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

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 05, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Serbia is 7 million people. The largest cities in Serbia are Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, and Kragujevac. Expats love living in Serbia for its affordability, friendly people, and vibrant culture. Life in Serbia is described as relaxed and laid-back, with plenty of opportunities to explore the country's natural beauty. Foods popular in Serbia include cevapi (grilled minced meat), pljeskavica (a type of hamburger), and burek (a type of pastry). The cons of living in Serbia include the lack of job opportunities, the language barrier, and the slow pace of life. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $1,500 per month. This includes rent, utilities, food, and transportation.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

What do I need to know about living in Serbia?

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

"Expats considering retiring in Serbia should be aware that the cost of living is generally lower than in other European countries. It is important to research the local healthcare system and ensure that you have adequate health insurance coverage. Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the local language and culture, as English is not widely spoken. It is also important to research the local tax laws and regulations to ensure that you are compliant with all applicable laws. Finally, it is important to research the local real estate market to find a suitable place to live," remarked one expat living in Serbia.

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How do I meet people in Serbia?

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

"Expats in Serbia often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, visiting cafes and bars, or joining online forums and social media groups. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join local churches or volunteer organizations, as these can be great ways to meet people and learn more about the culture," commented one expat who made the move to Serbia.

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What is life like in Serbia?

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

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Serbia is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its friendly people, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of accommodation options, from modern apartments to traditional homes. The country also offers a variety of activities and attractions, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Additionally, Serbia has a strong internet infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads. All in all, Serbia is an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an exciting and affordable place to live and work," remarked one expat who made the move to Serbia.

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Is there a lot of crime in Serbia?

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

"Crime is a problem in Serbia, with reports of organized crime, corruption, and human trafficking. Violent crime is also a concern, with reports of robberies, assaults, and homicides. Drug trafficking is also a problem in Serbia, with reports of illegal drugs being smuggled into the country," explained one expat living in Serbia.

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

"Serbia is a diverse country with a variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds. People in Serbia are generally accepting of differences and strive to create a tolerant and inclusive society. There are a number of initiatives in place to promote diversity and acceptance, such as the National Council for the Promotion of Equality and the National Council for the Promotion of Intercultural Dialogue," remarked one expat living in Serbia.

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What are the schools in Serbia like?

"The International School of Belgrade is one of the best international schools in Serbia. It is an independent, non-profit, co-educational day school offering an international curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. It offers a rigorous academic program, with a focus on developing critical thinking skills, problem solving, and communication. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The American International School of Belgrade is another excellent international school in Serbia. It is a private, non-profit, co-educational day school offering an 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 the International Baccalaureate Organization. It offers a comprehensive academic program, with a focus on developing critical thinking skills, problem solving, and communication. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International Bilingual School of Belgrade is a great bilingual school in Serbia. It is a private, non-profit, co-educational day school offering a bilingual curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the International Baccalaureate Organization. It offers a rigorous academic program, with a focus on developing critical thinking skills, problem solving, and communication. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," explained one expat living in Serbia.

Is the cost of living in Serbia high?

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

"The cost of living in Serbia 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 in restaurants is also relatively inexpensive, and there are plenty of affordable options for entertainment. Overall, Serbia is a great place to live if you are looking for a budget-friendly destination," said one expat who made the move to Serbia.

"The cost of living in Serbia is generally quite affordable compared to other European countries. The cost of living in the capital city of Belgrade is higher than in other parts of the country, but still relatively low compared to other European cities. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Serbia is around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Serbia will cost around $10 USD per person," mentioned one expat inSerbia.

What type of recreational facilities are in Serbia?

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

"In Serbia, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks are a popular destination for families, offering plenty of green space for picnics, outdoor games, and leisurely strolls. Beaches are also a popular destination, with many offering swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Sports complexes are also available, offering a variety of activities such as tennis, basketball, and soccer. Additionally, Serbia is home to many ski resorts, offering skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. For those looking for a more cultural experience, Serbia is home to many museums, galleries, and theaters," said one expat.

What is the weather like in Serbia?

"The weather in Serbia is generally mild, with hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 30 degrees Celsius, while in the winter months temperatures can drop to below zero. Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the most rain occurring in the spring and autumn months," commented one expat living in Serbia.

Are there good restaurants in Serbia?

"One of Serbia's most beloved restaurants is Manufaktura, located in Belgrade. Manufaktura is known for its traditional Serbian cuisine, with a modern twist. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian options. The restaurant also offers a variety of wines and beers to accompany the meal. Another popular restaurant in Serbia is Restoran Dvor, located in Novi Sad. This restaurant is known for its traditional Serbian dishes, such as goulash and sarma. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as Italian and Mexican. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of wines and beers. Finally, the restaurant Kraljevski Dvor, located in Belgrade, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. This restaurant is known for its traditional Serbian dishes, such as cevapi and pljeskavica. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of international dishes, such as Italian and Mexican. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of wines and beers," commented one expat living in Serbia.

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

"People living in Serbia typically buy groceries from local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Other shopping can be done at malls, department stores, and specialty shops. Additionally, many people in Serbia shop online for groceries and other items," commented one expat living in Serbia.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Serbia?

"In order to visit Serbia, 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, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Serbia, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Ministry of Interior. The application must include a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and a valid residence permit. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will be issued a residence permit, which must be renewed every year," mentioned an expat living in Serbia.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Serbia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Serbia can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is available to all citizens and is funded by the government, but it may not cover all medical costs. Private health insurance is also available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, some medical treatments may not be covered by either public or private health insurance, so out-of-pocket expenses may be necessary," said one expat living in Serbia.

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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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