With Croatia’s Mediterranean climate, lower living costs, and welcoming digital-nomad visa, the country is becoming a top destination for EU, non EU (UK, US, Canada, New Zealand,..) digital nomads and expats living in Croatia who are seeking flexibility, safety and quality of life.
In this blog, we look at the best places to live in Croatia for expats, digital nomads, and retirees in 2026, combining lifestyle data with insights from US and UK expats to help you find a place that truly feels like home.
Key Takeaways
- Top lifestyles, one country: choose between Split’s seaside energy, Zagreb’s business-friendly city life, Istria’s creative calm (Rovinj / Pula), or island serenity (Hvar / Brač).
- Best for expats: Split = sea + coworking + active nomad scene; Zagreb = year-round community + strong jobs + culture.
- Slow-life luxury: Rovinj, Pula (Istria) + Hvar, Brač (Islands) attract creatives and nature lovers seeking culture, vineyards, and coastal charm.
- Best value picks: Zadar & Šibenik offer strong affordability and good connectivity; coastal prices increase in summer.
Why People Move to Croatia: Safety, Lifestyle & Quality of Life
For many expats living in Croatia, the decision to move is driven less by trends and more by daily livability, safety, simplicity, and balance between work and personal life.
Before choosing a specific city or region, it’s worth understanding what living in Croatia is really like on a day-to-day basis, from bureaucracy and healthcare to residency options, lifestyle pace, and long-term integration.
If you are considering a longer-term relocation, our guide on how to immigrate to Croatia explains the legal pathways available for non-EU nationals. For a broader, country-wide perspective, see our overview: Is Croatia a Good Place to Live?
For many expatriates considering relocation from the UAE, choosing the right European destination is the first step. If you are still evaluating options, our guide to the best countries to migrate from Dubai explores several stable jurisdictions that offer residency pathways, safety, and long-term mobility.
Croatia is increasingly recognized as one of the most attractive relocation destinations in Southern Europe. If you are comparing multiple jurisdictions, you may also want to review our analysis of the best European countries to migrate to.
Why is Croatia an ideal destination for foreigners?
Croatia is increasingly recognized as one of the best European countries to migrate to, offering a rare balance of EU stability, Mediterranean lifestyle, and relatively affordable living costs. As a member of the European Union, Schengen Area, and Eurozone, Croatia provides access to the EU single market and seamless travel across much of Europe.
With its coastal climate, strong safety standards, and slower pace of life, Croatia also attracts international retirees and remote professionals. In recent years, it has frequently been mentioned among the top places to retire in the world, thanks to its quality of life, natural beauty, and welcoming environment for expats.
For many foreigners, Croatia combines the advantages of a safe and stable European country with a relaxed lifestyle, growing business opportunities, and practical immigration pathways such as digital nomad residence, employment permits, business formation, and family reunification.
Do Croatians speak English?
This is one of the most common questions people ask before moving to Croatia, especially among expats living in Croatia who don’t speak the local language. You’ll hear English spoken comfortably across the country, especially among younger people, professionals, and anyone working in tourism, tech, or international business.
That said, while English is common in cities and tourist areas, learning some Croatian becomes increasingly important for smoother integration, especially for expats living in Croatia outside major urban centers.
Is Croatia Affordable?
Croatia offers an appealing cost-to-quality-of-life ratio. While tourist hubs like Dubrovnik or Split can be pricey in summer, everyday life in cities such as Zagreb, Zadar, or Osijek remains more affordable than Western Europe.
You’ll find good healthcare, affordable produce, and low utility costs – especially outside peak tourist zones.
| Location Type | Lowest Expected Rent (1BR/Studio) | Best Season to Find |
| Inland/Cheaper Cities (e.g., Osijek, parts of Zagreb) | €350 – €550 | Year-round |
| Coastal Cities (Low Season) (e.g., Split, Zadar) | €500 – €750 | October to April |
For a full structural overview of income tax, corporate tax, VAT, and cross-border implications, see our guide to the Croatia Tax System.
Is Croatia a Good Place to Live?
Yes – and increasingly so. Croatia blends EU-level stability, Mediterranean rhythm, and modern infrastructure, offering both security and serenity. The lifestyle is slower, people value connection over competition, and the combination of sea, mountains, and culture creates a rare quality of everyday life. Many expats say it’s not just a place to live – it’s a place to breathe.
Split – Best for Digital Nomads & Remote Workers
Split consistently ranks among the best places to live in Croatia for digital nomads thanks to its balance of modern conveniences and seaside living.
