Retire in Croatia
Last updated on May 26, 2023
Summary: Retirees are attracted to Croatia for its stunning natural beauty, its rich cultural heritage, and its vibrant cities. Croatia's Mediterranean climate offers mild winters and warm, sunny summers, with temperatures ranging from an average of 41°F (5°C) in January to an average of 77°F (25°C) in July.
What is it like to retire in Croatia?
"No need for expat communities, but with a couple of international friends too. Croatia knows many cultural attractions, especially in Zagreb and Split, with tons of festivals, concerts and expositions. Recreation, certainly for active people is all around, and at least half the year the Adriatic offers all options for water lovers," said a person in Dubrovnik.
"Retirees in Croatia and its surroundings enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for recreation and cultural attractions. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from other countries choosing to settle in Croatia. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and swimming, as well as cultural attractions like museums, galleries, and historic sites. There is also a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Retirees in Croatia and its surroundings can enjoy a relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle," remarked one retiree in Croatia.
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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Croatia?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Croatia is the language barrier. Although English is widely spoken in the larger cities, it is not as common in more rural areas. Additionally, the cost of living in Croatia is higher than in many other countries, making it difficult to live on a fixed income. Furthermore, the healthcare system in Croatia is not as comprehensive as in other countries, making it difficult to access quality medical care. Finally, the bureaucracy in Croatia can be complex and time-consuming, making it difficult to navigate the system," explained one retiree living in Croatia.
"Any move to a different country, other than just visiting or on holidays, is a step into another administration. Sometimes pretty irritating, but all of it worth the effort," said one retiree in living in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Croatia?
"Retiring in Croatia offers a number of rewarding aspects. One of the most attractive benefits is the opportunity to enjoy the country's stunning natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, lush forests, and picturesque islands. Additionally, Croatia boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of historic sites and monuments to explore. The cost of living in Croatia is also relatively low, making it an attractive option for retirees on a budget. Finally, the country's healthcare system is well-developed and provides excellent care for retirees," said one retiree in Croatia.
What are healthcare services like in Croatia?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Croatia. They wrote:
"Medical care is well organised with English speaking doctors all around. The big cities have quality hospitals, the smaller towns have at least a first aid. Medical care is below average in price, and cheap compared to the USA. (Guess Obama needs some more support on that issue)," explained one retiree living in Dubrovnik.
"Croatia has a public healthcare system that provides free or low-cost healthcare services to its citizens. Healthcare services are provided by a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers throughout the country. Primary care is provided by general practitioners, while specialized care is provided by specialists in various fields. Croatia also has a number of private healthcare providers that offer a range of services, including medical check-ups, diagnostic tests, and treatments. In addition, Croatia has a number of health insurance companies that offer coverage for medical expenses," said one retiree in living in Croatia.
How do I meet people in Croatia?
When we asked people living in Croatia about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Croatia often join local clubs and activities such as sailing, hiking, and cycling. Expats can also join language exchange groups, book clubs, and other social activities. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local festivals, visiting local restaurants and bars, and exploring the city. Expats can also join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Croatia," commented one retiree living in Croatia.
What is life like in Croatia?
When we asked people living in Croatia what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Croatia as an expat or digital nomad can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, lush forests, and picturesque islands. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to explore the country's culture and history. 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 well-connected with the rest of Europe, making it easy to travel to other countries. With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living, Croatia is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," said a retiree who moved to Croatia.
What do I need to know before retiring in Croatia?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Croatia, they said:
"1. Expats should research the cost of living in Croatia to ensure they can afford to retire there. 2. It is important to understand the healthcare system in Croatia and to make sure that expats have adequate health insurance coverage. 3. Expats should also familiarize themselves with the local laws and regulations, as well as the tax system. 4. It is also important to research the job market in Croatia to ensure that there are opportunities for expats to find work if needed. 5. Expats should also consider the language barrier and make sure they are comfortable with the local language. 6. Finally, expats should research the cultural norms and customs of Croatia to ensure they are prepared to live in the country," commented one retiree living in Croatia.
What type of recreational activities are there in Croatia?
"In Croatia, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and outdoor activities. The country is known for its stunning coastline, which offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. There are also numerous parks and nature reserves, providing a great place to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Hiking, biking, and camping are popular activities, as well as water sports such as kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. Croatia also has a vibrant cultural scene, with many museums, galleries, and theaters to explore," said one member in Croatia.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Croatia?
"People living in Croatia typically buy groceries from supermarkets, local markets, and convenience stores. Other shopping can be done at malls, department stores, and specialty shops. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular in Croatia," said one retiree in living in Croatia.
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.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Croatia?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Croatia?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Croatia?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Croatia accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Croatia like?
- Is the cost of living in Croatia high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Croatia?
- What are healthcare services like in Croatia?
- Is the cost of living in Croatia high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Croatia?
- What is the weather like in Croatia?
- Are there good restaurants in Croatia?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Croatia?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Croatia?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Croatia?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Croatia?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Croatia?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?