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Sibenik, Croatia

Retire in Croatia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 02, 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.

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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," remarked one retiree in Dubrovnik.

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William Russell Health InsuranceExpat Health Insurance in Croatia

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring 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," commented one retiree living in Dubrovnik, Croatia.

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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," explained a retiree in Croatia.

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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 a retiree in Dubrovnik.

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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," explained a retiree in Croatia.

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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," explained a retiree in Croatia.

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William Russell Health Insurance

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGET A QUOTE

William Russell Health Insurance

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGET A QUOTE

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," said a person in Croatia.

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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 relax and explore the natural beauty of Croatia. For those looking for more active pursuits, Croatia offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. Additionally, there are plenty of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and historic sites, for those interested in learning more about the country's history and culture," explained one member in Croatia.

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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," explained one member in Croatia.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

Sibenik, Croatia

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