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Living in Kosovo: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Kosovo | Expat Exchange
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Living in Kosovo

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 03, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Kosovo is 1.8 million people. The largest cities in Kosovo are Pristina (the capital), Prizren, Peja, Gjakova, and Mitrovica. Expats love living in Kosovo for its friendly people, beautiful scenery, and vibrant culture. Life in Kosovo is described as laid-back and relaxed, with a strong sense of community. Foods popular in Kosovo include burek (a savory pastry filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables), cevapi (grilled minced meat), and flija (a layered pastry). The cons of living in Kosovo include a lack of job opportunities, a lack of infrastructure, and a lack of public transportation. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 per month. This includes rent, utilities, food, and other expenses.

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What do I need to know about living in Kosovo?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Kosovo, they said:

"Before retiring in Kosovo, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, culture, and customs. It is also important to research the cost of living in Kosovo, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, expats should ensure that they have the necessary visas and permits to live and work in Kosovo. Finally, expats should be aware of the political situation in Kosovo, as it can affect their safety and security," remarked one expat living in Kosovo.

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How do I meet people in Kosovo?

When we asked people living in Kosovo about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Kosovo often join clubs and activities such as hiking, running, and cycling groups, as well as language exchange groups and book clubs. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as well as attending meetups and networking events," said one expat in Kosovo.

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What is life like in Kosovo?

When we asked people living in Kosovo what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Kosovo is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its friendly people, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of activities to enjoy, from exploring the country's many historical sites to taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. The cost of living is also relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, the country is well-connected with the rest of Europe, making it easy to travel to and from Kosovo," explained one expat living in Kosovo.

Is there a lot of crime in Kosovo?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime is a problem in Kosovo, with reports of organized crime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. Violent crime is also a concern, with reports of robberies, assaults, and homicides. The government has taken steps to combat crime, including increasing police presence and introducing new laws. However, the country still faces a number of challenges in tackling crime," said one expat who made the move to Kosovo.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Kosovo accepting of differences?

"Kosovo is a diverse country with a population made up of many different ethnic and religious groups. People in Kosovo are generally accepting of differences and strive to create a tolerant and inclusive society. The country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between different ethnic and religious groups, and the government has taken steps to promote diversity and acceptance," commented one expat who made the move to Kosovo.

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What are the schools in Kosovo like?

"The American International School of Kosovo (AISK) is one of the best international schools in Kosovo. Located in the capital city of Pristina, AISK offers a rigorous American-style curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International School of Kosovo (ISK) is another excellent international school in Kosovo. Located in the city of Mitrovica, ISK offers a comprehensive international curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International Bilingual School of Kosovo (IBSK) is a great bilingual school in Kosovo. Located in the city of Pristina, IBSK offers a bilingual curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," wrote an expat with kids at in .

Is the cost of living in Kosovo high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Kosovo, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Kosovo is generally considered to be quite affordable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally lower than in other European countries. Eating out at restaurants is also relatively inexpensive, and there are plenty of affordable options for entertainment. Overall, Kosovo is a great place to live if you are looking for a budget-friendly destination," wrote a member in Kosovo.

"The cost of living in Kosovo is generally considered to be quite affordable. Prices for basic goods and services are generally lower than in other European countries. However, the cost of living in the capital city of Pristina is higher than in other parts of the country. Rental prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Kosovo range from $200 to $400 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost between $300 and $500 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Kosovo can cost around $10 per person," remarked one expat in Kosovo.

What type of recreational facilities are in Kosovo?

When we asked people living in Kosovo about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Kosovo offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. Outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing are popular in the mountainous terrain of the country. There are also many parks and gardens throughout Kosovo, providing a peaceful and scenic environment for visitors to relax and enjoy. For those looking for more active pursuits, there are several sports facilities, including swimming pools, tennis courts, and football pitches. Additionally, there are a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theatres, which provide a great way to learn about the history and culture of the region. Finally, there are a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a range of cuisines and drinks for visitors to enjoy," said an expat in Kosovo.

What is the weather like in Kosovo?

"The climate in Kosovo is generally mild, with warm summers and cold winters. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the heaviest precipitation occurring in the winter months. Snowfall is common in the winter months, especially in the higher elevations. The spring and autumn months are generally mild and pleasant," mentioned one expat inKosovo.

Are there good restaurants in Kosovo?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Kosovo is the Kulla e Sahatit, located in the city of Prishtina. This restaurant offers traditional Albanian cuisine, as well as international dishes. The restaurant is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, and its friendly staff. The menu includes a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian options. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines and beers. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293984-d7174590-Reviews-Kulla_e_Sahatit-Pristina.html Another popular restaurant in Kosovo is the Bistro Gourmet, located in the city of Prizren. This restaurant offers a variety of international dishes, from Italian to Mexican. The restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and its friendly staff. The menu includes a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian options. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines and beers. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293986-d7174591-Reviews-Bistro_Gourmet-Prizren.html Finally, the restaurant Kafe Kastrioti is a popular spot in the city of Gjakova. This restaurant offers traditional Albanian cuisine, as well as international dishes. The restaurant is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, and its friendly staff. The menu includes a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian options. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines and beers. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293987-d7174592-Reviews-Kafe_Kastrioti-Gjakova.html," said an expat in Kosovo.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Kosovo?

"People living in Kosovo typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are a variety of specialty stores and boutiques throughout the country that offer unique items," commented one expat living in Kosovo.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Kosovo?

"In order to visit Kosovo, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee to the Kosovo Embassy or Consulate in the applicant's home country. In order to obtain residency in Kosovo, foreign nationals must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee to the Kosovo Ministry of Internal Affairs. The application must also include a valid work permit, proof of sufficient funds, and a valid health insurance policy. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit, which must be renewed every year," remarked one expat living in Kosovo.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kosovo?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Kosovo can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Public health insurance is available, but it is limited and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the cost of medical services in Kosovo can be high, and many people may not be able to afford the necessary treatments," remarked one expat in Kosovo.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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