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Living in Slovenia: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Slovenia | Expat Exchange
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Congress Square in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Living in Slovenia

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 10, 2024

Summary: People describe life in Slovenia as peaceful, safe, and beautiful. Expats love the stunning natural beauty of the country, the friendly people, the excellent healthcare system, and the low cost of living. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 per month, depending on lifestyle. The population of Slovenia is approximately 2.1 million people, and the largest cities are Ljubljana, Maribor, Celje, Kranj, and Velenje. The cons of living in Slovenia include the lack of job opportunities, the slow pace of life, and the limited nightlife. Additionally, the cost of living is rising, and the country is not as diverse as other European countries.

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What do I need to know about living in Slovenia?

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

"Before retiring in Slovenia, expats should familiarize themselves with the country's language, culture, and customs. They should also research the cost of living and the availability of healthcare services. Additionally, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits to live and work in Slovenia. It is also important to understand the tax system and the pension system in Slovenia. Finally, expats should consider the climate and the type of lifestyle they wish to have in Slovenia," said one expat in Slovenia.

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How do I meet people in Slovenia?

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

"Expats in Slovenia often join local clubs and activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling. Expats can also join language exchange groups, book clubs, and other social activities. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Expats can also meet people by attending meetups, joining online forums, and connecting with other expats through social media," said one expat in Slovenia.

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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. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

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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. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

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What is life like in Slovenia?

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

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Slovenia is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, with mountains, lakes, and forests providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The cities are vibrant and modern, with plenty of cultural attractions and activities to explore. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the country is known for its excellent healthcare system. With its excellent infrastructure and reliable internet, Slovenia is an ideal destination for digital nomads," said one expat who made the move to Slovenia.

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Is there a lot of crime in Slovenia?

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

"Slovenia is generally considered to be a safe country with low levels of crime. However, there have been reports of petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft in some areas, particularly in larger cities. Additionally, there have been some reports of organized crime, such as drug trafficking and money laundering," wrote one member in Slovenia.

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

"Slovenia is a diverse country with a population that is made up of many different ethnic and religious backgrounds. People in Slovenia are generally accepting of differences and strive to create an inclusive society. The country has a long history of welcoming immigrants and refugees, and has a strong commitment to protecting the rights of minorities," remarked one expat who made the move to Slovenia.

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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. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

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. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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What are the schools in Slovenia like?

"The school follows the International Baccalaureate philosophy of inquiry-based teaching. Parents should do some background reading on the IB standards and expectations, so that they can be supportive of the aims and objectives of the teaching methods," remarked one parent with kids at Danila Kumar Elementary School in Ljubljana.

"The International School of Ljubljana (ISL) is one of the best international schools in Slovenia. It is a private, non-profit, co-educational day school offering an international curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. ISL is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. The school offers a rigorous academic program, with a strong emphasis on the development of critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem-solving. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The Bilingual Primary School of Ljubljana is a private, non-profit, bilingual school offering an international curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 8. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. The school offers a rigorous academic program, with a strong emphasis on the development of critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem-solving. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The International School of Maribor is a private, 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. The school offers a rigorous academic program, with a strong emphasis on the development of critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem-solving. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," explained one expat living in Slovenia.

Is the cost of living in Slovenia high?

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

"The cost of living in Slovenia 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 the cost of entertainment is also quite reasonable. Overall, Slovenia is a great place to live for those looking for a good quality of life at an affordable price," commented one expat who made the move to Slovenia.

"The cost of living in Slovenia is generally considered to be quite reasonable. Prices for basic goods and services are generally lower than in other European countries. However, the cost of living in the capital city of Ljubljana is higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Ljubljana is around $600 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $800 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Slovenia will cost around $15 USD per person," remarked one expat in Slovenia.

What type of recreational facilities are in Slovenia?

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

"In Slovenia, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing in the mountains, as well as swimming, kayaking, and fishing in the rivers and lakes. There are also many parks and gardens, such as the Tivoli Park in Ljubljana, which offer a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. For those looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of sports facilities, such as tennis courts, football fields, and basketball courts. Additionally, there are many cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theatres, which provide a great way to explore the country's rich history and culture," mentioned one expat inSlovenia.

What is the weather like in Slovenia?

"The weather in Slovenia is generally mild, with warm summers and cold winters. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 30°C, while in the winter months temperatures can drop to below 0°C. Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the most rain occurring in the spring and autumn months. Snowfall is also common in the winter months, especially in the mountains," commented one expat living in Slovenia.

Are there good restaurants in Slovenia?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Slovenia is Gostilna Pri Lojzetu, located in the small village of Zgornje Jezersko. This family-run restaurant serves traditional Slovenian dishes, such as štruklji, a type of dumpling, and jota, a hearty stew. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of local wines and craft beers. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make Gostilna Pri Lojzetu a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Another popular restaurant in Slovenia is Gostilna Sokol, located in the capital city of Ljubljana. This restaurant specializes in traditional Slovenian cuisine, such as štruklji, jota, and other local dishes. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of Slovenian wines and craft beers. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make Gostilna Sokol a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Finally, Gostilna Pri Škofu, located in the small village of Škofja Loka, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This family-run restaurant serves traditional Slovenian dishes, such as štruklji, jota, and other local dishes. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of Slovenian wines and craft beers. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make Gostilna Pri Škofu a favorite among locals and visitors alike," remarked one expat in Slovenia.

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

"People living in Slovenia typically buy groceries from supermarkets, such as Mercator, Hofer, and Tuš. Other shopping can be done at department stores, such as Big Bang, and at smaller local shops. Shopping centers, such as BTC City, are also popular for a variety of shopping needs. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular in Slovenia," said one expat.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Slovenia?

"In order to visit Slovenia, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from the Slovenian Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The visa application process requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, and any other documents required by the Embassy or Consulate. In order to obtain residency in Slovenia, foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit. The application process requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, proof of financial means, proof of health insurance, and any other documents required by the Slovenian authorities. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit valid for a period of up to five years," mentioned one expat inSlovenia.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Slovenia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Slovenia are generally considered to be quite affordable. The government provides universal healthcare coverage to all citizens, and private health insurance is also available. The cost of healthcare services is generally lower than in other European countries, and the quality of care is generally high. Private health insurance can provide additional coverage for services not covered by the public system, such as dental care and specialist care. However, private health insurance can be expensive, and it is important to compare different plans to find the best value for money," said an expat in Slovenia.

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. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

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. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

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.

Congress Square in Ljubljana, Slovenia

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

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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.
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