua Wood, LPC

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: If you're moving to Pula, understanding the the cost of living in Pula 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 Pula
Apartment Rentals Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Pula is around €500-€600 per month. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €800-€900 per month. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around €400-€500 per month. Rent for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around €700-€800 per month.
Apartment Purchases The cost of purchasing an apartment in Pula varies depending on the size and location. Prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center range from €50,000 to €100,000. Prices for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center range from €100,000 to €200,000. Prices for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center range from €30,000 to €60,000. Prices for a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center range from €60,000 to €120,000.
Transportation Public transportation in Pula 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 within the city is around €10. Gasoline is also relatively inexpensive and costs around €1.50 per liter.
Groceries Groceries in Pula are relatively inexpensive. A loaf of bread costs around €1.50, a liter of milk costs around €1, and a dozen eggs costs around €2.50. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also relatively inexpensive and can be purchased for around €2-€3 per kilogram.
Restaurants Eating out in Pula is relatively inexpensive. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around €15-€20 per person. Fast food meals cost around €5-€7 per person. A cup of coffee costs around €2-€3.
Utilities Utilities in Pula are relatively inexpensive. The cost of electricity, heating, water, and garbage for an 85m2 apartment is around €100 per month. The cost of internet is around €20-€30 per month.
Private School Tuition Private school tuition in Pula varies depending on the school and the grade level. Preschool tuition costs around €200-€300 per month. Elementary school tuition costs around €400-€500 per month. Middle school tuition costs around €500-€600 per month. High school tuition costs around €600-€700 per month.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Pula

"The cost of living in Pula is considered to be relatively affordable compared to many other European cities. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is moderately priced, while outside the city center, it is even cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage is also quite reasonable. Groceries in Pula are relatively inexpensive, with local markets offering fresh produce at lower prices. Eating out at an inexpensive restaurant is also quite affordable, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant can be a bit more expensive. Public transportation in Pula is reasonably priced, and a monthly pass can save regular commuters a significant amount. Gasoline prices are on par with the European average. Healthcare in Pula is generally affordable, especially for residents who are covered by the national health insurance. However, private healthcare can be more expensive. In terms of leisure activities, a monthly gym membership is moderately priced, while cinema tickets are quite cheap. Overall, the cost of living in Pula is lower than in many other cities in Croatia, such as Zagreb and Dubrovnik," said one expat living in Pula.

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

"I've been living in Pula 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. First, you'll need to find an affordable place to live. I recommend looking for an apartment in neighborhoods like Veruda, Vidikovac, or Šijana, where you can find a decent one-bedroom apartment for around $400-$500 a month. These areas are not as fancy as some of the more expensive neighborhoods like Monte Zaro or Lungomare, but they're still safe and have all the necessary amenities.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your spending on groceries and eating out. Shopping at local markets and cooking at home can save you a lot of money. Eating out can be affordable if you stick to local restaurants and avoid touristy areas. A meal at a local restaurant will cost you around $10-$15, while a meal at a more upscale restaurant can easily go over $30.Transportation is relatively cheap in Pula. A monthly bus pass costs around $40, and you can also use the city's bike-sharing system for a small fee. If you need a car, consider buying a used one or sharing one with a friend to save on expenses.As for entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Pula. You can visit the beautiful beaches, explore the Roman ruins, or attend one of the many cultural events that take place throughout the year. However, you might have to cut back on more expensive activities like frequent trips to nearby cities or countries, or attending high-priced concerts and festivals.In terms of healthcare, public healthcare is available to expats who have a residence permit and are paying into the system. However, it's a good idea to have some money set aside for any unexpected medical expenses or to purchase private health insurance for added peace of mind.Overall, living in Pula on $1,500 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, cooking at home, and enjoying low-cost entertainment options, you can live a comfortable life in this beautiful Croatian city," commented an expat living in Pula.

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

"I've been living in Pula 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, there might be some sacrifices you'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll want to choose an affordable neighborhood to live in. I'd recommend looking into areas like Veruda, Vidikovac, or Šijana. These neighborhoods are more budget-friendly and still offer a good quality of life. You can find a decent apartment for around $500-$700 a month, depending on the size and location. On the other hand, you might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Monte Zaro or the city center, where rents can be significantly higher.When it comes to transportation, I'd suggest using public transport or even getting a bike, as it's a very bike-friendly city. Owning a car can be quite expensive, considering the costs of fuel, insurance, and maintenance. Plus, parking can be a hassle in some areas.Eating out can also add up quickly, so I'd recommend cooking at home most of the time. You can find fresh produce at local markets, like the Pula City Market, at reasonable prices. However, you can still enjoy the occasional meal out at more affordable restaurants or pizzerias.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options in Pula. You can visit the beautiful beaches, explore the Roman ruins, or take advantage of the numerous parks and outdoor spaces. There are also many cultural events and festivals throughout the year, some of which are free or have a minimal entrance fee.In terms of utilities and other monthly expenses, you can expect to pay around $200-$300 for things like electricity, water, internet, and mobile phone service. This can vary depending on your usage and the specific providers you choose.Overall, living in Pula on $3,000 a month is doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, cutting back on dining out, and taking advantage of free or low-cost activities, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this beautiful Croatian city," said one expat living in Pula.

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

"I've been living in Pula 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. Pula is a beautiful city with a rich history, and it offers a great quality of life at a relatively low cost.When it comes to housing, you can find a nice apartment in a good neighborhood for around $500 to $800 per month. Some of the more affordable neighborhoods to consider are Veruda, Vidikovac, and Šijana. These areas are close to the city center and have plenty of shops, restaurants, and parks nearby. If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, you might want to check out neighborhoods like Monte Zaro or Lungomare, but keep in mind that the prices will be higher in these areas.As for transportation, the public transport system in Pula is quite reliable and affordable. A monthly pass for buses costs around $40, and you can easily get around the city using this service. If you prefer to drive, you'll find that gas prices are reasonable, and parking is generally not too difficult to find.When it comes to groceries and dining out, you'll find that the cost of living in Pula is quite reasonable. You can expect to spend around $300 to $400 per month on groceries, depending on your preferences. Dining out is also quite affordable, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around $10 to $15 per person.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there's plenty to do in Pula without breaking the bank. You can visit the stunning Roman amphitheater, explore the beautiful beaches, or take a boat trip to the nearby Brijuni Islands. There are also plenty of bars, clubs, and cultural events to keep you entertained.In terms of healthcare, you'll find that the quality of medical services in Pula is quite good, and the cost is generally lower than in many other countries. You might want to consider getting private health insurance, which can cost around $100 per month, to ensure that you have access to the best care possible.Overall, I think you'll find that living in Pula on $5,000 a month is not only possible but also quite comfortable. You'll be able to enjoy a great quality of life without having to make too many sacrifices," commented an expat living in Pula.

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

SJB Global
SJB Global

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.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

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.
Learn More

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