UnpinnedGlobal City Directory

Zagreb

Croatia

Cost of Living in Zagreb

Comprehensive breakdown of living costs, rent prices, and quality of life metrics

Cost of Living Analysis

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, offers a cost of living that is generally more affordable than many Western European capitals, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. The city provides a balanced lifestyle with modern amenities, a rich cultural scene, and a welcoming atmosphere, all without imposing a heavy financial burden.

Housing in Zagreb is reasonably priced. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically ranges from €500 to €700 per month, while similar accommodations in suburban areas can be found for €400 to €600. Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, average around €110 to €130 monthly. For those seeking short-term stays, coliving spaces are emerging as a popular option, offering shared accommodations with like-minded individuals. (flatio.com)

Food expenses in Zagreb are quite manageable. Grocery shopping for one person typically costs between €150 and €250 per month. Dining out is also affordable, with meals at mid-range restaurants priced between €15 and €25. Local cafes offer cappuccinos for approximately €1.80 to €2.50, and a half-liter of local beer costs around €2 to €3. (notteglobal.com)

Transportation within the city is efficient and cost-effective. A monthly public transport pass is priced between €30 and €50, providing access to buses and trams that cover the city comprehensively. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Bolt are available, with a 5 km taxi ride costing approximately €5 to €8. (notteglobal.com)

Zagreb boasts a high quality of life, characterized by its safety, cleanliness, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is known for its numerous parks, museums, and historical sites, offering plenty of leisure activities. The local population is generally welcoming, and English is widely spoken, facilitating easier integration for expatriates.

For digital nomads, Zagreb presents a compelling mix of affordability and modern infrastructure. The city offers reliable high-speed internet, with coworking spaces like Wespa Spaces, Impact Hub Zagreb, and BIZkoshnica catering to remote workers. Croatia's digital nomad visa allows non-EU/EEA citizens to reside in the country for up to a year, provided they meet certain income requirements. (flatio.com)

In summary, Zagreb provides an affordable and comfortable environment for digital nomads. By choosing accommodations wisely, utilizing public transportation, and taking advantage of local markets and eateries, remote workers can enjoy a high quality of life without overspending.

Overall Ranking

Global Rank
#213
Cost of Living Index
48.5
Quality of Life
180.8

Cost Breakdown

Rent Index
20.1
Groceries Index
46.5
Restaurant Index
47.6
Local Purchasing Power
104.6

Housing & Property

Cost of Living + Rent Index
36.1
Property Price to Income Ratio
12

Safety & Healthcare

Safety Index
78.5
Crime Index
21.5
Healthcare Index
65.2

Environment & Transportation

Pollution Index
35
Climate Index
82.2
Traffic Index
106.8
Data last updated: 2025-07-05T00:00:00.000Z

Understanding the Indices:

  • Cost indices: Lower values indicate lower costs (better for budget)
  • Quality indices: Higher values indicate better quality/safety
  • Rank: Lower numbers indicate better overall affordability