Living in Bosnia & Herzegovina
Last updated on Jan 06, 2024
Summary: The approximate population of Bosnia & Herzegovina is 3.5 million people. The largest cities in Bosnia & Herzegovina are Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Tuzla, Zenica, and Mostar. Expats love living in Bosnia & Herzegovina for its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living. People describe life in Bosnia & Herzegovina as relaxed and laid-back, with a strong sense of community. Foods popular in Bosnia & Herzegovina include cevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (a pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach), and sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls). The cons of living in Bosnia & Herzegovina include a lack of job opportunities, a slow-moving bureaucracy, and a lack of infrastructure. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $1,500 per month. This includes rent, utilities, food, and other expenses.
What do I need to know about living 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 expat who made the move to Bosnia & Herzegovina.
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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