Montenegro

Montenegro, a tiny country in the Balkans, is unknown by many. In recent years Montenegro has become an up-and-coming expat destination. Those who have discovered this Eastern European destination enjoy its mild climate, beautiful scenery, low cost of living, and relaxed lifestyle. Montenegro is particularly popular amongst adventure seekers. Its rugged geography provides optimum conditions for snow sports during winter and stunning hiking trails in the summer. The entire country is covered by mountains, hence its name Black Mountain (monte=mountain negro=black).

Montenegro shares its borders with Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Kosovo, and Croatia while enjoying 295km of coastline along the Adriatic Sea. This unique location between Europe and Russia leads to a fascinating blend of cultures. Montenegro’s European influence can be seen in its Gothic, Venetian, and Romanesque architecture, while its traditional cuisine is a reminder of its past under the Ottoman Empire.

Montenegro is a young country, only gaining complete independence from Serbia in 2006. Despite this, it has a strong economy, stable democracy, and is currently awaiting acceptance into the European Union. Now is the time to invest in Montenegro— real estate is cheap, taxes are low, and residency is easy.

Living In Montenegro

Montenegro enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate along its coast, similar to other countries on the Adriatic. Summers are hot and dry, while winters can be cold. Move inland, and experience a more Continental climate with significantly colder winters, providing optimum conditions for snow sports.

English isn’t widely spoken in Montenegro. Workers in the tourist industry will have a basic level, but in more remote areas, people generally don’t speak English. You’ll need to pick up some Montenegrin to get by day-to-day, to deal with governmental admin, and to gain citizenship you’ll be required to pass a simple proficiency test.

Montenegrins are known for their warmth, sense of humor, and generosity. They are active promoters of a relaxed, slow lifestyle and are happy to take their time getting to know expats and teaching the local lingo. Crime levels are low overall, yet slightly higher in tourist areas. Simply take the usual precautions as you would in other busy tourist destinations.

If you’re searching for a retirement destination with a pleasant climate, friendly locals, plenty of outdoor activities, and a cheap cost of living, don’t overlook Montenegro . Relocating here gives you a prime location to explore the rest of Europe. Montenegro has a tight-knit expat community, making it easy to meet new people and settle in.

Cost Of Living In Montenegro

Montenegro is one of Europe’s most affordable destinations. Real estate prices inland are low, even in the capital, Podgorica. Property prices rise along the coastline, especially in popular tourist destinations such as Porto Montenegro, a port filled with superyachts belonging to Europe’s elite.

Day-to-day living in Montenegro is a lot cheaper than in the States or Canada. Groceries are affordable, as are public transportation costs and even health care. If you plan to live in Montenegro’s remote mountainous regions, you’ll need your own car. Owning a car in Montenegro is inexpensive, and you can register it easily if you have a temporary residence permit.

Health Care In Montenegro

Since Montenegro is a new country, certain public services are still developing. This is unfortunately the case with health care, as it falls behind European standards. The public health care system is inadequately funded, resulting in poor quality of care, long wait times, and a lack of trained professionals.

Expats should invest in quality international health care insurance. This will guarantee access to the high-quality private medical clinics in Montenegro, where doctors speak English and the facilities are modern.

Getting To Montenegro

As there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Montenegro, you’ll have to make a stopover in a European city on your way there. While connecting flights can be a hassle, the benefit is that you can fly out from most international airports in the U.S.

You’ll need to arrange a company to deliver your belongings to your new home. This can be done either by plane or by boat. Hundreds of companies are available online ready to offer their services in your transition to your new life.

Best Places To Live In Montenegro

Kotor

Located on the tranquil Bay of Kotor, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a popular destination for both tourists and expats. Kotor’s beautiful Venetian architecture makes for hours of exploration throughout the city’s ancient streets. Combined with dramatic views over the bay, featuring Montenegro’s striking mountains in the background, Kotor is picture perfect.

Kotor has a cooler climate than the rest of the Bay of Kotor, making it an excellent option for those adverse to the heat. During the summer, Kotor’s tourist industry blooms, which may put some people off, but can also be a great asset if you are interested in starting your own business.

Tivat

If you have a little bit more money to spend and want to live a luxurious life along the water in Montenegro, Tivat is the answer. Tivat is a small town along the Bay of Kotor, and opulence can be felt throughout its streets. Calm pedestrian streets featuring boutique shops, five-star restaurants, and luxury hotels line the town’s marina. Tivat is home to Porto Montenegro, a stopping point for superyachts from around the world.

Tivat has a prime location, conveniently close to Tivat Airport, making quick visits home to see the grandkids or weekend trips to other European cities very doable. It also has peaceful neighborhoods and Montenegro’s best international school, making it an ideal destination for young families.