What digital nomads say about living in Split:
“Split has a better climate, fresher air, and more sunshine thanks to its Mediterranean setting. Compared to inland cities like Zagreb, air quality feels noticeably better, especially outside the October – March winter period. The main challenge is housing availability and pricing during peak tourist season, typically from June to September.
On the downside, Dalmatia doesn’t offer much culinary variety, Asian food options are limited, Italian cuisine is generally basic, and dining leans heavily toward Balkan-style dishes.” – Gemma (Manchester, UK)
You can also view
- “From the Cotswolds to Zagreb – How James & Eleanor Structured Work, Tax, and Residency to Move to Croatia From UK” which shows how a UK couple planned their move to Croatia ”
- Amanda’s Experience: Move to Croatia from the US, An honest account of both the good and the difficult parts of relocating from the US
Highlights
- Beach lifestyle + modern conveniences
- Fast Wi-Fi, coworking spaces
- Direct ferries to Croatian islands
- Strong nomad community
Consider
- Housing competition and higher rents from June – September
- Early booking recommended
Best for: Remote workers who want daily sea views without sacrificing convenience.
Location, Climate & Lifestyle
Located on Croatia’s central Dalmatian coast, Split enjoys over 2,700 hours of sunshine per year and mild winters around 10–15°C. It’s Croatia’s second-largest city, set around the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace – meaning history, sea views, and café culture merge seamlessly. Daily swims, sunset walks, and easy island-hopping make Split a top choice among the best places to Live in Croatia for expats and digital nomads.
Split – Croatia AQI
Split consistently has better air quality than Zagreb, especially from autumn to early spring. Coastal airflow and wind patterns keep pollution low, while Zagreb’s inland geography causes winter smog episodes, often peaking mid-week under calm, humid conditions.
Zagreb – Best for Stability & Networking
What expats say about living in Zagreb:
“If you like a big-city rhythm, regular events, and casual business networking, it can feel more dynamic than coastal cities outside the summer season. People also appreciate how easy it is to escape for the weekend, with budget flights across Europe and nearby cities like Vienna or Venice just a few hours away, while the coast is still close enough for a spontaneous trip. Winter doesn’t slow things down much, with cafés and bars staying busy, though many nomads mention that air quality can drop from October to March, which is one of the trade-offs of living inland.” – Tony (San Francisco, USA)
Highlights
- Capital city + European cafe culture
- International schools
- Reliable infrastructure
- Growing tech scene
Consider
- Cold winters
- Bureaucracy can be confusing
Best for: Professionals or entrepreneurs who want business opportunities and a year-round community.
Location, Climate & Lifestyle
As Croatia’s capital and largest city, Zagreb is located inland near the Slovenian border and serves as the country’s main administrative, cultural, and economic hub. It’s well connected to the rest of Europe by train, highway, and international flights.
Zagreb experiences cold winters, with temperatures often dropping below 5°C, and warm, dry summers. Daily life feels distinctly urban yet comfortable, with more affordable long-term rents, extensive green parks, and a well-developed remote-work infrastructure, making it a practical choice for those planning longer stays or year-round living.
Zagreb – Croatia AQI
Zagreb usually has moderate air quality, especially noticeable during the colder months. Because the city sits inland, air can feel heavier in winter, particularly on calm, grey days when pollution tends to linger.
For most people, day-to-day life is still comfortable, but outdoor air feels fresher in warmer seasons when conditions improve naturally. During late autumn and winter, some residents prefer to plan walks or exercise later in the day when the air feels clearer.
Istria (Rovinj, Pula, Poreč) – Best for Creatives & Slow Luxury
Highlights
- Mediterranean + Italian cultural influence
- Great food/wine + art scene
- English widely spoken
- Relaxed, inspiring pace
Consider
- Property prices rising
- Quiet nightlife
Best for: Designers, writers, and creatives seeking inspiration and nature.
About Istria:
Situated in Croatia’s northwest, Istria borders Italy and Slovenia, meaning weekend trips to Venice or Trieste are easy. The region has mild winters (10–12°C), long sunny summers, and stunning coastal towns like Rovinj and Pula. It’s known for vineyards, olive groves, and pastel harbor towns, perfect for expats seeking a slower, creative lifestyle with Mediterranean flair. Rovinj, Pula, and Poreč are especially popular options among the best places to Live in Croatia for expats who value culture and nature.
