Retire in Bosnia & Herzegovina
Last updated on Sep 13, 2023
Summary: Retirees are attracted to Bosnia & Herzegovina for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. The country is home to a variety of landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Dinaric Alps to the lush forests of the Drina River Valley. The weather in Bosnia & Herzegovina is generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (1-21 Celsius).
What is it like to retire in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
"Retirement in Bosnia & Herzegovina and its surroundings can be a rewarding experience. There is an active expat community, with many retirees from other countries living in the area. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the historic city of Mostar, the beautiful Pliva Lakes, and the stunning Sarajevo. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, skiing, and rafting. For those looking for a more active nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Overall, retirement in Bosnia & Herzegovina and its surroundings can be a great experience for retirees looking for a peaceful and culturally rich environment," explained a retiree in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Bosnia & Herzegovina is the lack of a comprehensive pension system. Retirement benefits are often limited and may not be sufficient to cover basic living expenses. Additionally, the cost of living in Bosnia & Herzegovina is relatively high, making it difficult to stretch retirement savings. Healthcare can also be a challenge for retirees, as the public healthcare system is often inadequate and private healthcare can be expensive. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for retirees who do not speak the local language," said a retiree who moved to Bosnia & Herzegovina.
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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
"Retiring in Bosnia & Herzegovina offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The country is home to stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and lakes, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for retirees on a budget. The people of Bosnia & Herzegovina are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making it easy to make new friends and build a strong social network. The country also offers a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of festivals and events to enjoy throughout the year," remarked one retiree in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
What are healthcare services like in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Bosnia & Herzegovina. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Bosnia & Herzegovina are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens. Private healthcare is also available, but it is more expensive and not as widely available. The quality of healthcare services varies across the country, with some areas having better access to medical care than others. In general, the healthcare system in Bosnia & Herzegovina is in need of improvement, with a lack of resources and outdated equipment," said one retiree in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
How do I meet people in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
When we asked people living in Bosnia & Herzegovina about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Bosnia & Herzegovina often join clubs and activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing. 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 local bars, cafes, and restaurants. Finally, expats can meet people by joining online forums and social media groups dedicated to expats living in Bosnia & Herzegovina," explained a retiree in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
What is life like in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
When we asked people living in Bosnia & Herzegovina what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Bosnia & Herzegovina is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, with mountains, rivers, and lakes, as well as its vibrant culture and friendly people. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country is also well-connected, with good internet access and plenty of coworking spaces. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of activities to keep them entertained, from exploring the country's historical sites to enjoying its delicious cuisine," said one retiree in living in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
What do I need to know before retiring in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Bosnia & Herzegovina, they said:
"Before retiring in Bosnia & Herzegovina, expats should be aware of the country's complex political and administrative structure. It is important to research the local laws and regulations, as well as the cost of living, to ensure a smooth transition. Expats should also be aware of the language barrier, as Bosnian is the official language, although English is widely spoken in the larger cities. Additionally, expats should be aware of the healthcare system in Bosnia & Herzegovina, as it is not as comprehensive as in other countries. Finally, expats should be aware of the cultural differences between Bosnia & Herzegovina and their home country, and be prepared to adapt to the local customs and traditions," said one retiree in living in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
What type of recreational activities are there in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
"In Bosnia & Herzegovina, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing in the mountains, as well as swimming and sunbathing on the beaches of the Adriatic Sea. There are also many parks and gardens throughout the country, providing a great place to relax and enjoy nature. For those looking for more of an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of adventure sports like rafting, paragliding, and bungee jumping. Additionally, there are many cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and historic sites, as well as a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants," wrote one person in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Bosnia & Herzegovina?
"People living in Bosnia & Herzegovina typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop online for items such as clothing, electronics, and other goods. Additionally, there are many small, independent shops throughout the country that offer a variety of items," explained one retiree living in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
About the Author
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.
Additional Information:
- Bosnia & Herzegovina Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Best Places to Live in Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Guide to Real Estate in Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Pros & Cons of Living in Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Cost of Living in Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Pros and Cons of Living in Bosnia & Herzegovina 2024