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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Makarska Riviera 2024
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Cost of Living in Makarska Riviera

By Joshua Wood, LPC

SJB Global
SJB Global

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

Category Cost
Apartment Rentals
  • 1-bedroom apartment in city center: $400 - $600 per month
  • 1-bedroom apartment outside city center: $300 - $500 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment in city center: $800 - $1,200 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment outside city center: $600 - $1,000 per month
Apartment Purchases
  • Price per square meter in city center: $2,000 - $3,000
  • Price per square meter outside city center: $1,500 - $2,500
Transportation
  • One-way local transport ticket: $1.50 - $2.00
  • Monthly local transport pass: $40 - $60
  • Taxi starting tariff: $2.50 - $3.50
  • Taxi per kilometer: $1.00 - $1.50
  • Gasoline (1 liter): $1.40 - $1.70
Groceries
  • Milk (1 liter): $1.00 - $1.50
  • Bread (500g): $0.80 - $1.50
  • Rice (1kg): $1.50 - $2.50
  • Eggs (12): $2.00 - $3.00
  • Chicken breasts (1kg): $5.00 - $8.00
  • Apples (1kg): $1.00 - $2.00
  • Tomatoes (1kg): $1.00 - $2.00
  • Water (1.5-liter bottle): $0.50 - $1.00
Restaurants
  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $7 - $12
  • Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: $30 - $50
  • Fast food meal: $5 - $8
  • Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught): $2.00 - $3.50
  • Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): $2.50 - $4.00
  • Cappuccino: $1.50 - $2.50
Utilities
  • Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment: $100 - $200 per month
  • Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): $20 - $40 per month
Private School Tuition
  • Preschool: $300 - $600 per month
  • Elementary School: $4,000 - $8,000 per year
  • Middle School: $5,000 - $10,000 per year
  • High School: $6,000 - $12,000 per year
Please note that the costs provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific location within the Makarska Riviera and the time of year. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before making any decisions.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Makarska Riviera

"The cost of living in Makarska Riviera, is considered to be relatively affordable compared to many other European destinations. The price of accommodation varies depending on the location and type, with apartments being more affordable than houses. Utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water are also reasonably priced. Groceries in Makarska Riviera are not expensive, with local markets offering fresh produce at lower prices. Eating out at restaurants can be quite affordable, especially if you choose local eateries over tourist-oriented ones. Transportation costs are also relatively low, especially if you use public transportation. However, owning and maintaining a car can be more expensive due to the cost of petrol and car maintenance. Healthcare in Makarska Riviera is of good quality and is not overly expensive, especially if you have health insurance. Overall, the cost of living in Makarska Riviera is quite reasonable, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and expats," said one expat living in Makarska Riviera.

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

"I've been living in Makarska Riviera 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. The cost of living here is relatively low compared to other European countries, but you'll still need to be mindful of your expenses.First, you'll want to find an affordable place to live. I recommend looking for apartments in the smaller towns along the coast, like Baska Voda, Tucepi, or Podgora. These towns are less touristy and have more affordable housing options. You can find a decent one-bedroom apartment for around $500-$600 a month. I would avoid the more expensive neighborhoods in Makarska itself, as the prices there can be significantly higher.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your transportation costs. Owning a car can be expensive, so I recommend using public transportation or walking whenever possible. Buses are relatively cheap and can take you to most places along the coast. If you do need a car, consider buying a used one to save on costs.When it comes to groceries, shopping at local markets and buying seasonal produce can help you save money. I usually spend around $300 a month on groceries, but this can vary depending on your eating habits. Eating out can be affordable if you stick to local restaurants and avoid touristy areas. A meal at a local restaurant can cost around $10-$15.As for entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in the area. The beautiful beaches and hiking trails are great for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are many cultural events and festivals throughout the year. However, you may need to cut back on more expensive activities like frequent nights out or trips to other European countries.In summary, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Makarska Riviera is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your expenses and make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, being conscious of transportation costs, and finding low-cost entertainment options, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Makarska Riviera.

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

"I've been living in Makarska Riviera 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 might be some sacrifices you'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll want to consider the neighborhood you choose to live in. Some of the more affordable areas in Makarska Riviera include the towns of Brela, Tucepi, and Podgora. These towns offer a good balance of affordability and access to modern amenities. On the other hand, you might want to avoid the more expensive neighborhoods like the city center of Makarska itself, where rent prices can be significantly higher.When it comes to transportation, you might have to rely more on public transportation or even walking, as owning a car can be quite expensive due to fuel costs and parking fees. The good news is that the public transportation system in the area is quite reliable and efficient, so you shouldn't have too much trouble getting around.As for groceries and dining out, you'll find that local markets and smaller restaurants tend to be more affordable than larger supermarkets and fancier dining establishments. You might have to adjust your eating habits a bit, but you'll still be able to enjoy delicious Croatian cuisine without breaking the bank.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, you'll find that there are plenty of affordable options in the area. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities without spending too much money. However, you might have to cut back on more expensive hobbies or outings, such as frequent trips to the cinema or high-end shopping.Overall, living in Makarska Riviera on $3,000 a month is definitely doable, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, relying on public transportation, and being smart about your food and entertainment choices, you'll be able to enjoy a comfortable life in this beautiful part of Croatia," said one expat living in Makarska Riviera.

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

"I've been living in Makarska Riviera 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. The cost of living here is relatively low compared to other European countries, so you'll find that your money goes a long way.In terms of housing, you can find a nice apartment or house in a good neighborhood for around $1,000 to $1,500 a month. Some of the more affordable neighborhoods to consider are Veliko Brdo, Zelenka, and Makar, which are all close to the city center and have a good mix of locals and expats. On the other hand, you might want to avoid the more expensive neighborhoods like Tu?epi and Brela, as they tend to be more touristy and have higher rental prices.When it comes to groceries and dining out, you'll find that the prices are quite reasonable. You can expect to spend around $300 to $400 a month on groceries, and eating out at local restaurants will usually cost you around $10 to $15 per meal. Of course, if you choose to dine at more upscale restaurants, the prices will be higher, but there are plenty of affordable options available.As for transportation, you can either use public transportation, which is quite affordable, or rent a car if you prefer to have more flexibility. A monthly public transportation pass will cost you around $50, while renting a car can range from $300 to $500 a month, depending on the type of car you choose.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there's plenty to do in Makarska Riviera without breaking the bank. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, go hiking in the nearby Biokovo Nature Park, or explore the charming old town. There are also plenty of cultural events and festivals throughout the year that you can attend for free or at a low cost.Overall, I'd say that living in Makarska Riviera on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, and you won't have to make too many sacrifices in terms of your lifestyle. Just be mindful of your spending, especially when it comes to housing and transportation, and you should be able to enjoy a comfortable life in this beautiful part of Croatia," commented an expat living in Makarska Riviera.

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.


SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

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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