Hvar & Brač – Best for Island + Nature Lover
Highlights
- Crystal water, nature, tranquility
- Emerging co-living spaces
- Safe + quiet
Consider
- Off-season is quiet
- Groceries/logistics cost more
Best for: Remote workers who want a slow rhythm and waterfront living.
About Hvar & Brač:
Both islands lie just off Split’s coast and are accessible by ferry in under an hour. Hvar is known for sunshine (300+ sunny days a year) and nightlife, while Brač is quieter, famous for its Zlatni Rat beach. Winters are peaceful, and locals are warm , perfect if you want to write, code, or reset in a stunning natural setting. Their relaxed pace and natural beauty help secure their spot among the Best Places to Live in Croatia for nature-focused expats.
Zadar – Balance of Community & Affordability
Highlights
- Under-the-radar coastal city
- Walkable + calm
- Good European flight access
- Lower rental costs than Split
Consider
- Smaller nightlife
- Basic Croatian helps
Best for: People seeking balance between affordability + coastal lifestyle.
About Zadar:
Located halfway between Split and Rijeka, Zadar is a mid-sized coastal city with a local vibe. Expect mild winters (10-14°C) and dry, sunny summers. It’s famous for its sunsets – Alfred Hitchcock once called them the best in the world – and for its “sea organ,” a sculpture that plays music with the waves. It’s Croatia’s best-kept secret for affordability and charm.
Zagreb remains the strongest choice for families who need international schooling.
The city offers the widest range of English-language programs, including the American International School of Zagreb and the British International School. Beyond academics, Zagreb provides parks, museums, weekend activities, and a steady, year-round lifestyle that many expat families appreciate.
Šibenik – Best for Families & Tranquil Coastal Life
Croatia offers a welcoming environment for families, blending safety, education, and a slower Mediterranean rhythm. If you’re relocating with children, several cities stand out for their balance of quality of life, schooling options, and community atmosphere.
Highlights
- Between Split + Zadar
- UNESCO heritage
- Affordable rentals
Consider
- Slower pace
- Limited international schools
Best for: Families or couples ready to settle long-term.
About Šibenik:
Set along the Dalmatian coast, Šibenik is surrounded by two national parks – Krka and Kornati – offering waterfalls and islands nearby. The weather is typically Mediterranean: warm summers, mild winters, and a relaxed pace. Life here means buying fresh fish from local markets, morning coffee by the sea, and evenings on the promenade without crowds.
Free first consultation - Croatia Digital nomad visa & Residency planning
A Croatian immigration lawyer from our team will answer all your questions and help you plan your move and tax setup properly from the beginning.
Rijeka – Best for Affordable Coastal City Living
Highlights
- More affordable than most coastal cities
- Authentic, local vibe (less touristy)
- Easy access to Italy, Slovenia, and mountains
- Good balance of city life + nature
Consider
- Rainier than most of the Croatian coast
- Public transport works, but a car helps a lot
- Smaller expat scene than Split/Zagreb
Best for: Remote workers and expats who want a real, livable coastal city without tourist pricing.
About Rijeka:
Rijeka is Croatia’s most underrated coastal city. Unlike postcard-perfect destinations, it has a gritty, lived-in feel shaped by its port and industrial history. That also means lower prices and a more authentic day-to-day lifestyle. You can realistically rent a solid apartment for around €600-€800 and live comfortably without the heavy tourist markup.
Location is a major advantage, Trieste is under 2 hours away, Slovenia is nearby, and you’re within reach of some of Croatia’s best hiking regions like Gorski Kotar and Plitvice. While you can live without a car, having one makes exploring significantly easier.
The trade-off? Weather. Rijeka is one of the rainier parts of the coast, and it lacks the constant sunshine you’ll find further south. Still, if you care more about practical living over aesthetics, Rijeka is one of the smartest choices in Croatia.
Opatija – Best for Elegant Seaside Lifestyle
Highlights
- Beautiful “European Riviera” atmosphere
- Walkable, polished, and scenic
- Close to Rijeka for infrastructure
Consider
- Expensive for Croatia
- Very seasonal (crowded summers, quiet winters)
- Less practical for long-term living
Best for: Expats seeking a refined, aesthetic coastal lifestyle and don’t mind paying for it.
About Opatija:
Opatija is one of Croatia’s most upscale coastal towns, often compared to a smaller, more relaxed version of Monte Carlo. It’s known for its historic villas, seaside promenades, and polished, almost resort-like atmosphere. Everything feels curated from the architecture to the waterfront cafés.
But that comes at a cost. Prices are noticeably higher than nearby Rijeka, and the town runs heavily on tourism. Summers can feel overcrowded, while winters become much quieter and slower.
Living here is less about practicality and more about lifestyle. Many expats choose to live in Rijeka and visit Opatija instead getting the best of both worlds.
Practical Living Tips
VPN: Use EU-based servers for smooth streaming and access
Currency: Euro (€) since January 2023
SIM Cards: Local options like A1, Hrvatski Telekom, and Telemach
Driving: EU licenses valid; non-EU need exchange after one year
Plug Type: Standard European Type C/F
Food Delivery: Wolt, Glovo, and Pauza.hr available in major cities
If you’re considering a move to Croatia and want clarity on visas, permanent residency in Croatia, or where to begin, feel free to reach out with your questions. We’re here to help you understand your options and plan your next steps with confidence.
About Mandracchio Capital
Mandracchio Capital is a Croatia-based legal and business advisory firm that works with foreign founders, investors, digital nomads, and retirees entering the European Union through Croatia. We focuse on the practical intersection of lifestyle decisions, legal residence, and long-term structuring, areas that often overlap for expats planning to live, work, or retire in Croatia.
Our work covers structured guidance on company formation and ownership, residence and long-term stay in Croatia, investment and regulatory compliance, and EU-law-aligned planning for individuals and families relocating from outside Croatia. This includes scenarios where people initially arrive as digital nomads or expats and later transition into more permanent legal and economic structures.
Founded by Prof. Šime Jozipović, Mandracchio Capital operates at the junction of Croatian national law and EU regulatory frameworks. Our approach emphasizes legal clarity, forward planning, and risk avoidance, helping international residents understand not only where to live in Croatia, but how to build a stable and compliant long-term presence within the EU.
FAQs
Is Croatia a good place for expats in 2026?
Yes. Croatia remains an attractive destination for expats because it combines a Mediterranean lifestyle, relatively moderate living costs, good safety, and access to the EU and Schengen area.
Many foreigners choose Croatia for its coastal lifestyle, slower pace of life, and growing appeal among digital nomads, retirees, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. Major cities such as Zagreb, Split, and Zadar offer the best mix of infrastructure, services, and international community.
Which city in Croatia is best for digital nomads?
For most digital nomads, Split is one of the best places to live in Croatia thanks to its coastal lifestyle, strong expat scene, and established remote-work community.
Other popular options include:
- Zagreb for better year-round infrastructure, coworking options, and business services
- Zadar for a more relaxed coastal lifestyle with lower pressure than Split
- Rijeka for affordability and a less tourist-driven environment
The best city depends on whether you prioritize community, affordability, beach access, or business infrastructure.
Is Croatia expensive to live in?
Croatia is generally more affordable than many Western European countries, although costs vary significantly by city and season.
Inland cities and smaller towns are usually cheaper, while Split, Dubrovnik, and other coastal destinations become more expensive during the tourist season. For many expats, Croatia offers a good balance between quality of life and cost, especially compared with countries such as Italy, Spain, or France.
How can foreigners move to and live in Croatia long term?
Croatia does not offer a classic Golden Visa program. Instead, foreigners usually relocate through specific legal residence pathways based on their purpose of stay.
Common options include:
- the Croatia Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers employed by non-Croatian companies
- company formation or business-based residence for founders and investors
- employment-based residence permits
- family reunification
- other long-term residence routes depending on personal circumstances
With continuous legal residence and compliance with Croatian rules, some of these pathways can eventually lead to long-term or permanent residence.
Is English widely spoken in Croatia?
Yes. English is widely spoken in major cities, coastal areas, and tourist regions, especially by younger Croatians and professionals working in hospitality, tourism, and international business.
Expats can usually manage everyday life in places such as Zagreb, Split, and Zadar without speaking fluent Croatian. However, learning basic Croatian can still be very helpful for administration, healthcare, and deeper local integration.
What should I prepare before moving to Croatia?
Before moving to Croatia, the most important step is to clarify why you are relocating and which residence pathway fits your plans.
Most foreigners should prepare:
- a valid passport
- proof of financial means
- documents related to their purpose of stay, such as remote work, employment, business, or retirement
- proof of accommodation and other supporting records if needed
Because each relocation case is different, the exact checklist depends on whether you plan to work remotely, start a business, retire, or move with family.
